Page 34 of Merciless Queen (Moretti Mafia #1)

Caterina

“Hey, Cat,” Elizabeth greeted. She had more pep in her step and seemed happier today than before. “You’ll like to know that Harlow woke up about forty minutes ago.”

“Excellent. Where is she now?”

“She needed air, so she’s outside.”

I stiffened. “Outside where?”

Her brows furrowed. “I figured the gardens. Isn’t that where she normally goes when she needs to clear her mind?”

“Elizabeth, I just came from the gardens, and Harlow wasn’t out there.”

“She said she needed fresh air and to go on a walk. Oh, no. Does she know about your demon dogs?”

“Fucking hell,” I grumbled. Titus and Lucifer were a part of my family, and when I could, I let them into my house.

But because I trained them well, I kept them in their own house in the back.

Every few nights, I went there and slept in the house with them so they wouldn't get lonely. I needed to domesticate them more, but when they thought I was in danger, they would attack. “Tell Luca and Malachi to meet me outside. I need to make sure my babies aren’t having a feast.”

Panic danced through my veins as I raced to the cabin where my Dobermans stayed, preparing for the worst. I trained them to attack with a single word, but a stranger in their space was new.

Everyone knew not to go in the back, but since I kept Harlow inside, I forgot to mention them.

Titus and Lucifer knew what human flesh tasted like because I let them kill scum, but Harlow was innocent.

Titus and Lucifer only listen to my commands, and no one else's. Personally, I didn’t think they would attack anyone without my say, but I had yet to test that theory.

I kept them here so they weren’t confined to a small space or attacking my maids for walking into my bedroom.

Both of them loved the fresh air and the space.

The fence was also for show because if I called them, they would jump it and be by my side in minutes.

The gate was closed, but she could have easily walked through it.

I didn’t hear any screaming or growls. Part of me hoped she went somewhere else, but there was no telling with her.

This cabin would be inviting to anyone who didn’t know what lurked beyond the gate.

If she didn’t go in there, my babies would be content, but going into their home was an invitation for death.

When I stepped inside the gate, I expected to see ripped clothes, blood, and my Dobermans gnawing on flesh.

What I didn’t expect was Harlow to have her arms wrapped around Lucifer like he was a giant teddy bear and not the vicious Doberman I raised, with Titus waiting his turn, his tail wagging against the grass.

“I see that you’re okay.” My voice made my dogs look at me, but to my surprise, they didn't run to my side. “They didn’t bite you?”

She looked at me, confused. “No?”

“Can you let go of Lucifer like he’s a teddy bear?” She moved onto her shins. “Titus. Lucifer. Now.” They ran to my side and stood like strong guard dogs. “They could have killed you. It’s what they are trained for.”

“But they’re cute. I went for a walk and found this place.

The gardens were too close to everyone, and I wanted to be alone.

I cried for ten minutes before I even realized they were here.

If it makes you feel any better, I think they did want to, but I guess they felt my distress? Dogs can do that, huh?”

I nodded. “I didn’t expect them to do it. Call Lucifer. I want to see what he does.”

“Come here, Lucifer.” She patted her thigh. My vicious Doberman ran to her while Titus whined by my side. Lucifer licked her face, and she giggled as she scratched his neck.

“You turned my killers into lap dogs.” When Malachi and Luca entered the gate, they became the vicious boys I raised. “Or not. Heel. It’s fine. Go back inside.”

When Luca and Malachi left, Lucifer went back to Harlow’s arms. “I always wanted dogs. My dad said they were too messy and lazy. I told myself that if I ever got out, I would have every breed. I know that’s not possible, but it would have meant I was truly free.”

“Titus, go.” He ran to her side, and she lit up. “If they do not attack you, I am fine with you coming here during the day, and if you want another animal, I will get one for you. I told you, whatever you want, you can have. I’ll leave you. Just be back inside before the sun goes down.”

“Thank you.”

I was in disbelief that the ravenous Dobermans I raised to be killers liked Harlow. They were trained to attack and kill without hesitation and protect me. I never tested the theory out, but maybe they did like women. Maybe I trained them too well.

I walked past my men, and they were just as shocked as I was, if not more. They were terrified of Titus and Lucifer. Elizabeth looked at me with a concerned look on her face as she silently questioned where Harlow was.

“She’s fine. Lucifer and Titus found a friend. They like her. She was hugging Lucifer like he was a giant, snuggly teddy bear and not a ruthless, man killing beast.”

“She tamed them?”

I shrugged. “I don’t know. One minute I’m freaking out, and the next, my dogs are whining for her attention. Maybe they do like women. Do you want to test it out? They only kill men or people threatening me, which are mainly men, too. I've never had them attack women.”

“As long as they don’t go for my jugular, I’m fine with it.”

I nodded. “Not tonight. I’m going to call Gianna and see how the girls are settling in at the hotel. I’ll get Harlow at sunset.”

Four hours later, the sun was kissing the horizon and Harlow was still in the guest house with my boys.

I needed to sit down and talk with her about everything that happened and discuss our wedding.

Lizzy told me she chose a dress, but I needed more information to see if she wanted anything different.

Our wedding was a farce, but I wanted her to have something she enjoyed.

Walking out to the house, I found Harlow curled up on the bed in there. She was cuddling with Lucifer while Titus snuggled her back with his face in her neck. The three of them were sleeping soundly. I couldn’t keep her in here all night.

“Harlow,” I called out. “I need you to wake up, bellissima.” She didn’t move. “Titus, Lucifer, down.” Even with her, they obeyed me. I scooped her into my arms bridal style and carefully left. “You did good, my boys. We’ll be back tomorrow. Sleep.”