51

ALESSANDRO

She brought milk over to him.

“Here you go, little guy.” She placed the sippy cup in front of him. It would seem it didn’t take her long to buy all the stuff a kid needs.

“Grazie.” I had to give it to Lorena, the boy had manners.

“Maria, thank you for getting all the stuff we need for Matteo.”

“No problem. It is nice having little ones in the house again.”

I flinched. Maria has been with us since my cousin and I were children. Glancing at my aunt, I didn’t see the usual soul shattering sorrow on her face.

Instead, there was hope in her wrinkles.

“Yes, she will stay, Aunt,” I answered my aunt’s earlier question in Italian.

I didn’t know how I would keep Lorena with us, but I’d find a way. If I had to chain her to this house, I’d ensure she remained in this household for as long as my aunt lived.

And if I had to get rid of Matteo’s father... Fuck it, I would. Everybody had a price.