~ Massimo ~
The iron gates of the Valentino estate groaned open, welcoming us back into the fortress.
The house was glowing against the dark Texas sky, looking peaceful, something I was sure was absent inside the doors.
I stepped out of the SUV, my shoes hitting the gravel with a heavy thud. My body felt like it was held together by nothing but sheer willpower.
I barely made it two steps past the front door before a blur of fabric and perfume slammed into me.
"Massimo!"
My mother wrapped her arms around my neck, her body shaking with heavy sobs.
Marietta joined in, her fingernails digging into my scorched sleeve as she let out a breath of pure, tearful relief.
I grunted as their weight pressed against my bruised ribs, but I didn't pull away. I pulled in, equally relieved to see them too.
Behind them was my father, Niamh, Aurelio and Dario.
Dario looked grim, as if he was at fault for not being able to help.
