LEONARDO'S POVFuck.Our date night was officially ruined because of my recklessness. I cast a glance at Rosalina, and she sported the most fearsome resting bitch face that could make even a grizzly bear reconsider its life choices. My coat was draped around her figure, hiding that perfect body of hers from the beaten-up motherfuckers sitting across me inside the police van. I had knocked out their teeth and bruised them black and blue, but I wanted to do more than just beat them up, I wanted to plummet them to their deaths for shit-talking about my girl. "I swear to God, Leo, if my family finds out about this, I'm so fucking screwed," Rosalina muttered under her breath, her face pale with fear. Sliding my arm around her shoulder, I tugged her towards me until she rested her head on my chest. "They won't find out, I promise," I assured her.Anger flared in her eyes as she shot a look at me. "I did not spend two hours getting ready to end up in jail!" I smirked, despite the circumst
ROSALINA'S POVThe night had been a wild ride, and my legs were feeling like jelly after all the running and drama. I swayed slightly, blaming both the exhaustion and the alcohol for my unsteady gait. Leo had his arm around me, keeping me upright as we made our way to the apartment complex. I was tipsy, maybe a tad more than tipsy, but the weight of Leo's arm made me feel invincible.As we stumbled our way toward the apartment complex, I couldn't help but giggle. Maybe it was the alcohol-induced mirth or the sheer absurdity of the situation, but I felt unstoppable like we were the stars of our very own action movie.I leaned into Leo's side, my cheek resting against his chest, and let out a contented sigh. His familiar scent, a mix of his cologne and the city's hustle and bustle, was like a comforting lullaby. I felt like I was floating on a cloud of drunken bliss.Frankie's announcement was the equivalent of a plot twist in our tipsy action movie. "The elevator's under maintenance,
LEONARDO'S POVMy thumb grazed her lower, lip, which was slightly more plumper than the upper one. Perfection. She bit down on my thumb, hard and I quickly withdrew it, drawing blood. I sucked the blood on it, and her taste made it even more sweeter to taste. "You like pain, Salvadori?" She asked, licking off the blood on her lip. "Yes," I admitted right away. She reached her hand out to feel the teeth mark she had left on my neck when I first had my cock inside her. It was fading, the pain still etched itself onto my memory and just thinking about it made me hard. That day, her pain had become mine. 'If she bleeds, then so do I.' I thought. I pushed my thumb in her mouth, and she gazed upon me, wide-eyed. "Suck it." She did, drawing out my blood and the way she twirled that wet-hot tongue around it made me imagine how she had sucked the fucking life out of my cock. The fact that she had no gag reflex only heightened the pleasure, intensifying every sensation to an almost unbeara
ROSALINA'S POV"I love you." Those words sounded like an obscure dream, my body was limp like a rag doll against his. I froze, uncertain of how to react. I didn't LOVE him. I couldn't love him.I shut my eyes and nuzzled back to his warmth, pretending to be oblivious to his confession. "Leo, I have to get ready for my auditions," I said, trying to get up even though every fiber in my body protested against it. His arms grasped firmly around my body, not letting me leave the bed. "Just sleep some more, you still have some time to recover." He slid his palm and cupped my crotch gently, but there was a certain possessiveness to it. "Pretty sure this kitty is sore, isn't she?" He teased against my ear. I was already getting wet even though I had come two times already. And if I said I wanted more, I was pretty sure he wouldn't let me leave his bed the whole day. "I didn't approve of you to bring me here," I reminded weakly. "And I told you I couldn't sleep without you," He countered
ROSALINA'S POVI couldn't deny that Mr. Bennett had changed since his time in Paris. His transformation was evident in every way – his shorter hair, the rugged stubble that seemed more deliberate now, and that sun-kissed tan that spoke of carefree days on French beaches. Even his scent seemed more sophisticated, and it lingered in the air as he moved closer to the stage."Liora," He gave her a smile of acknowledgment and he just cast me a subtle glance. Gosh, he was PETTY."Why don't you show us your performance first, Liora?" Mr. Bennet said. As Liora began her performance, her delicate movements and the passion in her eyes painted a mesmerizing picture of the black and white swan's duality. Her grace and control were breathtaking, and she was living inside the character's skin. She was captivating, stealing the spotlight not just from me but from everyone in the room.Mr. Bennett's attention remained fixed on Liora throughout her solo. His smile was reserved solely for her. It was
ROSALINA'S POV"Congrats." Liora took a seat beside me on the bench. "Not yet," I said, grabbing a bottle of water to quench my anxiety along with my thirst. My skin felt numb and cold from anticipation. Who will Mr. Bennett choose, and what is going to happen to me and Liora after this? Both of us wanted that role more than anything else. It was our dream. It was what we worked hard for. If that role went to Liora, there is no doubt I would feel like the biggest failure. "Didn't you hear what he said about you?" Liora questioned."What?""You danced your way into his heart. That's a pretty big statement from the director," Liora's voice sounded soothing. She was comforting me, although her poker face said otherwise. "You think so?" I asked."Yeah, of course," She assured. "But he didn't even care to see my solo," The solo I worked day and night to perfect. "Maybe he is okay with your solo," Archer chimed in with a smile. He grabbed my bottle and finished up my water in one big
ROSALINA'S POV On the screen, Jim's deadpan expression met the camera's gaze, a silent acknowledgment of the absurdity that unfolded in the Dunder Mifflin office. Pam's quiet glances toward the camera mirrored my own and I couldn't help crack a small smile. I nestled into the well-worn cushions of Leo's apartment couch, my feet tucked under a cozy blanket. Leonardo suggested I watch a rom-com like 'The Office' on his TV instead of the horror-thriller shows I kept binging almost every night before bed. Leo strolled in from the kitchen, a bowl of popcorn in hand. "You comfy, babe?" "Uh-huh," I nodded, not tearing my eyes away from the screen. "Perfect. The Scranton shenanigans are just what I need." I scooped a handful of popcorn and shoved it down my mouth until the salty goodness exploded in my tongue. A few kernels even fell right between my boobs under my very oversized shirt (Which I stole from Leo's closet. Whatever, they are mine now.) My eyes popped wide when he suddenly
A raw ache permeated my whole being as I stirred awake. My eyes were clammy with sleep, as I arched my back, only for my butt to press onto Leo's obvious arousal. His arm weighed around my hip like a twenty-pound blanket, so cozy yet so protective. I wrestled under the sheets to turn around so I faced him. He was at his most peaceful form when he slept like that. So humane and vulnerable, any woman with a heart would want to protect this man. He could go from an angel to a devil in the blink of an eye, and I wouldn't have it any other way.Shivers of heated sex enveloped me and moved my legs to find his come between them. My pussy was still damp, making me realize too late that we had unprotected sex last night. This was the second time. It was a relief I still had the pills with me, although they weren't the best choice since they mess with the cycles and worse, make me gain weight. Which was the last thing I needed as a professional dancer. Carefully, I slipped out of bed and rea
5 YEARS LATER... LEONARDO'S POV I reclined in one of Enzo's plush office chairs, half listening to my cousins drone on about business. My gaze landed on Enzo's hands as he gesticulated, and I had to bite my cheek to keep from laughing. His nails were painted a glittery pink and decorated with Hello Kitty stickers. When he caught me staring, Enzo shrugged. "Gigi ambushed me this morning." "Daddy-daughter time looks good on you, brother," I teased. Enzo shot me a wry look. "We'll see how you handle it when your little hellion grows up." I chuckled thinking about my spirited son. "Adriano keeps things exciting, for sure. Just yesterday he finger-painted a mural on his bedroom wall using Rosalina's lipstick." My cousins howled. "Takes after his old man," Luca said. "In all the best and worst ways," I agreed. Right on cue, my cell phone rang. I didn't have to check the caller ID to know it was Adriano's teacher. "That'll be Mrs. Dawson now. Let me guess - he set off stink bombs in
LEONARDO'S POV(A few months later...)A piercing cry split the night air. I groaned, clinging to the last remnants of a pleasant dream as little Adriano's wails persisted."Your son is awake," I mumbled, still half asleep.Rosalina stirred slightly. "Before sunrise, he's your son," she quipped drowsily.I chuckled at the familiar Lion King quote, then dragged myself reluctantly from the warm bed. I shuffled over to the crib and gently lifted my bawling son into my arms. We had named him Adriano, after Rosalina's father."Shhh Adriano, go back to sleep," I soothed, rocking him gently. His tiny mouth rooted hungrily at my chest, latching onto my nipple. I winced. "Wrong nipple, buddy."I retrieved one of the bottles of breast milk Rosa had pumped earlier and offered it to Adriano. He sucked greedily, his cries subsiding as I held him close. I smiled down at my son, my heart swelling with love and pride. He had his mother's beautiful hazel eyes and my strong Salvadori nose and chin.I
ROSALINA'S POV I stared at my reflection, scarcely recognizing the radiant bride smiling back. The strapless gown hugged my body perfectly, the pink floral accents on the skirt matching my rose tiara."Oh, you look absolutely beautiful!" Lily dabbed at her eyes as she helped me smooth the skirt.I couldn't stop smiling, joy bubbling inside me. After everything, this day had finally come - my wedding day! My Nonna stepped forward, clasping my hands warmly. "Stellina, I'm so happy for you. You chose well, my dear. That boy loves you with his whole heart."I embraced Nonna tightly. "Thank you. For understanding, and supporting us." She stroked my hair lovingly. "Always, il mio tesoro."A loud commotion outside made us glance at the door. I heard Leo's voice rising insistently."Let me see my wife, damn it!"Isabella shot me a bemused look. "Somebody's impatient to get this show on the road."I laughed softly. Trust Leo to toss tradition aside. My heart swelled with love for my soon-to
ROSALINA'S POVI clutched the address in my hand, the edges creased and worn from the countless times I'd unfolded it. Antonella DiMarco - the stranger who used to be my mother. "You sure about this, babe? No one would blame you if-""I'm sure," I cut him off, my voice tight. "I gotta do this, Leo. I can't..." My throat closed up for a moment. "I can't move on until I look her in the eye and get some damn answers."He nodded slowly, jaw tight. I could practically hear the argument raging in his head about why this was a bad idea. But one glance at my expression and he just sighed, holding out his hand.I shifted in my seat, trying to ignore the growing pressure in my bladder. The sun was starting to set, casting an orange glow across the desert landscape blurring past. Leo kept his eyes fixed on the road, one hand resting gently on my knee in silent support.I knew I should've gone to the bathroom again before we left the last rest stop an hour ago. But nerves had killed my appetit
LEONARDO'S POVThe dank basement reeked of blood and fear. My uncle Giovanni was tied to a chair, swollen and battered from the beating he had gotten. But I felt no pity for the traitor.My cousin Luca's eyes were wild with grief. Losing his twin Lucio had destroyed him. Now seeing his father Giovanni revealed as a turncoat was the last straw."Alright, talk," I said coldly to Giovanni. "Spill why you teamed up with Andrae against your own family."When Giovanni stayed silent, Alessio slammed a fist into his gut. Giovanni wheezed in pain as Luca flinched, choking back a sob."Last chance," I said casually as Giovanni fought for breath. "Give me the details, then you get a quick death for ratting out the family."Fear flashed in Giovanni's eyes. He started rambling about how Andrae had approached him and offered control of the family if Giovanni helped kill my brother."Lies!" Giovanni cried desperately. "He used me! I never wanted Vincenzo dead, you gotta believe me!"Disgust roiled t
LILLINA'S POVI cradled Enzo's limp hand in both of mine, pressing fervent kisses to his chilled fingers. The steady beep of the heart monitor was my lone comfort as I maintained my bedside watch. His chest rose and fell rhythmically, but he remained locked away in unconsciousness. "You have to come back to me, Enzo" I whispered, my vision blurring. "Our daughter needs her father." I swiped angrily at the tears streaking my face. I had to be strong for our child, though the effort threatened to shatter my fragile composure.A knock interrupted my swirling thoughts. Carlo entered, his expression carefully neutral. "Any change?" I shook my head mutely, a fresh wave of tears spilling over. Suddenly, Vincenzo's hand twitched feebly in mine. I gasped, leaning forward intently as his brow furrowed. "Enzo?" I choked out. "C-can you hear me?"With agonizing slowness, his eyelids fluttered open halfway, still clouded by anesthesia. But they locked onto mine with recognition that flooded my
ROSALINA'S POVThe courthouse appeared all too soon, a hulking stone edifice that filled me with dread. Andrae dragged me forcibly up the steps, his grip leaving blossoming bruises on my arm. I scanned the empty foyer frantically, praying for some means of escape. At the far end, an elderly clerk sat stamping documents behind a high desk.Andrae strode toward him purposefully, shoving me ahead of him. "We need to be married immediately," he barked.The clerk's eyes widened at Andrae's imperious demand, flickering uncertainly to my tear-stained face. "I'm sorry, sir, but there are certain requirements..." he began weakly.In a flash, Andrae had a pistol aimed at the man's forehead. "The only requirement is that you do as I say," he growled. "Now."The clerk paled, raising his trembling hands in acquiescence. "Y-yes sir, right away." He fumbled with shaking hands to ready the license and certificate, the gun still leveled at his head.Once the documents were prepared, Andrae scrawled hi
VINCENZO'S POVChaos erupted as bullets flew in all directions. Years of simmering hatred between the Salvatores and Armandos had finally boiled over, transforming my brother's wedding into a bloodbath."Get the women and children to safety!" I bellowed. My men rushed to usher the terrified guests away from the hailstorm of lead.I scanned the pandemonium desperately for my pregnant wife. "Lily!" Where was she? There - a flash of her yellow dress across the courtyard. I sprinted towards her, bullets kicking up shards of brick at my heels.She stood paralyzed behind an overturned table, one hand instinctively cradling her belly. I shielded her body with mine and urged her towards the exit. "We need to move, now!"We scrambled into a sheltered alcove. Her eyes were wild, face streaked with tears. "Oh God, the baby-""You'll both be alright," I soothed. I peeked out - we weren't far from an escape route. I steeled myself. "On three, we run."I took her hand in mine. "One, two, thre-"The
ROSALINA'S POVI slipped into the marble restroom, the swell of violins and chatter fading behind the heavy door. Gripping the gold-flecked countertop, I steadied my breathing, willing my roiling nerves to quiet. Today Leonardo pledged himself to another while our unborn child grew in secret within me.The door creaked open and my reflection paled. Mia. An awkward tension thickened the air as we hovered, over the betrayed bride-to-be and the 'other woman'. To my surprise, her dark brown eyes held no malice. Only sympathy. "Hey, Rosalina," she said gently. "Are you okay?"I attempted a weak smile, my hands trembling. "A bit unwell, thanks." A massive understatement. I smoothed my dress self-consciously, the pink chiffon Leonardo adored. Mia's gaze flickered over it. "That color suits you Wanna rest a while in my suite?"Giving a weak smile, I nodded. I followed mutely, sinking into an ornate chaise lounge as attendants fluttered around Mia. The opulent chamber with its marble friezes