His Promise: The Mafia’s Babies by C. Tamika

Chapter 358

Aria

“Because I need you more than I need her.”

I almost squealed, thinking about Vince’s reassuring words. That’s right-I had way more to offer than Serena ever could.

She was a useless stay-at-home mom while I was a hustler-a go-getter, the heir of my family who would actually be of value to him.

Helping daddy run our products had always been a fun activity, and I bet I could help Vince and his family the same way. They needed me

I smirked, posing in front of the mirror as I stared at my gold and white birthday gown. It was not the one 1 had initially wished for, but that didn’t matter. All that mattered was that it would only be a matter of time before Vince and I would announce our engagement.

Forget my birthday or the party-I already had tons of those. The only highlight of the day would be the look on everyone’s faces after learning of my engagement.

My boring day was filled with a special breakfast, lunch, and endless gifts, but now the sun had finally set. Now was when the real party would start, and I couldn’t wait for everyone to get here.

“Maybe I should’ve skipped breakfast and lunch. I held my belly. With a half-smile, I shrugged. “Meh, I still look hot. Hotter than Serena

Just one more look

I turned, admiring myself, and took a satisfied breath.

Let’s get it over with.

As I made my way to the ballroom, I noticed how all the maids were still busy with the preparations. Mom and dad were perfectionists and had never settled for anything less.

“Why would we hold back if we have enough money to spend Mom would often tell me, and she was right. What was the point of living a humble life if we didn’t have to?

At the end of the stairs stood mom, who was still busy giving instructions.

“Mommy!”

“Arial” She looked up. Everyone stopped what they were doing and focused on my dress.

“Look at my princess!” Mom opened her arms, ready to catch me as I ran down the stairs.

“Do you like it?” I grabbed her hands, hoping for another compliment. Looking good was nothing new to me, but the thing I desired the most were compliments.

“Yes, you look absolutely gorgeous.” Mom pushed me back to take a better look at me. The golden cocktail dress around her body, hugging her perfect curves, almost gave me a run for my money.

Mom clapped her hands. “You’re even starting to look like me!”

Like mother like daughter, this woman would never miss out on a free opportunity to compliment herself, and rightfully so.

“Where’s daddy?” I scanned the room. He had spent a lot of money to satisfy mom’s wishes, so I’m sure he would love to see the outcome.

“Ah, he was with Vince and his family.”

“Vince?” I widened my eyes. “Is he here already?”

“Yes, of course!”

Even though all the guests would arrive in ten minutes, Vince’s presence made me nervous. This time he was in my comfortable space, my home-and I wanted to leave a good impression.

much anything to look acceptable. Vince could walk through that door any minute, and I could

voice as the halls were filled with his fake laughter. I had enough time to take one more breath and hold my tummy before the doors opened,

my beautiful muffin,

me into a bone-cracking hug. “Hi, daddy.”

space.

Vince. His medium-long hair, which usually covered his ears,

showed that he was a

Vince stood his uncle, who I hadn’t formally met,

to step forward-Vince’s uncle blocked my sight by pushing himself in front of me.

Vince’s uncle,” Dad spoke.

you!” He gasped. “I know my cousin, Vince-still has a lot to learn, but I’m very grateful you’ve

me or felt threatened by Oscar

I spoke politely before moving my

and immature. He had a lot to learn, but that was what I

“Hey, Luis!”

his head as I was

you look prettier than all these flowers in this

pouted

kid!” Dad laughed out loud

uncle brushed his hand over Luis’ head like an owner would do to his dog. I

smiled, clearing his throat as he revealed his perfect dimples.

and Luis to your seats so that we can leave these two lovebirds alone?” He

shot me a polite smile. “Happy birthday, Aria.”

“You have a nice uncle.” I grinned, thinking about our future. He was a suck-up, but it

he has an option, princess.” Vince

again,

closer and closer as I held in a breath. Closer, closer. So close, I could

Calm down, Aria.

large hand on my waist. I smiled, leaning

back as quickly as he

space.

attracted to

something to upset you?”

head. “No, of course not.” He recovered himself with a polite smile on his lips. “I just don’t know if I would be able to control myself with you standing so close to me.” He said.

did, didn’t I?

us, so it was not really a surprise that he wouldn’t be

afraid of what might happen?” I spoke. “Because if that’s it, you don’t have to worry

mean, we wouldn’t want to disrespect your

“Right.”

that made sense.

hand. “Come

he led me to the

not going to push me off, are you?” Lasked playfully.

released a laugh. “What?” He frowned. “Why would I possibly get rid of you while you have yet

I not known any better. I would’ve thought he saw me as his enemy. Luckily that wasn’t the case because he liked me

to marry me.

pulled out a box from his

get an idea of what was about to happen.

even occurred to me, but it was totally necessary. It was a standard for an