Page 45 of Endangering the King

I cleared my throat and watched Giselle toss a small beach ball to her daughter.

Our daughter.

Dani had claimed me.

And I’d claimed her.

Just like both my parents had just done an hour ago in my living room.

In front of everyone.

Hearing those words from their mouths—meant so fuckin’ much. I’d been rendered speechless.

Of course, it didn’t matter what my parents thought about Giselle and Dani. I would still marry Giselle anyway, even without their approval.

I knew the connection between me and Giselle was real. And forever.

And I knew the connection I had with Dani was real and forever.

That was all I needed.

And it would have to be good enough for anyone else in our lives.

But having my parents’ approval—

Fuck.

It meant—a whole fuckin’ lot.

“Stefan will get on board. And we’ll make Sergio eat everything he’s handed out.”

My father looked at me and smiled. “I know you will. I’ve taught you everything I know. I’ve given you all I have. It’s yours, now, Carlo.”

This was always the part of the conversation that I wished he’d skip. My dad had never been a sentimental sap.

Until—

Now.

“Dad, I know,” I tried to reassure him. To let him know we’d all be okay.

Without him.

“I don’t want you feeling guilty for having what I’ve passed down. I worked hard so my family could have a good life. I built this empire so one day my son could take over. This was always my intention.”

Christ.

He needed to stop.

“And fuck me,” he looked at Giselle in the pool, “the life you’re going to have.” He shook his head and chuckled. “I’m more than happy for you. I just wish I could be around to see it in person. To watch your family grow.” His voice caught in his throat, and I felt the emotion in his tone.

He coughed a few times and kept going. “That Daniella is a real spitfire. I’d love to stay just to see her grow up and become a pain in your ass.”

We both laughed, and I ignored my father’s tear-filled eyes.

I shook my head and grabbed my glass of whiskey. “Impossible. Daniella will be the perfect daughter, I’m sure.”

My father slapped my shoulder affectionately. “She’ll put you through your paces, my son. But that is what our children do. And all we can do is love them through it all. Don’t forget that.”

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