Watching Connor walk away, knowing what he’s about to deal with, hurts my heart. I know he’s strong, though, and will handle everything that comes his way.
Within a matter of hours, I met Connor’s twin brother and now his baby sister. They seem kind and genuine-like people I would be friends with or have in my life in some capacity. It’s so strange to think about how I’ve been conditioned to fear and hate them just because of their last name.
Now that I’ve had an inside glimpse of his family, I look forward to meeting his mother, Maeve, and his younger brother Rylan. From what I’ve seen, the Mennettis are very much like my own family in so many ways.
A part of me can’t help but wonder if it’s a good thing that I won’t be meeting Nolan Mennetti.
As sad as I am for their loss and as selfish as it may sound, it’s almost like a blessing in disguise for me. If he was anything like my dad, then it’s for the best we didn’t meet because he’d never give his blessing in regard to me being here.
And being with Connor.
The moment my father finds out what’s happening, he’s going to rant and rave. I wouldn’t be surprised if he sends a team of his enforcers over here to storm the gates. God.
I know that I need to let them know that I’m okay so they don’t worry, though. I sit down on the couch, take my phone out of my purse and decide to call Sofia.
She’s going to be most understanding and supportive of the situation.
“Trish!” Solana answers, sounding worried.
“Hi, Lana.”
“Where are you? I went to check on you after I heard what happened.”
“I’m fine,” I assure her. “I sort of got spirited away by Connor’s brother and I’m at the Mennetti compound.”
Stunned silence meets my ears. “You’re where? Are you kidding me right now?”
“When Connor heard what happened, he sent his brother to get me and bring me back here.”
“Where exactly is here? Are you safe?”
“Somewhere in the countryside and, yes, I’m perfectly safe. There’s a guard outside my door right now and Connor said he’s going to make sure I’m protected.” I pull in a deep, steadying breath. “Have mom and dad discovered I’m missing yet?”
“Mom and I were looking for you. Dad has no idea yet.”
“Can you let them know I’m okay?”
“Where should I say you are?”
“Staying with a, um, friend. Just tell them that.”
“Do you really think they won’t call you and start demanding answers.”
“I’m 24-years-old and I will remind them of that,” I state tartly.
For a long moment, Solana doesn’t comment. Then she asks, “Do you trust him?”
“I do,” I say without even having to think about it. With absolutely zero hesitation. “I trust Connor with my life. And the life of our baby.”
Her voice drops. “Have you told him about the baby yet?”
“No, not yet,” I admit even though the secret has been weighing heavily on me. “I want to tell him. I really do, but he just found out that his dad died.”
“Nolan Mennetti is dead?” she asks in disbelief.
“He needs time to grieve before I drop another bomb on him. I think he’s been hit with quite enough for the time being.”
“You’re protecting him. Just like he’s protecting you.”
“Yeah, I guess I am.”
“Oh, Trish, I really hope it’s going to work between the two of you. When can I meet him?”
“One thing at a time, okay?” I give a little laugh. “I did meet his younger sister, Finley, and she reminds me so much of you. I think you two would get along really well.”
“Really? Does he have any more brothers? Maybe around my age?”
“Other than Roberto, his twin, there’s Rylan. But I haven’t met him yet.”
“Rylan?” she echoes. What a strange name.”
“It’s an Irish name.”
“Hmm. I think I kind of like it,” she murmurs after a moment of indecision.
“Oh, Lana, you crack me up.”
We talk for a little while longer and then say goodbye. I have a pretty good feeling that my mom is going to be calling later and I hope she and my dad will give me the space I need right now and not start demanding a ton of answers about where I am and who I’m with. Because I know Solana will keep my location a secret.
Ugh. Too many secrets. I’ve never had this many in my life. But I suppose there’s only one big one left to share with Connor. Can I do it, though?
Before, I was scared he’d somehow use the pregnancy against me. But now, I don’t believe that he would. Seeing his reaction after someone tried to kill me spoke volumes and opened my eyes. He really does care. And by bringing me here, he’s risking a lot.
My mind is spinning.
It’s very strange to get an inside look at the people I’ve always been told are my enemy. I have a lot to try to take in and absorb, not to mention figure out what is happening between Connor and I.
Letting out a breath, I decide that I’m definitely going to tell him about the baby… I’m just not sure when yet. He’s dealing with his father’s death right now and I don’t want to add any extra stress to his plate.
When I finally tell Connor about the baby, I have no idea how he’ll react, but I would like for it to be something that could bring a little happiness into his life. When I think back to the first night we met and compare it to now…
Well, it’s almost like he’s a different person. Shadows cling to him that weren’t there before or, if they were, he kept them well-hidden. I can see the dark smudges under his bright blue eyes and the way his shoulders slump sometimes. Since taking over the business for his father, the pressures are taking their toll.
I want to help lighten his load somehow. But would telling him he’s going to be a father just make it heavier?