The Don and His Mafia Princess: Book Two of The Costanzo Series - Standalone

EPILOGUE-ONE

The warm sun caresses my skin as I step out of the car, breathing in the salty sea air. Stefano's strong hand grasps mine gently, guiding me toward the stunning villa that will be our home for the next few days. After all the stress and drama we endured with Ivan, this babymoon getaway to the Costanzo family's private island is exactly what we need.

At 20 weeks pregnant, my belly is really starting to show. I rub it affectionately, feeling our little one kick inside me. Stefano smiles, placing his hand over mine. "We're here, amore mio," he whispers, his eyes shining with love and excitement.

As we tour the magnificent villa, I can't help but be in awe of its beauty. The living room opens up to a glistening pool, the water sparkling invitingly under the sun. After a refreshing shower, we settle into the plush bed, the sound of waves lulling us to sleep.

The following day, I awake to the tantalizing aroma of breakfast and Stefano's warm smile as he carries in a tray laden with my favorite foods. "Good morning, Luce del Sole," he greets me, using the endearing nickname he gave me.

I can't help but smile, feeling a rush of love for this man who has quite literally returned from the dead to be with me. "Good morning, you didn't have to," I reply, my voice still husky from sleep.

Stefano's hand finds its way to my growing belly, his touch gentle and reverent. "I know; I wanted you to start your day with that beautiful smile," he murmurs, leaning in to place a tender kiss on my forehead.

As I sip the soothing tea, I take in Stefano's appearance. He is dressed casually in linen shorts and a crisp white shirt, the top buttons undone to reveal a tantalizing glimpse of his tanned chest. His dark hair is slightly tousled, giving him a boyish charm that makes my heart flutter.

"Thank you," I say, genuinely touched by his thoughtfulness.

We discuss our plans for the day, deciding to explore the charming island town and perhaps take a leisurely stroll along the coastline. As Stefano speaks, his eyes never leave mine, filled with a mixture of love and concern.

"How are you feeling today?" he asks, his hand still resting protectively on my belly.

I place my hand over his, feeling the warmth of his skin against mine. "We are doing fine," I assure him, marveling at the connection we share – not just between us but with our unborn child as well.

"That's good to hear," Stefano replies, his relief evident in the softening of his shoulders. "If you feel any discomfort, let me know."

"I will," I promise, my heart swelling with gratitude for his unwavering support.

After breakfast, Stefano and I step into the shower together. The warm water cascades over our bodies as we linger under the spray, hands exploring each other's curves and planes. Stefano pulls me close, his strong arms encircling my waist as he captures my lips in a deep, sensual kiss that leaves me breathless and aching for more. We take our time, the rest of the world fading away until there is nothing but the two of us, lost in intimate bliss.

After finally tearing ourselves away, we dress and head out to explore the city. The art museum is one of our first stops, an impressive stone building housing centuries of masterpieces. We wander the quiet galleries hand-in-hand, admiring the vivid paintings and intricate sculptures, murmuring our thoughts to each other in hushed voices. Stefano looks devastatingly handsome in his crisp white shirt and dark jeans, his chiseled features and sparkling eyes drawing more than a few admiring glances from other patrons. But he only has eyes for me, his heated gaze sending shivers down my spine every time our eyes meet.

As evening falls, we make our way to the natural hot springs on the outskirts of town. The air is balmy and filled with the gentle chirping of crickets. I stand at the edge of the steaming, mineral-rich pool, the water an inviting blue in the fading light. Stefano approaches, his lean, muscular form on full display in nothing but a pair of low-slung swim trunks that perfectly highlight the tantalizing V of his hips.