by Posey Parks
“I need you. Caden needs you. I want to go home and have you all to myself. Just our little family.”
“Sydney, we are moving into our new house soon.”
Her eyes closed and Sydney’s head dropped against my shoulder. “Good,” she breathed.
Her head jerked back. Sydney’s eyes widened. “Shit, I need to take care of you.”
“Baby, slow down. Take your time. I’m not going anywhere.”
She nodded, swaying her fingers across my hairy chest. “Ok. I’ll be back. I need to change out of these wet clothes.”
Until we moved into our new home, I didn’t believe Sydney would be at ease.
CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE
SEBASTIAN
Sydney sat beside me. Her head rested on the pillow in the comfortable hospital bed, holding Caden. Staring into my son’s eyes sparked a new level of thankfulness. His green eyes lit up.
“Daddy missed you, little man.”
“Give Daddy slobbers, Caden.” Sydney grinned.
He hummed against my cheek. Drool ran down my face. In the back of my mind I knew I needed to strategize my attack on Pippa. Her life would come to an end soon.
Knock, knock.
“Come in,” I yelled.
Seth peeked into the room. “Is this a good time? Or should I come back tomorrow?” He smirked.
I waved him inside.
“Caden, you’ve gotten so big,” he smiled brightly, strolling across the room.
“I wish I could say you look more like your mommy.”
“Would you like to hold him?”
“Sydney, no. Might be contagious.”
Her eyebrows wrinkled. “What?”
“Having a baby.”
She laughed.
“Big bro’s afraid he might want to settle down.” The corner of my lip quirked up at one end.
“I won’t allow that to happen,” he grimaced.
My forehead creased. “Hold your nephew. You won’t catch the baby vibes.”
He scowled, stretching his hands out.
“Go to uncle Seth, Caden.” Sydney smiled.
Seth pulled him into his arms, kissing his curly hair. “I can’t get over how much you look like your daddy. Your dad wore his hair curly as a boy. He learned later in life mousse could tame those curls. Not today. His curly hair is back,” he said in a baby voice, peering at me accompanied by a wicked smile.
“You think you are being cute. But you’re not.” I sneered.
“I’ll leave you two to talk.” Sydney stretched her hands out toward Caden.
“Actually, if you don’t mind, I’d like to spend time with him.”
“Sure. I’ll be back later.” She pecked my lips. Our eyes locked briefly. The sadness still weighed heavy on her heart. Later, in my morphine stupor, I’d express my love for her. Kiss her sweet plump lips and stroke her soaked nub until she was convinced this wasn’t a dream.
But reality.
Sydney sashayed toward the door, wearing pink sweatpants and a matching T-shirt.
“Can’t take your eyes off of her, huh? It’s been a little over a year.”
I grinned. “No. She’s my life, Seth. I went to hell and back to make her my woman.”
He sat in the recliner, hugging Caden. “Oh, you mean that shit that happened with Steph in St. Croix?”
I sighed. “There’s a lot you don’t know. For good reason.”
“What’s that supposed to mean? I’m you’re older brother. It’s not the other way around.”
“Yeah, Seth, I get that. But you love your play time. If the right woman came along, I bet your bachelor outlook would change.”
He swallowed hard. “Maybe it has a little bit. A different chick lying in my bed every night has gotten old. Lately, I’ve spent time alone.”
Caden clutched Seth’s navy T-shirt, slobbering over his tiny fist.
“Is that hand good to you little man,” Seth smiled at Caden.
His eyes lit up, and he laughed.
“You did good, Sebastian. I’m proud of you.”
“Thanks.”
“Being around a houseful of couples is tugging at my heart strings. I might rethink what’s important in life. Your near-death experience also put things into perspective. No one is promised tomorrow. Maybe I’d like a woman to look at me the way your wife does without me running in the opposite direction.”
We laughed.
“I want to know what’s really going on. Sydney withheld information. She said you’d explain. The whispering and clamoring of mouths when I enter a room around here it’s frustrating. Why am I the only person in the dark?” He raised Caden up in down in the air. He swung his feet.
“Whoa, Caden. Watch the family jewels.”
I chuckled, gripping the bedrail.
“Sorry, little bro.”
I nodded. My brother was an older version of me. Only difference, he had dimples and bulked up.
“I don’t think you should hold Caden during this conversation. You should place him in his swing.”
His eyes widened. “That bad. Dang.” He strapped Caden into his swing.
“Don’t leave anything out.” He scowled, sitting in the chair.
“I am an agent for the government.”
He gasped.
“Don’t ask which one. I can’t tell you. Sydney, Samantha, Jacob, Zoey, and Brandon are Assassins.”
He clutched his short hair, eyes bulging. “So, you’re saying Jacob is not only an actor, but a total badass in real life? I don’t believe you.”
“Well that is up to you. Our mission blew up in our faces just a couple of days ago.” I ran my fingers over my forehead. “You asked if I knew where Stephanie was…I know. Everyone in this house knows.”
He hopped to his feet, pacing the floor. “Everyone, Sebastian?”
“Yes. They are trained to handle matters of detriment.”
He halted. “What happened to her?”
“She’s gone. Never returning. She kidnapped my son. So, I took matters into my own hands. She was willing to do anything to have me back in her life. Stephanie lied about being pregnant with my child. She sent Sydney fake baby announcements. Doctored photos. I almost lost Sydney forever. I thought the mess with Stephanie was over. I was wrong. Someone framed me for murder.”
“Whoever did that shit wanted to destroy you. Our business took a direct hit. We lost millions!”
“I’m aware. Once I’ve healed, I’ll recoup the money. Stephanie’s bitter half-sister was out for blood. She’s tried to kill me three times now. She doesn’t know I’m alive yet.”
He pointed his finger toward me. “That’s why Brandon said you were admitted as a John Doe.”
“Yes. I built our new fortress at the end of the Cul-de-sac. There is a training facility under this house that leads to me and Sydney’s homes.”
He sat on the edge of the chair, elbows resting on his thighs, clutching his head.
“This is crazy.”
I pulled my lips in. “One more thing. Mom is a mafia princess.”
His mouth fell open. “What?”
“Our grandfather’s real name is Salvatore Magarelli. He was the mob boss for many years. He sent our cousin Dominic to help find Caden. Our uncle Sergio the new mob boss assisted also. Mom is a force of nature. I’d feel for anyone who tried to cross her. She loves to torture and won’t blink at taking a person’s life who’s betrayed our family. I’ve seen her in action.”
“Our sweet loving mother?”
“Yup. Dad asked our grandfather to allow her to walk away from the mafia. He agreed, and they started over. You should meet mom’s side of the family. Our cousin Dillon is the boss now. Dominic is his right hand. Do you remember Jacob’s bodyguard Tony?”
“Yeah, he walked the yacht deck most of the night.”
“He’s a Magarelli.”
Seth slouched in his seat and stared at Caden. “Little dude, what kind of family were you born into?”
I ex
plained Tony and Dillon’s story.
Seth couldn’t stop shaking his head. “Fourteen years living underground that’s fucking crazy.”
“You should really consider meeting them one day.”
“Hell yeah, I will. Explains my love of guns and lack of mercy for those who feel they can disrespect and betray me.”
I chuckled. “Yeah, that mafia blood line is powerful. Did you need our help with anything?”
“Not right now. Good to know I have connections.” He thumbed his nose.
I laughed and gripped the rail again. “You have to stop making me laugh.”
“All right.”
“Oh, Dad isn’t pleased I’ve helped the Magarelli’s. He’s afraid grandfather will attempt to pull me into the family business.”
“That’s understandable. After all, he pulled mom out of that life.”
“True.”
There was a knock at the door. “Come in,” Seth stated.
“I came to check on my baby.” Mom’s eyes teared up.
A smirk kicked up at the ends of Seth’s mouth. “Mafia princess, huh?”
Her eyes widened. “Sebastian, you told your brother about me?”
“Yes, I told him everything.”
Her eyes closed, and she exhaled. “Good. I was tired of lying.”
“Mom, technically you didn’t lie. You just weren’t very forthcoming for a long time.”
She leaned in planting her lips against my scarred forehead. “True, Sebastian.”
Her sinister eyes fell on my brother. “Seth, if you have any problems, you let me know. I’ll make the problems disappear. Farò scomparire i problem.”
“Maronn’. I can’t have my mafia princess mother cleaning up my mess.”
Her arms crossed her chest. “Your brother and Sydney didn’t have a problem when I helped them.”
“Help with what?” Dad, grimaced, stalking through the door.
Mom froze and plastered a mischievous smile across her thin lips.
Tossing her dark hair over her shoulder, she turned slipping her arms around his waist. “Sebastian brought Seth up to speed.”
He scowled. “Why did you do that?”
“Dad, he deserved to know.”
He pointed his long finger my way. “No, he didn’t.”
“Dad, I’m a grown man. You’ve raised two strong-minded men. We can handle ourselves.”
Mom’s fingers stroked along his heaving chest.
“I don’t want to think about the Magarelli’s right now. How are you feeling son?”
“Tired, and the pain shoots through my body every thirty seconds.”
Dad wrapped his arm around mom’s shoulder and stepped closer. “For Pete’s Sake, Caden…” He placed the morphine button in my hand. “We know you’re tough. Now isn’t the time not to take your meds. You need to heal.”
Euphoria fell upon me. “I needed that.”
Mom left dad’s side. She leaned over Caden. “He’s sleeping so peaceful despite the yelling.”
“He’s a good baby,” Dad chimed. “Wish we could see him more.”
“Dad, I know you and Mom are still working. Supposed to be retired. You have brokers running the Real Estate business, extend your stay. Or visit frequently. I’d love to consult with you both about properties in Beverly Hills that will grow our portfolio. Besides, we’re moving out of our old house and moving to the large house up the block.”
“You are a workaholic, Sebastian.”
“Seth, don’t I know it.”
“What’s the plan to handle Pippa?”
“Right now, I need to remain off the radar until I’ve healed. Sydney and I will handle Pippa when it’s time to strike.”
“Nothing like a hot female assassin by your side.”
I glowered. “Watch it, Seth.”
“Relax.”
“I thought you hated Sydney?”
We stared at Seth.
“I wanted to make sure she wasn’t using you to make babies then run off. I’m aware that’s not the case. Once I arrived at the hospital, she was in bad shape. She whole heartedly loves you.”
“I could have told you that,” Dad said.
“She needed time that was all.”
A smile brightened my face.
“Thanks, Dad.”
“Would you like us to keep an eye on Caden tonight?”
Her eyes darted over to Caden again.
“No, Sydney would like him in here with us.”
She kissed my hair. “Ok, rest up, honey.”
CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO
SEBASTIAN
Fifteen minutes after my family had exited the room, Sydney walked in with a tray. “I have fresh chicken broth and strawberry Jell-O.”
“I thought this diet would consist of steak and potatoes.”
She laughed. “Sebastian, you know that’s not possible. You have to eat a liquid diet. You had surgery yesterday.”
“I am hoping for solid foods tomorrow.” She laughed as she scooped up the baby.
Sydney laid Caden in his crib then showered while I ate my sorry excuse of a dinner.
I wolfed down my second bottle of water and glanced across the room.
“Sydney, are you ok?”
“Yeah.”
She strolled out of the walk-in closet, moisturizing her hands.
“I’m stuffed. Next time I’ll take half a bowl of chicken broth.”
Her arms crossed her chest. “Yeah right, Sebastian.”
“It was a very filling meal.”
“You were supposed to eat earlier, but you had visitors.” Her eyebrow quirked up.
“Yeah, I know.”
“And you should be resting.”
My head dropped back on the pillow. “You’re right. I don’t think I can fight the meds anymore. Come here.”
“I can sleep on the chaise lounge.”
My brows wrinkled. “No. Turn on the television and climb up here.”
She smirked. “Ok.”
Sydney wiggled the IV bags. “You have enough fluids to last until the morning. Do you need to see Brandon?” She slid the rolling meal table aside.
“No, I can wait until the morning. I hadn’t seen Samantha since I arrived. Is she ok?”
“Yes, she was spending time with her parents and the kids. She’ll visit tomorrow.”
Sydney climbed into the small bed, pulling the blanket over us.
“I know it’s a tight squeeze.”
“It isn’t that. I want to be close to you, but I want you to be comfortable.”
My lips fell upon her forehead. “I’ll be fine for tonight. I need to know you’re all right.”
Her head thudded the pillow. “It will take a little time. Seeing you. Being close to you will help.” Her hand slipped up and down my arm.
“Please rest. I need you healthy and strong.” Her lips pressed against my neck.
“Watch TV, Sydney. Just no cooking shows.”
She laughed. “How about your favorite ‘Flip That House show’?”
“Sounds perfect.” She flipped on the TV and turned off the lamp.
“This is nice. I have you all to myself even if it’s only for one night.”
“Sydney, we have the rest of our lives together.”
“Sebastian, I don’t want to talk about it. Let’s live in the moment.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?”
“Soon you’ll fulfill your end of the bargain for Randy.”
I sighed. “Yeah.” My fingers traced along her outer thigh.
“On a brighter note, I brought Seth up to speed.”
She blew out a breath. “That might explain why he didn’t toss me that suspicious look.”
“Yeah, he said he wondered if you’d leave me after you birthed a few babies.”
She pinched two fingers over her eyes. “Really?”
“He said watching you in the hospital trying to hold it together showed him how much you loved me.”
Her fingers traced under the hospital gown and through my chest hairs.
“Yeah, I was a hot mess, actually. Look at us now. We’re lying here together. You are trying so hard to stay awake for me.”
“I can massage your clit.”
Her head jerked back, and she visibly swallowed. “I’d love that, but I’d rather wait. I don’t want you falling asleep right before my orgasm.”
A loud chuckle released from my throat. Pain shot through what felt like every organ in my body. I grimaced.
“Sorry Sebastian.”
“It’s ok.”
“This right here is all I want. Rubbing my fingers across your sexy chest, feeling your heartbeat pulsating against my hand is perfect. That’s how I know this moment is real.”
∞
Turns out, I was beyond exhausted. Brandon insisted I take sedatives for the next few days. He said I wouldn’t be good to anyone if I didn’t rest. Of course, Dr. Asher was correct.
My eyes fluttered open, and I glanced around the spacious room. Where was everyone?
There was a knock at the door.
“Come in.”
Mike swung the door open. “Hey Sebastian. I dropped by to see how you were doing. The firefighter who assisted in the search is also here.”
“Both of you can come in.”
Mike glanced into the hall and nodded at someone.
My eyes widened as the other person came into view.
“Hello.”
“Hello, that’s all you have to say?”
He smirked at Mike as they approached.
Mikes eyebrows wrinkled. “I’m sorry am I missing something?”
“Yes. When did you become a firefighter, Chandler?”
Mikes eyes bulged. “You know him?”
“Yeah, he’s my cousin.”
Chandler dropped his head.
“Why didn’t you tell me you two were related?”
“At the time it wasn’t important. We needed to save his life.”
His blue eyes saddened. “I apologize.”
“Tell Mike why I am upset.”
Chandler ran his fingers through his short brown, spiky hair. “Because I am a firefighter. I was trapped in a burning house when I was a child.”
“Jesus! Why would you want to become a firefighter?”
