Page 22 of The Mafia King's Reign
The guard at the gate calls, and I shut off the feed.
“Sir, there’s a woman here demanding to see you. Says she’s Valentina Marino’s mother.”
“How man?”
“She came alone.”
Hm, she’s brave for coming here alone.
“Bring her to the east sitting room.”
“Yes, sir.”
I adjust my cufflinks and check my reflection in the window.
Curious to see if Valentina gets her spine from her mother.
Or if this is going to be a problem.
When I walk in, I find her sitting in one of the chairs. Smaller than I expected, but I realize her daughter bears a strong resemblance to her.
She has the same dark hair as Valentina, though graying now. The same bone structure. The same eyes.
Actually, she bears a strong resemblance to my late mother.
She’s dressed simply but neatly, a modest dress, comfortable shoes, minimal jewelry. Her hands clutch her purse like a lifeline.
“Mrs. Marino.” I gesture to the chair across from me. “Thank you for coming.”
“I didn’t have a choice; you kidnapped my daughter.” Her voice trembles but doesn’t break.
“And yet you came.” I settle into my chair. “That takes courage.”
Elio takes his position by the door, silent and watchful. Maria’s eyes flick to him nervously, then back to me.
“Where is she? Where’s Valentina?”
“Upstairs. In her room. Safe.” I pause, let the weight of that word sink in. “Would you like something to drink? Water? Tea?”
She blinks, clearly not expecting courtesy. “I… water, please.”
I nod to Elio, who steps out briefly and returns with a glass of water. Maria takes it with shaking hands, sips carefully.
“You’re going to marry her,” she says finally. Not a question.
“Yes.”
“Because of what my husband did.”
"You know exactly why you're here, Maria. Don't insult us both by pretending otherwise. Or should I call you Isabella Castellano?"
“You… you know.” Her voice is barely a whisper.
“I know everything.” I let the words sink in.
Maria’s hands twist in her lap, fingers knotting together. “Then you know I had my reasons.”
“Reasons don’t erase consequences.” I lean forward slightly.
