THE LITTLE GIRL ASKED TO SIT WITH A STRANGER—BUT HER MOTHER NEVER EXPECTED THE MAFIA BOSS TO RECOGNIZE HER FACE

my child.”

He paused.

“And you. Whoever you choose later, you will always be protected. That part does not change.”

Behind them, the kitchen door creaked open.

Lily stood there with the brown bear under one arm, hair sleep-pressed to one side.

“Mom, where’s the man? Mr. Wilno. The Damen.”

He turned.

“You can call me Damen.”

She rubbed one eye.

“Damen, do you continue reading …