Page 115 of Mob Star

“Thea?”

“Hmm?”

“What’re you up to?”

“You’ll see.”

“Are those my brothers and cousins?”

“Yes. I knew you’d flip if we went anywhere without a security detail, and I knew you’d have a coronary once you find out my plans if that detail wasn’t your family.”

We arrive at an estate that’s nestled away where you wouldn’t expect to find a restaurant with three Michelin Stars. The inside of the inn— a completely understated name for what’s like a castle —is luxury to the hilt.

“Welcome Mr. and Mrs. O’Rourke. It’s a pleasure to have you stay with us tonight. Your suite is ready as is your chef’s table.”

A young man leads us to the restaurant where people must wonder if we’re foreign diplomats or celebrities as Shane, Sean, Seamus, Cormac, and Dillan spread out. Not exactly unobtrusive, despite how I know they try.

When our wine arrives, I hold up my glass.

“Finn, I love you.”

“I love you, too, Thea.”

“The best decision I ever made was one I feared I’d regret. I went back to McGinty’s a second time. Thank you for the life we’re building together. I never imagined I could feel so complete, but it’s like the missing piece I didn’t know wasn’t there is now in place. As happy as being with you makes me, I’m happier that you can just be Finn with me and not Finn O’Rourke. I get the man at the end of the day, not the family accountant.”

I can’t say mobster in public. He knows what I mean.

“Thea, I couldn’t stop looking at you the first time I met you. Not just because you’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen. I knew you were so much more. I never imagined anyone could be as special as you. You are my safe harbor wherever we go.”

Our glasses clink before we take a sip.

“Speaking of places to go. You know that island off Bimini that you were talking about?”

“Yes.”

“We’re headed there for two weeks.”

I pause when I see Finn’s expression. It isn’t surprise. It’s fucking straight up a shit-eating grin.

“We can read each other’s minds even when we’re not in the same room. Thea, I bought the island three days ago. I planned to whisk you away this weekend.”

We laugh and clink our glasses again.

“I hope you can read my mind all night, Daddy. I’ve been thinking a lot.”

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