Page 124 of Hostile Love
“Uncle Tommy said you’ll figure it out as soon as we land.”
My heart flutters. Part anxiety and part excitement.
Tomás had been fully transparent about today's gruesome events. And taking over the wedding planning was his idea. I didn’t argue when he wanted to keep that part a surprise. All I want in this life is his love.
He had explained what would happen to the Lozano family and detailed the way he’d deal with the traitors inside the Souza organization.
I won’t deny the nausea I’d felt when I woke up this morning, knowing how much blood would spill.
We were never going to recite our vows at the plantation, even though the families of the fallen would forever associate our wedding with a bloodbath.
Before I had boarded the chopper taking the bridal party to the private airfield, Tomás reminded me of everything our family had endured since the bombing in Miami.
How we’d been perpetual targets for long enough. He assured me this power move would petrify the weak, silence the hungry vultures, and keep our enemies on the back foot.
I lift the window shade beside me and gaze out at candy floss clouds and a vast blue sky.
Tomorrow I'll officially become Carina Souza.
Wife to a powerful drug lord and devoted partner to a man who’d undoubtedly become the most feared gangster in Colombia after today.
Have I got any reservations about my place beside him—not at all.
This is love.
And love overrules everything.
The flight attendant yanks the door open and welcomes in the fading sunlight.
I cover my eyes with a pair of wide framed Gucci sunglasses and scan the tarmac.
“Take my hand, Leo.” India’s voice slips over my shoulder. “The steps are steep. Sin, do you need any help?”
As the girls organize themselves, I move outside of the jet and stand on the top step, suddenly recognizing the airport.
“I’m—I’m home…” I whisper, shocked. “We’re in Manaus!”
I trot down, looking left and right. My breaths are quick as I set eyes on my parents––and Salvador.
Tears burn the backs of my eyes and I let out a squeal. My sandals clomp as I rush towards them at speed and hug my mama first.
I kiss her salty wet cheek and she squishes me tight to her chest.
“Carina…my pretty girl. Look at you!” She takes a step back, gushing. “You’re glowing.”
My stomach flips. When I was a young teen, Mama never stopped telling me I was pretty, even when I hated myself and never believed her praise.
She saw something in me that I couldn’t––the same thing Tomás must see.
I usually chat to my parents over the phone because I’ve never felt comfortable inviting them into my new world.
I’m not ashamed of Tomás and his position. Keeping them at arm's length is a protective precaution. A way to ensure they stay under the radar.
I’d rather our enemies didn’t know my family existed. So, seeing them again has my stomach full of knots and my nerves on edge. It’s both wonderful and terrifying too.
I throw a glance behind me, ever vigilant of watchful eyes. From the flight attendants…airport staff…pilots…any of them could sell us out for a thousand-dollar handshake.
“I wasn’t expecting to see you guys.” I hug Papá next. “I’ve missed you so much.”
