I arrived at Mirage at exactly six. The restaurant was known for its low-lit chandeliers and velvet curtains, too extravagant for three people. But it screamed Serafina, who thrived on attention and had made sure to have it again tonight.
Tyrese was already sitting at a corner table, his hand lightly brushing Serafina's. My stomach churned hearing her giggle while her hand cradled her barely-there baby bump like it was the crown jewel of the Valente bloodline.
"Signora," Tyrese greeted, standing for formality, but it was obvious it lacked warmth.
"Don Valente," I replied curtly, emphasizing his title as I approached the table.
My eyes glanced to Serafina, who secretly rolled her eyes and smirked. She didn't stand to greet me. Of course not. Since she was carrying the Don's child, why would a woman from an associate family bother with respect?
"Serafina," I acknowledged her because I have manners, but with a clipped tone, as I sat across from them. Two of Tyrese's soldiers occupied a table near the entrance, their backs to the wall and their eyes on the room. Even at dinner, the Family traveled armed.
"Oh, Signora Catalina, I'm glad you could join us. Tyrese said it would be good for us to spend more time together, for the baby's sake," Serafina said with a sweet but counterfeit smile.
Tyrese. Since when had they been on a first-name basis? But they didn't notice I caught that.
My lips pressed together, trying to hold myself from screaming at her.
"How considerate of you both," I replied.
For a moment, we went silent when the waiter came and took our orders. But Serafina, ever the performer, thrived on filling the voids as if auditioning for the role of the Don's rightful wife.
"I must say, this pregnancy has been such a blessing to me and the entire Family. Everyone has been so supportive, and Tyrese... well, he's been incredible. Haven't you, Don Valente?"
I watched Tyrese's face beam with adoration as he smiled.
"The baby is the future of this Family. It's only right that I'm there for you and the child."
Every instinct in me urged me to snap, but I kept my composure.
"You've certainly taken on the role of protector, Tyrese. But let's not forget, Serafina, that you're still an outsider brought into this Family, regardless of your condition," I said casually.
Serafina's eyes widened with irritation; the corners of her mouth twitched, but she recovered quickly.
"Of course, Signora. I'm just doing my part, ensuring the future of the Valente name. After all, the baby's health is the most important thing. I'm sure Tyrese agrees."
Before I could retort, Tyrese interjected. "She's right, Catalina. The child comes first."
His words stung, but I folded my hands on the table to keep them from trembling.
"Naturally," I said with a tight smile.
Serafina, emboldened by Tyrese's support, leaned forward, her eyes locked with mine.
"Speaking of health, it's been amazing how smooth this pregnancy has been. I suppose it's because Tyrese has been so involved. But you know, Signora, a mother's bond with her child starts in the womb. It's all about who's closest to the baby."
It was a jab and an insult, but I refused to take the bait.
"Well, Serafina, you should enjoy it while you can. Being pregnant is one thing; being the Don's wife is entirely different. You'll never understand its weight."
Her smile faltered, but Tyrese's expression hardened.
"That's enough, Catalina," he said firmly. "There's no need to undermine Serafina. She's carrying our heir, something you..."
He stopped, but the damage was done. My heart tore apart. I knew the word. Barren. I met his gaze with a stoic expression.
"Go on, Tyrese. Finish what you were saying."
He looked away and guilt fell on his face, but he turned to Serafina.
"Let's not turn this dinner into an argument. It's supposed to be a celebration."
"Celebration?" I chuckled. "If that's what this is, then by all means, raise your glasses. But don't expect me to toast to betrayal."
Serafina gasped, and her left hand went flying to her belly like I'd slapped her.
"Signora, I don't think that's fair. I didn't mean to..."
"Is it?" I cut her off. "You've done nothing but insert yourself where you don't belong. And Tyrese, you've let her."
Serafina's doe-eyed innocence disappeared, replaced by a steely glare.
"I belong exactly where the Don needs me."
"And where the Don allows you," I snapped.
Tyrese slammed the table. The silverware rattled. The soldiers by the door shifted in their seats but stayed put. The nearest diners went quiet for half a breath, then looked away. No one complained. Not in a restaurant where the Valente name held the reservation.
"Enough, both of you!"
Tyrese's jaw was tight, eyes burning with anger as he turned to me.
"Catalina, this isn't just about you. This is about the Family. And if you can't put your pride aside for the sake of the Valente name, then maybe you're the one who doesn't belong here."
It hit me like a slap, but I refused to satisfy them by showing my pain. Instead, I stood and calmly smoothed my dress.
"Thank you for clarifying, Don Valente. Enjoy your dinner," I said with a cold, low voice.
I walked out with my head held high despite the tears threatening to fall. It was cold when I stepped outside; it did little to soothe the fire inside me.
Suddenly, I heard footsteps behind me. I turned, expecting Tyrese, but it was Serafina.
"Running away like a coward, Signora?"
I clenched my fists and held myself from slitting her throat, despite every part of me screaming to do it.
