Page 97 of Mafia Daddy's Christmas Bride

Not that law enforcement isn’t allowed to lie and deceive, because they are. Is that what’s happening here?

I need to find out more about Blackwood. His history, his motivations.

Because one thing's becoming clear.

Isabella isn't the mastermind here. She's just another pawn in whatever game Blackwood is playing.

Even so, she’s an active participant, letting him use her, so I need to stay on my guard with her.

I head toward the kitchen, deciding on a snack instead of whisky. The sound of children's laughter breaks through my dark thoughts. I change course and go to Angelica’s room.

She sits cross-legged on the floor with Elena's triplets. They've created some kind of makeshift fort with pillows, stuffed animals, and blankets.

Rocco and Elio are arguing over who gets to be the knight while Adalina carefully arranges a row of stuffed animals as the kingdom's subjects.

"Daddy!" Angelica spots me and waves. "We built a castle!"

The tightness in my chest loosens at the sight of her smile. No matter how complicated everything else gets, her happiness brings light into the dark areas of my life.

"I can see that, Angel. Looks like you've got quite the kingdom going."

"I'm the queen," she announces proudly. "Adelina's the princess, and the boys are knights."

"Very impressive," I say, crouching down to her level. "You having fun?"

“Yeah.” Her smile dims slightly. "More fun than with Isabella. She was mean to me.”

“Oh.” My hackles rise, wondering if Isabella took out her anger at me on my daughter. I hope not. I told her to stay away.

“She wouldn't teach me to sew today. She promised she would."

Guilt over thinking the worst of Isabella tries to cut in. "Did she say why?"

Angelica shrugs. "She just said 'not now'. She's mean. I asked nice and everything."

I glance toward the hallway where I'd overheard Isabella talking with Elena. The pieces click together. Isabella had heeded my warning to avoid Angelica and in the end, hurt her.

"Hey," I say gently, tucking a strand of hair behind Angelica's ear. "Isabella's not mean. She's just having a tough time right now."

“Why? We’re nice to her. She doesn’t even have to do chores or anything.”

"Remember when you started at your new school last year? How scary that felt?"

She nods solemnly.

"Well, Isabella's feeling kind of like that. Everything's new and different for her."

"But I wanted to learn to make a dress for my doll," Angelica says, pouting.

"I know, Angel. And I bet Isabella wants to teach you. How about we give her a little time? Maybe tomorrow, you can ask her again." I make a mental note to allow Isabella to be with Angelica. As long as Mrs. Rossi is here, everything should be okay.

I leave Angelica to her castle-building with the triplets and head toward the kitchen for some coffee and cookies.

As I round the corner, I come face-to-face with Isabella and Elena standing in the hallway, clearly preparing to leave.

Isabella flinches when she sees me. Her body language shifts instantly, shoulders hunching slightly, eyes darting down.

She takes a half-step back, putting more distance between us.