THE DEVIL'S ANGEL

chapter 2

### Chapter 2: The Genesis of the Arrangement

Two weeks prior to Isabella Moretti's fateful encounter with Don Alessandro Falconi, the opulent surroundings of the Montaigne district had been a whirlwind of activity and hushed conversations. The Falconi estate was no less busy, but behind its imposing walls, the buzz was centered not on crime or power plays, but on a matter that was considered, if anything, even more consequential: the strategic marriage arrangement that would intertwine the fates of two powerful families.

It had begun with a formal meeting between Don Alessandro Falconi and the patriarch of the Moretti family, Vincenzo Moretti. The meeting was held in the stately Falconi study, a room that had seen many negotiations and decisions that shaped the underworld of Torino. This time, however, the stakes were higher, and the matter was as personal as it was political.

Vincenzo Moretti arrived punctually, his demeanor a blend of nerves and resolute determination. The Moretti family had been a respected name in Torino for generations, known for their old-world charm and considerable influence. Yet, in recent times, their power had waned slightly, and Vincenzo saw this marriage as an opportunity to rejuvenate their standing and secure their legacy. The Moretti family crest, a symbol of their enduring prestige, gleamed in the polished wood of Vincenzo's cane as he walked.

Don Alessandro, always the embodiment of control, welcomed Vincenzo with a nod of acknowledgment, his expression a carefully crafted mask of formality. The two men shook hands—a gesture of mutual respect that belied the deeper currents of their discussion.

"Don Alessandro," Vincenzo began, his voice steady but with an undertone of anxiety. "Thank you for agreeing to meet with me. I trust you've reviewed the proposal."

Don Alessandro gestured towards the plush chairs by the fireplace, inviting Vincenzo to take a seat. He himself remained standing, his posture rigid and commanding as he addressed his guest. "I have indeed reviewed it, Vincenzo. The proposal is comprehensive. However, there are a few details that need to be clarified before we proceed."

Vincenzo sat down, his eyes meeting Don Alessandro's with a mix of hope and apprehension. "Of course. I am prepared to discuss any concerns you may have."

Don Alessandro took a deep breath, as if considering the weight of his words carefully. "The primary concern, as you know, is the alignment of our interests. The marriage between my family and yours represents more than a mere union of individuals—it is a strategic alliance. We must ensure that the terms of this arrangement are clear and mutually beneficial."

Vincenzo nodded, the lines on his face deepening as he considered the implications. "I understand. The Moretti family is prepared to offer its full support to the Falconi interests. We are willing to assist in various ventures and ensure that our resources are at your disposal."

Don Alessandro's eyes narrowed slightly. "And what of your daughter, Isabella? How does she feel about this arrangement?"

The question caught Vincenzo off guard. He had been so focused on the practicalities and benefits that he had barely considered his daughter's feelings. "Isabella... she is a dutiful daughter," Vincenzo replied slowly, his tone betraying a hint of discomfort. "She understands her role in this arrangement, though she has always been more reserved and shy. I believe she will adapt."

Don Alessandro's expression remained inscrutable. "Her adaptation is crucial, Vincenzo. The alliance must be seamless, and any discord could jeopardize our plans. We need assurance that this union will be accepted willingly and with the necessary commitment from both parties."

Vincenzo's face hardened as he considered the weight of Don Alessandro's words. "I will speak with Isabella and ensure that she is prepared for this. I trust she will come to understand the importance of this marriage."

"Very well," Don Alessandro said, a note of finality in his voice. "Once you have spoken with her, we can finalize the details. I propose that we arrange a formal engagement ceremony to seal our agreement. This will serve as both a public declaration and a reaffirmation of our commitment."

Vincenzo agreed, his mind already turning towards the logistics of the upcoming ceremony. The engagement would be a grand affair, designed to demonstrate the strength and unity of the two families. It would be held at the Falconi estate, where the grandeur of the setting would reflect the significance of the alliance.

As the two men concluded their discussion, Vincenzo felt a mixture of relief and apprehension. The arrangement was moving forward, and the wheels of destiny were set in motion. He knew that he would have to confront Isabella soon and prepare her for the reality of her new life. The thought of breaking the news to his daughter was a bitter one, but he steeled himself for the task.

The next day, Vincenzo had summoned Isabella to the Moretti family study, a room that was filled with the familiar warmth of their home. Isabella entered with a gentle knock, her demeanor as reserved as ever. She took her place opposite her father, her eyes filled with a silent question.

"Isabella," Vincenzo began, his voice tinged with a mixture of paternal concern and firmness. "We need to discuss an important matter."

Isabella's heart quickened. She had noticed the change in her father's demeanor and knew that whatever was coming would not be a mere formality. "Yes, Father?"

Vincenzo took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts. "The Falconi family and ours have reached an agreement on a strategic alliance. To cement this, you will be marrying Don Alessandro Falconi."

The words hung in the air like a heavy fog. Isabella's face blanched, and she struggled to grasp the reality of what her father had just said. "Marrying Don Alessandro Falconi?" she echoed, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Yes," Vincenzo replied, his tone resolute. "The arrangement is of great importance to both families. Don Alessandro is a powerful man, and this union will strengthen our position and secure our future."

Isabella's hands trembled slightly as she tried to process the implications. The name Falconi was synonymous with fear and control, and the thought of becoming part of that world was overwhelming. "But... what about my own wishes, Father?"

Vincenzo's expression softened slightly, though his resolve remained firm. "I understand this is difficult for you, Isabella. But this marriage is necessary for the well-being of our family. You must trust that this is for the greater good."

Isabella felt a deep sense of resignation wash over her. She had always been a quiet, compliant daughter, but the gravity of this situation made her feel trapped in a role she had never envisioned for herself. Yet, she also knew that defying her father was not an option.

The days that followed were a blur of preparations and formalities. The engagement ceremony was planned with meticulous care, and the Falconi estate was transformed into a showcase of opulence and grandeur. As Isabella prepared for the event, she could scarcely escape the sense of foreboding that accompanied her every step.

The arrangement was set in stone, and the lives of both families were irrevocably intertwined. As Isabella faced the future that awaited her, she could only hope that somehow, amidst the darkness of this new world, she might find a sliver of light.