Page 123 of His Son's Ex

“I love you, too.”

EPILOGUE II

DANTE

Two years later.

Two years feels like both a blink and a lifetime when you’re a father. And that’s what I am. Not just the man who pays the bills or rules the underworld.

A real father with a growing family that reminds me every day how much better life became the moment Eva walked into it.

I step onto the terrace of the Bellacino estate, letting the summer sun hit my face. The air smells like fresh-cut grass, the marble beneath my feet warm from the afternoon heat. Below, the gardens stretch out before me—manicured hedges, the soft gurgles of fountains—the same courtyard where we sealed our marriage vows.

I never used to notice peace. Now, I need it—if only to remember what I’m fighting for.

Down in the courtyard, my son Alessandro toddles across the stones under the watchful eye of our nanny. He’s all bright eyesand untamed energy. He’s nearly two now. Sturdy, stubborn, curious.

He’s got Eva’s fire, her spark of mischief, and a determination that’s pure Bellacino. I watch as he grabs a stick and holds it up like it’s a sword, waving it around with dramatic flair.

That boy’s ready to conquer the world.

The sight hits me square in the chest. He’s mine. Not just by blood, but in spirit. My second chance at fatherhood. My true heir.

I head down the stairs as my mother stands near the fountain, watching Alessandro with a rare, unguarded smile she saves just for him. When she catches my eye, her expression sobers, but not before I see the softness, pride, and peace she never thought she’d live to feel.

“He’s growing fast,” she says. “I swear he was just a baby in a bassinet and now look at him.”

I grunt in agreement, a small smile tugging at my lips. “He’ll be climbing the trees soon if we’re not careful.”

“If he’s anything like Eva, he will be. That woman doesn’t know how to stay idle.”

I chuckle, pride swelling in my chest. Eva’s the reason this place is thriving. She’s inside now, locking down details with Halsey for their cybersecurity firm—her brainchild. The Russians are already sniffing around, eager to buy in.

That’s her power. Quiet. Ruthless. Brilliant.

I glance at the house, drawn to her energy even when she’s not right next to me.

A sudden movement near the gate pulls my attention away. A figure I recognize instantly.

Luca.

“Is that...” My mother sees him too.

“It is.”

“Do you want me to?—”

“No. I’ll handle this.”

I head toward the gate, a guard trailing close behind. He’s tense, hand on the butt of his weapon. I give him a nod—not to stand down, but to move in.

As we reach the gate, the guard steps forward and pats Luca down, quick and professional. Luca stiffens, offense flashing in his eyes. He swallows hard, saying nothing. His head drops, shoulders folding in on themselves like he’s finally realized the truth. He doesn’t belong here anymore.

I step forward, his eyes meeting mine, full of regret and shame. A cruel reminder of a legacy built on greed.

“You think I’d bring a weapon here?” He sounds offended more than hurt.

I stare him down. “After what you did, you’re lucky I didn’t have the guards shoot you on sight.”

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