Arranged Mafia Marriage

Chapter 36Felicity

36

Felicity

T he plan to use Siobhan as leverage against Sean leaves a sour taste in my mouth. There has to be a better way that doesn’t involve potential risk an innocent child. I’m trying to think of the best way to get O’Malley here and to be openminded to talking about a truce with my husband and brother.

I consider a parent-teacher conference but discard that idea. He might feel trapped if Damiano and Kiril suddenly appear in the room, and that could lead to negative consequences. No, it has to be more public than that.

I look at the bulletin board in my dance studio, covered with flyers for upcoming events. An idea sparks to life. A charity recital. Not just any recital, but one that brings together all three factions of the mafia families. It’s risky, but it could work.

I grab my phone and start making calls. First, to the studio owner to secure the space and get her permission. Then to my fellow dance instructors to help coordinate the performances. As I hang up, a familiar voice speaks behind me.

“Aunt Felicity. Can I show you my new twirl?”

I turn to see Tony, a recent student, with his cherubic face beaming with excitement. “Of course, sweetie. Let’s see it.”

As Tony spins across the floor, his curls bouncing, I smile. He’s so innocent, unaware of the dangerous world he’s been born into. It strengthens my plan to make this recital work.

“That was wonderful, Tony. How would you like to be in a special performance?”

He grins. “Really? Can I wear a costume?”

I laugh. “Absolutely. We’ll find you the perfect outfit.”

As Tony chatters about costume ideas with Isabella, I start planning the invitations. I’ll need to word them carefully, making sure each family feels honored without raising suspicions, and I’ll have to keep it from Kiril and Damiano until the last possible moment.

The next few days are a whirlwind of activity. I coordinate with the instructors, choose music, and design simple but elegant invitations. When everything is ready, I make the most important call.

“O’Malley residence,” answers a gruff voice I don’t recognize.

“Hello, this is Felicity Morris from ‘Starlight Dance Studio.’ May I speak with Mr. O’Malley please?”

There’s a pause, then Sean’s booming voice comes through. “This is Sean O’Malley. What can I do for you, Ms. Morris?”

I swallow hard. “Mr. O’Malley, I’m calling to invite you and your daughter to a charity dance recital we’re hosting next week. Siobhan has been doing wonderfully in her classes, and we’d love for her to perform.”

“A recital, eh? Siobhan’s been talking’ about nothing else but dance lately. When is it?”

I give him the details while blotting damp palms against my pants, alternating which hand is holding the phone. “We’d be honored if you could attend, Mr. O’Malley. It’s for a good cause, supporting local youth programs.”

There’s another pause, and I hold my breath as I hear her excited chatter in the background. Finally, Sean chuckles. “I can’t say no to my little girl. We’ll be there.”

Relief washes over me. “Wonderful. We look forward to seeing you both.”

As I hang up, my hands are shaking. I’ve just invited the head of the Irish mob to an event where he’ll be in the same room as the Russian and Sicilian bosses. If this goes wrong, it could spark a war, but if it works this could be the solution we so desperately need.