Chapter 12

Salvatore.

Salvatore stepped onto the covered balcony to find Henry propped against the railing. One hand held an empty tumbler and the other was shoved into his coat pocket as his father stared into the darkness around them.

The balcony was brightly lit, and Salvatore detected a tired smile on his father’s lips as he approached.

“You know, I’ve been waiting for this night for a long time, son.”

Salvatore clapped a heavy hand on his father’s back as he joined him by the railing. So close to the edge, the wind blew a faint misting of rain toward them. “I know. I’m happy to let you know your wait is over.”

“I hope you’ll be happy this time.” Henry studied the vacant bottom of his crystal glass. “I knew you weren’t happy with Vanessa, and I’d hoped you’d come around eventually.”

His father paused, but Salvatore didn’t dare interrupt.

“You were avoiding commitment, and she was the easiest way to do just that.”

His father didn’t look at him, but Salvatore nodded his agreement anywa