Page 77 of Arranged

Giovanni had died of a heart attack a few months ago, and Luca’s oldest brother had taken over the Mazzas territory.

When Luca had received a lunch invitation, I’d immediately contacted his brother to find out what was up. But after talking to him, I’d figured it wasn’t some kind of trick, so I’d let Luca decide what he wanted to do.

“You’re coming with me, right?” he asked.

“Yeah, of course.”

After we got out of the car, I slipped my hand into his and we headed to the restaurant. His oldest brother greeted us at the door.

“It’s good to see you,” he said to Luca.

“Is this about the deal, Romeo?” Luca asked. “Did you invite me here so you can gain something?”

“No. Of course not,” Romeo said. “But I was about to offer to change the terms of the deal so that you can get your freedom back.”

“We don’t really want to divorce,” I said.

“You can take your family name back,” Romeo said to Luca.

Luca shook his head. “I’m happy to be a Cassaro.”

Romeo looked at Luca’s and my joined hands. “Yeah, I can see that. It was hard for me to believe it at first, but I’m happy for you.”

“Are you? Really?” Luca asked.

“You know how Father was.” Romeo sighed. “We didn’t want to piss him off, so we didn’t do anything to stop him. I’m sorry. We should’ve done something.”

“It wouldn’t have worked anyway,” Luca said. “He always got what he wanted.”

“I know, but what he did to you wasn’t okay.”

“I’m going to leave you guys to catch up. I’ll be close by.” My gaze focused on Romeo. “Just make sure you don’t hurt my husband, because if you do, I’m going to kill you. Deal or no deal,” I said in my sweetest voice.

“Understood,” Romeo said, lifting his hands up. “Brother, you’re lucky to have her.”

I gave Luca a quick kiss, and then I strolled away.

Luca went inside with Romeo to greet the rest of his brothers.

I had no idea how long I was standing out there, leaning on a railing, and watching the traffic and people move around.

“Missed me?” Luca said as he wrapped his arms around me from behind.

I turned around in his embrace. “Always. How did it go?”

“Good, I guess. But it’s like they’re strangers to me. I mean, I barely even know things about them.”

“They’re your family. You’ll get to know them. If that’s what you want.”

“You’re my family. I don’t need another, but I’ll give them a chance.” He rubbed his nose against mine.

“I love you, Luca,” I said.

“I love you too.” His lips met mine, and as I pulled him close to me, I was sure that I never, ever wanted to let him go.

I’d thought I’d never have a connection with someone or find love like my parents had done, and I was really glad I’d been wrong about that.

###