ORTENSIA I heard the heavy, rhythmic thud of boots echoing down the hallway, and for a second, I felt a spark of irritation. I’d already told Rico to tell him no.Did Vito really think that exposing one lie was enough to fix the shattered pieces of my trust? He must be losing his mind if he thought I was just going to stroll into his office and pretend the last few days were a bad dream.I was exhausted, emotionally drained, and every time I closed my eyes, I still saw him standing in that garden, telling me he’d take the child if it were his.The footsteps stopped outside my door, a loud familiar knock followed."Rico, I told you, I’m not coming," I snapped, leaning my head against the cool wood of the door."Tell him I’m asleep. Tell him I’ve disappeared. Just leave me alone." I said.The handle turned. I hadn't locked it. I watched the door swing open, expecting to see Rico’s face, but instead, the doorway was filled by the hulking, shadow-draped frame of Vito.He looked wrecked.
Read more