The night was quiet, the faint chirping of crickets echoing in the distance. The dim light of the moon bathed the open space, casting long shadows over the area where Vincenzo often came to think. It was his sanctuary, a place to clear his head amidst the chaos of his world.
Vanessa stood at the edge of the pathway, hesitant. She had followed him here, unsure why, but the sight of him sitting silently, shoulders slightly hunched in thought, tugged at her heart. He looked burdened, as if the weight of his responsibilities threatened to crush him.
For a moment, she thought about leaving—turning around and letting him have his solitude. But as she stepped back, her foot grazed a loose stone, sending it skittering noisily across the ground. Vincenzo's head snapped up, his sharp gaze locking onto her.
"Vanessa?" he called, his voice low but tinged with surprise.
She froze, heart racing. "I'm sorry," she stammered, taking a small step forward. "I didn't mean to intrude."
His expression softened as he stood and approached her. "You're not intruding," he said quietly, his eyes searching hers. "Why are you here?"
"I just… I saw you leave and thought…" She trailed off, unsure of how to explain herself.
Without another word, Vincenzo closed the distance between them. His hand reached for her waist, pulling her gently toward him. His lips captured hers in a kiss that stole her breath, his touch firm yet tender. For a moment, she let herself sink into the kiss, her hands resting on his chest as his warmth enveloped her.
But then reality hit her. She pulled back slightly, glancing around nervously. "Vincenzo, we're outside," she whispered, her cheeks flushing.
He smirked, his grip on her waist loosening but not letting go. "And?"
Before she could respond, the sound of footsteps drew their attention. Both turned to see Marco approaching, his expression unreadable.
"Father," Vincenzo greeted, his tone calm but respectful as he released Vanessa.
"Vincenzo," Marco said, his voice steady but distant, as though his mind were elsewhere. He glanced at Vanessa briefly, then back to his son. "What are you doing out here?"
"Just needed some air," Vincenzo replied, maintaining his composure.
Marco nodded slowly, his sharp eyes scanning the area. "Good. Clear your head. We'll need it sharp for what's coming." His tone softened slightly as he added, "Take care of her, Vincenzo. Both of them."
"I will," Vincenzo replied firmly.
Satisfied, Marco gave a curt nod before turning and heading back toward the house.
Vincenzo turned back to Vanessa, his gaze softening. "Come on," he said, taking her hand.
As they walked, he suddenly stopped. Vanessa looked at him curiously. "What is it?"
Instead of answering, Vincenzo knelt slightly, pressing a gentle kiss to her belly. His lips lingered for a moment before he straightened, his eyes locking with hers.
"Vanessa," he said, his voice low and full of emotion. "I love you. Don't ever forget that, okay?"
She smiled, tears pricking the corners of her eyes. "I won't," she whispered.
As they continued walking back, Vanessa felt a sense of peace settle over her. Despite the dangers that surrounded them, she knew one thing for certain—Vincenzo would do whatever it took to keep her and their child safe.