Capo Dei Capi (Secrets of the Famiglia Part 1) novel Chapter 15

I hope Papa picked a man who will love her, even if it is just for the sake of his children. I still believe Deno will be an excellent match for her.

He has crimes, but I have witnessed the way he treats a woman who he beds.

Guilia's chest expands as she inhales a deep breath. I smile, hoping my eyes give Guilia the comfort I know she needs.

I love my sister, all of my siblings, really, but I am glad I am not too close to any of them. I wouldn’t be able to handle this unknowing.

The faith that lays before her is going to be determined today, in front of all of these people.

Yes, I am grateful I am not close to my family. Very glad indeed.

When my sister visits, we are like long last friends coming together for a short time. We share that time, having our laughs, but my secrets remain my own.

There is an unspoken rule between us, lines which we don’t step over. We are our father’s daughters, yet, our choices remain a big difference between us. Our history, our path.

I stare at her, unblinking, waiting for a signal. She nods her head, keeping her eyes on the people outside. The road is filled with cars. Everyone knows that something big is happening at Azure tonight. It is no secret that Deno Catelli is a prominent businessman. Azure is the ultimate venue in Seattle.

We open the car door and jump out, getting the twins as a few cameras flash. I wonder what this event is going to be called in the tabloids tomorrow? The thought comes to my head as a soldier blocks one of the cameramen with his big stocky shoulders. His back is faced toward me, but the sense of familiarity hits me, regardless. I frown as a thought crosses my mind.

It couldn’t be.

“This weather is not good for my hair,” I spin around at the sound, a familiar voice, and beam.

“You made it!” I hug Gabriel DeMarco.

Ren, Gabriel and I were particularly close growing up. When we got to high school, we’d sneak fire-crackers every year into the school’s premises. Gabriel would take the blame, knowing Ren and I would get into big shit with our fathers.

“You said you weren't coming.”

His stubble brushes my cheek as I let him go and take a step back. I look up, because, like Ren, Gabriel is very tall. But where Ren is showing the promise of a man’s body, Gabriel is very much a man. His haunted, dangerous blue eyes that smile at me proves he is a Made-Man with very dark and evil crimes.

“I know, I know. I wasn't going to, but I couldn't let Ren have all the fun now. Plus, I missed you a bit.” He winks as my face goes red.

My stepmother hisses behind me, as Gabriel engulfs me in his arms again laughing.