“My whole world fell apart when Lucca died.” His voice broke, and he dropped his gaze to his lap. “I stayed in bed for weeks after his funeral and struggled with insomnia for months.”
“That must have been an incredibly difficult time for you.”
“It still is.”
“It doesn’t have to be. You can put the past behind you and enjoy a rich, fulfilling life.”
A pained expression darkened his face. “I don’t deserve to be happy,” he said coolly. “I messed up, and because of my selfishness and stupidity, my nephew’s gone forever.”
“Do you want to talk about what happened?”
He shook his head. “I can’t.”
“Then let it go.” Sharleen held his gaze, didn’t back down when anger blazed like fire in the depths of his eyes. “Instead of punishing yourself for something you can’t change, do something to honor your nephew’s memory.”
Surprise flickered across his face, and he stared at her for a long, tense moment.
“Start a charity foundation in his name, establish a scholarship program for low-income students or share your personal story with a parent support group,” she continued. “Speaking publicly about your loss will be a cathartic, worthwhile experience that could help change lives.”
Emilio raised an eyebrow. “I thought you weren’t going to boss me around or cram your opinions down my throat?”
“I’m not. I’m simply making a few helpful suggestions. The decision is ultimately yours.”
“I like your suggestions.”
And I like how you make me feel.
Relaxing on the patio, talking with Emilio, Sharleen marveled at how open and honest he was. He was making progress, slowly coming out of his shell, and she was thrilled about it. As the night wore on, he revealed more details about himself. Things Sharleen was shocked to discover. He’d been bullied as a child, felt enormous pressure to live up to his father’s expectations, and despite his illustrious racing career, he struggled with self-doubt. “Are you close to your other siblings or just Francesca?” she asked.
“My older brother and I used to be tight, but we haven’t spoken in years.”
“Why? What happened?”
Emilio tugged at his collar, avoided her gaze. “I can’t tell you. You’ll think I’m a pig.”
“I’m not here to pass judgment. I’m here to support you and help you grow.”
“I like that.”
And I like you. Sharleen caught herself before the words left her mouth.
“I accidentally slept with his fiancée.”
“How?” she asked, stunned. “You didn’t know they were engaged?”
“No, but Immanuel’s convinced I seduced her.”
“Did you?”
“Family means everything to me, and I’d never do anything to dishonor someone I love.”
Sharleen believed him, sensed he was telling her the truth. Emilio had nothing to gain by lying to her, and he didn’t strike her as the kind of guy who’d betray his flesh and blood. “Have you tried reaching out to him?”
“Yes, but with no luck. Immanuel hates my guts, and I don’t blame him. I was a jerk during my racing days and thought the world revolved around me.”
She widened her eyes and cupped her cheeks with her hands. “A superstar athlete with a massive ego? No, no, say it ain’t so!”
Emilio laughed, and the sound of his hearty chuckle made her body warm all over.
“Enough about my dysfunctional family. Let’s talk about you.”
Caught off guard, she struggled to speak. “What do you, um, want to know?”
“What do you do on the weekends?”
“On Saturdays I work from home, and on Sundays I volunteer at The Salvation Army.”
“How long have you been volunteering there?”
“Since birth,” she said, with a laugh. “My mother was the director of Outreach Services, so I had no choice. When I wasn’t helping my dad at his shop, I was at the center, lending a hand.”
“You’re fulfilling her life’s work.”
“I prefer to think of it as doing my part. Did you know forty-six million Americans live in poverty?”
“No, I’m embarrassed to say I didn’t. Maybe one day I’ll volunteer, too.”
“Why put off tomorrow what you can do today?” Sharleen glanced at her wristwatch. “If we hurry, we can make it to the center in time to serve dinner. They’re always short of volunteers, and they could use a strong, strapping fella like you in the kitchen.”
“You’re serious?”
“Absolutely.” She grabbed her purse and slid out of the booth. “Are you coming?”