Page 65 of Righteous Enforcer
It’s still surreal to think about.
She's awake, standing on her tiptoes at the window, tracing raindrops on the glass.
She turns when I enter, her eyes brightening.
“Hi, Daddy.”
My heart clenches at how easily she's accepted me. “Good morning, Sunshine. You ready for breakfast?”
Her head bobs up and down. “Where’s Mommy?”
"Let's let Mommy sleep a little longer."
I find the little robe Eva bought for Mirabella and help her slip it on.
In the kitchen, there’s a flurry of activity from staff preparing for the day.
“We want to make pancakes,” I announce to surprised expressions.
We’re given space and ingredients. I lift Mirabella onto the counter while I make pancakes.
She giggles when I let her pour chocolate chips into the batter. "More.” She claps. Of course, I let her add more.
Over the next few days, I spend time with Mirabella, in awe of the person she is.
The mornings are ours as Eva sleeps and recuperates.
With the help of Sophia, I’ve learned to braid Mirabella’s hair.
We’ve studied the birds who frequent the garden and found more fairy stones.
Of course, there’s work to be done, and so during the day, I’m away.
But at night, Eva and I read fairy tales with Mirabella nestled between us in her new fairy bed.
I remember thinking Luca’s mind had gone to mush when he learned he was Enzo’s father.
Now I understand.
There’s a soul-deep change in a man when he becomes a father.
Priorities expand and yet narrow into focus as well.
Eva’s skittishness settles, at least around me.
I’m certain that soon, she’ll tell me all I need to know about why the Bratva is interested in her.
For now, I’m going to prove to her and Mirabella that their home is here with me.
No more running.
No more fearing for their lives.
Today, I’m off and decide to give my girls a treat.
With the help of the kitchen staff, I organize a picnic.
“Do you think we’ll see fairies?” Mirabella asks me, her hand in mine as we walk to the area I’ve selected for our meal. In my other hand, I carry the large picnic basket.
