Page 32 of Doctor Billionaire's Surprise Baby

"The Barone Vineyard needs you, son. You are the rightful heir to our family business, and it's time for you to step up and take your place," he said plainly, as if we hadn’t had this very conversation and argument a million times before.

He paused, taking another deep breath, as if bracing himself for my response.

"Furthermore, I am now involved with the Partito Democratico and Forza Italia, and they're counting on my support. Your involvement in the vineyard would only strengthen our family's position and influence within these political circles."

The uncomfortable tension started building inside of me – my fists were clenched by my sides and the familiar tightening in my chest that always happened when I had this conversation with my dad was back.

"Papà," I began, struggling to keep my voice steady. "I understand the importance of our family business and your political aspirations. But I have dreams of my own, and they don't include running the business. They don't include Italy."

In the glow of the street lamp, my father's eyes darkened, and I could see the disappointment and frustration etched on his face. I knew that I was defying his expectations, but I couldn't let our family legacy dictate my entire life.

"Please understand," I said firmly, my voice taking on a steely resolve. "I am not meant for the vineyard or the political world. My calling is in medicine, as a neurosurgeon. And despite how you feel about it, I am fairly successful and would appreciate your support."

The air between us grew thick with tension. His jaw tightened, his eyes narrowing to angry slits. His fists clenched and unclenched at his sides as if he was trying to restrain himself from lashing out.

"Is this what you call loyalty to your family?" he spat, his tone laced with venom. "Abandoning our heritage, our name, for some – some frivolous passion?"

"Saving and changing lives is not a frivolous passion, Papà," I countered, my heart pounding in my chest. "It's a noble profession, one that I am dedicated to. Most parents would be proud."

He scoffed, disbelief etched across his face.

"And what about Simone? Are you going to abandon her as well when you’re done with her, just like you're abandoning our family legacy?"

"Simone and I have an understanding," I retorted, and I didn't care to explain anything further because I knew he wouldn't understand.

"Your defiance is a disgrace to our family," he seethed, his voice trembling with barely contained fury. "You are my son, and as such, it is your duty to take over Barone Vineyard and ensure its continued success."

"You don't seem to ever hear me. I cannot live my life according to your expectations," I admitted, my voice heavy with emotion. "I must forge my own path, one that fulfills my dreams and aspirations. What about my sisters? Surely they have been around the business long enough to take over?"

A heavy silence settled over us, the weight of our unresolved conflict pressing down on our shoulders. Our eyes locked, both of us searching for any sign of surrender in the other's gaze.

"Bah. You know your sisters are happy just being ornaments. Neither has shown any desire to take over." He paused, continuing in a cold and distant voice. "Very well. I see thereis no changing your mind. But remember this, Hugo, you will always be a Barone, whether you like it or not."

With one last disdainful look, he turned on his heel and stalked back down the street. My chest tightened as I watched my father's retreating figure, his shoulders tense and rigid. His anger was palpable, with an oppressive energy that made it difficult to breathe. He climbed into the back of his car with Lorenzo at the wheel. With a tip of his hat, Lorenzo sped off into the night, leaving me to grapple with the consequences of my defiance and the uncertain future that lay ahead. I knew my blood relations would eventually force me into a role I didn't want to play.

My own emotions threatened to overwhelm me — a confusing mix of guilt, frustration, and fear.

I took a deep breath of cool air before starting the short walk to the hotel.

Simone was sitting in the lobby on a luxurious velvet couch, scrolling on her phone. Lounge music played in the background, and although she was alone, she looked perfectly happy. When I walked in, she looked up at me with a cautious smile, clearly sensing my energy shift.

"Hi," she ventured tentatively. "Are you okay?"

"Sure. All is well. Come, let's go to our suite."

I went to the front desk to retrieve our door keys and headed up to our room, a beautifully decorated, modern suite. It had a living room with a sitting area and TV, which opened to a balcony where we could enjoy the night lights of Milan. The balcony extended to be shared with the bedroom, which had a luxurious-looking king-sized bed. The bathroom was covered with a dark marble, the white veins matched by the fluffy towels and robes that awaited us.

Simone exhaled sharply as she collapsed onto the sage colored couch. "What a night! I'm really ready for bed."

I poured her a glass of champagne that awaited us. Lorenzo knew to make sure our room was stocked with the little things that make each stay special. Beside the ice bucket was a box of beautiful handmade chocolates. I set one on a tiny plate and handed it to Simone.

"Oh my, this is absolutely gorgeous," she sighed. "And this chocolate, oh my god, it's divine." She could hardly talk with her cheeks full of the glorious dark chocolate.

I joined her on the couch with my own chocolate and champagne. It was good to get off my feet for a bit. Even though dancing seemed like it was ages ago, my feet told me otherwise.

Being quiet reminded me of my father's ice-cold stare, his lips pressed into a thin line. The disappointment in his eyes cut deep.

In my silence, it was as if Simone could read my mind. She approached me with a look that anchored me and forced me back into the present. And then it forced me into the future—a future full of possibility. A future where my desires didn't have to be pushed aside for someone else's ambitions. A future that demanded I let go of the past.

---