Chapter Five: More than you signed for.

The black SUV hummed softly as it smoothly rolled through the gates of the Conte estate. They've been seated in the car for what felt like hours to Viviana but she couldn't grumble. Who would have thought a few days after arriving from New York, she'll have to be on another trip.

The property sprawled across acres of land, not hesitating to show the wealth of the family just from the surroundings. She couldn't see much from the car and she wasn't ready to ask, besides, she was going to be here for a while now.

Raffaele hadn't spoken much since they got into the car, and Viviana wasn't particularly interested in starting a conversation either.

“You'll be meeting my grandmother first.” He finally said as they pulled up in front of a massive villa.

Viviana slumped in her chair with a sigh. “Do I have to?”

“Of course, she is the matriarch of the Conte family which you'll be taking over soon.” He replied as the guards opened the doors for them to get off.

It was already getting dark but she could still see the surroundings well. Asides the grand mansion they were standing before, another stood in a distance, the only one in the open garden. She could only guess this belonged to his grandmother and that belonged to him.

Viviana adjusted the green silk dress she wore as the butler led them inside. Raffaele walked directly behind her but she didn't even pay him a single attention as she took in the surroundings.

They walked straight into the brightly lit living room, a grand staircase directly opposite the entrance with a huge picture of who could only be the matriarch, Caterina Conte. Even the picture excluded her elegance.

Her attention was soon pulled away when the butler stopped, gesturing towards the fireplace. Caterina Conte sat on a regal armchair by the fire, her silver hair swept into an elegant chignon. Her green eyes were fixated on the flickering flames before her, not noticing their presence yet.

“Nonna,” Raffaele greeted as he walked in her direction, taking her hand to place a gentle kiss on it.

“Raffaele,” she said, her voice strong despite her age. Her gaze shifted to Viviana, and for a moment, there was nothing but silence. Then, a slow knowing smile spread across Caterina’s lips. “You've brought her home. I thought I asked you not to rush things, Raffaele.”

“You must be the infamous Viviana Bellini.”

Viviana tilted her head. “Infamous? I hope it's for a good reason.

Caterina let out a soft chuckle. “The name is popular, but it's surprising I'm yet to hear of your exploits asides being a great underboss for your father.” She gestured to the seats near her. “Sit. Let's talk before dinner.”

Raffaele settled across from his grandmother, leaving Viviana with the seat next to Caterina but she didn't really mind as she sat next to her.

Caterina studied Viviana for a moment before speaking up. “You remind me of myself when I was younger. That fierce look backed up by a fierce attitude. I look forward to what you can bring into the Conte family.”

“I won't disappoint you…”

“Oh, just call me Nonna.” Caterina let out a small giggle. “And of course, I expect great things from you. You'll be the next matriarch and I can't wait to see you rule like the queen you are.”

Raffaele just stared at the two as they chatted. To anyone, it would seem like their words weren't genuine as they exchanged them, but to him, he could see the bonding of two people with similar personalities.

Dinner was served in a formal way, preparing a little feast to celebrate their marriage since it was requested to be a silent marriage so no feast was held. Caterina and Viviana continued their little talk over dinner while Raffaele just remained silent.

By the time dessert was served, the look of approval was already obvious in Caterina's eyes.

“Well,” she said, setting down her glass of wine. “You might just survive in this family after all. I don't know how the Bellini family is, but one thing you should know is the Conte family is bigger than it seems on the outside. Our roots are deep and very soon, you'll be the head of the family and your husband's right hand. The very Matriarch of the Conte family.”

Viviana nodded gently. “If I may, shouldn't the Matriarch be one who is well accustomed to the tradition of the Conte family? I know nothing and I want my free lifestyle as much as possible.”

An amused laughter came from Caterina as she patted Viviana’s hand gently. “It is a story for another day, Viviana. And of course, you would have all the freedom you want. As long as it doesn't bring a bad name to the Conte family.”

“I can assure you, Nonna.”

As they left Caterina's residence, heading towards Raffaele’s mansion, Viviana walked slightly ahead, her heels clicking against the stone path.

“I’m not sure you know what all this is entailing yet.” His voice cut through the quiet night, making her stop. She turned, meeting his gaze as he slowly passed her. “There's a reason the Conte family doesn't allow alliances directly with the Don. I don't know what Nonna and your father discussed for her to approve this, but do you think you can handle it?”

A knowing smile danced on Viviana's lips as she stepped closer, placing her palm lightly on his chest. “You'll be there to protect me in case something goes wrong, won't you?”

She didn't wait for his response. Instead, she turned and walked inside, the silk of her dress catching I'm the dim light. Raffaele let out a low chuckle, shaking his head as he watched her disappear into the grand mansion.

Intriguing. That's what she was.

Before he could follow her in, he saw a figure leaning against the wall, half hidden in the darkness, the ember of his cigarette flaring briefly.

“News spreads fast Don. More than we originally thought.”

“Do they know who she is yet?” Raffaele asked, his voice low and edged.

“Not yet.”

“Keep it that way.”