“I understand, Papa. You’re worried, but I promise I’m okay. I am in my hotel room where I’ll be staying for most of the day. I’m even having food delivered. Anyways, I’m an adult and don’t want to be tattled on like I’m a child.”
“It’s their job.”
“To protect me.”
“They can’t protect you if they lose your whereabouts. Besides, I figured out you’re somewhere in Ireland. Now give me your hotel information or I’ll pull your credit card records and find out for myself.” I really need to start earning my own money. It’s a pity they never let me have a job while I was going up.
“Yes, I’m in Dublin as it happens and I’m enjoying a little of the beauty before I return.”
“I will keep them at a distance if it makes you happy, but I don’t want you too far from them. I love you, my princess.”
“I love you, too. Give Mama my love as well.”
“She wants you to call her and at least text your sister. Aria’s jealous of the beauty in the UK.”
“Well, you could always send her here with me,” I offer, knowing damn well that’s a negative.
He chuckles, “Not a chance.”
“Well, I’ll tell her I tried,” I answer with a giggle. My papa is a good man and really loves both of us despite how much grief we give him.
After I hang up with him, I call my mother who chides me of course, but at the same time cheers me on to enjoy a fun trip.
When I call my sister, she answers instantly, “Hey, girl. I thought you’d call me by now. It’s been two whole days, did you finally run into that guy yet?”
“I have but keep quiet, big mouth,” I hiss, pulling out my makeup bag just in case Cormack comes back to surprise me again.
“Whatever. Mama and Papa just went out for a nice evening together. I’m chilling in my art studio. I need you to do me a favor, by the way.”
“What?” I have an idea what it is, but I want her to say it.
“I need cool shots to paint and they have so many beautiful places.” As I expected.
“Easy. I took a bunch of photos around town, both in London and on my way to Dublin. I’m sure there’s more to take, but I’ll send them via email in a few. How are you?” I brush my hair, putting her on speaker phone while I try to get prettied up.
“Good, I’m looking forward to going back to school.”
“Nerd.”
“You got me there. Besides, I’m a part of the homecoming committee this year and I’m looking forward to planning it.” I remember those days were the best part of school since I hated school so much. There are a thousand things I’d rather do than geometry or physics.
“When do you guys start planning?” I ask, putting on my moisturizer.
“We’re already messaging each other. School starts in a week. When are you coming back?”
“I’m supposed to come back in two weeks, but I’m enjoying my time here, so it’s hard to say.”
“I miss you, you big jerk. If you get married, make sure you come back and visit us, or better yet convince Papa to take us to Ireland.”
“I’m not getting married. Just because he’s gorgeous and dreamy it’s nothing but fun.”
“Liar. You know you really are a bad liar. Pick up your skills, Gloria. You’re a mafia princess. I’m shaking my head at you just so you know.”
“Yeah, I expect that from you anyway. I need to get some food, so I’m going to talk to you later.”
“Hey don’t forget the images or I’ll harass you.”
“I won’t.” I end the call and pull up my email to shoot over a dozen photos. I get a text back saying, I love you.
Chapter Three
Cormack
As I drive to the church, I hope she enjoyed the roses I had Shamus pick up before I left. Of course, I didn’t let him into the room, but I took them and then wrote her a note. Leaving her had nearly broken my will because she should always be at my side, but this isn’t the right moment. My men will be scoping out the dangers and looking for enemies who feel emboldened by my father’s death. It’s likely nothing will happen, but there’s no guarantee and I can’t risk Gloria’s safety.
When I pull into the churchyard and to the spots reserved for family, I see a small gathering. It will soon be filled with mourners and acquaintances. My brother is the first person I spot because he’s tall and lanky. Although now the head of the Delaney Family, he looks like he fucking slept in his suit.
I don’t exit the back of my vehicle yet, telling my driver to stay put while I process this moment. My father has meant so much to me, so saying goodbye is harder than I can express, but I must remain strong. When the crowd out front disperses, I step out of my vehicle.