The sight before her left her utterly speechless as she stepped out of the guest room. Her eyes darted between Marco and the woman who stood beside him. Were they just locked in each other’s embrace, kissing?Her anger surged, boiling over into a fury. “What the hell is going on here?” She demanded as if entitled to their explanation.Marco rolled his eyes and shoved both his hands into his pants pocket.“What does it look like to you?” He returned the question with his.Miracle’s gaze darkened, her eyes now locked onto Alessia. She had red hair—just like hers, and they both looked similar, which was uncanny for Mimi. It only riled her up even more. “Who is she?” She went ahead to ask Marco. “Is she the one? Your lover and the reason you’re refusing to accept me?”“She has nothing to do with you,” Marco interrupted her words, his face grim. “And I think it’s time for you to leave.” He added, his tone leaving no room for argument.But Mimi was far from done. Her first clenched at her
The sight before her left her utterly speechless as she stepped out of the guest room. Her eyes darted between Marco and the woman who stood beside him. Were they just locked in each other’s embrace, kissing?Her anger surged, boiling over into a fury. “What the hell is going on here?” She demanded as if entitled to their explanation.Marco rolled his eyes and shoved both his hands into his pants pocket.“What does it look like to you?” He returned the question with his.Miracle’s gaze darkened, her eyes now locked onto Alessia. She had red hair—just like hers, and they both looked similar, which was uncanny for Mimi. It only riled her up even more. “Who is she?” She went ahead to ask Marco. “Is she the one? Your lover and the reason you’re refusing to accept me?”“She has nothing to do with you,” Marco interrupted her words, his face grim. “And I think it’s time for you to leave.” He added, his tone leaving no room for argument.But Mimi was far from done. Her first clenched at her
Marco leaned back in the leather, his gaze fixed on the glass of whiskey swirling in his hand. The amber liquid caught the light from the morning sun, shining a warm glow across the room. Dante sat across from him, tapping his fingers rhythmically on the armrest, a thoughtful expression on his face.“So,” Dante began, breaking the comfortable silence, “you’ve been quiet since that rooftop moment with Alessia. What’s going on in that head of yours, Marco?”Marco sighed, setting the glass down on the polished mahogany table.“I’m just thinking about how things are going to change soon,” he said, his voice heavier than usual. “In a few days, things are going to be changed.”Dante understood where he was heading, it was about his position as head of the clan. Before Dante could say a word, Marco continued, “Before anything changes around here, I want to do something fun.” Dante raised a questioning brow, already showing interest. “You’re thinking about a party, aren’t you?” he asked, e
Grace walked out of her bedroom, heading to the kitchen to find lunch. She wandered into the kitchen, expecting to find the usual hustle and bustle of the staff preparing food. But to her surprise, the kitchen was eerily quiet. The large space, typically filled with clatter of pots and pans was empty. The counters were spotless, the stove cold, and not a single soul was in sight. “Where did everybody go?" She muttered under her breath, her eyes scanning the room for any sign of life.She hadn't eaten since breakfast, and the hunger gnawing at her insides was growing impossible to ignore. “They can't just leave me to starve," she grumbled, turning her heel to leave.But as she turned, she nearly collided with Dante, who was leaning casually against the door frame, a smirk on his lips. His sudden appearance made her jump in fear, her hand holding her chest.“What are you grumbling about, princess?" Dante asked in a teasing tone, his voice filled with amusement.Grace glared at him, he
“I can’t believe we’re stuck here,” Alessia grumbled, glancing at Grace, who was lounging comfortably on the chaise in the corner of the room. Grace, ever the optimist, smiled softly. “To be honest, I’m actually relieved that we don’t have to leave. I don’t have the energy to roam the crowded malls today.”Alessia rolled her eyes, but she couldn’t deny the fact that she was also relieved. What Grace said about the crowded mall was the truth, plus Marco was trying to keep them safe. If they mingled with the crowd, an enemy could easily attack them and Marco wouldn’t be able to help.“But I just wanted to see the outside for once. We’ve been indoors for a long time now.” Alessia whined and slumped on the couch next to the chaise. Grace didn’t say a word to her and just shut her eyes, wanting to sleep if she could. After a while, Grace finally said something. “Don’t worry your pretty head, Ali. Just know that the attendants would bring something we would like.”As if on cue, there was
Finally, the night of the masquerade ball arrived with an air of mystery and excitement. The mansion was transformed into a lavish scene straight out of a fairytale, with decorations that portrayed the world they all lived in; Mafia.It wasn’t like all those royal balls seen in England or on TV. It was a totally different setting and the opposite of elegance. Guests began to arrive, each one dressed in the way they wanted to be addressed. Their mask, coat, and gowns, were all in colors that reflected their personality. Alessia and Grace sat in her bedroom, doing their finishing touches.“I can’t believe Marco is bringing you to the spotlight,” Grace said as she brushed Alessia’s long red hair backward. “I don’t think that’s the point, though. We’re merely coming as his workers.” Alessia corrected.“Workers who got the best Jovani and La Femme dresses? That’s quite an important worker.” Grace chuckled.A knock sounded at the door almost immediately. “Come in,” Grace yelled.The doo
Grace and Alessia walked down the grand marble staircase to where the guests were gathered in the vast, luxurious ballroom. The chandeliers overhead sparkled with a soft, golden glow, shining elegant shadows across the room. Classical music filled the air, blending seamlessly with the soft hum of conversation, the clinking of glasses, and the shuffling of feet as couples twirled on the dance floor. Everything felt surreal, almost dreamlike, but there was a dangerous edge beneath the polished surface, a tension Alessia couldn't quite shake.Their masks, beautifully designed in silver and lace, concealed most of their faces, granting them a measure of anonymity. But even with the disguise, the two women drew attention. It wasn’t just the masks that intrigued people; it was the undeniable presence they carried. Alessia’s striking red hair was a beacon among the black, white, and grey attire of the guests. The silky waves cascaded down her back, catching the light and drawing every pair o
Marco took a steadying breath as he made his way across the ballroom toward the imposing figure of his father. His jaw clenched, muscles tense as he approached, knowing full well that the conversation waiting for him would be anything but pleasant. As he neared, Ezekiel’s cold gaze locked onto him, the sharp, calculating look that always sent a shiver down Marco’s spine—even if he’d never admit it. Ezekiel stood tall, a quiet authority radiating off him that made the entire room feel smaller, more suffocating. His mask, dark and elaborate, barely concealed the stern features beneath. He didn’t need to say a word for Marco to feel the weight of his displeasure. He wasn’t happy that the boy left the need to capture Double S and was here partying instead.He also invited his red hair."So," Ezekiel’s voice was low but heavy with the sharpness of a blade. "You let her come to this party." His eyes glinted beneath the mask as they flicked briefly toward where Alessia had been standing. "Y
"And what do you mean by that?" Victor asked in confusion. He didn't understand what Dante meant by taking it to the next level. " You want to marry her? " He added. "What? No! She would never accept me." Dante's lips twitched. "Then what are you talking about, you punk?" "It simply means that I want to ask her to become my girlfriend." Dante rolled his eyes and said. Victor was a doctor, but a dumb one. " So you two aren't a couple yet? Got it. You're just friends? " " With benefits." Dante finished, giving him a firm nod. Victor shook his head at the absurdity of his words. Dante was definitely sick in the head. "I can't stay here anymore. I can't believe you all still indulge in this silly friends with benefits shit! I better leave!" He yelled and turned to walk away. Dante chuckled and followed after him. Victor was such a character, that was exactly why they needed him around. After Victor left, Dante went in search of Grace. He found her in her bedroom and on phone wit
“You did what?!" Salvatore’s voice thundered as he yelled at his right-hand man, Kade, an American. Kade had narrated the entire operation to him. Today had been a total mess. The initial plan was to grab Alessia and return to Salvatore, but thanks to Marco, they had to waste some bullets. They didn't even go with enough. “Sorry, Tore. We tried not to attack, but that Marco man had to open fire, and we lost Lorenzo." Kade explained again, he knew how dangerous Salvatore could be when he was angered. Salvatore glared at the good-for-nothing men he had deployed to get Alessia for him.Salvatore’s dark eyes narrowed as he slowly turned to the rest of his men, his jaw clenched. "You lost Lorenzo… but what about Alessia? Where is she? Why didn’t you bring her?"Kade swallowed, glancing nervously at the others as if searching for backup. "We planned to take her. Just grab her quietly and bring her back, like you ordered, boss. But Marco didn’t give us a chance. He opened fire, and we ha
Alessia was dumbfounded when she heard Marco's words. The house was hers? He bought a house for her?! It was hard to believe that Marco went out of his way to buy a mansion by the seaside for her.Kendrick bowed with a smile when Alessia pulled Marco in for a hug. She owned a house? Like her own house now? She kept asking herself multiple questions, unable to come up with a solid answer.Kendrick then excused himself, wanting to set up lunch for the both of them.The moment he left, Alessia turned to Marco. “Seriously? A house for me?" She asked him, her eyes shining with unshed tears.Marco grinned and nodded. “It's what I have to do for my woman. My girlfriend." He added the last part with a gentle kiss on her shoulders.Alessia's heart fluttered; he hadn't asked her out yet, but he called her his girlfriend. Should she be happy or sad?“Your girlfriend? Since when?" She asked purposely, cocking her head to the side.Marco looked away, flustered. He realized he hadn't even asked her
Dante’s words continuously rang in Marco's head as he walked out of his office. He had acted tough and nonchalant just now, but deep down, he was bittered. This position as Clan head was acquired from his sweat and blood, his sleepless nights, and brutal training, but he was about to give it all up.He knew he would officially draw the battleline between him and his father, but he didn't care one bit. He was already tired of fighting a losing battle. As much as he hated to admit it, Double S was much more powerful than he could ever be. He was tactical and wise in this game of theirs.Marco walked into the living room to see Alessia and Grace seated and covering.At this moment, all Marco wanted was to be in her arms and never move away, but she needed to have an alone time with her friend after all. Alessia turned to see him, she saw the look in his eyes and frowned. She could already sense that he was in a sore mood.“I'll be back." She said to Grace and stood up to approach Marco.
"We have to get Alessia out of Marco’s house," Salvatore said firmly as he sat back down. He stood up earlier to pace the room after the realization that Alessia was his sister. His twin sister.Marcel barely lifted his head. "I know. And you’ll do whatever it takes to make sure that happens."Salvatore nodded. "I’ll get her out. No matter what."Marcel gave a small nod, his eyes cold and calculating. "Good. Then go."Salvatore turned to leave, his steps steady as he walked out of the room, leaving his father alone. Marcel sat quietly for a moment, his fingers tapping the armrest of his chair. His heart trembled slightly, a rare sign of emotion for him. He couldn’t stop thinking about Alessia. She was his daughter, after all. Though he hadn't seen her in person, that photo was enough.How could Celine have kept this from him? How could she have hidden their child before dying? Marcel clenched his fist, his face tightening with anger and regret. He wasn’t sure how, but he would get Ale
The double doors of the Marino base mansion swung open, and Salvatore stepped inside. His usual calmness was gone, replaced with excitement as he walked briskly through the grand hallway. Today, he had news—important news. He stopped the first servant he saw. "Where's my father?"The servant, a bit startled, nodded toward the garden. "The boss is in the garden, sir."Salvatore nodded curtly, barely acknowledging the response before heading straight to the garden. He passed through a maze of corridors, finally bursting through the doors that led outside. As he approached the entrance to the garden, the guard stationed there stepped forward."The boss is in a conversation, sir," the guard said, his voice low and respectful.Salvatore narrowed his eyes. "With who?"The guard glanced toward the garden and hesitated before responding. "A woman, sir."Not bothering to wait for more details, Salvatore pushed past the guard and strode into the garden. His eyes immediately fell on Marcel, sit
"Let's watch a movie instead," Alessia suggested as she stepped out of the bathroom, holding her hair up with the hairpin she had fortunately brought along with her from the base. Marco sprawled on the couch in the living room, turned to look at her. "I don't watch movies, Mia Cara. I'll rather hold you throughout the night." He grumbled. Alessia snorted, taking a seat beside him on the couch. "I've always known you to be a boring man, but not watching a movie? That's extreme, Marco." She stated, reaching for the remote control on the table before them. Marco opened his mouth, ready to protest and maybe, snatch the remote from her, but Alessia added before he could do so, "Don't even think of anything funny, Marco De Luca. You won't like the outcome." Marco sighed dejectedly and instead, snaked his hand around her neck to hold her close. "At least let me hold you while we watch the movie." Alessia didn't protest, letting him hold her close. Honestly, she needed the warmth radia
Marco lifted her off the ground, not breaking the kiss as he carried her bridal style into the house.Alessia's dainty hands were wrapped around his neck, her face heating up at the sweetness of his lips on hers.She could never get enough of kissing this man.He walked into the massive bedroom, shutting the door with his right leg and hurriedly setting her down there.Alessia was confused as to why he placed her down by the door. Her chest heaved up and down from the intense kiss they just shared.Her blue eyes sparkled when it met his.Alessia didn't even get the chance to admire the room before Marco spoke.“I want to take you here." He muttered, closing the distance between them as his hand snaked around her waist again.Take her here? Which meant that he wanted to have sex with her by the bedroom door.For some reason, the idea made Alessia's core throb in excitement. She had always wanted to try out new things, and it was time to do so.“Take me…. Wherever and however you want m
"Oh my goodness!" Alessia gasped in shock, staring at the place. Before she was a calm lake, looking ever so peaceful and wonderful as the birds chirped in the background. She had never seen anything so peaceful in her entire life. This made her wonder just how long she had been living a life of stress. If she wasn't being a nanny, then she was on the run from a Mafia boss, she never had the luxury to go for a vacation or maybe visit the beach. Alessia loved water a lot. She would do anything to be closer to one. "You like it?" Marco asked from behind her. " I love it! " She yelled out with a huge smile, turning to look at him. "There's more," "There's more?" Alessia asked him, her eyes shining brightly. Marco nodded, confirming her words."Oh my goodness, show me!" She yelled and rushed towards him." Calm down, Mia Cara. I'll show you if you're calm. " Marco teased, snaking a hand around her waist to pull her closer to him. Alessia blushed and nodded, making a sign of zippin