Page 232 of Lorenzo

Mario nods. “Exactly.”

I already know Donna will appreciate that part.

She has been very firm on the subject of everyone remembering that Marcello is unlikely to cooperate with our version of events.

My attention shifts toward Mario as another thought occurs to me.

“One warning.”

His eyes narrow immediately.

Ricardo looks amused before I have even said anything, which is irritating because he cannot possibly know what is coming.

“Where Donna goes, Mocha goes.”

Mario’s expression changes.

It is subtle enough that anyone who did not grow up with him might miss it.

I do not.

My eldest brother, who has stared down men twice his size without blinking and has spent most of his adult life making other people nervous simply by entering a room, suddenly looks wary.

I grin.

“You are sure that dog is fine around babies?”

Ricardo turns his head to hide his amused expression.

Diego presses his lips together.

I enjoy the moment more than I probably should.

“I certainly hope so,” I say. “He is going to be around babies quite a lot.”

Everyone goes still at those words.

I immediately realize I have given all three of them entirely too much information.

“That was not an announcement,” I add. “I meant your babies.”

Everyone relaxes. It's almost funny.

“I am serious, Lorenzo,” Mario warns.

“So am I.” I allow the teasing to fade because I know the question is not unreasonable. Leonardo is nearly six months old. Cecilia is not far behind him. “Mocha is extremely well trained, and Donna knows him better than anyone. He is a very good dog. He will be perfectly fine.”

Mario considers that for a moment. “All right.”

Diego glances at him. “You sound relieved.”

“I have an infant in my house.”

“You have also had armed security in your house for years.”

“Armed security does not have that many teeth.”

I laugh. “You realize Mocha is probably better behaved than half this family.”