Page 65 of The Godfather’s Christmas Twins

Maria catches my eye from where she's basting the turkey. She's been watching me pace between the kitchen and living room windows all morning.

"The turkey needs to rest," she says. "Why don't you let the children play outside while we wait?”

"Alright," I say. "But jackets first. It's chilly out there."

They race to their rooms for their coats, thundering back moments later. I watch from the back door as they sprint toward the new playground, their excited shrieks carrying across the yard. Two of Max's security men discreetly adjust their positions to keep the kids in view. I wonder if Max feels the playground is a waste since the kids won’t have much time to enjoy it.

With the kids occupied, I return to the kitchen, setting the table using the kids’ place holders. I set Max’s at the head of the table, wondering if he’s going to make it.

My phone finally buzzes and my heart leaps. “Hey. Dinner is about ready.”

"I can't make it." His voice sounds strained, tired. "We might have a lead on Benny."

I grip the phone tighter, fighting back the sting in my eyes. "The kids have been asking for you all day."

"I know, I'm sorry. Tell them I'll make it up to them."

"Will you?" The words slip out harsh before I can stop them. "Or are you just avoiding us now?"

There's a long pause on the other end. I hear muffled voices in the background, the sound of a door closing.

"Gia." His voice softens. "I'm not avoiding you. This is about keeping you safe. Nic trusted me with your protection, and if Benny is behind the stalking, I need to handle it."

"Right. Your duty to Nic." I swallow hard. "Always your duty."

“This is about your safety, Gia. Yours and the kids’.” I can hear the irritation in his voice. “If anything happened to you or the kids because I wasn't focused on finding Benny?—”

"I understand," I cut him off, not wanting to hear more about his obligations. "The kids are outside. I should check on them."

"Gia—”

“I’ll save you a plate.” I end the call before he can say more, before he can break my heart even more.

Max's words about duty and obligation ring in my ears. Of course he'd choose work over us. That's who he is, who he's always been. The responsible soldier, putting the family's needs above his own desires.

Above me. Above the kids.

Through the window, I watch Daniella and Dario on the swings, their laughter carrying across the yard. They look so happy here, so at home. But this isn't our home. It never was. It never will be.

Maria's humming drifts from the kitchen, along with the rich smell of turkey. The table I set feels like a mockery now, fourplaces that will only seat three. But the kids deserve their holiday dinner, even if Max won't be here to share it.

“I think dinner is ready to be served. Will Mr. Giraldi be back soon?”

I shake my head. “Duty calls.”

She nods in understanding, although I see disappointment for me and the kids on her face.

“Will you join us?” I ask her.

Her brows lift in surprise. “I… uh…”

“Please join us. It’s Thanksgiving. We have enough. Hell, we have enough for everyone. We should invite them to join us too.”

She seems hesitant. Perhaps my eagerness is what tips her over the hurdle. “I’d enjoy that.”

“I’ll get the kids. Perhaps Marcus can carve the turkey for us.” I step outside, plastering on my brightest smile. "Who's ready for turkey?"

I gather the kids from outside, their cheeks pink from the cool air.