The Balotelli-Bale Series Book #3: The Italian Belle

Chapter 70: Pending

Nathan's POV
"Don't forget what we have agreed on." I kept up with her fast pace. "I'm getting him at sixteen. You have promised me that."

"Why not eighteen?"

"You bend the vine when it's still young Nathaniel. Marianna and i have a deal. Honour it. Please honour it."

"Consider it done mom. He'll be all yours at sixteen. We will still do our part."

She squeezed my arm peering into my eyes. "Are you alright Nathaniel? You seem lost."

"I'm just dealing with something. Nick is starting school pretty soon."

"You can afford it, right? I'm aware of your financial limitations and I know I have made it impossible. You've risen to the challenge every step of the way and I'm so proud of you. You never asked for help. You never failed even if you gave up your comfort for your son."

"I love that boy. I'll give up anything for him. Yes I'm sure I can afford it. It's just one hundred and fifty three thousand a year for four more years." I laughed off the stress of the numbers that are not adding up.

She crossed her arms on her chest. "So he will be coming to New York much more earlier than sixteen years."

"No. He will be here till then. We have tutors who will keep him studying so that he can keep up when he comes to New York. Gio wants it that way."

"He has four parents so I understand. What did he do with the  check?"

"Half a million in stocks. Half a million in savings. He's a smart kid."

"Just like his father. I think he will do well at Bale Industries. Nathaniel I can't wait to retire and just dump it all on him. I can't wait!" She laughed.

"You've earned it. Managing dad's estate and your own is not easy."

"How would you feel about managing your father's estate?"

"I would be honored to."

"Good. Will you have the time?"

"I'll make time. I'm resigning from the Navy."

"Why? I thought it makes you feel close to your father."

"It does but... That's the ultimatum Marianna gave me. It's her or the navy. I have chosen her."

"So all it took was to ask Maria to ask you to quit?" She frowned.

"Back then, no. Now, yes. I'm ready to properly settle down and start over. Something domestic won't be so bad, right?"

"Right. Good for you. Make me more grandchildren in case Nickolas disappoints me." She winked at me. "One more thing, what is your bank account balance?"

"A few thousands. Why?"

"Are you sure? Please check when you get time. I have to go now." She kissed my cheek. "I love you Nathaniel."

"I love you too. See you soon."

I got back to the car assigned to me by Gio. He's not taking chances with me. I have full time bodyguards. After settling in the back I checked my account balance. I rubbed my eyes to make sure I'm not seeing too many zeroes. She has given it all back. I'm a billionaire again!

I broke into a grin.

Thirteen years of being disinherited was not easy. If I didn't have a child to care for I would have been okay. But now I'm better than okay.

"Hello?" Francis answered my call.

"I need an engagement ring."

"Hello to you too Nate. People usually exchange pleasantries first."