The Five Years He Missed Chapter 04

The Five Years He Missed Chapter 04

“It’s Luca’s birthday—I was just playing!” Brianna sobbed, tugging Dominic’s sleeve. “Elena hit me for no reason!”

I didn’t argue. I laid Luca back down and stroked his back, murmuring.

Dominic said nothing.

“Dominic!” Brianna’s voice went shrill.

But he just told her, coldfaced, “Go home.”

She gaped, resentful, but slunk out.

I met Dominic’s eyes, saw the irritation and displeasure there. I pressed my lips tight. “Do you believe her?”

“Elena, there’s a line,” he said, his tone clipped. “And you crossed it.”

“I don’t lie. Luca doesn’t lie. She was hurting him—”

“He’s four. You shouldn’t be teaching him bad behavior.” Dominic cut me off. “Last time. Don’t bully Brianna again.”

He set down a cake and walked out. I stared after him, my chest aching.

This wasn’t the first time Brianna had set me up. Before, he’d hold me and say, “I know it’s not you. I trust you.” Now I saw clearly—he’d never believed me.

Luca’s eyes were wet. “Mom, is Daddy mad? Because of me? I’m sorry—”

I held him tight, blinking back tears. “No, baby. You have nothing to be sorry for. It’s Mommy who’s sorry.”

I stayed with him all night.

Morning came. Brianna returned. “You must be so proud—Dominic froze me out for you. But he told me he trusts me. I know people like you cling to the high life, but the Gambinos don’t accept you. Dominic’s losing interest. Your spot is mine.”

I covered Luca’s ears. “I asked for a divorce. Once his surgery is done, you can do whatever you want.”

Her face flickered—not joy, but annoyance. “Playing the long game? Clever. But today I’ll show you who really matters.”

I tensed. Before I could move, she bolted out and locked the door from outside.

Smoke seeped under the door. An alarm blared.

I grabbed Luca and pounded on the wood. “Help! Anyone!”

Dominic appeared, heading for us—but Brianna lay in his path, clutching her ankle. “I twisted it, Dominic—it hurts—”

He froze.

I screamed, “Dominic—save Luca! Forget me!”

He wavered. Brianna sobbed, “Her child is a child—is mine nothing? Don’t forget, I’m carrying your baby.”

His pupils contracted. He lifted her up. “Elena, hold on—I’ll be back!”

“Dominic, you bastard!”

I slammed my shoulder against the door, but he didn’t look back. Of course he didn’t look back. How could I still expect him to look back?

Luca coughed, snapping me to my senses. I turned to the window.