The Mafia's Jewel (BWWM)

33

As expected, I'm going to be having dinner alone because of the little fight between Leone and his father. I sit at the grand dining table, looking at the long expanse stretching out before me, adorned with fine china and crystal glasses. The silence in the room is almost oppressive, the only sounds being the distant clinking of utensils and the occasional rustle of servants moving discreetly around the room.

One of the servants approaches, carrying a tray laden with dishes. "Buona sera, Signorina Brown," he says with a polite smile as he sets down a plate in front of me.

"Grazie," I reply, glancing at the array of food. It's a feast of Italian delicacies that I've never seen served at the local restaurants back home. There's a vibrant caprese salad, fragrant risotto, and a beautifully cooked osso buco, all prepared with a level of care and sophistication that makes my mouth water.

Despite the delicious food, eating alone in such a grand dining hall feels awkward. The silence is heavy, but I rather take this than sitting in a tense silence with Leone and his father. I take a bite of the risotto, savoring its rich, creamy texture.

"Oh, well if this isn't a sight to see." A voice breaks the silence.

I look up to see a young man with deep tan skin, dark eyes, and wavy hair. He's wearing a white long-sleeve shirt that's unbuttoned at the top, and a tie that's casually draped around his neck. He saunters over to me, a playful smirk on his lips, and leans on the table.

"You are new," he says, his eyes glinting with curiosity.

"Jules Brown," I introduce myself, feeling slightly wary.

"I know. You are the woman my cousin brought over," he continues, his gaze sweeping over me appraisingly. "Well, if Leone is done with you, you know where to find me." He winks, his tone dripping with suggestiveness.

Before I can respond, another voice interjects. "Ivano, leave her alone. Geez, you reek of desperation."

I turn to see a young woman entering the room. She's striking, with long wavy dark hair and sharp features. Her eyes flash with irritation as she glares at the man, who I now know is named Ivano.

"Lorah, shut the fuck up. You're ruining my moment here," Ivano retorts, his smirk fading slightly.

Lorah rolls her eyes and steps closer, giving me a sympathetic look. "Don't mind my brother. He thinks he's God's gift to women."

Ivano straightens up, casting a sideways glance at Lorah. "And you think you're the family's moral compass."

"Well, someone has to be," Lorah shoots back, crossing her arms.

"Oh yeah if you are such a goodie two shoes then why did I catch you dragging the pool boy through your window the other night."

"Shut up." she kisses her teeth looking at me. "Sorry about my brother, he's originally from the jungle and doesn't know how to behave himself."

"Ha ha says the one who's got more of a beard than uncle Marco."

Lorah glares at Ivano and wants to hit him but she refrains herself.

I can't help but chuckle at their sibling banter, feeling some of the tension ease from my shoulders. "It's nice to meet you both," I say, trying to smooth over the awkwardness.

Ivano grins, clearly enjoying the exchange. "So, Jules, how are you finding our lovely home?"

"It's beautiful," I reply honestly. "A bit overwhelming, but beautiful."

Lorah nods, her expression softening. "It can be a lot to take in. But you'll get used to it. Just steer clear of my father and you should be fine."

I nod, appreciating the advice. "I'll keep that in mind."