The next morning, as I woke up, I realized Marco was no longer beside me. My instinct told me he had probably left for work. But there was a heaviness weighing on me, the residue of the conversation we had the previous night. I was grateful that he had opened up to me, allowing me a glimpse into the painful memories he carried. However, it also saddened me deeply to think that such a tragic event had shaped his childhood.To imagine a young child, barely ten years old, compelled to witness the murder of his own grandparents - it was beyond comprehension. The sheer brutality and trauma inflicted upon him remains unimaginable.Despite our different upbringings, the experience of watching loved ones perish right before your eyes, especially when they sacrificed themselves to protect you, leaves a profound scar. I wish I could have conveyed to Marco that he bears no blame for what occurred. But the truth is, no matter how many reassurances I offer, he continues to shoulder the burden of g
I WAS OVERCOME with sadness upon hearing the news. The question, "When are you leaving?" weighed heavily on my emotions. Lucille and Renzo had become close to me, and now I was faced with the sudden news that Renzo would depart. I couldn't help but inquire further, asking, "And for how long?"Renzo reassured me, saying, "I'll still come back as your guard, Ma'am. I just don't know how long this assignment will take."The uncertainty of his return lingered in my mind. I expressed my genuine disappointment, replying, "Oh, that's quite unfortunate, Renzo."As I leaned back in my office chair, a wave of sadness washed over me. I looked at Renzo with a sorrowful expression, and he responded with a restrained smile, saying, "Take care, Ma'am Maddie. Until we meet again."And so, that's how it unfolded. Now, Carter and Finley are my new guards, but I find myself disliking them. My disappointment stems not only from knowing how much Marco trusted Renzo, but also from finding the replacements
My head throbbed as I gradually regained consciousness, my senses awakening in tandem. To my dismay, I found myself bound to a chair, my hands tightly restrained behind my back. Though my feet were free, I pondered why they hadn't tied them as well. Above me, a glaring light illuminated the room, reminiscent of those interrogation scenes from dramatic soap operas.Without missing a beat, I discreetly pulled out a small cutter nestled up my sleeves, a tool I always kept at the ready for situations just like this. Its inconspicuous nature allowed me to bypass metal detectors effortlessly, and its concealment was equally effortless.Just as I began attempting to sever the ropes binding my hands, the door abruptly swung open, interrupting my covert endeavor. My focus shifted to a man who stood before me, his face partially obscured. I furrowed my brows at him, my expression betraying no hint of the escape plan I was secretly concocting."Hello, Mrs. Moretti," he greeted me, his words ring
As I grappled with my emotions, one thought consumed me: I had always sensed there was more to Marco and his organization than met the eye. My knowledge ran deep, but my unease persisted. Why did this man's words unsettle me? It felt as though he possessed insider information, guarded secrets Marco himself hadn't revealed.Then, with a chilling shift in his gaze, he shattered my preconceptions. "Your father isn't responsible for your mother's death. He lacked the means to commit such an act. And no, my dear, Aunt Olivia didn't succumb to an illness," he revealed, his voice dripping with mystery. My heart skipped a beat upon hearing those words. "She was murdered."The revelation struck me like a bolt of lightning, crackling with a mixture of shock, confusion, and grief. Questions swirled in my mind, demanding answers. Who would want to harm my loved ones, and why? Suddenly, the veil of ignorance was lifted, thrusting me into a dark and treacherous world I never knew existed.Ronan sto
Most of their inquiries revolved around the conference explosion. It occurred to me that they weren't there because of Marco's call, but rather to uncover what transpired at the hotel. "Ma'am, we really need your statement," one of the officers insisted."My wife can't recall anything. Let her rest," Marco replied, hoping to buy some time.The house staff hurriedly guided me indoors. Marco remained outside, engrossed in conversation with the police.Suddenly, Lucille's name crossed my mind. "Where is Lucille?" I inquired, turning to one of the staff members."Sir Marco has the latest information on Miss Lucille's condition, Ma'am."I felt conflicted. Should I confront Marco? Ronan's words still lingered in my mind, and I was determined to uncover the truth. Ultimately, I decided to base my beliefs on whatever Marco would tell me.I was in my room, and the household staff had been assisting me with bathing and changing since I wasn't in the right condition. Suddenly, Marco entered and
"Why are you apologizing?!" I freed myself from his grip and took a step back. The pain in his eyes was evident as he noticed my retreat. "Marco, there's no need to apologize. You didn't hurt Mama, right? It's not your fault!"I clung to this defense, desperately convincing myself that Marco had no involvement. Everyone else was mistaken, and I refused to believe my own instincts or what Ronan had told me. I secretly hoped Marco would prove me wrong and show that I was misguided to entertain the doubts cast upon him.Marco's head dropped, shattering my hopes. Overwhelmed with emotion, I sobbed as he took a deep breath and eventually met my gaze once more."I don't want to lie to you, Maddie," Marco confessed. His words crashed into my world, leaving me devoid of strength. I crumbled to the floor, lost in my thoughts.Tears streamed down my face as I stared at Marco, his words echoing in my ears. He had confessed, confirming the unimaginable - he was the one who had taken my mother's l
Marco's staff graciously opened the door for me. Stepping inside, I stole a glance at Marco through the rearview mirror as my car pulled away. There he stood, outside the house, attentively observing my departure. Overwhelmed by emotions, tears streamed down my face, a testament to the weight I carried within. Sensing my distress, my driver offered me a tissue, which I gratefully accepted. Lost in my thoughts, I hadn't even noticed when we had arrived at my father's house.Rushing out of the car, I failed to bid farewell to my chauffeur. Anxious to find solace, I briskly entered the house.Violet's initial smile melted away as soon as she laid eyes on my expression. "Sis, what happened?" she inquired, concern lacing her voice.I held her tightly, tears streaming down my face, unable to contain the rush of emotions. Violet soothed me, her touch offering solace and comfort. Her concerned voice echoed in my ears, entwined with my own sobs.Seeking refuge, we sought shelter inside the hou
Initially, I asked Aunt Mildred to temporarily take on the role of acting CEO while I'm unable to work. Given her position as a board member, there is nothing wrong with this arrangement. I have already documented this in writing. This is only intended to be for a few weeks, possibly just one, as I need some time to gather myself. I believe I won't be able to fully focus on my work during this period."I am sorry, Aunt Mildred.""Okay, Maddie. I understand your situation and I'll make sure to keep you informed about everything happening in the company. Regarding Marco, what if he comes over?"I noticed Aunt Mildred's sudden silence, and I understand that she didn't mean to mention Marco."If he happens to arrive, please inform him that I am unavailable," I instructed Aunt Mildred as she headed out to the office. Despite her numerous responsibilities with our other ventures, I had reluctantly asked her to assume the role of acting CEO for our company. Unfortunately, I cannot prevent Ma
I could sense the unrest within me, a constant unease that refused to subside. My mind ran wild with thoughts of the missing ones, their absence gnawing at my soul. I longed for a break, a moment of respite, but time slipped through my fingers, as if mocking my desire for calm.In that turbulent state, Vittoria took charge, guiding me gently to sit. Her firm yet soothing touch caressed my back, attempting to bring solace to my weary spirit. Yet, beneath her reassuring words, I sensed the hollowness of promises unfulfilled. Deep down, I knew that true peace would elude me until my sister and Renzo were safely by my side.Time blurred, each passing moment a mystery as reports and updates were limited to Dad alone. The rest of the Moretti family and their associates remained scattered across distant lands. Only Stefano, Dad, and Vittoria were present, while Gabriele, burdened with his laboratory duties, stood confined inside.The door swung open with a sudden force, grabbing my attention
Violet abruptly broke away from my grasp, She quickly stood up and ran the other direction. Her eyes showed an unbreakable determination, which caused the chase to pause for a moment, seizing the attention of those chasing us. The moment I realised her success, I also quickly went the other way.Tears coursed down my cheeks, my heart wrenching with worry for my sister's safety. I prayed fervently that she would remain safe until I could find help.Exhausted beyond measure, I refused to stop my desperate flight. Numbness consumed my legs from the relentless pace. Lost in my thoughts, I failed to notice the uneven ground beneath me.I stumbled and cascaded downhill, agony searing through my body, but I mustered the strength to rise. My eyes widened in profound realization—the realization that I had fallen onto a desolate road.I swiftly rose to my feet, determined to keep running. With every step, I prayed to the universe to grant me a sight of a passing car and a compassionate soul to
The security cameras in this place paled in comparison to the extensive surveillance at the Moretti's. Thanks to Marty, I knew exactly where the blind spots were, which turned out to be invaluable now.As I listened to one of the guards speaking, their voice laced with suspicion, it became evident that something had caught their attention in the adjacent room. The number of people present remained a mystery, clouding the situation further.Our path grew darker as we proceeded. Taking a momentary shelter, we huddled together, seeking solace in each other's presence while contemplating our next moves."Sis, what now? We're lost," Violet voiced her vagueness.Unable to provide an immediate answer, I echoed her confusion. The labyrinthine layout of this place made navigation a formidable challenge."Let's stick with the plan, Violet. Evading capture is our main priority. We'll uncover a way out in due course," I said, exhaling deeply while clasping my sister's hand tightly. The grip on my
"Sis," Violet whispered, her voice barely above a murmur. "The new driver, he's one of them. He deceived us all, infiltrating our home and studying our every move. This was all part of their carefully orchestrated plan. They were aware of Marco's imminent departure and the Moretti family's gathering, ensuring your guards would be occupied elsewhere. They had all the information, which is why they struck today."Violet looked at me, concern etched on her face. Uncertainty flickered in her eyes, but I tried to reassure her with a smile. While Ronan seemed knowledgeable about the Moretti family, he couldn't possibly comprehend the full extent of my capabilities. He never suspected that I had a plan to escape from this predicament, using my wits and resourcefulness to secure our freedom.As the details of my plan unfold, Violet's apprehension gradually transformed into trust. Though the odds were stacked against us, with risks looming at every turn, I remained determined. I would stop at
"I am Ronan Lombardi, the last remaining heir of the Lombardi family—the one your husband annihilated. I am also the inheritor of the organization where your mother dedicated her life, and where you reluctantly pledged your service." He stooped down to my eye level, caressing my hair and coercing me to meet his gaze. "Maddie, your loyalty should rightfully belong to me, not your husband. I am the master, and your mother entrusted your life to our cause."My teeth clenched, confirming my instincts. Despite Marco's claims of wiping out the entire Lombardi clan, there was indeed one survivor—the heir, Ronan.Tightening my fist, I regretted not voicing my doubts to Marco that fateful night. Maybe, if I had, he would have taken precautions to ensure the annihilation of every last Lombardi, leaving no room for survivors.My thoughts came to a halt as Ronan slowly raised his hand towards the mask covering half of his face. He gently caressed it for a moment before slowly removing it.My eyes
As I searched for my staff, urgency tinged my every move. Failing to locate them promptly, I snatched the car keys, taking matters into my own hands. One of Marco's cars became my vehicle of choice.Observing my hurried driving, the house guard swiftly swung open the gate, his face a picture of astonishment. Yet, I brushed it off, too preoccupied for notice.With haste, I raced toward our residence, my heart pounding in sync with my accelerating car. Parking carelessly, I sprang out, eager to enter our house.The gate stood ajar, and an eerie calmness blanketed the surroundings. Ignoring any sense of sign, I swiftly crossed the threshold, ready to face whatever awaited me.The surroundings were dark, and there were no lights on. I called for helpers, but no one answered."Violet?" I called for my younger sister.I called her name several times until I heard Violet's voice."S-Sis, we're in the kitchen."Her voice was weak, and it was clear she was crying. I immediately went there, rea
Lucille had been discharged from the hospital, but her recovery demanded more rest. Both Marco and I eagerly wished for Lucille's complete recovery before she went back from her duties, so I shared his sentiments. It was important to ensure her well-being.Now, I found myself at the mall, fulfilling shopping obligations. Though I could have easily given these errands to the housemaids, I took the opportunity to tackle them myself, especially tasks of this nature. Shopping gives me the peace that I need right now."Renzo," I called out, asking for his help. Marco wasn't by my side, as he was abroad attending to Marcello and engaging in business endeavors. Rumors circulated that they were forging an alliance with the Grimaldi family from the Sicilian Mafia, and I trusted they were negotiating diligently.I've gained a deep understanding of their organizational dynamics. Marco emphasized the strategic advantage of forging alliances with different countries. Although I'm aware of their al
In recent days, I bore witness to my sister's endless pursuit of Renzo, and it was a spectacle that left me suspicious. Often, I would simply shake my head, unable to understand her behavior, and there were moments when I wished I could just close my eyes and spare myself the embarrassment of watching it unfold. Have you ever experienced secondhand embarrassment? It's that weird sensation where you feel the humiliation of someone else's actions, even though you were not the one responsible. That's precisely what I felt whenever Violet engaged in her attention-seeking antics in Renzo's presence.On one particular day, as I returned home from work, I found Violet slumped on the sofa, her face filled with dejection. She had been persistently pestering Renzo earlier, but now she seemed utterly defeated. Concern washed over me, and I swiftly took a seat beside her.Regardless of her misguided actions, I couldn't bear to witness Violet in such despair. It was as if her sadness reached beyon
Once Renzo had left, leaving just the two of us, I couldn't resist playfully pinching my sister's side. Her gaze, once filled with longing for Renzo, was now directed at me."Ouch, Sis! That actually hurt!" she protested, rubbing her side.Deep down, I knew there was more to Violet's visit than just my company."What's the real reason you're here, Violet? I have a feeling it's not solely about me."Sniffling, she glanced around nervously before tugging me towards the living room where we settled onto the sofa."Sis, it's about Renzo..." Her voice trailed off.I closed my eyes briefly, already understanding what her gaze had meant earlier.I offered her an empathetic smile. "Do you think he might have a girlfriend? And even if he doesn't, the age gap between you two is quite significant. Don't get your hopes up, Violet. Renzo is even older than me. He and Marco are practically the same age, just a few years apart.""Age is irrelevant, Sis!" She playfully nudged me. "Come on, lend me a