>>6244551

"I can't tell you anything specific.." You begin.

"Ah, Mark-" Your father groans but you wave a hand to stop that.

"Pop, it's an open investigation. I can't tell you specifics but I can say... yeah. I'd keep it close by. I'll also be looking into having the Sheriff's Department set up outside the house until this blows over."

"Per l'amor di Dio, Mark." Your dad says slicking his hair back with a free hand. "Alright, I'll dust the old thing off."

"Yeah well, just promise me you'll work with and tell the deputies who come by that you've got it. Also when's the last time you cleaned Nonno's rifle?"

"Why do I gotta clean it? Not like I been firing it."

"Pop.." You sigh, forming a slight grin despite your worry. "Look, I know a guy. Runs the range for GCPD, used to be in SWAT before he retired, he might have the time to come out there and make sure that thing doesn't blow up in your hands if you have to use it."

"God forbid." Your father mumbles, making the sign of the cross.

"Yeah... I'm sorry. But when it's all wrapped up I'll tell you more. I promise."

"I know, I get it. Just... you're so much like your nonno that sometimes I worry you'll get the bad things too."

"Bad things?"

"You were too young. But the war was hard on him, a lot of the things they asked him to do, just never sat right with him. Your mother and I, we talked to him about coming to America not just to help us out but also because I thought he needed to be around family. First time he saw you, he lit up like I hadn't seen for too long, you two were inseparable after that. Best friends..." He trails off, eyes slightly misty as he smiles a bittersweet grin.

"I'm.. uh." He wipes the corner of his eye with his thumb. "I'm just saying don't be afraid to lean on people if you need it. I know, open investigation and all, but I'm always gonna be here for you."

He steps in and gives you one of his classic bear hugs, going easy when you wheeze slightly.

"Thanks, Pop." You mumble into his shoulder.

"I'm proud of ya." He adds on with another squeeze before straightening up and taking a step for the door. "I should get back to your mom before she drives your girl crazy."

"Yeah.." You chuckle, suddenly lifting a hand. "Eh, wait a sec. I do have one more question.."

"Hm?"

"Allison... Dame or Broad?"

He pauses for a minute, eyebrows bumping up in surprise before a cheeky grin spreads across his face. He opens the door and steps half in.

"I already told ya I was proud of you.." He says before disappearing with a sleavy chuckle.

You laugh yourself and watch him head to the elevator...

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