Page 43 of The Empress

I tuck the family heirloom into my pocket before pulling my phone out. Pressing dial on Massimo’s number, I don’t have to wait long for him to answer.

“Yes.” His tone is brisk, telling me he’s pissed off.

“Haven’s clothes and sneakers are still at the church.”

“I have them. Want me to bring them?”

“Yes. I’ll shower and get changed, then we can leave to get to work.”

“I’m just going to stop at my place to grab my bag and say goodbye to everyone.”

“Okay.”

I head to my bedroom, where I shower while trying not to think about everything that’s happened over the past twenty-four hours.

Last week, I had all my shit together, but now everything has derailed around me.

All because of Haven Romano.

If I had killed Luciano and Nicolo and left the women, I’d be filled with satisfaction for finally getting the revenge I’ve been thirsting for.

But no. Both Romano men are still alive, and I have a brand new wife who’s terrified of me.

I’ve traumatized the hell out of Haven, so it’s safe to say she’ll never warm up to me.

Great. I’m married to the most beautiful woman, and I’ve done everything in my power to make her hate me.

Angry at myself, I put on a fresh suit after I’m done showering, then pack myself a bag.

I don’t know how long I’ll be away from home, but I’m hoping it will give Haven time to adjust to her new life.

When I zip the bag shut, my gaze lands on the photo next to my bed. I walk to the bedside table and gently pick it up. I stare at Carina’s face, and the bitter taste of failure fills me.

I’m sorry, stellina mia. Cazzo. I’m so fucking sorry for not finding you.

My eyes move to Diego’s face, and I know if he were alive today, he’d probably beat the shit out of me for the way I’m treating Haven.

Yeah. I fucked up, brother. I wish you were here.

My life would’ve turned out very different if I had never lost the Messinas. If we weren’t attacked and only my father was assassinated, I wouldn’t have taken over as head of the mafia because I never wanted any part in the family business at sixteen.

But that didn’t happen.

I set the framed photo down, and grabbing my bag, I leave my bedroom, pausing to lock the door.

I pocket the keyring holding all the important keys, like the one for my safe where my weapons are stored.

Stopping at Haven’s bedroom, I knock. This time, she doesn’t respond, and when I push the door open, it’s to find the room empty. The wedding dress is lying discarded on the floor.

I head downstairs, and not seeing her in the living room, I notice the sliding doors are open. Leaving my bag in the foyer,I walk out onto the veranda and see Haven running along the beach.

I’m about to go after her so I can say goodbye, but she suddenly sinks down onto the soft sand with a cry that sends chills over my body.

God help me, what have I done to her?

There’s a painful stabbing sensation in my chest, and unable to witness the destruction I’ve caused any longer, I stalk back into the mansion. I grab my bag and head out the front door.

Luckily, Massimo pulls up the driveway. When he stops the SUV, I yank the back door open and throw my bag inside before climbing into the front passanger seat. “Let’s go.”