Page 120 of When We Fall: Part One

She nodded sadly. “I did. A month before my wedding to Anthony. He came for me. Brought me back. I loved him then and love him now. I was scared. Everyone warned me not to get involved with him, considering his family. I couldn’t help myself. There’s something about a De Luca man.” She chuckled. “He told me it wouldn’t matter where I went. He’d follow me into hell if it came down to it. Any man who would follow a woman into hell is a man to keep. So I married him.”

“Enzo would follow me too,” I said. “I wouldn’t want him to, however.”

“I wouldn’t want Anthony to follow me, but he’s pig-headed and wouldn’t listen.” She laughed again before going serious. “Honestly, though. If you have doubts or fears, communicate those to Lorenzo. Or walk. Don’t do something because you’re afraid to let go. Sometimes, we need to let go so we can spread our wings and grow.”

“Did you grow in that month you left?”

“Oh, yes. Very much so. I realized how much I missed and loved him. How free I was. I found out how strong I am. The strength was where it mattered most. I realized I could live without him. The strength made me realize I didn’t want to and could endure whatever he came with. He found me before I could return to him. I went willingly, and the rest is history.”

“So you don’t regret it?”

She reached out and held my hand. “Never. Love is never something you regret. But, Rosalie. Please. If he lets you go, run.”

“I thought?—”

“This life will kill you. Anthony’s parents. His father. Shot dead getting into his car. His mother? Kidnapped, raped, murdered. Anthony, fortunately, was old enough to take care of himself when it happened, but it changed him. We’re alwaysgoing into hiding to stay safe. This life is hard. So if you have any doubts, carefully think everything through.”

“Would you leave? If you were me?” My heart beat hard as she surveyed me, her head cocked. She reached out and tucked a curl behind my ear, her eyes glassy.

“I love you like you were my own daughter,” she said softly. “So I will guide you as if you were. I would tell you to follow your heart. I would love for you to be part of our family, but I also want what’s best for you.”

“It’s not Enzo?” I winced at her words.

“That’s for you to decide. Just know it comes with many strings that could ensnare and hurt you. Consider it carefully.”

I swallowed hard and nodded. “I will. Thank you, Marissa. For talking with me. It’s helped.”

“Of course, honey. I will always be here for you, whether you run or stay. Promise.” She reached out and hugged me tightly. I hugged her back, the old feelings of worry and confusion rearing their head.

I didn’t want to dwell on her words. My choice was made. I was staying, but damnit it if I couldn’t shake the fear simmering deep inside me. Living without Enzo and the guys made me so sick I thought I’d vomit from that alone. They were my world, and I was pretty sure I was theirs. Being apart wasn’t an option.

I accepted that a long time ago.

I pulled away from her the moment Enzo knocked before coming into the room. Quickly, I wiped at my eyes, but he noticed immediately and came to me.

“What’s wrong, Sunshine?” he murmured, going to his knees and wiping my tears away.

I put a smile on my face. “Nothing. Just girl talk.”

Enzo shot a look to his mom, who offered him a smile. He didn’t look convinced, but he didn’t push it. Instead, he took my hand in his and kissed my engagement ring.

“Dinner will be here in a few minutes,” he said.

I nodded and looked to Marissa. “Do you want to see my wedding dress while we wait?”

“Oh, yes. Absolutely.” She was on her feet in a heartbeat, excitement clearly written on her face.

Enzo chuckled and helped me to stand before pressing a kiss to my forehead.

“I’m jealous,” he said. “I want to see it too.”

“You’ll see it soon.” Marissa winked at him, making him grin. He looked so happy. So carefree. Just like he used to when we first got together. I still missed that Enzo, my secret keeper, but he was also turning into one hell of a man, and I was here for it.

I pushed my apprehension away and focused on nothing else but my love for him and the guys.

“I love you,” I said, pecking him on the lips.

His lips curled against mine. “I love you too, Sunshine.”