Page 130 of Merciless Monster

“Ah, Mom. Why do I have to wear this suit? I feel silly.”

“You look very handsome, my boy. Today is a big day for your uncle Elio. You are a man now, remember? You have to look the part, Master De Luca,” I tease.

“You’re funny, Mom,” he grimaces, pulling at his collar.

“Is Daddy also wearing a suit?”

“Of course. He’s the best man.”

“What does that mean?”

“Well, he is the most important witness to the wedding today. He's the one who ties the ribbon to the church door so the guests know where to come to celebrate the ceremony. He also presents the rings to the bride and groom.”

“Really?”

“Uh-huh. And then once Elio and Lisa are married, Daddy will do the first speech to wish the couple a long and happy marriage.”

“That’s a very important job, isn’t it, Mom?”

“It sure is, my love.”

“Daddy is important here, isn’t he?”

Interesting observation. Smart boy.

“Why do you ask that?”

“I see how everyone waits outside Daddy’s office so they can talk to him. He must be really clever, hey.”

“Yes, Angelo. Your Daddy is very clever.”

“I want to be strong and clever like Daddy when I grow up.”

Angelo’s words both thrill and frighten me. It’s beautiful when a son wants to follow in his father’s footsteps, but my son doesn’t know what he’s saying. This is the last thing I’d ever want for him.

“I’m sure you’re going to be even stronger and smarter than your Dad, my angel. Now let me take a look at you. Oh, my goodness. You are a handsome young man.”

“Can I go now, Mom?”

“Only if you promise not to get dirt all over this suit, Angelo. I want you to look nice today.”

“Ugh! Fine. I’ll be careful,” he moans.

“Promise?”

“I promise,” he sighs.

“Okay, off you go then.”

Angelo takes off like a rocket. He’s probably miffed that he’s missed out on playtime with the other children.

“Knock, knock.”

Dante walks into the room.

“I just saw a very handsome little De Luca shoot out of here like a man fired from a canon,” he chuckles.

“Yup. It took me forever to get him dressed. That boy is like a slinky.”

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