His Promise: The Mafia’s Babies by C. Tamika novel Chapter 228

“I knew this was a bad plan,” I whispered to myself while trying not to faint in the changing room.

After my crazy idea, I decided to just go for it and called Luca’s number—not expecting him to answer, but he did.

I told him I wanted to meet up with him and managed to manipulate Emilio and Beau—into taking me to a public mall. Yes, I was stupid—but to a degree which was why I knew that a public meeting would be the only way, even if it had to be in this tiny, uncomfortable space.

I held my breath, feeling a presence behind me. “Serena…we meet again.” I recognized Luca’s voice.

I turned around and opened my eyes to meet the man standing in front of me. He wore a black hoodie, covering half of his face. I had expected to be scared, but I wasn’t. Deep down, I was still hopeful that he would be the old Luca. The one who was once willing to give his life for me.

“What?” Luca chuckled. “No hug, no warm welcome?”

I scoffed. “After everything you’ve done?” I asked. “Because I don’t know if you’re aware, but Dario…your brother Dario? His uncle is dead because of you—“

“Don’t!” Luca slammed his fist against the wall, cornering me. “That was on my dad. That wasn’t me, so don’t!”

I kept my mouth shut. My words had affected him deeply. “Believe it or not…I don’t always agree with his ways.”

I truly wanted to believe that—but Luca still had a choice. Despite everything, Lucio would still be willing to welcome him back into the family, and so would Franco.

“Anyway, I’m not here for any of that.” I rolled my eyes, so I didn’t have to look at him. “I’m here to make a deal. One your father will like.”

“I’m listening.” Luca backed off. It was now or never—but I wouldn’t run away, and I would not turn my back on the Lamberti’s. Not this time.

“Although your dad claimed he didn’t want to hurt Christian…I heard he’s changed his mind.” I began. “I heard he would let the Lamberti’s be, in trade for my…presence.”

Luca chuckled. “You’ve heard correctly.” He confirmed. “It’s nothing personal, but taking away someone he cares about is the same as attacking the family business—so either one will do.”

“Believe it or not, he also cared about you.” I reminded Luca. “You broke his heart.”

“He doesn’t. If he did, he would’ve been there for me.”

I was not in the mood to continue this discussion which was why I didn’t get into it. “I want your dad to return Siena’s money, all of it—and I need him to guarantee to let me live…for another ten months,” I spoke determinedly. “I’ll surrender myself, but only under these conditions.”

Luca grinned. “Forget about the money, what makes you think you have the right to live for another ten months?” He brought his lips to my ear. “Not that we would kill you.”

Well, it wouldn’t be the first time.

“I’m pregnant.”

There was no emotion in my voice, but who could blame me? I was supposed to share this moment with Christian, but here I was—sharing it with his traitor cousin instead.

“Pregnant?” Luca’s eyes lit up. “You just don’t know how to catch a break, do you?” He laughed. “What’s the point of protection if people aren’t using it?”

I folded my arms as a way of showing him that I wasn’t playing around. “These are my terms, and the baby will be returned to Christian as well.”

Luca cleared his throat. “See, now it’s getting interesting.” He clicked his tongue. “You want to exchange your freedom for Christian and your…baby.”

“Yes, I do.” I snarled. “And I don’t have all day, so I need you to give me an answer—“

“Deal.” Luca cut me off. “Dad will be happy to hear about this.” He smirked. “Meeting up with me was a good decision, Serena.”

“Was it?” I frowned. “And how do you know I’m not lying?”

Although I knew my life was precious, I hadn’t expected it to be this easy.

Luca played with a few strands of my hair while I restrained myself from spitting in his face.“Because I know the type of person you are.” He spoke calmly. “You’re a greedy, gold-digging bitch who will do anything, so your daughter doesn’t have to strip the same way you did.”

Keep calm, Serena.

Breathe in, breathe out.

“How do I know you’re not the one lying?” I turned the question. “I know how much you want the family business—“

Luca cackled. “As long as I get to see Christian miserable, I couldn’t give two shits about that business!”