The Five Years He Missed Chapter 03

The Five Years He Missed Chapter 03

Dominic’s face hardened. “Don’t talk nonsense. I said you’re my wife forever. What more do you want? Push it, and you’ll get nothing.”

I almost laughed. A few years ago, he’d promised me forever, called me the most important person in his life.

When did it change?

Probably after Brianna joined Gambino Group. At first, Dominic said, “She’s my mother’s goddaughter—I can’t turn her away. I won’t even look at her.” Then: “Brianna’s capable. She’s been a real help.” Then I found them together in our bed.

He rubbed his forehead, exasperated, but still wrapped the sheet around her first. “Elena, I was drunk. Everyone makes mistakes. Forgive me?”

My mind went blank.

Before I could react, Luca’s kindergarten called. He’d collapsed. Leukemia.

The whole Gambino household mobilized; even the lowest guards got tested. Only Dominic matched. I had to swallow my pride and forgive him to save my son.

Dominic didn’t change. He spent more time with Brianna, praised her openly, let her appear as his wife in public.

That first time I asked for a divorce, he just laughed. “Calm down. Don’t say things you’ll regret.” He drove off.

The car sped past me, kicking up dust that stung my eyes, and physiological tears slipped from the corners.

I walked back along the road, all the way to the bakery to pick up the cake I’d ordered, then on to the hospital. Dominic was too busy soothing Brianna to remember—it was Luca’s birthday. It didn’t matter. As long as I hadn’t forgotten.

When I pushed open the ward door, the sight before me made my eyes nearly split with rage.

Brianna held Luca by the ankles, shaking him. He screamed, voice thin and desperate, “Mommy—help—I feel so sick—”

I lunged, snatched Luca, and slapped Brianna across the face. “Brianna, don’t think I won’t hurt you!”

Her head snapped to the side. Instead of fighting back, she turned toward the door, eyes filling with tears. “Dominic!”

I looked back. He stood in the doorway, face like stone.