The sincerity and intensity in Matteo's gaze ignited a burning desire to aid Kate. But the gravity of the situation struck her - ‘This is dangerous.’ She thought and straightened up, turning away from the balcony. "I.... should go." Matteo caught her wrist before she could leave. "Why? Because Lucas might be watching?" Kate's surprise was evident as he continued, "I cannot fathom that you willingly associate with that man." "It's true, but--" "But what?" Matteo interjected, his grip on her arm tightening as he peered into her eyes. "If you've been coerced in any way, I will assist you. I'll protect you, Kate, no matter what, but you must confide in me." The offer was alluring, but Kate shook her head. What could a solitary police officer do against the powerful Romano family? And what would happen to her uncle if she backed out or acted recklessly? No, she couldn't jeopardize two lives for her own sake. "It's not as simple as you believe." Kate said. Matteo sighed and raked a
As she gazed up at him, Kate couldn't help but wonder, “I wonder if we truly appear to be in love.” Hearing her question, Lucas inquired, "What is it?" Embarrassed, Kate shook her head, her cheeks growing redder. The rule of not falling in love had been firmly established by Lucas, and she was well aware of it. But the mere thought of it still sent a slight pang through her heart that she chose to ignore. "I was just thinking, why did you warn me not to trust Matteo? I know he's a cop, but that doesn't mean... "...he's up to something," Lucas interjected. "I don't know what it is, but you should be cautious around him." Kate fell into deep thought as she considered his words. Could Matteo really be up to something? The thought lingered, until she suddenly had a realization. "Wait..." she mumbled. Glancing back up at Lucas, she quickly looked away, feeling her cheeks burn. ‘Is it possible that Lucas is jealous?’ She wondered, her heart racing. As they continued to dance, she r
Kate was stunned as she gazed at the message, realizing the name it bore. During their initial year of friendship, she had nicknamed Matteo as ‘Sparky’ due to her first impression of him. “That has to be him,” she pondered as she continued to stare at the message. “Lucas warned me not to trust him. But he’s my friend; I need to know what’s going on,” she asserted, determined to uncover the truth. She hurriedly dressed and snuck out of the villa, ensuring she remained unseen. Upon reaching the park, she found Matteo waiting for her, standing behind a tree and gazing at the sky. As he turned to her, a relieved smile appeared on his face, and he exclaimed, “You came.” “I didn’t think you would message me unless it was important. What’s happening?” Kate inquired, a crease forming on her forehead. “First, I need to explain the reason for my return. I was transferred here from HQ with a specific mission – to investigate the Mafia’s activities,” he explained, causing Kate’s stomach to c
Several days later, Lucas brought Kate to a thrilling car race with Ace in tow, determined to disregard the thought of Matteo and keep quiet about their sneaky escapade. "Wow," Kate gasped in awe as she took in the sight of the bold and vibrant-colored uniforms of the race participants, all engrossed in tweaking their flashy cars before the competition. "That's my team over there," Lucas pointed to a group dressed in vibrant blue. "Hmm, I wasn't aware that people in your line of work sponsored car races," Kate's curiosity piqued. "It's how wealthy mob bosses blow off steam, right Lucas?" Ace interjected with a sly grin. Rolling his eyes, Lucas motioned to another team and replied, "Wilson is sponsoring that one. Though I have a feeling it's merely to spite me." "Why?" Kate probed. "He swooped in and bought out their sponsorship at the last moment, once it became clear that they posed a threat to my team in this race. I'm quite certain that's his motive," Lucas explained. But Ka
“The importance of upgrading the springs, sway bar, and other components cannot be overstated when it comes to handling. Fostering a distinct mindset is crucial for success in this field, markedly different from what you would typically employ for a regular car." Lucas expounded, delving into the depths of his explanation. "I understand...it seems like a lot to keep track of." Kate responded. "However, it all falls into place when you consider it. By outlining the desired results, one can pinpoint the necessary enhancements to achieve them." "Ultimately, it falls on the driver, doesn't it?" "Of course, and every member of the team. One might say that's the weak link." "The team is the weak link?" Kate quizzed, intrigued. "Machines only abide by expected outcomes, and even if they malfunction, it's not due to intentional betrayal. The human element will always be the weakest link." Lucas illustrated, imparting his extensive knowledge of racing. "Hmm...I see your point. As someone
Kate and Lucas shared a quiet dinner, ending with Lucas swiftly departing without a word.Despite not being close friends or truly engaged, Kate couldn't help feeling hurt by Lucas's silent treatment."Hey," Ace approached her with a pained smile."Is Lucas giving you the cold shoulder?" he asked."He's barely spoken to me since we left the racing circuit," Kate replied, her tone sad."Don't worry, he'll come around. It's not about you," Ace reassured her."Then who is he upset with? Do you know what this is about?" Kate inquired.Ace looked away, rubbing his neck. "It's not my place to say. He'll tell you when he's ready," he said before leaving the dining room.Kate lay in bed later, lost in thought about Elizabeth and Wilson, wondering if she could be Wilson's daughter and part of Wilson's plan to undermine Lucas's family control.=====The next morning, Kate woke up early, hopeful to speak to Lucas about their strained interaction the day before. As she approached the hallway corn
As Kate gently elbowed Ace, she inclined her head towards a specific direction. Following her lead, he turned to see what had caught her attention."Can we sit close enough to eavesdrop?" Kate asked, her eyes glimmering with curiosity."Absolutely," Ace replied, motioning for Kate to follow him through a curving path, expertly navigating through the restaurant to avoid being spotted by anyone, particularly Lucas. Finally, they arrived at a nearby table, conveniently concealed by a large pillar."Here should do just fine," Ace remarked confidently."Oh, that's a brilliant idea," Kate chimed in absentmindedly, her ears now fully attuned to Lucas's table."I know what I'm doing," Ace reassured her with a wink as they took their seats.As the two of them settled in, soft laughter resonated from Lucas's table as Elizabeth coyly whispered something to him. Kate sidelong glanced at them, just in time to witness Elizabeth reach for Lucas's hand, only for the latter to pull away, crossing his
"Kate, there is nothing for you to fear." Lucas stated reassuringly. "I could never be unfaithful to you. Please, go home. I will join you as soon as possible.""Come with me," Kate urged lightly. Lucas's eyes widened almost imperceptibly, but he quickly masked his reaction with a smirk."Well, when you ask like that, how can I refuse?" He squeezed her hand and stood up. "Excuse me." Lucas directed his icy gaze towards Wilson and Elizabeth. "I will be leaving with my fiancée. You can keep your unwanted offers to yourself." He then joined Ace, who had been watching the drama unfold with widened eyes.Meanwhile, Kate's heart was pounding. She never expected Lucas to agree to her offer.As they left, she glanced at the table and saw Wilson and Elizabeth staring after them in stunned silence.As soon as they got into Lucas's car and were on their way, he let go of Kate's hand.‘He must be angry that we followed him, right?’ She thought. To her surprise, Lucas burst out laughing."Oh, the