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But I didn’t and wouldn’t because he was right.

“Duly noted, Don Lupini. I will take care of Gabriel as well. Don’t worry. You’re still his grandfather, but I’m his protector.”

“I’m going to get my son,” Carmella announced.

I turned to face her, stroking just underneath her chin. “Then we’ll go home.”

There was such a deep, dark expression in her eyes, it troubled me. But after what she’d been through, after learning about my family, I was amazed she was still the rock I’d grown to adore.

And I did adore her.

What I should do was head to the gifted safehouse, but my instinct told me otherwise. I had more control at the recently purchased house. At least for now.

“Good.” She smiled and didn’t bother to look at her father. As soon as she walked out, I rubbed my eyes.

“You’re a damn good fighter, Alejandro. I’ve heard incredible things about you. From what I can tell, you’re respected as well.”

With the door still open, I caught a glimpse of Drago and laughed. Yes, the sound was bitter. “I’m certain you have.” He followed my line of sight.

“Drago is a good man as well, just rough around the edges. I’m an old man and we both know it. I couldn’t offer Drago the training for leadership he needs. He’s old school. He grew up on the streets, forced to do what he needed to survive, but he’s loyal to a fault. He doesn’t like you, but he does respect you. That tells me you’re living up to your hype.”

“My hype. I don’t know whether to take that as a compliment or a slanderous attack.”

He laughed. “You don’t think I love my daughter, but I do. I’ve been tough on her, but I didn’t want her believing that my world wouldn’t follow her. I wanted her prepared when it did. If that meant she learned to hate me, I accepted that. Maybe what I did by forcing her to marry was a terrible thing. While I’d hoped for the best, I honestly didn’t believe it possible. Until now.”

“What are you talking about?”

“You love my daughter. And she loves you. Now, I doubt either one of you will say it to the other for now, but I can see it in both of you. I’m surprised, but pleased. The fool she was with earlier was a worthless prick. Not nearly worthy of my daughter’s attention. I hope you kill the man.”

“Not worth my time.”

“Understood. Just remember few men like another to raise their children.”

“He doesn’t have a choice. Answer me this, Don Lupini, and I don’t mean to question your decisions.”

“But how could I threaten to send her child to live with that man?”

I nodded, studying him carefully. “Yes.”

“I wouldn’t have carried through with my threat. In fact, if my daughter hadn’t begged me to leave him alone, the son of a bitch wouldn’t be breathing. However, I needed to ensure the connection was made. My daughter is as stubborn as she is beautiful and intelligent. Just take care of her, Alejandro. And my grandson. I hope to have many more.”

“Remember, you have two other children.”

“Who are also learning to hate me. I’ll give you one piece of advice. Never forget you’re a father and husband first. No matter how much power you gain or money you have. I wish I’d known.”

Everything about what he’d just said was haunting.

A father and a husband.

That’s exactly what I’d become and I would remember his words.

Until death do us part.

CHAPTER28

Carmella

“Should I offer the soldiers anything?” I asked and seeing the look on Alejandro’s face forced a smile.