Page 73 of United Loyalties
“Which is exactly why this conversation should not be happening.” Leo’s voice is quiet as he enters the room, but it holds a threat all the same.
“You know?” I gasp, shocked that this is common knowledge.
“Your father came to me years ago. But you must listen when I tell you this is not common knowledge. If my father was to hear this, I wouldn’t be able to stop either of their executions. So, I ask that you don’t speak of this again.” Leo shakes his head as he looks over his shoulder at Al and Max.
By the look on their faces, Al already knew. As for Max, even he is struggling to contain his shock. His gaze flicks to Nell and hers falls to Sofia.
She really is going to need to get more comfortable with him. They’re engaged for goodness’ sake.
“Dinner’s ready.” Ilaria informs as she enters the room. She senses the tension immediately. “Max, are you staying for dinner?” She smoothly glosses over the fact we’re all looking at each other in shock.
After a very awkwardly silent dinner where us girls sit at one end and the guys sit at the other end of the table, we’re finally in the car on our way home.
“How long have you known?” I don’t have to elaborate for Al to know what I’m talking about.
“The day they came to the apartment, Leo informed me. It was his main defense in not allowing them to kill me, not that he would have allowed it anyway, but it helped.” Al looks over to me. “Our world is cruel,angelo,but Nic is safe. Neither Leo nor I would ever allow him or Ant to be killed for this.”
“I know, I just hate that they have to hide who they are. I also feel sorry for the woman who has to marry Nic. She’ll never have a chance with him.” I shake my head as I look to the footwell.
“Most marriages in our world are for convenience,angelo. She won’t be any unhappier than a lot of women. She’ll be treated well. Nic and Ant won’t disrespect her.”
“It still sucks for all of them,” I huff.
Al leans over to snag my hand and bring it to his lips. “That it does, that it does.” He offers me a sad smile.
We don’t mention it anymore as we unpack when we get home.
* * *
The next morning after my shower, I walk into our room to the cutest scene I’ve ever seen. My husband, who has no doubt done awful acts, is currently dancing around our room. Bare-chested with Andrea over his shoulder and singing nursery rhymes.
“Well, I never understood when people say ‘you’re making my ovaries twitch,’ but right in this moment, I totally get it.” I wrap my arms around Al’s bare chest as he pulls me under his free arm.
Pulling away from me, he repositions an irritable Andrea, now that Daddy has stopped singing. He grabs my chin with his free hand and presses a sweet kiss to my lips.
“Leo texted whilst you were in the shower. Due to everyone either arriving today or tomorrow, we’re meeting at Max’s apartment.”
“Oh, I thought we’re spending today together as our parents are arriving tomorrow.” I can’t help but push my bottom lip out.
It’s more of a lip purse than a pout, but it still makes me feel like a spoilt child.
“Angelo,I need to find them. Who knows what he’s doing to them? I don’t think he would harm my child, but I can’t let him hurt Jade either. She’s still the baby’s mother, I owe it to them both to find them.” His voice is quiet, and his eyes hold so much torment.
“I know, I do understand.”
I do understand, but it still doesn’t take away my feelings. I can’t help but feel hurt and jealous. It’s awful, I know it’s wrong to feel like that. I’ve seen what Juan’s capable of. Hell, the man shot me. I don’t wish that man’s evilness upon anyone. I just hate that I already feel like I’m having to share him with her. She’ll always be in our lives as she shares a child with him. I hate that this is our life, but I also hate that it’s making me feel like a crazy bitch.
“Leo is bringing Bea, Sofia, and Nell over when he comes.” He stokes my cheeks as he gives me a small smile before handing me Andrea and heading into the bathroom.
I busy myself getting Andrea ready for the day, and before I know it, I hear the front door.
As I wander down the hall, I’m greeted by Bea, Nell, and Sofia.
“No guards?” I question as I look for Carlo.
“We’ll be in Max’s apartment, but Sergio and Mel are on their way up,” Al confirms as he grips my hip and places a kiss to my temple.
The guys leave after Sergio and Mel arrive. Mel makes coffee for us as we get comfortable on the couch.
