Page 35 of Doctor Billionaire's Surprise Baby

"Simone, Hugo, it's so lovely to see you both. Benvenuto in casa mia," my grandmother said. Her voice was as warm and soothing as ever, but there was a tightness around her eyes that betrayed her unease. I knew she must be aware of Hugo and his family's complicated history in Milan.

"Thank you for having us, Nonna. Especially on such short notice," I replied, forcing a smile as I felt the tension in the room rise. My conflicting emotions seemed to tangle within me, caught between my deep love for my grandmother and my growing affection for Hugo. I couldn't help but notice the way my grandmother's eyes darted between Hugo and me, her gaze filled with curiosity and a hint of disapproval. It was clear she had her reservations about our relationship, and I braced myself for what was sure to be an emotionally charged conversation.

"Did you have any trouble getting here?" She poured us each a cup of tea. "Please, please," as she passed the tea cups out.

"Traffic was a bit hectic, but nothing too unusual for Milan. Or so I've heard," I answered, attempting to keep my tone light.

"Ah, yes," Nonna sighed, shaking her head. "It seems traffic only gets worse every day. And have you heard about the latest controversy with the city council?"

Hugo chimed in, displaying his knowledge of local politics.

"Yes, it's quite unfortunate. But hopefully, they'll find a solution soon." His deep-set brown eyes met mine, and I knew he was doing his best to ease the tension between us and my grandmother.

As we continued talking about the weather and various happenings around Milan, I couldn't help but feel torn. On one hand, I wanted my grandmother to see what I saw in Hugo: his dedication, loyalty, and genuine concern for others. On the other hand, I understood her reservations, given his reputation and family background.

I took a deep breath, reminding myself of our purpose in visiting Nonna today. We had to tell her that we were getting married, and I hoped that by the end of our visit, she would come to accept and even support us.

"Nonna," I began hesitantly, my heart pounding in my chest as I prepared to broach the subject. "There's actually something Hugo and I wanted to talk to you about."

The room seemed to grow silent, as if holding its breath in anticipation of what was to come.

"Nonna, Hugo and I have become close lately, and well — we're getting married," I said, my voice barely more than a whisper. I glanced over at Hugo, seeking the comfort of his warm gaze.

"Ah," Nonna said softly, her bright blue eyes widening in surprise. "That is unexpected." She looked at us both with curiosity, as though trying to comprehend how our paths hadcrossed and intertwined so deeply. "How and when did this happen?"

"As you know, Nonna, I've been in America for many years now. I studied medicine in Boston and Seth and Simone have been a constant support to me, almost like family. I don't know what I would have done without them there." Hugo looked over at me. "These past few years, Simone has been working in my office and, well, just lately, I realized how I had been overlooking her all this time. I guess it's true how they say that sometimes the greatest love is right under your nose. Simone is an incredible woman, Nonna," Hugo said earnestly. "I've never met anyone like her. She brings out the best in me, and I hope to do the same for her."

"Be that as it may, Hugo," Nonna replied, her gaze still fixed on us, "there are things about your family that concern me. You know what I'm talking about."

"Honestly, Nonna, I have the same concerns about my family." Hugo looked down and chuckled to himself. "Simone and I spent our first few hours with them and I have to say, I'm not sure I know who they are anymore." He looked up sideways, giving Nonna a knowing look.

"I'm happy to hear that, Hugo. I wasn't sure how to broach the subject. But I do remember. You were a lovely, mischievous boy. Yes, of course I called you a troublemaker, but that's what little boys are supposed to be. The more noise, the better. Mostly, so you always know where they are and that they are alive." Nonna chuckled. "I could always count on you and Seth to make enough noise for me. And it wasn't lost on me how you just clammed up and became a doorstop when your mother would come and pick you up with your driver. You weren't the same. Not then and I'm happy to hear, not now. Cookie?"

We both gratefully took one of Nonna's famous cookies and looked at each other as we nibbled. It seemed like Nonna wasunderstanding our position and even supported our thoughts of marriage.

The rest of the discussion was about our childhood, how she had been doing, how my mom was doing. She wanted to know what Seth was doing.

"Seth, my darling boy." Nonna looked wistful, speaking of him. "He graciously sends me a little something every month and that little something is a huge treat for me. I'll be forever grateful. But tell me, is there someone special in his life?"

I sighed. "Not that I know of, Nonna. Seth is so busy with work that I think his only social life is with Hugo and their friends. But, on that front, I think they can all be known aspiantagrane. They can find more than their share of trouble wherever they go." We all laughed. However, only Hugo would really know how truthful this statement really was.

"Well, I hope he finds a lovely girl suited to him. That would be my dearest wish for him, the sweet boy," Nonna thought wistfully, looking out the window.

"Nonna, I think we have taken up enough of your time today. I'm sure you could use a bit of a rest." I saw Nonna had started to fade just a little as we were talking.

"As much as I hate to admit it, I am indeed slowing down and yes, I usually do take a little nap." Nonna smiled an apologetic smile.

"Simone, you don't mind if I just quickly make a stop in the washroom before we leave?" Hugo said as he stood.

"Of course not. Go ahead." Hugo left Nonna and me alone in the sun-filled living room.

"Simone," Nonna began, her voice gentle but firm. "You know I love you dearly, and I only want what's best for you. But Hugo's family – they cause a lot of political confusion and frustration among the residents of Milan. It's not just their ambition and ruthlessness; it's also the way they disregard the needs of othersfor their own benefit. I worry for you, Simone, if you are joining the Barone family. It might be more than you are ready for."

I clenched my fists, feeling the weight of her concerns on my shoulders. Nonna had always been my rock, providing guidance and support through the toughest of times. Her mentioning her thoughts about the Barone family cut deeper than I could have anticipated. Yet, I couldn't deny I felt the same worry. But as Hugo and I grew closer, I didn't think I could do anything to stop it.

"Nonna, I understand your concerns," I said quietly, struggling to maintain eye contact. "But I think you've seen and I truly believe that Hugo is different from the rest of his family. He's shown me time and again that he cares about others, not just himself. He's dedicated to his work and his patients, and I've seen firsthand how much they mean to him."

"Simone, you know I trust your judgment," Nonna said, her eyes softening. "But this is not a decision to be made lightly. There are consequences to being involved with the Barones. I saw the fear in his eyes when his parents came to pick him up. He was just raised differently and you just don't know when it might come out. I worry for your future."

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