Forbidden Affection

𝕮𝖍𝖆𝖕𝖙𝖊𝖗 22 : 𝑩𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝑫𝒖𝒕𝒚

In the hushed corridors of the private hospital, Sofia lay motionless in her sterile hospital bed. Tubes and monitors surrounded her, each beeping sound a testament to the fragility of life. Marco, steadfast in his commitment, sat beside her, his gaze unwavering, as if willing her to wake.

Days passed like a surreal dream for Marco. The room became a cocoon of thoughts, and in the quiet moments when Sofia remained unresponsive, he found his mind drifting into uncharted territory – a realm where his loyalty to the Don collided with the growing emotions he harbored for Sofia.

As he monitored her vital signs, Marco replayed the harrowing moments in the abandoned apartment, the desperate race against time to rescue her. The fear of losing Sofia, the woman who had become an unexpected anchor in his life, stirred emotions he had buried deep within.

In the silence of the hospital room, Marco grappled with the realization that Sofia held a special place in his heart, a place that transcended the boundaries of duty. He couldn't ignore the deep concern and affection he felt for her.

One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting hues of orange and pink across the sky, Marco decided it was time to face his own emotions. He needed to express the feelings that had been gnawing at him for days.

Marco gathered his courage and sought out the Don in his office. The air in the room felt heavy with the unspoken tension as Marco broached a topic that could alter the dynamics of their relationship.

"Sir, there's something I need to discuss with you." Marco started

The Don looking up from his desk said "Go ahead, Marco. You've always been straightforward with me."

Marco took a deep breath, the weight of his words palpable in the room.

"Sofia means everything to me. During those days when she was unconscious, I realized how much I care for her. I can't keep these feelings to myself any longer, Sir."

The Don listened, his expression a mix of acknowledgment and concern.

"Marco, I understand your feelings towards Sofia. You've been a loyal member of this family, and I appreciate that. However, you know as well as I do the risks involved. Sofia is part of this life, but I don't want her marrying someone within it." The Don firmly said

"Sir, I've been with you for years, and I respect you like a father. I assure you, I'll do everything to protect her. My feelings won't compromise my duty." Marco said with conviction.

The Don sighed, realizing the complexities of the situation.

"It's not about your dedication, Marco. I lost Sofia's mother to this life, and if I could give Sofia a chance at a normal life, I would. But it's too late for that now."

"Don, I can't just push my feelings aside. Sofia deserves to know." Marco replied practically begging.

The Don leaned back in his chair, contemplating the difficult situation.

"Marco, I need you to handle the Mafia's affairs in our other office. I want you as far away from Sofia as possible. These feelings, they need to be severed. For her safety."

Marco's heart sank, realizing the depth of the sacrifice demanded.

"As you wish, Don." Marco replied resigned

The Don's decision echoed in the office, leaving Marco torn between his loyalty to the family and the burning feelings he had for Sofia. As the sun set, casting long shadows across the city, Marco walked away, his heart heavy with the weight of an unspoken truth.