I struggled to find the right words, my mind blank as I faced him. It was frustrating not to be able to say everything was fine, as I used to. Accepting Marco back felt like disregarding what he had done to my mom and betraying her. Yes, we've moved past what my mom did to him and his family, but she's still my mother. No matter how flawed she appears to others, she's still my mom. I couldn't simply turn my back on her.But I love this man. Seeing him in distress, I couldn't bear it either."Go home, Marco. You might get sick if you stay out in the rain," were the only words that managed to escape my lips. I sighed, trying to hold back the tears welling up."I'm sorry to interrupt. I just want to make sure you're alright. If you need someone to talk to, reach out to your friends, Maddie. I know they can provide support. And if you feel like talking to me, I'm here. Just a phone call away."It was also painful to hear those words from Marco. He was fully aware that ever since our marr
"I won't cooperate, Maddie," he said firmly, placing the folder on his desk and intertwining his fingers.I took a deep breath, hoping this conversation would be easier. Convincing Marco to annul our marriage had seemed like a sensible choice, but now it felt like a mistake. "I don't want this anymore, Marco," my voice quivered. I never anticipated uttering those words. Not long ago, I was determined to hold onto Marco, but now I yearned to release him. If circumstances were different, I might fight for our relationship. Yet, I can't. He has deeply wronged my family, me, and my mother."I'll fight this, Maddie," he declared forcefully, surprising me. I bit my lip, his words hitting me unexpectedly. "You know the chances of success for this annulment petition are slim, Maddie. Your lawyer must have informed you. That's why you've resorted to confronting me directly, pleading for my cooperation. You didn't even discuss it with me first before making this decision.""What else do we need
In the following days, Marco attempted to engage in conversation with me, but considering his lack of willingness to support me through our separation, I made a firm decision to avoid meeting him. I couldn't afford to appear vulnerable. This situation transcended a mere disagreement.One evening, as I made my way home from the office, my vehicle abruptly broke down. The cause of the issue eluded me, and there were scarce passing vehicles in sight. Doubts nagged at me, questioning whether anyone would even stop to offer assistance.Surveying my surroundings, I found myself on a dimly-lit road, devoid of any oncoming traffic. Walking all the way home wasn't a feasible option.I retrieved my phone, contemplating who I could call for help. Marco's name initially caught my attention since he was listed as an emergency contact. However, I shook my head, mentally dismissing that option, and instead dialed Alec's number.It felt like only moments had passed when a cloth was forcibly placed ov
The sky had transformed into a fiery orange hue, and hours had passed since Marco's men ambushed and ensnared me. I couldn't fathom this unexpected turn of events; Marco's impulsive actions always caught me off guard."I don't want to be with you—" I began to protest."You'll change your mind," he asserted with a hint of determination in his voice. "I'll make sure of it."He pivoted away from me, taking just one more step before resuming his words."Let's seek refuge indoors, Maddie. It's getting chilly out here."Despite knowing he couldn't see my scowl, I shot one last contemptuous glance at Marco. Resignedly, I trailed behind him, stepping into the house.Marco had a sizable staff, most of whom I recognized due to their frequent presence alongside him. Renzo and Caleb had also reappeared, their return unbeknownst to me. It appeared that some household staff had arrived earlier, likely flown in by Marco's chopper to serve us during our stay.Recalling my futile chase after the chopp
After a quick shower, I dressed and noticed my usual skincare products neatly arranged in the bathroom. I couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at Marco's familiarity with my grooming routine. The fact that he had prepared everything without even asking pleased me in a strange way. Marco was incredibly attentive to even the smallest details about me. A pang of nostalgia tugged at me, and I couldn't help but wonder how different things could have been if my mother hadn't caused such turmoil between our families. If only she had treated us equally, maybe I would consider staying in this marriage.Dismissing the "what ifs," I let out a deep sigh and shook my head. Dwelling on the past wouldn't change a thing.Once I finished getting ready, I exited the bathroom to find Marco on the phone. His eyes scanned me from head to toe, and I shot him a glare for scrutinizing me in such a way. Did he believe he could seduce me? He might have come close, but not close enough!I approached the bed, dra
That day, I made a deliberate effort to keep my distance from Marco. If he was at the beach, I found reasons to leave. If he was indoors, I ventured out. As the sun gradually descended, its golden rays dancing on the horizon, I silently decided to indulge in a peaceful swim at the enchanting seaside. The water beckoned me with its pristine clarity, and the powdery sands invited my bare feet, offering solace in their gentle caress.As I prepared for my impromptu swim, doubts arose about whether I had brought a swimsuit. After all, packing had not been my responsibility. It hadn't even factored into my plans!But fate would have it that I stumbled upon a vibrant red two-piece swimsuit, tucked away amongst the clothing. Hastily, I slipped into the exquisite creation within the confines of the bathroom. It was apparent that the person responsible for selecting my wardrobe possessed impeccable taste. The swimsuit embraced my figure flawlessly, enhancing my confidence.To shield myself from
In the presence of Marco's mother, I couldn't dismiss her behavior as mere falsehood. Her actions exuded genuineness and a sincere concern for my well-being. However, Marco's father remained an enigma—just like father, like son.Suddenly, a sense of shame washed over me. They were aware of my identity and the pain my mother had inflicted upon their family, yet here I stood, oblivious to it all, as if seamlessly assimilated into their lives.The familiar anguish in my chest resurfaced, weighing heavily on my heart once again."Maddie, there are no words to resurrect your mother or erase the loss she represents. I cannot undo the pain caused, and my apologies can't alter the harsh reality. However, I want you to understand this—I deeply regret any hurt I may have caused you, but I won't apologize for her death."Marco's hand gently brushed against my arm, evoking a soft gasp from my lips. Though his touch was subtle, my body reacted, generating a warmth that enveloped me."Ahh..."I cou
Marco continued thrusting his cock inside me while facing the opposite direction. Both of us moaned passionately, and I climaxed again, and it was a powerful one. That was the "passion propeller" or "helicopter" position. I had researched such positions out of curiosity, never expecting that Marco and I would try it now."You thought I wouldn't know, Maddie?" he asked, touching himself and waiting for me to adjust.I got on my hands and knees, just as Marco wanted. What were we going to do? Doggy style?Marco touched my front while I faced him, and he even grazed my butthole, making me flinch. My head was resting on my hands while I was on all fours, waiting for Marco's next move."That you were searching for different s*x positions?" He inserted a finger into my butthole, and I was so surprised that I immediately screamed his name."M-Marco!" I shouted, unable to believe what he was doing."What a tight butthole. I think we'll need lube and a condom for that," Marco remarked, leaving
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