The next morning, A loud banging from the door woke Kate up, who wanted to sleep some more. ‘Ugh….. What the?’ She looked at the time by her bedside and saw that It was just six o’clock in the morning.
‘Who could be at the doorstep by this hour?’ She mused as she rolled over on the bed to ignore it and continue sleeping but the banging didn't stop, in fact It became louder.
Kate sat up straight, fuming. With a groan, she grabbed her robe and put it on, then hurried to get the door. She looked through the peephole and freezed, It was Lucas knocking the daylights out of her door with Ace standing beside him. ‘What do they want now?’ She sighs and opened the door.
“Finally.” Lucas snarled as he strode into her apartment.
"You’ve got some nerve, acting like you are the one being inconvenienced here. Do you have any idea what time It is?” Kate exclaimed, prepared to admonish the entitled and haughty mob leader before her.
"It's six." Lucas replied monotonously.
“Oh, for a minute I thought your watch was broken." Kate retorted in a disparaging tone.
“Someone is in a rather foul mood today." Lucas remarked, an amused smile adorning his face.
“With good reason! Would you care to enlighten me as to why you are here at such an ungodly hour?”
"Ungodly? Are you implying that you have yet to pack up?”
“What?" Kate was taken aback.
"I assumed you would be prepared to depart by now. Unbelievable." Lucas shook his head, as though dealing with Kate was causing him an immense amount of exasperation
“Hold on! What do you mean, ‘packed up?’ Why would I be packing?”
"Because you will be living with me at my villa from now on.” Lucas said righteously, as though he didn't just throw a bomb on Kate.
Kate stared at Lucas in disbelief, “You must be joking. I can't live with you. We aren't even married yet, just engaged!.”
‘even that sounds phony.’
"It's already been decided. We are cohabitating for the course of this arrangement. You will have your own room, If you are concerned about propriety.”
"So you just expect me to pack up and leave? I have a Job, you know!”
“I have already contacted your office and shared with them the good news of our marriage. Honestly, do you think I’d leave the most obvious unaccounted for?” Lucas said and gestured to the inside of her apartment with a nod of his head. "Your Job will be waiting for you when we split ways. Now, hurry up and grab your things. No fiancée of mine is going to be living in a mouse hole like this.” Kate stared at him, simply appalled.
She was impressed by how scrupulous he is, which should be given for the head of a Mafia group but a stubborn part of herself still can't stand down so easily. “I like my mouse hole apartment, thank you very much."
"Why?” Lucas asked, with knitted brows.
"It's my home……It's cozy, I don't need a villa." She said and Lucas scowled.
“Then you will just have to tolerate a temporary life of luxury." The cocky note in his voice didn't escape Kate and it made her bristle..
“Now look, There's no reason why I need to leave my home to fake an engagement.”
Lucas chuckled as he said, "That's unwise, when you're engaged to a man like me.”
“What's that supposed to me —-” Kate didn't get to finish her words when a gunshot resounded outside her apartment.
Almost immediately, Lucas held her and pulled her down with him as they hit the floor together and a bullet pierced through her window. Ace gets into action as he draws his AK47 gun and spins around, ducking into her apartment and using the door for cover as he shoots at the intruders too.
A deep voice yelled loudly and boomed outside the apartment. “This is the place, Get the girl at any cost!"
“Damn! Didn't think they would move this soon." Ace cussed and said as he fired back.
Pinned beneath Lucas, Kate felt paralyzed as though lost in thought. ‘Those men are out for my head and Lucas shielded me?’ Before she can fully process what's happening, Lucas rolls off from the floor and pulls her to her feet. He brandishes a revolver and fires off a shot into the garden without a glance, effortlessly taking down one of the gangsters.
“Do you get what I mean now?" He said, with a serious tone and an equally expressionless face.
Kate stomach twists, ‘Of course, being a Mafia boss’ fiancée makes me a target. I was a fool to think I could just continue my normal life alongside Lucas's plan.
“We will need to run for the car." Lucas' magnetic voice brought her out of her thoughts.
“What?!"
“Ace, cover us and handle things here." Lucas ignored Kate, and said to Ace. He couldn't imagine how the poor girl must be feeling.
“Got it." Ace responds back without looking at them as he moves out from behind cover and fires at the rival gangsters, forcing them to scatter in the wake of his gunfire. At the same time, Lucas grabbed her hand and pulled her out the door, shielding her from view with his large coat.
They sprint together out of the apartment building and toward the car parked outside. Lucas pulls open the door and ushers her inside before sliding into the driver's seat. He fires a shot sidelong at a mobster and starts the engine.
“W–Wait, what about Ace?” She asked, concerned for him.
"He can handle himself, you are the priority.” Lucas said as he hits the pedal and speeds away from the apartment, the gun still, ready to fire at anyone.
‘That’s so cold……I thought they were friends or Is Ace just that good?’ Kate mused as she stared down at her hands and realized they were shaking. She clasped them together tightly.
After some minutes, Lucas glances over, his gaze softening. “You will be safe at the villa. My enemies aren't foolhardy enough to attack you there."
Kate nodded, “That's good." She leaned her head back against the seat and tried to calm the pounding of her heart.
A/N: Hello everyone, I’m new here and this is my first ever story on the app. I’d appreciate it If y’all could give this noob author a chance and explore her story. I don't mind the corrections and opinions of my readers. I’d try my best to update daily and please don't forget to drop a review and a love for me whenever you're reading the chapters, I’d love to see your comments and your thoughts about the book. Give Kate and Lucas a chance, We Love You.
"Welcome." Lucas announced with a flourish as they arrived at a grand villa, standing out amidst the verdant hills of Opio. The villa exuded the charm of Provencal architecture, boasting of stone walls, a terracotta roof, and arched windows. Its terrace offered a stunning view of the sea, while a private pool and a small dock with a sleek yacht completed the idyllic picture. The villa was surrounded by a high wall, guarded by two muscular men in black suits and sunglasses. Kate was awestruck by the magnificence of her surroundings and the meticulous security measures in place. A surge of adrenaline pulsed through her as she remembered Lucas' words. ‘My enemies wouldn't be foolish enough to attack you in my villa.’ "So, this is your home?" She asked, gazing at the imposing villa in front of her. "And yours." Lucas replied, a tinge of satisfaction in his voice that made Kate snap her mouth shut. "I still prefer my apartment," she quipped, unwilling to back down. "Including the ruthle
"Thirdly, Do not develop romantic feelings for me," Lucas stated boldly as he laid down his rules. "Excuse me?" Kate's disbelief was palpable. ‘Did he really just tell me I am forbidden from falling in love with him?’ "And what if I do?" Kate's question escaped her lips before she could stop herself. She caught a glimpse of Lucas' widened eyes and noticed his fist clenching before he covered up his reaction a moment later. "It could jeopardize the plan," he responded without hesitation. "Why?" Kate probed further. "To the public, we will appear as a couple, but only until I gain control over the business and family. After that, we will go our separate ways. If you fall in love with me, it would only complicate matters when it's time to end our arrangement." Kate was taken aback by his words. ‘Did he make that rule to spare me a broken heart? I never thought he would care that much.’ She wet her lips and swallowed hard before speaking again, "But what if it goes the other way? Wh
Kate stood up from her seat and approached his table, taking a seat across from him. "I'm glad I ran into you," she began, before Matteo interrupted her. "Don't worry about it," he said with a reassuring smile. Kate persisted, nervously drumming her fingers as she spoke. Matteo reached out and covered her hands with his, his touch gentle yet firm. "I'm your friend, Kate. You can trust me. And if you ever find yourself in trouble, you know you can come to me for help." Kate smiled, ready to assure him, but then her gaze fell upon something on his shirt. She leaned in closer to get a better look at the emblem. Her eyes widened in shock. ‘Oh my… Is that a police badge? Is Matteo a police officer?’ She thought to herself. "Is everything okay?" Matteo asked, noticing her reaction. "Y-yes, I was just…surprised. Is it okay for us to be seen together?" Kate asked, still in disbelief. "Of course. We've known each other for years," he replied, taking her hands in his and staring into he
Lucas escorted Kate to an upscale shopping district she had never before set foot in. As they approached the luxurious boutique and gazed at the opulent clothing, she couldn't help but exclaim internally, ‘Wow... Some of these selections cost more than what I earn in a month.’ The manager of the establishment emerged to greet Lucas, accompanied by a store attendant. "Welcome, Sir Romano," he addressed Lucas. With a wave, Lucas dismissed the manager and led Kate further into the store. She followed in awe, her mouth agape at the sight of the stunning dresses. "Quit gawking and strive for a more cultivated demeanor, befitting my fiancée," Lucas tersely advised her. "Not some uncultured country bumpkin." "But what if I actually feel like a bumpkin?" Kate retorted. "You do realize that's an insult, correct?" Lucas raised an eyebrow. Kate shrugged, "Well, given how out of place I feel in this environment, I might as well be a country girl visiting the big city for the first time." "Y
Upon their return from the shopping escapade, Lucas was greeted with the task of bringing their purchases to Kate's room as she headed to the kitchen to whip up a light dinner for them. A little while later, Lucas, now refreshed and clad in a casual pajama ensemble, stepped into the living room, greeted by the tantalizing scent wafting from the kitchen. Without hesitation, he made his way towards the source. And what he beheld took his breath away. Kate had changed into a revealing set of clothing, displaying her toned legs in a short nicker and a cropped top that accentuated her navel. With earpieces in place, she swayed and hummed along to her music as she moved gracefully in the kitchen. Lucas couldn't help but draw in a sharp breath as he watched her from behind, his emerald eyes darkening with desire. Who knew someone could exude such sexiness in the kitchen? All he could think about in that moment was bending her over the counter and ravishing her. But as soon as he became a
A gentle rap on the door disrupted her thoughts, "Enter." Kate's voice carried a hint of impatience. The door swung open and Lucas glided in, dressed in a sleek black suit with his hair slicked back. He exuded a devilishly attractive aura, causing Kate to involuntarily admire him. "Excellent. You're all set," Lucas remarked, surveying her appearance. Kate donned a stunning black floor-length gown that accentuated her curves. Her shimmering black heels added a touch of sophistication, while a delicate diamond necklace adorned her décolletage. In her dainty hands, she carried a striking red clutch, adding a bold pop of color to the ensemble. Her face was adorned with light makeup, highlighted by a seductive red lipstick that begged to be tasted. "I don't feel prepared," she confessed to Lucas. "You don't have to be. Just stand by my side and mind your words. And be especially cautious around Wilson," Lucas warned, his expression serious. "Wilson? Who is he?" Kate inquired, in
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