Page 92 of Savage Empire

“I guess it’s pretty simple when you say it like that.” Maybe a bit odd, but plenty of cultures have symbolic traditions that aren’t the norm. “So, you’re in town for the event tomorrow? Yordan’s excited. He liked helping out at the orphanage with Ana before. She told me the kids love him.”

He’s been there a few times in the past month, offering to volunteer after speaking to Ana and Cassio about their workthere. Ana was adopted, as was her mother. While she lived in New York City, she practically worked at a large facility there. Since moving here with the Morettis, she has started helping out at a local place, getting them more funding and resources.

And of course, spending time with the children directly.

It’s her passion, and Yordan seems to find it as rewarding as she does.

“Yeah, Leo and I are here for it,” Leon confirms after swallowing another bite. “Dad’s with him now, he’s having a bit of a grandpa day.”

I smile at the concept. “That’s sweet.”

“It’s nice when we can find the time.”

“No Bastian and Cleo?” I ask curiously.

Leon’s face drops. “No. No, not this time.”

“Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject.”

He waves a dismissive hand. “It’s fine, just…yeah, a sore subject about covers it. Cleo doesn’t like to think about the time that Leo was away from us, and even though we wouldn’t have him if it weren’t for Ana, she doesn’t…Anyway, I’d prefer to talk about anything else, honestly.”

“Completely understood,” I agree, bobbing my head. “We could talk about the fact that you’re ruining your appetite for pizza and cake with a simple blueberry turnover.”

Leon laughs, shoulders shaking. “Oh, Rayna. I always have an appetite for pizza and cake.”

“Shall we return for some, then?”

“I suppose it’s about that time.”

No one seems to have noticed that we were absent when we reappear. And after a few slices of pizza, socializing with the large group becomes easier. Leon pulls me into conversations, and Jade does the same. I learn that the Morettis are all close, but some are more so than others.

For instance, the younger set of twins called Nico and Remo appear to be the least social. Neither have made an appearance, but Yordan doesn’t seem to mind. Of course, Emilio and his wife haven’t come either. Though, I doubt they were formally invited.

Dante does make an appearance for a short while, carrying around Leo on his hip. The grandfather grandson combo nearly had me melting, if I’m honest. It was probably one of the most adorable things I’ve ever seen. Leo didn’t even protest to stay with his father when they made their way to leave. Apparently, they planned to visit an aquarium, and Leoadoredfish.

Once the cake is cut, compliments start to come my way. I accept them all, trying not to be awkward about it as I shift the attention back to my little brother. Thankfully, Yordan hasn’t stopped smiling since the party began. He’s been all over the apartment, mostly spending time with Matteo, Elio, and Apollo.

“Thanks for doing all of this,” he says once we get a moment alone.

I lift a shoulder and offer him half a smile. “It was no big deal.”

My brother snorts doubtfully. “Your house is half-full of strangers, Rayna. It definitely was a big deal. You hate this kind of thing.”

“I didn’t mind it as much as I thought I would,” I admit. “I like Jade.”

He grins triumphantly. “I knew you would.”

“Yeah, yeah,” I grumble. “You can say ‘I told you so’ later, go enjoy the rest of your party before it ends, birthday boy.”

An hour later and things begin to die down significantly. People trickle out slowly, until the last guests are on their way out. Once everyone has gone, Yordan decides to go for a ride with Elio. I shouldn’t be surprised since he jumps at any opportunity to get into his new car.

Though Apollo doesn’t take on the role of teaching my brother to drive, he agreed to go along with them in a separate vehicle. Yordan only had one drink hours ago, but Apollo is still keeping a close eye on him.

Something I appreciate.

Leon is the only one who chooses to stay behind, refusing to let me clean up all on my own. He’s been helping me wipe down counters, picking up disposable plates and cups, and even washing the dishes from cooking.

He’s good company, maybe even too good of company.