Chapter 9 - THE NEW ERASix months later.
The rebuilding of Marcone Manor was complete.
The new estate was grander, stronger, and filled with light, standing atop the rolling hills overlooking the Hudson River.
On a warm autumn afternoon, sunlight poured through the floor-to-ceiling glass windows of the grand master study.
Sophia sat behind the executive desk—wearing a chic cream cashmere sweater and tailored trousers—reviewing the financial ledgers for the newly formed Vito & Sophia Bellini Foundation, which provided free housing, education, and legal protection for underprivileged women and children across the state.
The double doors opened softly.
Lorenzo walked in, carrying a glass of warm tea. He set it on her desk, leaned down, and wrapped his arms around her waist from behind, pressing his lips against the sensitive crook of her neck.
"You're working too hard, my Queen," Lorenzo purred softly.
Sophia leaned back against his broad, muscular chest, smiling contentedly. "Someone has to make sure your millions are going to good use, Mr. Moretti."
"Lorenzo," he corrected with a dark, sexy chuckle, his hand sliding down to rest gently over her stomach.
Sophia placed her hand over his. "Speaking of the foundation... we might need to expand the children's budget next year."
Lorenzo paused, his eyes widening slightly. "Why?"
Sophia turned around in his lap, taking his hand, placing it flat against her belly. A radiant, glowing smile lit up her face.
"Because in seven months," Sophia whispered, "Lena is going to need a baby brother or sister."
Lorenzo froze. The feared Don of New York stared at his wife, his jaw slightly open, his hazel eyes filling with intense, overwhelming joy.
"You're... you're pregnant?" Lorenzo gasped, his voice cracking with emotion.
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"We're having a baby, Lorenzo," Sophia wept happily.
Lorenzo threw his head back, letting out a roaring, joyous laugh that filled the entire manor! He swept her into his arms, kissing her face, her eyes, her lips, holding her as if she were the most precious treasure in the universe.
