Capture My Fiancé (A Dark Mafia Arranged Marriage Romance)

04

EMILIA

I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself as I smoothed down my dress. The reflection in the mirror showed a woman far from calm—cheeks flushed, neck still slightly red from Valentino's touch, and eyes wide with emotions I didn't want to face. His scent lingered around me, a rich mix of cedarwood and fresh citrus, and the warmth of his presence felt like a lingering heat on my skin.

I shook my head, trying to clear the confusing swirl of feelings. This night wasn't about my discomfort or the strange thrill his touch had sparked. It was about playing the role I was expected to fulfill, and I needed to do it perfectly.

With one last look in the mirror, I forced a smile—an attempt to mask the chaos inside. The door felt heavier as I pushed it open, stepping into the hallway with a resolve to face whatever came next.

The sound of voices and clinking glasses grew louder as I neared the ballroom. My heart pounded, not from nerves but from the anger and frustration still brewing inside me. I wanted to confront Valentino, to demand answers for his behavior, but I knew this wasn't the right time.

As I walked back into the ballroom, the lights seemed brighter, and the room felt even more suffocating. I spotted my parents in the center, talking with a group of elegantly dressed guests.

Valentino was there too, standing tall and relaxed. One hand was casually tucked into his pocket, while the other held a glass filled with what looked like vodka.

I took another deep breath, trying to calm myself as I walked toward my parents. My smile was forced, but I hoped it was enough to hide the turmoil swirling inside me. The lights seemed harsher now, and the chatter of the crowd felt louder and more overwhelming.

What the fuck has he done to me?

"Emilia, hija, there you are," Mamá said warmly, gently squeezing my hand. "We were just talking about the announcement. Everything is ready."

I nodded, trying to ignore the flutter in my stomach as Valentino's eyes stayed on me. Before I could say anything, he cleared his throat, drawing everyone's attention.

"I apologize, but something urgent has come up," he said smoothly, his voice firm yet polite. "I need to handle it right away."

A flicker of surprise crossed my Papà's face. "Is everything alright, Valentino? This announcement is very important."

Valentino offered a reassuring smile. "Everything is fine, Mr. Alvarez. Just a small issue that needs my attention. I'm sure the engagement announcement will go smoothly as planned. I wouldn't want to keep everyone waiting because of me."

Mamá looked a bit concerned but nodded in understanding. "Of course, we understand."

Valentino's gaze lingered on me longer than it should have. He leaned in close, his face brushing against the side of mine. For a moment, I thought he might kiss me right there in front of our parents. But instead, he whispered in my ear, "I look forward to celebrating with you soon."

I swallowed hard, managing a small nod.

With that, Valentino exchanged a few more polite words with our parents before turning to leave. I watched as he moved through the crowd, effortlessly drawing attention. The guests naturally parted for him, and soon, his figure disappeared from view.

As conversations resumed around me, I found it difficult to focus. Valentino leaving in the middle of our engagement party? It didn't make sense. Part of me was irritated by his sudden exit, but another part saw it as an opportunity.

An idea sparked in my mind, causing my heart to race. This could be my chance. Maybe I could follow him and see where he goes at night.

I had been planning for a few days, researching and figuring out how to take back control of my life. Kidnapping Valentino had seemed like a wild, desperate plan—one that felt nearly impossible. But now, with him leaving alone and unexpectedly, the odds were suddenly in my favor.