All Chapters of Betrayal and Devotion: Chapter 11 - Chapter 20

As I look at my phone, my stomach turns over and I start to feel sick. Even though the screen is dark, Marco's missed calls and messages are weighing him down. He won't be waiting for long.Time is running out for me.I was about to open my lips to say anything at all when a nurse walks up. Her expression is solemn, and I can tell it's bad news before she even says a word."Ms. Moretti?"With a dry throat, I nod. As the nurse inhales deeply, Aunt Emilia takes a step back and removes her hand from my arm.With a gentle yet solemn tone, she states, "Your father's condition is getting worse." "We're making every effort, but..."She stops short of completing the phrase. She is not required to. She's trying to say something I already understand.The floor seems to be falling out from under me. I have to lean against the wall to prevent me from collapsing since my legs are weak. Everything seems to be happening too quickly and abruptly. I feel as though there is nothing I can do to stop my

I attempt to remain tough while swallowing the lump in my throat, but it's difficult. I know that there is only so much I can do to counteract Marco's unquestionable power over me. But I can't allow him to have total power over me. Not right now. Not with my dad's life ebbing away.A Last-Ditch Request"Please," I say in a scarcely audible whisper. I don't like how frail and little I seem, yet I can't help myself. "Give me more time, please."Something softens in Marco's face for a brief period. I can see the struggle in his eyes as his hold on my wrist becomes even less firm. Although I am aware of his anger, I also know that he has some understanding. He has a component that understands what it's like to lose a significant other.But as fast as it came, that tenderness is gone, and the hard, icy face I've come to fear takes its place.His voice is harsh and impersonal as he replies, "You have until morning." "You return home after that. Otherwise, there will be repercussions.I shu

My phone buzzes and vibrates against the bed as I'm ready to make the decision to stay or leave, to confront Marco or to hold on to my father for a few more seconds. I'm startled by the loud noise in the still room.When I see the name flashing on the screen, I take it up with trembling hands while my heart is racing.I hesitate for an instant. I'd rather not respond. Whatever he has to say, I don't want to hear it. But I am aware that I am powerless. Ignoring him will simply exacerbate the situation.I inhale deeply before pressing the phone to my ear and swiping the screen."Francesca," Marco speaks calmly. Too quiet. Even over the phone, I can feel the icy edge of his remarks, and it makes me shudder."Time's up," he says in a calm yet lethal voice. "You'll regret not being here in ten minutes."Before I can reply, the line cuts off, leaving me to stare at the phone with trembling palms and a pounding heart.Ten minutes.I only have that much time. I have ten minutes to choose betw

As I enter the house, it feels colder than usual, and Marco's comments continue to reverberate in my head like an unstoppable storm. His piercing, demanding voice keeps repeating, making it difficult to concentrate on anything else. Every opulent detail and room in this mansion serves as a reminder that I'm stuck in a world I never intended to be in.I take in the opulent furnishings, the pricey artwork on the walls, and the subdued, sophisticated lighting that creates lengthy shadows in every nook and cranny. Yes, it is lovely, but it also has a menacing quality. Here, the beauty is emotionless and frigid, as if it were all for show. This isn't a house. It's a cage. Additionally, I'm a bird that flew too near the bars.As I move down the corridor, it feels like the walls are closing in on me. They seem to be getting closer every day. As I pass a marble table, I brush my fingertips over its smooth surface, but I have to pull back because of the stone's coolness. It makes me think of M

I hear sounds coming from within just as I'm ready to knock. My hand lingers in the air as I freeze. Marco is not alone. He is in there with Luca, and they speak in a quiet but powerful voice. I can't help but listen even though I shouldn't. I put my ear to the door and strive to hear what they have to say since I'm curious.A Risky GameLuca says, "I don't like this," in a quiet voice with a hint of edge. "Marco, she's turning into a liability."His words make my blood run cold. They are discussing me."If she continues to disobey you..." Although Luca falters, the meaning is obvious. Something negative will occur if I continue to push back and attempt to play both sides.The silence seems oppressive during the lengthy wait. As I wait for Marco's response, my heart sinks. However, he doesn't. It seems as though the air is being drawn out of the room as the silence continues. What's on his mind? What plans does he have?When Marco finally replies, his tone is cool and collected, but t