Mafia's Only Daughter ✔

Chapter 15. The Elevator to Fate

ANDREANO'S POV:

The moment I told Isabella that we were going to my office, I noticed a flicker of fear and discomfort in her eyes. However, as we talked along the way, she relaxed and even smiled. I shared pictures of my office cabin, and her eyes lit up with joy. She mentioned her love for black and grey when she saw the color scheme in the photos.

After finalizing my decision to bring Bella with me, I informed everyone. Predictably, my brothers reacted childishly some sulked, others made grumpy faces and stomped their feet but I ignored them royally.

Now, we are on our way to the head office of Romano's Empire. Bella looks outside the car window, clearly intrigued by her surroundings. I can tell she loves exploring, yet at times, her gaze betrays a haunting emptiness. I silently vow to uncover the reason behind that emptiness and fill her life with love, care, and perhaps a little indulgence while still maintaining my reputation as the strict one.

We soon arrive at the Romano's Empire building. I step out first, scanning our surroundings for any signs of danger, and then open Bella's door. The guards immediately form a protective circle around us, especially around her—my precious Bella.

Inside the building, the receptionist greets me with a polite "Good morning." to which I only nod.

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ISABELLA'S POV:

The towering building in front of me almost touches the sky. Andre steps out of the car first, and after a few moments, he opens my door. Holding his hand, I step out as the guards encircle us.

As we enter, a receptionist greets Andre with a "Good morning." But he only nods in response. I offer her a small smile, but she averts her gaze. Shrugging it off, I follow Andre.

We walk past five elevators lined up together, but he takes me to one that is set apart. It piques my curiosity. Once inside, Andre presses the button for the 87th floor. Within minutes, the elevator dings, and I think it's stopping on a random floor. But no, it's our destination.

A man in his late forties approaches us and escorts us to a cabin. He knocks, and after hearing a firm "Come in. He opens the door.

Inside, I see Papa seated at his desk. I immediately let go of Andre's hand and rush into Papa's arms. He holds me tightly before sitting me on his lap. After a brief chat between Papa and Andre, we leave the cabin and re-enter the private elevator.

This time, Andre presses the button for the 98th floor. The elevator stops quickly, and we are greeted by a woman in her mid-twenties, who wishes Andre good morning. He simply nods again.

We walk into a beautifully designed cabin.

Andre: "Bella, baby do you like my cabin?"
Isabella: "No, Andre... I love it!" I replied with a smile on my face.
Andre: "Thank you, my baby."
Isabella: "Andre, thank you for bringing me here."

We settle into the cabin Andre at his desk and me on the sofa. Ande's assistant informs him about his schedule then left. Time flies as we immerse ourselves in work. Eventually, it's time for Andre's meeting.

Andre: "Bella, my bear."
Isabella: "Yes, Andre?"

He walks over and sits beside me on a single-seater sofa.

Andre: "Baby, I have a meeting. Will you sit here alone, or would you like to visit El?"
Isabella: "Got it. Good luck with your meeting!"
Andre: "Thank you Bella."

Isabella: "I'll go and meet El."
Andre: "Okay, baby."
Isabella: "How long will the meeting take?"
Andre: "About an hour."
Isabella: "Alright, Andre."
Andre: "Come, I'll drop you off at El's cabin."
Isabella: "No need, Andre. I'll go by myself. Don't worry."
Andre: "But you don't even know the floor number. How will you manage?"
Isabella: "That's what I was about to ask just tell me the floor number, and I'll handle the rest."
Andre: "Alright, but be careful."
Isabella: "Of course. Now, what's the floor number?"
Andre: "It's the 75th floor my baby girl."

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THIRD-PERSON POV:

Isabella steps out of Andreano's cabin, carrying her handbag and a novel for a much-needed break. She uses the private elevator to reach the 75th floor.

Exiting the elevator, she approaches the receptionist.

Isabella: "Hello, good afternoon." She said politely.
Receptionist: "Good afternoon. How may I help you?" Ask in a professional tone.
Isabella: "Could you please guide me to Elio Romano's cabin?" She requested in a polite manner.
Receptionist: "Do you have an appointment?" Ask one of the two receptionists arrogantly.
Isabella: "No, I don't." She replied unsure.
Receptionist: "I'm sorry, but sir doesn't meet anyone without an appointment." She spat harshly.
Isabella: "Could you at least call him and let him know I'm here?" She tried once again.
Receptionist: "Apologies, miss, but that's against protocol." Other one replied.

Disheartened, Isabella thanks her and tries calling Elio, Andreano, and Leonardo. None of them answer. Frustrated, she decides to return to Andreano's cabin. Just as she is about to open the door, a hand stops her.

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1. What did you feel when Isabella rushed into Leonardo's arms?

2. How did you react to the receptionist's cold behavior toward Isabella?

3. Do you think Andreano is becoming Isabella's emotional anchor?

4. Who do you think stopped Isabella from opening the cabin door?

5. Why do you think Isabella hesitated to ask for help from the receptionist? 

6. How does Andreano's quiet observation of her "haunting emptiness" deepen his role in her healing?

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