Epilogue

EPILOGUE

Nic – Christmas Afternoon

E ver since Bella mentioned something between Max and Gia, I’ve paid close attention to them. I’d felt like there was something odd about Max in relation to Gia but never considered it was some sort of unrequited love. And I don’t think it is now as I watch Max from across the room at Gia’s place, more focused on our men stationed outside the house than the festivities going on inside.

I’m paying those men a fortune to work on Christmas to keep us safe, including Max. He’s family. My brother. Gia’s sworn protector. What’s up with him?

I go and stand with him. “Unless there’s a specific threat, you need to join us to celebrate Christmas.”

“Ever since you became Don, you’re bossier.”

“I earned it.”

He glances at me. “With my help.”

I pat his shoulder. “I’ll never forget that you saved my ass. That’s why I’d like you to enjoy life a bit.”

“Ever since you found Bella, you think more about that.”

“I’ve learned life is more fulfilling with a woman.” Just not my sister , I think but don’t say. Because of course, he’s not into her.

He steps away from the window and downs his bourbon. “I want to go back to Las Vegas.” He’s mentioned this before, and like before, I’m resistant.

“No. I want you here. Second in command. Vegas is running smoothly with Dominic.”

His jaw tightens, his gaze briefly going to the living area where Gia, Bella, and the twins are playing games. “You don’t need me. Leo would be great as underboss?—”

“I want you. Unless you can give me a good reason that you have to go.”

“Fucking hell, Nic. I like it there. I do good for the business there.”

I study him. “Why do I feel like you’re running from something instead of toward something?”

He looks down at his glass, no doubt wishing it wasn’t empty. “What does it matter why?”

“Because it does. You’re not just my most trusted friend. You’re my brother. I’m not out of the woods in getting the business straight, in keeping Gia and the kids safe. But I also care about you. If there’s something going on?—”

“If you care, you’ll let me go.” His dark eyes bore into me, never looking more serious.

I nod. “What if I need you?”

“Then call. But I need to get back there, Nic. Don’t make me stay, Don Nardone.”

I want to punch him for putting that power difference between us. More than that, I wish I knew what the fuck was wrong with him.

“Okay. If you promise to come if I need you, then okay.”

“Thank you.”

“Now, come enjoy Christmas with the family.”

He glances at his watch. “Actually, I need to go.”

“What the fuck, Max?”

He shrugs and gives me a coy smile. “Hot date.”

“Don’t lie to me,” I snap.

He looks down, knowing I can read his bullshit anywhere.

“I just need to go.”

“You can go after you help Gia do the dishes.” It’s petty of me to put him to work, but fucking hell, the man is making me crazy.

His jaw tics. “Fine.” He starts to walk away, but I stop him.

“I love you, man. Please, tell me what’s going on?”

“Nothing.” He’s lying. “I just want to go home.”

Not the hot date. He wants out of here. Away from me. Or… I glance at Gia. She looks up at us and then quickly away. I turn back to him. I want to ask him about her, what his deal is with her. But I’m not sure I want the answer.

He looks down where my hand is holding his arm.

“I’m going to do the dishes.”

I let him go. I watch as he goes to the kitchen. Ten minutes later, Gia joins him. I move to watch, but Daniella calls out.

“Uncle Nic, do you really not know how to play games?”

“Not very well. I just?—”

“Nic, come play,” Bella says, her eyes urging me over as if she knows what I intend to do and wants to stop me.

“I’ll teach you,” Dario says, making a place for me on the floor to join them.

I blow out a breath and join them.

Another ten minutes later, Max comes out of the kitchen. “I’m heading out. Dishes are done, Boss.”

Fucker.

“Bye, Uncle Max.” The kids rush over and give him a hug.

“Be good to your mom.” He looks over at Bella. “Merry Christmas, Bella.”

“Merry Christmas, Max.”

I rise and walk him to the door. “Last chance. What’s going on?”

He shakes his head. “I’m going home. That’s all.” He smiles. “I know it’s not my place, but I’m proud of you. I know your mom and Gia’s mom would be too. You’re going to be a great Don.”

Dammit. I can’t continue to harangue him now. “Travel safe, Brother.” I give him a hug and then watch as he exits.

Then I turn and head to the kitchen. “Nic,” Bella calls.

“I just want to?—”

“Don’t.” She stands and comes to me.

I narrow my eyes. “What do you know?”

“I don’t know anything except that it’s Christmas and not everything is your business.”

I scowl, but she rubs the spot between my eyes.

“So serious, Don Nardone,” she says.

“Something is going on.”

“I have another Christmas present for you, but it’s at home.” She waggles her brows as she loops her arms around my neck.

“You’re trying to distract me.”

She presses her body close to mine, grinding against my dick. “Is it working?”

Fuck. It is. “Fine. We’re going home. But I get to choose the spot.”

“Can I choose the position?”

Good God, look what I’ve created. “Gia, we’re heading home,” I call out.

Gia comes out of the kitchen, and I study her face, hoping for a clue as to the weirdness of Max. But she’s got a bright smile as she and the kids give us hugs and we say our goodbyes.

In the car heading back to the penthouse, I can’t get the worry about Max out of my head.

“You should choose the car.” Bella says, breaking into my thoughts.

“What?”

“The spot. Choose the car.” The divider is up and the speaker is off. And Bella’s dress is pulled up to her hips. She reaches for my belt. “What has Santa brought me? I can’t wait to unwrap it.”

She effectively pushes Max out of my mind. I grip her hips, ready for her to ride me. “You’re insatiable, you know that?”

“I can’t help it, Nic.” She sinks down on me, and it’s fucking bliss. I see now that she’s helping me balance my work and life. I need to remember what I have with her.

“Merry Christmas, baby,” I say, sucking on her nipple through her dress top. “Now make Santa come.”

“Mmm… I love your package, Santa.”

As she rides me, I take her face in my hands, wanting her to know that I see her and appreciate her. “I love you.”

Her smile is sweet. It tells me that while I might have challenging times ahead, I’ll always have her love. It’s the greatest gift of all.