Chapter 117

Mena

“Before and after,” I spoke without a second thought. “I told you, we might not always agree—but I love you, and I’ll have your back, no matter what.”

In that moment, I realized I had already made my decision—and this time I hoped he could hear my sincerity. This was the path I chose—to stand by Alessio no matter what, and I would not go back on my word ever again.

“I’m with you.”

Alessio released a relieved sigh. "And you’ll have to be patient with me because I clearly still have a lot to learn—but I do know that I have to stop you from whatever you planned on doing because I can’t lose you," I continued, my voice softening.

The gun might’ve been lowered, but his rage wasn’t. His breaths were heavy, and I could sense it took him every bone in his body to stay calm.

I reached up and cupped his face, gently forcing him to look at me. "I know it’s difficult, but you need to relax.”

I slowly took his hand and led it to my stomach, reminding him of the other news I had just shared wi