Italian Obsession

Chapter 24

Valentina

As I entered my last month, I could hardly believe that she would be here soon. After the divorce was finalized, I moved in with Danny and I knew that he wanted to take our relationship to the next level, and I am beyond ready to be fully committed to him.

But my sole focus was our son and trying to keep my sanity as each day passed. Danny had already purchased a crib and other furniture for her room, and catered to my every need although it was not necessary.

"How was your day?"

"Good."

"Are you ready for your pregnancy to be over with?"

"You have no idea."

He chuckled. "I can't believe our family will be going from three to four."

"I know. Just please... don't leave me."

"I have tried everything to prove to you that I am not like him."

"I know, I'm sorry. I can't help it."

"It's okay, Val. I am just saying. But we have to go to your brother's, we promised that we would have dinner with him tonight."

"Is Mav coming?"

"Yes, Katie is on her way..."

Suddenly, there was a knock on the door. "Come in."

"Speaking of the devil."

Katie entered the house, Maverick resting on her shoulder. "This kid is certainly getting heavy."

Danny laughed. "Well, he is two."

"It's crazy."

"It is."

"Oh, yeah. Merry Christmas by the way! Or I should say Merry Christmas Eve, I suppose. But I got something for you guys."

"Katie, you didn't have to."

She smiled. "I insist."

I opened the envelope and took the Ruth's Chris gift card out of it. "Katie, you didn't have to do this."

"I figured you guys deserve a night to yourselves."

"Thank you."

Danny handed her a check. "This is for you."

Katie raised her eyebrows. "Five thousand dollars, oh my gosh. I couldn't..."

"You've done so much for us, and I know that you've needed some money lately."

"Thank you so much, you have no idea how much this means to me."

"Of course."

"See you guys tomorrow!"

"Well, I don't have to get Maverick changed."

"Let's get going, we both know he doesn't like waiting."

Danny

As we drove to Juan's, I had everything fully planned. Thanks to his help, I knew that this would be the best Christmas Eve she could ever ask for.

"We're here."

The moment we entered the house, I felt her clench my hand. "Danny..."

"What is it?"

I noticed her facial expression and knew that something was wrong. "Val, are you okay?"

"It's time, Danny."

"Now?"

"Yes, now." I looked at Juan and handed Maverick to him. "We have to..."

"I'll watch him, see you guys."

I tried to get to the hospital as quickly as possible and I knew she was scared when she was taken to the delivery room. "Honey, I'll be here for you the whole entire time, okay?"

She nodded. "Y-yes."

"You're strong, Valentina. You always have been."