Sweet Temptation by Cora Reilly

worrying.”
“You tell him.”
I made my way over to my parents, who were talking to Mia, who was
cradling her newborn son in her arms. She looked exhausted.
“Stop it, Father.”
He knew what I meant without me having to elaborate. “I’m trying to think
of your future.”
I motioned toward Daniele, who was holding Simona’s hand since she was
still a bit unsteady on her legs. “There is my future. End of story.”
Mother touched my forearm. “We love them, but—”
“No but.”
They exchanged a look then nodded reluctantly.
Mia gave me a proud smile.
I hoped this matter was settled once and for all. The more Father kept
digging, the likelier it was that word about this would get out.
After everyone was gone, Giulia and I played a round of pool. I needed the
distraction, and she’d become quite good at distracting me.
“Tomorrow, you need to take Daniele to a preschool orientation. I made an
appointment a few days ago.”
Bent over the table, Giulia froze. Then she straightened. “What? Why?”
“I want him to be around other kids. This preschool only takes in kids from
our circles or our business associates. Daniele will be around his future soldiers.
He’ll learn to assert himself among the other boys. If he’s only around you, he
might become too soft.”
Anger crossed her face. I shook my head. “It’s a fact. You can’t help it. And I
only spend the evenings and weekends with him. He needs to brawl and meet
unruly boys.”
“Don’t interrupt me. You don’t even know what I was going to say.” Her
tone set my teeth on edge. After the thing with my father today, I’d been eager
for a fight.
“Then say what you want to say.”
“You should have discussed your plans with me.”
“My decision is made. Daniele needs the change.”
Giulia jabbed her finger against my chest. “Even so, we’re a family. I’m your
wife. I deserve to be involved in a decision like that!”
“They’re my kids, Giulia.”
Her hurt hit me unexpectedly.
“No,” she said fiercely. “They are our kids, Cassio. I told you before and I’ll