Resting the side of her head on Mom’s shoulder, they look like mother and daughter.
Tiny is sitting by the island, and just as I take a step toward him, someone pats my shoulder. Turning around and seeing Dad, I follow him to the living room.
His hazel eyes search mine before he asks, “How are you holding up?”
“I’m fine.” I rub the back of my neck and let out a sigh.
Dad stares long and hard at me, and to put him at ease, I give his bicep a squeeze. “I’m really fine. Just worried about Laurie.”
He jerks his head toward the couches, and after we sit down beside each other, he says, “We haven’t had much time to talk.”
“Yeah.”
Like always when we’re about to have a deep conversation, Dad pats my knee. “So this is the woman for you?”
My tone is firm, zero doubt. “Yes.”
He lets out a soft chuckle. “I have to admit, I’m impressed with how fast you locked her down. Wish Remo would take a page out of your book.”
“Valentina needed time,” I stand up for my brother. “If it were up to Remo, they would’ve been married ages ago.”
“You’re right.” He’s quiet for a moment, then says, “Tell me about my daughter-in-law. What made you lose your mind over her?”
“Everything.” I lean back against the couch and look up at the oak tree, the leaves stirring in the wind. “It feels like I’ve finally found the other half of my soul. Like she’s always been there.” My tone grows softer. “Her beauty, her eyes, her smile and tears…” I inhale deeply. “She’s a work of art I just had to have, a craving so fucking deep it will never be sated.”
Dad nods, understanding every word. “I get it. That instant obsession just takes over, and you lose all control to a wisp of a woman who forever owns your heart.”
“Yes.”
Mom and Laurie walk back into the living room, and when my wife spots Dad, her lips part in shock.
“Hi, Mr. Rizzo,” she greets, her tone filled with respect.
“Angelo.” He climbs to his feet, and when he walks to Laurie and gives her a sideways hug, I can see how much it means to her. “I’m sorry to hear about your friend. Life can be cruel at the best of times.”
“Thank you,” she whispers before letting out a shaky breath.
Dad leans his head to the side to catch her eyes, and with a serious expression, he says, “You’re a part of this family now, Laurie. We support each other through difficult times, and when shit gets tough, it’s movie night and popcorn.”
“I’ll get the snacks while you all fight about which movie to watch.” I stand up, and passing Laurie, I brush my fingers against hers before leaving her with my parents.
“Where’s Big Ricky?” Tiny asks. “The romantic bastard will want a say in which movie we pick.”
“I’m here,” I hear Big Ricky mutter.
“Pa said there’s food?” Little Ricky asks.
I chuckle as I open the pantry door, and as I start pulling out packets of chips, pretzels, and corn kernels, Little Ricky comes to help.
“I heard what happened,” he whispers. “How’s boss lady holding up?”
“She’s devastated.” We set everything down on the island, and while I pop the kernels, I inform Little Ricky about our travel plans so he can get a group of men ready to accompany us.
Chapter 22
Laurie
My emotions are all over the place, swinging like a pendulum between grieving Elise and feeling overwhelmingly blessed because I’m surrounded by so much support.