✍︎ 𝐑𝐀𝐕𝐈𝐒𝐇 𝐌𝐄 𝐑𝐄𝐃 [dark mafia romance] | 𝟏𝟖+

| 45 | 𝐇𝐄𝐋𝐋'𝐒 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐄 𝐈𝐈

The conversations around the table, loaded with food lovingly prepared by hand, did not cease. Although everyone is chatting pleasantly, Sophia would occasionally glance at Fabio. It seemed she was scrutinizing the man, assessing whether he was truly trustworthy and whether he was capable of protecting me from the devil himself and from Leonardo...

Or perhaps she was simply astounded by my presence here because of his schemes.

As I peel the shrimp tails, I keep thinking. Leonardo often went away for half a day or even a whole day sometimes; his schedule was completely filled with business matters, but this time, he had only gone to the headquarters and shouldn't be long, so why can't I shake off this rising feeling of anxiety in my heart?

As my family chats, I'm already planning where I'd like to go. Leonardo had told me to choose a direction, so what more could I want? I feel so dazed and lost in a thought that it is just barely tangible to comprehend what this vacation could mean.

But it doesn't matter, because at least for a short while, we'll be together. Just the two of us. Me and Leonardo. 

I don't even count the members of the Red Lions gang – over these months, I have come to understand their nature and the need for them to come along. If they don't come along and watch Leonardo's back at all times, the man couldn't even step outside his villa's porch.

Dreams of romantic days ahead are flowing stronger in my mind, but the pleasure of even thinking about it is suddenly interrupted by my mother's voice. She addresses me, and a pleasant family dinner instantly turns into an interrogation.

There's no other way with my mother – she feels the need to know everything.

"So, Gabriela, tell us how you're feeling. How is the D'Angelo villa? Are they feeding you well? Are they being good to you? How do you spend your free time?"

I sigh and rest my chin in my palms.

"Is someone keeping you company during the days? As I understand," she glanced at Fabio, "Your son works a lot, so someone should keep her intact. You know, safe at all times."

Leonardo's father nods while sipping cognac from his glass.

"Mom, I'm fine. Leonardo has a housekeeper and many caretakers who circle the villa all day. Diana not only cooks and takes care of the house but also keeps me company during those hours when Leonardo isn't near me."

I adjust in my chair.

"I spend my days in the villa's gardens or my room. I've seen many books in their home, so I sometimes marvel through the library. Sometimes, when the D'Angelo family has business, I go along and participate in their meetings and parties. If I'm not allowed to participate, I spend time with Martin, although I prefer the company of Patrick and Brody – they are acting nice towards me. Also, Mr. D'Angelo and his family are very kind to me, especially Fabio," I glance at him but quickly look away, "He tries very hard to make sure I am satisfied and not sad about the situation where we currently find ourselves."