All Chapters of The Games of the Heart: Chapter 71 - Chapter 76

Three weeks have passed since Stefano's death, and the pain still feels as raw as the day I learned of his fate. Sometimes, I catch myself pretending he's just away on a long trip, that he'll walk through the door any moment with that crooked smile I loved so much. But reality always crashes back, leaving me breathless with grief.Today, I'm heading to the airport to fly back to Miami. Stefano's funeral was a week ago, a blur of black clothes and tear-stained faces. I cried so much that day I feared for our baby's well-being. But our little one is strong, just like their father. I'm determined to take care of myself and this precious life growing inside me. It's what Stefano would have wanted.As I descend the stairs, my hand trailing along the smooth banister, Aurora's voice breaks through my reverie. "Are you ready to go?""Yes, I am," I reply, reaching the last step. The maid follows behind with my final bag, a bittersweet reminder that I'm leaving this place that holds so many mem

I settle into the chair in the warehouse meeting room, my hand unconsciously resting on my slightly swollen belly. At fifteen weeks pregnant, the changes in my body are subtle - noticeable to me but not yet obvious to others. I push thoughts of the baby aside, focusing on the task at hand.“Tell me, Fred, how are we doing?” I ask the man Santiago hired to help me ruin Ivan.“We have destroyed a good number of his restaurants here in the US. The Costanzo family is also doing an excellent job with his businesses in Europe. Good is what I would say, Ma’am.”“That’s good to hear. Has he visited any of the places we’ve destroyed?”“No, he hasn’t.”“None?” I ask, a little shocked.“Yes, none.”“That is odd. I’m sure it’s only a matter of time before he comes out of his hiding place.”“I believe so, too.”“Hopefully soon. We can end here for today. Thank you.”“You are welcome, Ma’am,” he says, leaving the meeting room.I follow him once I gather my things, my mind racing with the implicatio

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 favor