Deadly Desire - Luciano's Story (Patreon)

A Note From the Author

If you have made it here, let me be the first to say thank you for your continued support! This is the original manuscript for Deadly Desire, which is the sequel to Deadly Vows as well as Luciano's story. 

It's highly suggested that you read Deadly Vows before delving into this series. (Available on Amazon, Itunes, B&N, & Google Play) I wrote this book when I was twenty years old and have moved on from the Deadly Vows Series as a writer at this point in my life, but I still felt that people should be able to enjoy my past works. I hope you all enjoy this story. 

Luciano Pasquino. The heir to the throne. The New Capo dei Capi. The Don. What was once his father's title has now been passed on to him, and with it the responsibilities of being Capo. The long-awaited sequel to Deadly Vows. Follow Luciano as he becomes accustomed to the new life he was born into. A life filled with blood, death, and desire.

Prologue

My life has been mapped out for me from the day I was born. I was never meant to live normally, I was never meant to be a normal law abiding citizen. Hell, I was breaking the law at the young age of 7. Capital Murder I believe they call it, but my father didn't care. To him, it was a good thing.

"What does this say." I look up at my father, holding my gun in his hand. My name is engraved across the handle in silver.  I received it on my birthday when I was young, not knowing at the time the death it would leave in its wake.

"Luciano," I say. He moves the gun behind his back, and paces slowly in front of me. I follow his movements.

"And who is Luciano?" 

"I am." His gray eyes meet mine.

"And who are you, son?" he asks.

"Luciano Pasquino, firstborn son and heir to Luca and Elise Pasquino."

"And who will you be?"

"I will be the next Capo in line to take over the North of the Mafia, the strongest and most powerful crime family in the United States."

"And if anyone says otherwise?"

I pull out my newest gun. My name is inscribed on this one as well. There are 4 men standing in front of me, all enemies of the north. They are tied and gagged, on their knees with blindfolds. I raise my gun, emptying my mind as I fire off 4 shots. Hitting every man right between the eyes.

I look to my father for approval, a smile appearing on his face before turning to me. 

"I think you're ready, Luciano."

Chapter 1

Beep. Beep. Beep.

I slowly peel my eyes open waiting for them to adjust to the dim lighting of my room. I slowly reach over, grabbing my phone off the top of my dresser, and pressing the snooze button.

The body next to me slowly shuffles and rolls over, and I turn to see some woman in my bed. Her eyes are closed, and her blonde hair is sprawled across her naked body. To be honest, I can't even remember her name. And it wasn't because I was drunk. I don't believe in getting drunk. I like being alert at all times and in control of my body.

It's because I was horny last night and she was more than willing to give it up for some mediocre conversation. I take a deep breath slowly getting out of bed. There's no use in waking her. I make my way to the bathroom and begin my morning routine.

An hour later, I'm stepping out of my closet, as I pull a gray shirt over my head. My gaze wanders to the woman in my bed and she's still asleep. 

Damn.

I look at my watch.

11:31 AM

I need to leave. My family will be expecting me. I make my way over to the dresser, placing my gun in the holster around my ankle. You can never be too safe. Especially in this line of living.

"Luciano?" I look up and the woman is awake. She's staring at me with bright green eyes and a sexy smile across her face. I smile back.

"You're up so early," she pouts

"Come back to bed," she says patting the area next to her. And as tempting as that sounds, I can't. My family is expecting me. Especially my mother. And I hate disappointing her.

"I can't baby. I've got a meeting to get to." I give her the best charm I can, and lucky for me she buys it. I make my way over to her, placing a hundred-dollar bill on the bed. I can already see her face burning, but I speak up before she can shout at me.

"It's not for the sex." I smile in amusement. All the anger immediately dissipates from her face.

"It's for breakfast. On me. I've got to get going, but you make sure you lock up before you leave." I lean in giving this stranger a quick peck on the cheek before walking towards the door and grabbing a jacket. Before I reach the door, I turn to her tossing her a wink.

"Oh. And call me sometime." I say before turning and heading out the door. The last thing I want is for any woman to feel hurt and vulnerable because of me. I quickly make my way to the elevator, heading down to the garage floor, hopping in my car. My phone is already lighting up with notifications.

I speed out of the parking garage, maneuvering as quickly as I can throughout traffic. After all, I hate disappointing my mother. And I know that she wants to be the first to see me today. 

It is my birthday after all.

~

I pull up to the valet, tossing him my keys not even sparing him a glance. I speed walk up to the podium that the hostess is standing at. She doesn't look up upon my approach and after a minute I have to clear my throat to get her attention.

"Um, excuse me." She holds her hand up, silencing me midsentence as she continues to write on the paper in front of her. She's either new here, or just plain rude. But me being the gentleman I am, I wait.

"Unless you have a reservation, I ca-" She's looking up as she speaks, her eyes widening once they land on my face. I don't know if it's from the shock of who I am or just shock of how I look but I don't want to stick around to find out.

"I just needed to know which table my mother is at. But don't worry about it," I growl stepping past her to find out for myself. I spot my mother towards the back of the restraunt, staring down at her menu. I take a moment to admire her.

She's beautiful. She's been through so much with my father and somehow managed to find the silver lining of her situation. She's my rock, my hero, and the most important woman in my life. I can't imagine my life without her.

"Mammina!" I call out to her upon my approach and she looks up at the sound of my voice, a huge smile crossing her face. She gets out of her seat just to come and greet me. She wraps her arms around me, giving me a good squeeze.

"Ah! Happy Birthday my baby boy," she says. After the embrace she grabs my face between her hands, squeezing my cheeks.

"How does it feel to be Twenty-nine?" she asks. Her eyes are filled with glee as she takes me in. I give her a soft laugh, peeling her hands away from my face.

"Feels like just a number mamma," I say. She gives me a quirky smile and leads me over to the table.

This place is my mother's favorite restraunt. We discovered it on accident years ago when she decided she wanted to go somewhere she'd never been. We ended up in this little restaurant on the square and the rest is history. It's our spot. One of the many we had accumulated together over the years.

"So, tell me about your trip," she smiles at me, her brown eyes lighting up in excitement. She thinks I went on a mini vacation to Europe, but I actually went to take care of business for my father. I don't like revealing that side of my life to her, because even though she says she's fine, I know that she is hurting at the fact that I'm not her innocent little boy anymore.

I still remember the night I was made a man. She didn't think I saw her, but she sat in the living room crying for hours. It broke her heart.

"It was nice. The beaches were beautiful, and the waters were so warm. I even went on a hike," I add. Her smile lights up as I explain to her. Technically it wasn't a lie. I did go on a hike. Even if it was to bury a body.

We spend the rest of the afternoon, speaking and catching up with each other. One thing I will never grow tired of is my mother's company. We're in the middle of a conversation when her phone rings. She pulls it out of her purse, answering.

"Hello?" She pauses for a moment and is silent. I know it's my father on the phone. He's kept her isolated from the outside world from the day they were married. She begins smiling.

"Ok," she hangs up looking at me.

"What?" I say after a long stare-off.

"That was your father, he's throwing you a party," she says. I feel dread in the pit of my stomach. 

No no no. 

I hate his parties. I hate his events. I hate being around all those people.

And I especially hate it when they invite that blonde bitch Victoria. I've never hated a woman before, but I hate her. She's nothing but a spoiled bitch that's used to getting her way. She has shown me that on several occasions. The first time was when we met all those years ago.

"My daddy said that one day, I'm going to be worth more than your mom."

I can still feel the rage that blindly ignites me at her words. Fucking bitch. That wasn't the only time she'd put her foot in her mouth either. Over the years, she's tried to put authority over me and I hate it. She thinks that just because we are engaged she is untouchable and in charge of the fucking world.

We were supposed to marry when she turned eighteen. But since the expansion of our family, we've been too busy. I've never been in town long enough and neither has the family. But we now have an official date set, and I'm supposed to marry her by next year. I don't want to. Not in the slightest. I don't know how they even expect me to consummate the damn marriage and bring heirs into the family. Being near her makes me cringe. I don't like her. But it's my duty. To protect the family and all that bullshit.

~

I pull up to my parent's home two hours late. I don't care though. My father knows I'm already tired from the last assignment he'd given me. And now he expects me to show my face and act excited and happy to see all these people. I pull up to the front of the house, lights, and music pouring out. I put on the best smile I can, and make my way out of the car.

~

"No thank you," I decline yet another waiters offer to hand me an alcoholic beverage. Even though that would be just what I need right now, I need to stay alert. I lean against the nearest wall, trying to calm my nerves. Just a few more hours then I can leave.

"Happy Birthday old man!" A genuine smile crosses my face as a familiar voice invades my ears. I turn to see my sister walking towards me. She's a beautiful young woman with dark hair that falls to her waist. Hair she obviously inherited from our mother.

Caterina Pasquino. We're only six years apart, and the world fears her just as much as they fear me. She inherited my father's cold eyes and his lust for blood. Her outer appearance is a complete disguise of what lies beneath. Women in this world aren't usually used for business. But Caterina proved a long time ago that she isn't like every other woman. She is the epitome of Luca Pasquino. Maybe even a little more heartless.

And I am getting married before her. She isn't even set up for an engagement. No one says anything, but we all know why. She has gone with me on a few jobs, and each time lost her temper and ended up severely injuring someone, or almost killing someone. People fear her.

I pull her in an embrace.

"Hey, I'm not that old," I scowl at her and she offers me a laugh, turning towards the crowd.

"What a turnout huh? All here to celebrate you getting older," I gaze at her and see the twinkle of excitement in her gaze. To her, loyalty is behind this turnout. To me, it's fear. I open my mouth to respond, but another waiter comes over to us offering up drinks. I decline but Caterina leaps at the chance to drink.

Just as she brings the drink to her lips I snatch it from her hands, downing it in one gulp.

"Hey!" she shouts in irritation.

"You're underage," I say, placing the glass on the nearest counter.

"C'mon Luciano, don't be such a killjoy!" she growls in irritation.

"Why don't you go mingle with people?" I ask earning a scoff of irritation from her.

"You know how people are. They don't want to mingle with me," She murmurs. I catch the tone of her voice and turn my gaze to study her. Is she upset that people are afraid of her?

"Well, you can stay by my side tonight," I say giving her a smile. She eyes me.

"Oh, can I?" she says with a smile.

"Are you sure this isn't a ploy to avoid your fiance?" she asks with a challenging gaze. I tense as I realize Valentina is in the room somewhere, and Caterina must have spotted her.

"Oh no.. where is she," I ask. Caterina tries her best to hide a smile, but she can't. And I feel a presence behind me. The presence of a woman I hate.

Soft hands go over my eyes.

"Guess who?"

The sultry voice accompanied by perfume invades my senses. I place my hands over hers, forcing the best smile that I can on my face as I turn to face her.

"Victoria. So glad you could make it," I say. Victoria aged gracefully over the years.
She's grown into a striking young woman. Her hair eventually grew back, and now it holds a platinum blonde color, accompanied by bright blue eyes. She has makeup all over her face, and dark red lipstick on her lips. She's beautiful of course, but that does nothing to soften my heart for her. Nothing ever will.

She smiles at me.

"Of course, I wouldn't miss my fiancee's birthday," she says as she drags her hands along my chest.

"Funny, I didn't get a call from you this morning," I say. It's the truth. I got messages and calls from everyone but her. She's in love with power. Not me. Her father has beat it in her head that this marriage is for power. And she loves that. She is willing to do whatever it takes to make this work for her father's sake.

Victoria laughs it off, looking away around the room.

"Quite the turnout," she says. I grunt in response. I don't want to be here. I just want to go home and sleep putting an end to this horrid day. She jerks on my arm, making me face her, her eyes narrow at me.

"You can at least pretend to be excited about me being here, Luciano. I didn't have to show up," She growls. I bite my tongue. I want to give her a snide comment, but watching her in front of me, the desperation in her eyes, I can't. I let out a sigh.

"You're right. I'm sorry." I muster the best smile I can, pulling her into my arms.

"Thank you, for coming tonight Victoria. It means a lot," I muster a smile and watch as her features light up, and she lays her head against my chest.

"Anytime, my love."

The night drags on, and more and more people show up the later the hours get. As the party grows, more people forget the reason they are even here in the first place, losing themselves in merriment.

Victoria stays glued to my side. And I do mean glued. She won't let go of my arm, and excessively buts in my conversations. Lucky for me, Caterina senses my distress and finally pulls her away from me long enough to speak to other people.

My eyes scan the room, and fall on my mother and father standing together. He's speaking to some people, with his arm around her. They had the strangest relationship. Arranged marriage, and my father was a horrible person to her, yet she stayed, made the best out of the situation, and learned to love him through his faults.

I don't want that. I don't want to learn to love Victoria. I can't even stand her. But I don't have it in me to be the type of man my father was. To make her fear me. Break her and build her back up again until I'm all she knows.

I love my parents more than life itself, but I don't want to aspire to be like my father. I want to be like my mother. Compassionate. Loving. I know that's ridiculous to be in this line of living, and I never let those feelings get in the way of my work, but when it comes to my personal life, I just want to be able to make my choices based on my feelings. Not blindly follow my fathers orders.

After a few moments alone, I go in search for Victoria. It was rude to leave a party without letting her know. I see her in the corner with Caterina, and Cat looks like she wants to claw her eyes out. I have to swallow a laugh. Cat was anything but girly, and Victoria is the epitome of girly. But Cat always looked out for me as I always look out for her. Because that's what siblings do.

I plaster on a smile as I reach them.

"Victoria." I say. She turns away from her conversation, her bright blue orbs falling on me.

"I'm leaving for the night." I say. I can see the disappointment in her gaze as well as the plan that immediately forms in her head. She puts on a sensual smile, leaning into me and wrapping her arms around my neck.

"Why don't you let me come with you." She says, batting her lashes at me. I have to suppress the irritation that bubbles to the surface.

"Victoria, you know we can't." I say. She'd been trying to get me to take her virginity before our wedding night, ever since it was postponed. I don't know if it's some kind of ploy in her head that she believes will bring us closer, but I can't do that. I don't want to.

I can see the blatant irritation that appears on her features, but she covers it up with a smile. That is impatient and filled with anger.

"Well. Aren't I the luckiest woman in the world. Saddled with such a gentleman." She says as she traces the front of my shirt. I place my hands gently around her wrists pulling them away from my body, as I lean into her giving her a kiss on the cheek.

"Goodnight Victoria." I say. I turn to walk away, heading in the direction of my parents. I was beginning to get a headache. This night was long and pointless.

My parents turn to me upon my approach, my mothers face lighting up. I pull her into an embrace.

"Just came to tell you guys goodnight. I'm leaving." I say. My father is standing next to her, and embraces me as well.

"Thank you for the party papa. It's amazing as always." I say. He places a hand on my shoulder, giving me a smile.

"I'm so proud of you, son."

~

"What gives." I look at Cat in confusion as we approach my car.

"What do you mean?" I ask. She narrows her eyes at me, and points in my face as she begins her next sentence.

"C'mon, Luciano. You've hardly been here all night. Your mind is somewhere else." I hold her steely gaze as long as I can, and exhale, not bothering to lie.

"I feel... stuck, Cat. I just do what I'm told and that's the end of it. I can't remember the last time I made a decision for myself!" I say. My feelings finally surfacing all day.

"I live my life on autopilot. And I'm another year older, and yet, nothing has changed. I know exactly how everything is going to go down. I'm just... existing." I say. Caterina's eyes widen as I speak. And a smile of pity crosses her face.

"I can't say I know how you feel, because I don't. And I guess that's just the burden of being the eldest." She reaches out, placing her hand on my shoulder.

"But there is no one in the world, that I feel could be any better for the job, Luciano." I look away, but she moves her hand to my cheek making me face her as she smiles.

"Don't lose faith, Luciano. You're the one."

I can't help it. Her smile is contagious. I smile back, and a small laugh escapes my lips, as I pull her into a hug.

"When'd you get so smart kid." I say. She chuckles.

"I've always been smart, you just never acknowledged it." She laughs. But I only squeeze her harder.

"Thanks Cat," I murmur.

Chapter 2

"We always get saddled with the simple jobs; doesn't the Capo think we're worth more than debt collectors?" I roll my eyes as Amadeo complains once again about collecting debt that is owed to the Mob. People that own businesses on our turf, have to pay for protection.

Amadeo is the only son of my father’s best friend and right-hand man, Romelo. And he is exactly like his father. He lacks emotion, a conscience, and even the soft and gentle spirit of his mother. He loves this life, mainly when he can kill or interrogate, and quite honestly, I don't see him as being able to function as a citizen of society.

I can walk into a grocery store and get groceries if I wanted to, but Amadeo can't even walk into a crowded square without the urge to hurt someone. I've never seen him with a woman, and he makes me very nervous sometimes when we got around people.

It's around three in the afternoon when we reach our last destination. A cupcake shop that recently opened a few months ago. It's quaint. The woman that owns the shop is a feisty woman, she’s always late on a payment, and gives us a piece of her mind when doing so. But as long as the payment is given, it’s no skin off my back. I sometimes enjoy her spirit. It gives me a break from the life of someone who everyone fears.

We get out of the car, heading towards the entrance to the shop. The bell sounds upon the door opening and I take in the little shop. The colors are pastels and it has a nice buoyant feel to it. If the owner doesn't get her shit together, this place will cease to exist. And personally, I'd hate to see that happen.

We walk towards the front counter, but no one is here. I look at Amadeo in confusion, and he only shrugs at me.

"I thought you called ahead?"

"I did. She didn't answer," he responds shrugging.

"Hello?" I call out.

No answer.

I begin to rapidly press the bell sitting on the counter, my irritation flaring, until finally, a woman comes out of the back, but she's not the owner. I've never seen her before. Her clothes are the first thing to catch my eye. She's wearing a bright pink skirt, with polka dot tights and lime green pumps. Her top is a loose green cardigan, with an assortment of colors around her neck.

Not only does her whimsical style catch my eye, but her features as well. She's beautiful. Dark brown hair is pulled up in a high, messy bun, but there are still curls falling out of the updo, showing off the tight curls that her hair is made up of. She has large eyes, that curve slightly and is a beautiful shade of hazel, but I can tell there's more to them than that. Her lips are full, and in the shape of a bow, but they're covered in a soft pink gloss.

By no means is she short either. She has to be at least 5'9". Her loose shirt is hiding her figure, but her skirt is showing off those long legs.

Damn.

A new feeling of Nirvana washes over me as I stare at this woman. She is beautiful. And I want her. Not just temporarily either.

"Hey look, if you're not going to order something after beating the hell out of the damn bell, I suggest you leave." She places her hands on her hips in irritation, and I realize that I'm staring at her. I blink, trying to make myself focus on something other than her sultry voice.

"Is, Ana not here?" I ask, trying to put on the most professional appearance I can, but the way her gaze is burning into me makes it hard to focus. She gazes at me without fear. Or even a hint of adoration. It intrigues me.

"No, she's out. It's just me. So, what can I get you?" she asks. I put on the best smile that I can, taking a step closer to the counter, and placing my elbow on it.

"You can get me, Ana," I purr.

It could be possible that Ana didn't have payment again this month, and is avoiding us. The woman's eyes narrow to the point that I can barely see the hazel peaking from her orbs. Her hand lashes out, swiping my elbow off the counter, completely catching me off guard.

"Or you can get your elbow off the counter, and order something. I already told you. Ana isn't here," she growls. I hear Amadeo's footsteps, but I place my hand out stopping him. He has a temper. And her actions just earned her what Amadeo believes is a good punishment.

I can feel amusement and excitement coursing through my veins. Something I haven't felt in a while interacting with another human being. I raise a brow at her, laughing.

"Do you not know who I am?" I ask. She scoffs at me, crossing her arms.

"Do you not know who I am?" she shoots back at me. I can't help but laugh. I'll bite.

"No, I don't," I say with a raised brow.

"I'm Sofia Muñoz, the current cashier and cupcake maker in charge while the owner is away!" She waves her arms over her head, and gestures to the area around us, ending up pointing directly at my chest.

"And I say that if you aren't going to buy anything, I have the right to refuse you service and ask you to leave."

She's feisty. I like it. I can't help myself. I laugh. She is the most interesting thing I've seen in a long time with her fiery attitude and whimsical clothing.

"Do you know when she'll be back?" I ask. Sofia moves away from the counter and begins stacking cupcakes on the shelf. I take the opportunity to admire her pert ass.

"Don't know. Said she had some errands to run and that she'd be back later." She doesn't make eye contact with me; she's very intently focused on her task. I frown a little, suddenly wanting to see those eyes again.

"So, any idea of when she'll be back?" I can't help but smile as my plan goes perfectly. She stops what she's doing and looks up at me. And I can see those beautiful eyes again.

"I'm guessing later?" she snaps. Someone is very grouchy today. I lightly drum my fingers on the counter, as I take in those eyes. There is a beautiful shade of green around the pupil, that makes them just pop.

"Well. When Ana gets back, tell her Luciano Pasquino stopped by. She'll know who I am," I say. Sofia rolls her eyes at me but does a sarcastic salute.

"Yes sir."

I chuckle softly to myself; she is something else entirely. I don't feel annoyance or anger at her. I don't even feel like making her fear me for her attitude.

As we make our way towards the car, Amadeo stops me.

"Luciano, what the hell are you doing? You know that was her last straw. We were supposed to give her a warning," he says in irritation. By warning, he means trash the place. Maybe burn down a wall. Teach her a lesson. But something in me didn't want to. And it's not because of my personal feelings about the shop.

For some reason, I don't want Sofia to see that side of me. Who I really am.

"Don't worry. I'll come back later before she closes, I'm sure she wasn't there because she went to get the money. Calm down Amadeo,” I say. Whether he buys my excuse or not, I don't know because he only shrugs and gets in the car.

I walk around to the driver’s side, looking to see Sofia through the window, hard at work arranging things. She isn't even bothered by the lack of my presence. If anything, she looks at ease.

The furrow of her brow is gone, but I can see that she's still intently focused on her task. A smile forms on my face.

"Sofia." I love the sound of her name rolling off my tongue. I get in the car, leaving empty-handed.

~

"I don't know, Cat. There's just something about her that caught my eye. I can't stop thinking about her," I'm speaking to Caterina as we go through a sparring session. I can't get that woman from the cupcake shop out of my head. She's driving me crazy.

Cat throws a hard punch, that I dodge easily. If it were anyone else, she may have thrown a blow to their temple, knocking them into unconsciousness. But it's me. And I have quicker reflexes than the average man.

"In case you forgot, Luciano, you do sleep around with different women." I quickly shift my feet swinging her, but she deflects it with her hands.

"What's that have to do with anything?" I ask just as she kicks at me, I have to duck to dodge it, causing us to switch sides on the mat.

"Well, why don't you just get her out of your system the way you do with every other woman you're infatuated with?" She rushes out in a huff, spinning and throwing a hard kick at me. I grab her leg at my rib, holding it in place. Her eyes grow wide as she realizes the predicament she's in. I move to kick her leg holding her weight up out from under her, and she falls on the floor in a sweaty heap.

"Dammit!" she hisses. I laugh aloud at her frustration. She aims for perfection in everything, using me as her rival. And she hates it when I win.

"C'mon Cat. You know if I were anyone else, you would have had me down 5 minutes into the mat." I give her a reassuring smile but she's still mad at herself. After a moment she looks up at me, sweat dripping down her face.

"Well?" she asks. I raise a brow in confusion.

"What?" I ask. She rolls her eyes falling on her back as she lets out a loud groan, her chest heaving hard.

"The girl Luciano. Why is she so different?" She says. I slowly move so that I am laying down next to Cat, facing the ceiling.

"I don't know... She's different. In every aspect of the word. I've literally never met someone like her before in my life," I say honestly. Cat rolls her eyes at me.

"She's just weird, Luciano. That's it. You're infatuated because she dresses like a Ten-year-old."

I chuckle at Cat's remark, but halfheartedly. I like her style. It’s adorable. It’s authentic and she isn’t afraid to express herself. And it’s the complete opposite of her attitude. She's feisty. And loves to get attitudes.

"Luciano!" I look over and Caterina is staring at me in irritation.

"What?"

"I said, what has dad got for you coming up?" she asks. I narrow my eyes at her. She always does this. Our father tries to keep her out of my affairs because of how unstable she is. Her thirst for violence is too much. So, she tries to ask me what my plans are so that she can tag along behind our father's back.

"Nothing," I say, moving away from the mat.

"Oh, C'mon Luciano! You're such a liar!" I hear her chasing after me. She yanks on my shirt, and I turn to face her.

"Look, Cat I'm sorry. But you're not off probation from your last mishap. And I can't have you messing things up. This is serious."

Her face morphs into one of irritation, and I know she's upset because I didn't give in to her like I usually do. But there comes a time when your baby sister needs to understand that breaking the arm of a prospective partner is a big no no.

She opens her mouth to argue with me again, but I cut her off giving her the sternest voice that I can.

"Caterina. No. Stop asking. Get your attitude under control then we'll talk." I turn away from her, leaving the room, and she knows not to argue with me. Rarely am I ever serious with Cat. But when I am, she knows it's time for her to listen. I don't miss the stamp of her foot and the loud growl that echoes through the room.

~

I'm lying in my bed, staring up at the ceiling.

"Sofia," I say her name again. I want to be able to use her name as I speak to her, to get her attention. Her hazel eyes flash through my mind as does her irritated gaze. I can't help the smile that crosses my face.

She didn't give a damn, did she? And why the hell would Ana hire someone that has such horrible customer service skills? I let out a groan rolling over and smashing my face in the pillow.

It's a Saturday night and I'm spending it thinking about this woman that blatantly disrespected me and obviously doesn't like me. I need to go out. I check my phone and I have messages and missed calls from Victoria.

When I open the messages, they all basically say the same thing. She wants me to take her out. I throw my phone down, heading straight to the shower.

Thirty minutes later I'm speeding down the highway. I look at the time and it's only 9:30. It's early to be out on a Saturday, but I know where I'm headed. And it's not to a bar. I pull my car up to the cupcake shop. They close at 10 P.M. And it's 9:53. I know that Sofia will be irritated at my decision to stop by right when they're about to close, and just the thought of that causes me to smile.

I step out of the car, walking up to the door. My heart rate speeds up, and I actually feel butterflies in my stomach as I reach the front door just as Sofia is about to flip the sign. Her eyes travel up to mine and I give her the best smile I can muster.

I can't help but notice the thick lashes that surround her hazel eyes that are gazing at me with anger.

"We're closed," she says pointing to the sign. I hold up my watch.

"Not for another 5 minutes," I say giving her a wink. She opens her mouth about to say something but pauses looking behind her. Her gaze travels back to me, and she opens the door.

I step into the shop, greeted by the smell of cleaning products.

"Hi! Welcome to-" Ana's voice completely trails off, as she takes notice of who it is coming to her shop at night. I know this may not look good to her, especially since she’s three days late on the payment deadline. But this isn't about her. It's about her new employee.

"Mr. Pasquino... Uh, to what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?" she asks. I can hear the light shiver in her voice, her eyes wider than saucers.

"I'm only here for a cupcake Ana," I say reassuringly, giving her a smile. She closes her mouth, nodding her head vigorously.

"Um, I'm sorry we were about to close so I'll have to retrieve some of the cupcakes from the back." She backs away from the counter, heading in the direction of the kitchen.

"Just give me a minute," she says.

"Take your time," I respond. And I mean it. She gives me an uneasy laugh, turning into the kitchen. As soon as she disappears, I turn to look for Sofia. She's turning the chairs upside down and placing them on top of the tables.

Today she's wearing a soft blue dress with different pins on it, and converse that are rainbow-colored, obviously with sharpies. I can see her legs better today, and I feel the stirring in my pants at the sight.

I take a step towards her, and no sooner do my feet move, does she look up.

"Hey," I say, not knowing how else to greet her. She scoffs at me, shaking her head in amusement.

"Hey yourself." 

She turns away, going to place the rest of the chairs in the restaurant. I move around her, grabbing the seat before she can.

"Let me help you with that," I say offering her a smile. She stares at me untrustingly.

"Why?"

"Does a man need a reason to help a woman with a chair?" I ask. She studies me, for a good thirty seconds before she waves her hand nonchalantly, walking around me.

"Knock yourself out," she says. After a few minutes of silence, she speaks again.

"So, you just got all dressed up to come get a cupcake or what?" she asks. I gaze at her in confusion.

"Uh.. I'm sorry I don't-"

"You're dressed really nice. And you came here right before we closed. So, are you craving a cupcake this Saturday night? Or did your girl make you get her one on the way to your date?" she asks. I smile. She’s teasing me.

"I don't have a girl. I just wanted a cupcake,” I say, the answer just rolls off my tongue. She shakes her head at me and smiles, followed by a soft laugh.

Holy shit.

Her smile is stunning. Straight, white teeth are revealed as she smiles, and a fucking dimple on her left cheek. Just one. I feel my mouth drop a little as my mind goes completely blank.

"You are very strange indeed," she says, pulling me out of my thoughts.

"Sofia! ¡Alejarse de él!" I jump as Ana enters the room, with a tray of cupcakes and a look of shock on her face. Sofia gazes at her in confusion and looks at me.

"Uh, please Mr. Pasquino, I found these in the back." She gives me an uneasy smile, but I can still see the panic on her face. So, Sofia must be someone close to her personally. I make my way over to Ana, grabbing the first cupcake that catches my eye.

The cupcake is only three dollars, but I give her a hundred.

"Keep the change," I say. She gazes at me wide-eyed obviously confused. I make my way towards the exit, and Sofia follows behind me. I can tell she's watching me untrustingly since Ana's outburst.

I open the door and face her.

"Goodnight, Sofia," I say. She looks at me in surprise, and to my pleasure, she gives me a small smile.

"Goodnight, Luciano," she says as she pushes the door closed. My heart does a flip at the realization that she remembers my name. She flips the sign, to closed and walks away from the door without so much as a second glance.

"Damn," I mutter aloud. I guess it wasn't too much of a bust. I used her name, and she responded to me. It's a small win, but it's a win no less.

I walk to my car, and take a seat, placing the cupcake in the passenger seat. This isn’t good. I've never felt this way about a woman before. Especially not towards Victoria. This want to know more about her, and her to know me.

But this is dangerous, and I can't do it. Not again. I have my duty. And it’s to Victoria, not to Sofia. I shake my head, cranking up the car and pulling away from the curb. No more. I saw her again, and that's it. Now it's time to move on and never look back. I can't afford this kind of distraction.

~

Chapter 3

"What's with all the cupcakes? Victoria in a pissy mood?" I look up from my laptop to see Collette standing in the doorway of my kitchen.

"You just decide knocking isn't good enough anymore?" I say in irritation.

I gave each of my friends a key to my penthouse, just in case something ever went down, and they need to get to me quickly, or just get to safety. My apartment is the second safest place in this city. The first is my father’s home. The hell that he's been through all these years made sure of that. But Collette likes to abuse that privilege.

"You didn't answer my question." Collette eyes me with those bright flaming irises similar to her mother’s as she takes a bite out of one of the 17 cupcakes I currently have residing in my penthouse.

"It has nothing to do with Victoria. I just have a sweet tooth as of late," I say going back to my work. My father has given me a job to do seeing as our territory is being overrun, we just need to find out by who. I have to study these blueprints of the warehouse that intel said the next drop would be at. The real question is, who do I bring with me to follow through with the plan?

"So, a sweet tooth caused you to buy 17 cupcakes and not touch a single one of them.." Collette says looking at me. I let out a huff, closing my computer and glaring at her. She's always been so perceptive. But she's my best friend. Even though she can be annoying as hell.

"Ok, you got me. Victoria and I got into it, and I really want to make it up to her so I'm going to surprise her," I say.

Collette stares at me for a moment before shrugging and setting the cupcake back on the counter where it belongs. I give a mental sigh. If she knew I had been back to the cupcake shop every day since Saturday just to get a glimpse at Sofia, there would be hell to pay. She's always on my ass about "duty as the future capo" and all that. I get enough of that from my father.

"What are you doing here?" I ask. Collette shrugs, walking to the couch opposite of me, plopping down.

"Just stopping by." I stand from my seat leaving the living room and heading towards the door.

"Well, that's too bad. You’ve got to go now I have somewhere to be," I say standing in the doorway. Collette narrows her eyes at me, frowning. After a minute of glaring she finally throws her hands up in surrender, walking to the door I currently hold open for her.

Before she passes through, she stops and looks at me, pointing at my chest.

"I know you, Luciano Pasquino. Don't think you can keep this a secret for long." I offer her the most charming smile I can, leaning into her.

"I haven't the slightest idea what you're talking about Collette." We stare into each other’s eyes for a while before she finally relents with a shake of her head and a laugh and walks to the elevator.

~

I'm speeding like a maniac. Sofia gets off work today at 3 and it's currently 3:03. My little debacle with Collette threw my time off. I pull up to the cupcake shop just in time to see Sofia walking up the street. I don't know what to do. Should I just watch her leave?

Before I can even form a coherent thought, I'm out of the car running after her.

"Sofia!" I shout.

She pauses, and I notice her shoulders tense as she slowly turns around to face me. She takes my breath away. Today her hair is falling in wild curls down her back. and she has a large pink off-the-shoulder shirt, with a lime green tank underneath, and tights with flowers on them to set it off. She even has a pair of high-top rainbow converse on. I've grown so accustomed to her style; I actually look forward to seeing what she cooked up to wear that day.

"Can I help you?" she says in irritation as she snaps her fingers in front of my face, shocking me out of my thoughts.

"I, uh... just wanted a cupcake," I say. She raises a brow at me, placing a hand on her hip.

"Well the store is that way, Luciano," she says pointing over my shoulder, the opposite direction.

Damn.

I was so caught up in just talking to her, I forgot she's off work. I let out a sheepish laugh.

"I knew that." She gives me a small laugh, turning her head.

"Nothing gets past you," she says as she walks away from me. I go into panic mode, she's getting away.

"Wait! Where are you headed?" I ask.

"Home." She doesn't turn around.

"Let me give you a ride!" I yell after her. She pauses midstride, turning to gaze at me in confusion.

"You want to give me a ride home.." she says. I give her the best smile I can muster.

"Yeah!" I say.

"Why?" Her question catches me off guard.

"Because... I just really would love to give you a ride home," I say, hoping she won't look more into it.

"Please," I add before she can blow me off with her attitude. She gazes at me as if to read me.

"Ok…" she says hesitantly. I don't even think. I grab her arm and pull her along to my waiting vehicle.

"Great!"

~

The car ride is silent, the only time Sofia speaks is when she tells me when to turn or not. I don't mind though. Her scent is filling the car. She smells like vanilla and birthday cake.

"So how long have you been working at the cupcake shop?" I ask.

"About a month," she responds. I nod my head. That would explain why I've never seen her before. Silence falls over us again.

"My aunt told me to stay away from you," Sofia says out of nowhere. I look at her in confusion, wondering why she's telling me this, and who her aunt even is to tell me that.

"My aunt.. she owns the cupcake shop," she says.

My emotions come to a screeching halt.

Shit. Shit shit shit shit shit.

"What?" I half shout at her. She makes a face at me laughing.

"Why are you yelling?"

"Ahhhh... I'm sorry. I didn't mean to."

"My aunt owns the store. My mother sent me out here to do better. Get my education and all that," she says. I can't help but wonder how her mother would react if she knew her daughter caught the eye of trouble itself.

"So, what did your aunt say about me exactly?" I ask in hesitation. I hope her aunt didn't say anything about who I am really and what my original purpose is in that store every month. Sofia snickers to herself.

"She calls you El desove de Satanas," she laughs. Unfortunately for her, I don't speak Spanish. My mother tried to make me multitalented with the tongue like her, but I could never catch it. I know the basics of Spanish, but not deep enough that I can decipher what it is she said exactly. But I'm willing to bet Satanas has something to do with satan.

For some reason, the name her aunt calls me puts her in good spirits. She's laughing and it's beautiful.

"Well, what do you think?" I ask joining in her laugher. She seems to be mulling it over as she brings her fingers to her chin.

"I think you're more like incomprendido." I give her a smile.

This is the longest she's gone without insulting me. I'm unsure if her personal thoughts about me are an insult or not, but she is smiling and I don’t want to ruin that by asking her a question.

"Turn left here," she says pulling me out of my thoughts. I turn the wheel, pulling into a nice little neighborhood, with houses on either side of the road. She has me pull all the way down to a cute two-story cottage. There’s even a porch swing out front and a white picket fence.

"Well, this is me." Sofia begins shuffling to get out of my car.

"Wait," I say racking my brain for some kind of excuse. This is bad. This is very bad. I need to just stop now while I'm still in the clear. But when she turns to gaze at me with those large hazel eyes, all logic flies out the window.

"I want to see you again," I say. The car falls silent, and I can see the gears spinning in her head.

"What?" she asks. I let out a soft laugh, scratching my head.

"I... would like to see you again, Sofia," I say. She blinks but still doesn't say anything.

"I'm really flattered, Luciano. But I don't have space for men in my life right now. I'm sorry…" A crushing feeling of disappointment falls over me. I'm not used to rejection. Especially from women.

"Of course," I say looking away. She opens the door getting out of the car and I feel sadness as the smell of vanilla slowly fans out of my car with her. She leans in the doorway smiling at me.

"Thank you for the ride, Luciano. I really appreciate it," she says. I give her a half-smile trying to hide my shock, hurt, irritation, and confusion.

"No problem," I say. She gives me a small wave, closing the door and I watch her disappear up the driveway. Her lean figure sways seductively as she walks up the drive and past the fence.

Fuck I want her. Bad.

And if the hardening in my pants didn't tell me how badly, then the crushing wave of disappointment is doing a great job at it too.

I crank the car up to leave when my phone starts vibrating. I look at the screen to see Victoria calling me. I immediately ignore it and throw my phone in the back seat. If there were ever a time I hated my father it's now. He sentenced me to a life that I don't want. Not in the very least. And now these feelings for Sofia are bubbling to the surface, stronger than anything I've ever felt before.

I look back to the house, and Sofia is already inside. She may think she doesn't have the space, but I'm going to make her have the space. And that's a promise I intend to keep.

~

I pull up to my parents’ home, dread coursing through my veins. Everyone fears my father. Everyone except for Caterina. And that's because she's just like him. I don't feel fear for him, but I am wary of him. He doesn't like it when I make decisions based on my feelings. He says it's being weak. I say it's being wise.

He likes to rule on fear. And I guess that's worked out great for him, but I don't want to be that way. And that's where we clash.

I get out of the car, walking up to the front door, pushing it open. I immediately hear Caterina shouting. And I know she, and my father are fighting. I make my way to his office, but it's empty. So, I turn towards Cat's bedroom. The door is slightly cracked. I can see Cat sitting on her bed, and her face is red from shouting. My father is standing over her with a stern look on his face.

"You cannot keep doing this Caterina! One more shot and you would have killed him is that what you wanted?" he shouts. She opens her mouth only to be interrupted by my father as he points in her face.

"No! You do not speak!" Cat jumps up before he can say another word screaming inches from his face.

"You do NOT control me!"

Rage flashes across my father’s features and I'm in the room before he can slap the life out of Cat.

"Father," I say, stepping in between him and Cat. Any sane person would shrink back from his gaze, but as I turn around, Cat is glaring him head-on mirroring his features without fear. I gently push Cat further away behind me, as they have their staredown.

"Luca-" All of our gazes turn as my mother steps into the room in confusion. She takes in the situation quickly.

"What's going on here?" she asks. My father is the first to speak.

"Nothing," he says as he walks over to my mother, pulling her into an embrace. He whispers something to her, and she nods, gazing back at me and Cat uneasily then leaving the room. My father turns to both of us and doesn't speak a word. He only moves across the room to Cat's closet, yanking it open and walking deep inside the walk-in. We both know what he's going for.

Cat keeps a safe of her most prized weapons in her closet. She makes a move to run in the closet behind him, but I snatch her up roughly giving her a hard shake.

"Cat! Stop it!" I hiss.

"Have you gone mad? He was seconds away from knocking you into unconsciousness you don't ever do that to your father, let alone the Capo." She's still trying to struggle but I jerk her around using a stern voice letting anger etch into my features.

"Stop!" Her eyes widen and she looks at me with fear. I am rarely ever stern with her. She knows that. Out of the two of us, I am the soft-hearted one. So, once I lose control, once I let anger actually get to me, it's time to stop pushing me.

She stops just in time as my father comes out of the closet. He looks at Cat, with an unreadable expression.

"I've changed the passcode on your safe. You're not to touch any weapons until I feel you're mature enough to handle it," he says. He walks out of the room without so much as a second glance.

I look back to Cat and she's staring at the ground.

"Caterina, have you completely lost it? Did you forget who our father is?" She sniffles and finally the tears come.

"Cat. You can't challenge him like that. You are a woman. You know what our mother went through with him."

My words cause her anger to flare up, and she gazes at me with narrowed eyes.

"I am nothing like our mother. She is weak-willed and soft. I can handle-" She doesn't finish her sentence. I slap her. She gazes at me in shock. I've never hit her before. But it's time someone put her in her place.

"Our mother was forced into a marriage she didn't want. She had no choice. She's been through hell with him. You know nothing of our mother’s struggles." Her eyes grow wide with each passing word I speak but I can't help myself. I feel my rage at my father for forcing me into a marriage I don't even want coming to the surface, and Cat is right in front of me to take my wrath.

"You have been nothing but immature, reckless, and selfish since you've been old enough to hold a gun. You haven't been forced to do anything Caterina. I was fucking six when our father decided I should be shackled with a woman that I fucking hate." I stand abruptly walking towards the door and Caterina still hasn't moved.

"Next time you speak disrespectfully about our mother, you had better think about what it is your even arguing," I hiss.

I turn and head out of the house, and leave. My father can wait. I don't want to deal with anyone today. I jump in my car, speeding out of the driveway and back to my house. I've had enough of my family for one day.

~

Chapter 4

I stare at my screen in irritation. Caterina is calling me for the 20th time today. She's already sent me several messages apologizing and asking me to talk to her, but I just can't. I don't want to. She has no idea how free she truly is.

Every time I think about how she squabbles her freedom, it makes my blood boil. I've always tried to be ignorant to the fact that she hasn't even been engaged to anyone yet, but her words the other day especially towards our mother pushed me.

There is something deep inside of me, that is just like my father. But I keep it locked away. I keep it locked so far down, that I can do my jobs and go on about my life trying to be kind. Like my mother. But sometimes I can't keep all that dark anger and rage locked down. Sometimes, I lose control. I hope to never lose control again, but I know it's only a matter of time. Especially with the stress of everything that is going on.

I look up from my parked position just in time to see Sofia walk by. I'm officially fixated on her. I know her every move, her daily schedule, and it's only taken me a week. Right now, she has class. And once her class is over, she goes to work for her aunt the rest of the day until close.

I chuckle to myself as I take in her outfit of choice today. She looks as though she let a five-year-old dress her. But it fits her. Just seeing her, even if it is from a distance calms me. I take in the people around her, each person she passes stares at her as if she's an alien. Some women even point and chuckle at her style. It causes rage to fester up within me. I won't lie. I admire Sofia. Because she isn't afraid to be different. She doesn't care about others or the consequences that her outfit choice will entail.

If Victoria saw that someone was distasteful towards her outfit choice, she would throw a huge fit and change immediately. After abusing her power and forcing that person some form of punishment from her father’s men.

Sofia finally makes her way completely into the building, disappearing from my view. I feel disappointment surge through me. She goes about her day with such determination, not even realizing the effect she has on me. The clock strikes two, and I reluctantly leave to take care of my duties as the son of the Capo.

~

I jump as my father slams his hand against the desk in front of me.

"Are you listening to me, Luciano!" I shake my head, trying to clear my thoughts. Sofia is clouding my brain even now when I'm supposed to be utterly focused.

"Sorry…I'm just a little.. distracted, " I say honestly. He raises a brow at me and takes a seat in his chair.

"Where were you all week son. I've been trying to get ahold of you."

"I've been around," I say. He rubs his temples in irritation.

"Aye. Luciano. What am I supposed to do with you? huh? How can I trust an entire empire to you when your head is elsewhere all the time?" I let out a sarcastic laugh.

"C'mon papa. My head is in the game. I just.. I need a little break sometimes. You have me going constantly," I say.

"That's your duty son. You don't get a break. Ever. This is a part of you for the rest of your life."

"Yeah yeah I know," I say in irritation. I look down at my hands and hear my father shuffle. That is always the excuse. This is a part of me. I never asked for it though. I never wanted it. And now I'm taking on duties virtually alone. I have Amadeo but working with him is like working with a rabid dog. He's looking for trouble.

"Luciano. Is there something on your mind?" I look up at him, He's looking at me with a curious gaze. I want to talk to him about it. I really do. But the last time I tried to talk to my father about this engagement, it didn’t end well for me.

"No papa. I just need to get some rest is all," I say giving him a reassuring smile. He eyes me for a while longer and looks away.

"You can go," he says waving me out. I stand to leave and as I step out, Caterina passes by heading into his office. Her eyes grow wide and she opens her mouth as if she's about to say something to me, but I turn my head from her, completely cutting her off.

I head up the hall, and just as I'm about to head out the front door, I hear something. The sultry caress of my mother playing her violin. I pause, heading towards her practice room. The door is slightly cracked, and I push it open slowly. Her back is to me, as she sways slightly to the rhythm she's pouring out of her instrument. I recognize the song instantly, and silently move over to the piano, laying my fingers over the keys and accompany her.

After a few seconds of playing, I look over my shoulder and her eyes are open, a ghost of a smile gracing her lips. I give her a smile back and turn to focus on the piano. She began teaching me when I was five to play, and I've loved it ever since. I haven't had the time to practice or even touch a piano in so long, due to the fact that my father has me busy with work.

The song ends, and I feel a flash of disappointment. I want to continue to play and drown my sorrows out. But I hear my mother setting down her violin as she makes her way towards me. She sits next to me on the piano bench and places her hand against my cheek. I look at her, and she gives me a soft smile.

"What's wrong Luciano?" Her voice comes out so warm and soothing. I haven't even said one word to her, and she already knows that something is wrong. I place my hand over hers and close my eyes. There is so much on my shoulders, sometimes I miss being that carefree kid.

"What did you think, when you were told you had to marry?" I ask. I don't miss the slight flinch she gives.

"I was scared of course, but it was my duty."

I laugh lightly looking at the keys in front of me.

"Duty huh?" I play a small chord, before responding.

"Why?" I ask.

"Why what?"

"Why do you blindly follow 'duty'?" She looks confused at my question as if no one has ever asked her that before. No one probably has. She's a woman.

"Because I was the daughter of the Capo. And it was my duty to make our ties stronger," she says. Poetry. Her father drilled that in her head, the same way my father drills it into my head. Duty over everything. Even your personal feelings. But to me, duty isn't the burden of a child.

"Mom, I don't want to marry Victoria," I say. I can't look at her face as I speak. The room is silent. And when I finally look at her face, there are tears falling down. Shit. I didn't mean to make her cry.

"I know, baby. And I'm so so sorry. I never wanted to force you into a marriage with a stranger." She places her hand over mine.

"The wedding is still months away, why don't you try and get to know V-"

"I don't want to know her, mom. I don't. I tried I really did, but she's just not.. the one." I look at my mother.

"I know my duty is to the family, but my emotions are running me ragged trying to come to terms with this," I say. She opens her mouth to respond, and my phone chooses that moment to go off. It's my alarm. I look at my mother giving her an apologetic smile.

"I'm sorry, but I've got to go," I say. I stand from the piano.

"Wait, Luciano. Are you sure you don't want to talk about this?" she asks as I get closer to the door. I plaster on the best smile that I can.

"I'm fine mama. Just cold feet is all. Maybe you're right… I should just get to know her better," I say. Right before I reach the door I remember something. I quickly sprint back across the room placing a kiss on the top of my mother’s head.

"I'll see you later."

~

"Sofia!" I shout. She tenses and turns around. I can see the irritation on her face as she sees who it is calling her name. Call me crazy, but it's refreshing to see someone stare at you with such emotion.

"What the hell are you doing here? You stalkin' me?" she asks. As she speaks she places her hand on her hip. Even though she's staring at me with a scolding gaze, she looks sexy as hell. I'm so caught up in her looks I completely forgot she's waiting on a response.

"No! Of course not. I just wanted to see if you needed a ride home?" I ask. She stares at me a little while longer, crossing her arms over her chest. I actually begin to feel a little squeamish from her gaze.

"No, I'm good." She waves me off and walks away.

"Hey, wait!" I shout running behind her. She keeps walking though.

"Look I appreciate the gesture, but I'm fine with the bus," she says.

"You'd rather take the crowded bus than sit in my car for free?" I ask in disbelief. She shows no signs of stopping so I make my way around her, stopping her in her path.

"Wait," I say gazing into her eyes.

"Why are you avoiding me? I'm just being nice?" I say. She scoffs at me and rolls her eyes all in one action.

"'Just being nice' eh?" She steps closer to me, pointing at my chest.

"Guys that look like you aren't just nice for no reason. So, what do you want from me huh?" she says accusingly. As I stare at her, I can finally see it. She's been hurt before. Bad. I can see it in the way she eyes me mistrustingly, and constantly insults me, doing everything in her power to make me go away.

I let out a laugh, raising my hands in surrender.

"Ok. You got me," I say.

"I do want something from you-"

"I knew it! Look, buddy. I don't know who the hell you think you are, but you aren't gettin-"

"Dinner." She completely stops midsentence. I even notice the slight drop of her jaw.

"What?" she asks. I smile.

"I want dinner. With you. Right now," I say. She blinks, gazing at me in shock.

"You being serious?" she says. I nod my head.

"Then I'll take you home just like I promised, and if I can't get you to willingly give me your number by the end of the night, I will step out of your life," I say. A small smile appears on her face, followed by a laugh. It's beautiful.

"Ok acosador(stalker)." She says, turning away from me. I still haven't the slightest clue what she said, but it's the sexiest sound hearing it roll off her tongue. I get caught up in watching the confident sway of her hips as she leaves. Damn.

We end up going to a small diner. A place that she loves. It suits her. The waitress leaves us having taken our drink orders.

"So how did you discover this grease trap," I say jokingly as I gaze at the menu. Although the special is a deep-fried bacon cheeseburger. She laughs.

"Actually two days ago." I gaze up from my menu and she's staring at hers. I can't help but notice the way her eyes look green in this lighting.

"I make it a point to go to every diner available, and since I just moved here I've started a new scouting of restaurants."

"What made you decide to move to the city anyway? And with your aunt?" I ask. I take notice of the small frown that appears on her face.

"Just needed a better opportunity. And my mother felt that it was here. With my aunt." I sense the bitterness in her voice. Something happened that caused her to move out here, and eventually, I'm going to figure out what. But I won't push her now.

"So why diners?" I ask. She looks up from her menu, and a genuine smile appears across her face.

"Why not diners?" she smiles.

"They're like the original restaurant. Before the fancy places with five-hundred-dollar eight-ounce steaks existed. They serve real, genuine food. With real genuine waitresses that don't look down their noses at you." She gestures around.

"The decor is just an added bonus," she says. And I can see in her eyes she genuinely does love the decor.

I try and appreciate it as she does, but the lifestyle I was raised in makes that impossible. It took everything in me not to wipe the seat of this booth before I sat down. There are also tacky photos on the wall, and the color scheme is faded and dreadful. How someone could willingly enjoy this décor is beyond me.

"It is interesting," I say as a side note. I've never seen anything like it. My gaze falls back to Sofia and she's focused on the menu. Eventually, the waitress comes back and takes our orders. I just order a simple sandwich, but Sofia once again surprises me. She orders the deep-fried bacon cheeseburger with a large fry and a vanilla milkshake.

I can't help but wonder where she stores it all. Victoria would never eat something like that. Hell, I don't think Victoria has even had a burger before in her life. She's the person that would order a salad and make it complicated for the waiter and the cook. I scoff aloud at the thought. Every time I find something else to love about Sofia, I realize how much I dislike Victoria.

"Tell me, what do you do for a living Luciano?" I smile at the emphasis she puts on my name.

"I work for a multimillion-dollar empire," I say. Technically I do.

"mmm impressive. You must be pretty important then, huh?" she asks. I shake my head.

"Nah. Just learning the trade right now," I say. Technically that’s true as well. I am learning the duties that my father will one day pass onto me.

"And you?" I ask trying to shift the focus off of me. I don't want her to know who I really am for some reason, or what I do. She laughs.

"Dental hygienist," she says. I raise a brow at her.

"Really?" It doesn't suit her at all. But she nods her head.

"Yeah. Not everyone is blessed to do the whole "do what you love" thing. Gotta go where the money is," she says. I feel saddened by that. Sofia has the potential of a star. And she can't take that chance.

"Well, what is it that you really want to do?" I ask. She looks at me, with a curious gaze.

"Paint," I smile. Now that I can see.

"Well, why don't you?" I ask.

"I do in my free time, but it just won't pay the bills I'm afraid," she says nonchalantly as she begins playing with her fork. I can't help but smile. She's so carefree in front of me. Not at all worried about what she says or how she looks. Women I usually see are tense and nervous as hell, but she's different.

The waitress returns with our food, and just as I expected Sofia eats the whole thing. She even begins picking off my plate at one point.

I look up at the clock.

"Wow is it that late already?" I say. Sofia looks up in confusion. I begin feeling around my pockets and look at her.

"I left my phone in the car, and I have to make a really important call to my boss about this week’s quarterly, I didn't realize the time. Do you mind if I use your phone?" I ask. She nods her head.

"Of course," she hands it to me, and I have to stop myself from laughing.

~

Sofia

Luciano Pasquino. As he sits next to me in the car, I can't help but stare at him. He's been going on and on about something.

When I first met him, I hated him. He was arrogant. Sometimes he still is. But now I know him a little better. And that's because he's been trying to know me. Even after I told him I wasn't looking for a relationship.

I don't think I've ever met a man like him before. He's beautiful. And that's putting it lightly. His features aren't harsh and stark. They're soft. He's like a pretty boy. Or pretty man. And those eyes. It's like gazing into a pool of silver. They're so bright, I've never seen eyes like his before. Usually, when people have gray eyes, there's green or brown around the pupil. But his are just gray. Like gazing into a storm cloud. They're mesmerizing.

But I learned a long time ago not to let a man get by on looks alone. Which is why we got off on the wrong foot when he showed up looking for my aunt. She still refuses to tell me her affiliation with him, she only shouts at me how evil he is. But being around him now, I just can't see that.

"Well, this is me," I say as we pull up to my aunt’s house. My mother sent me out here to live with her after the incident. I didn't want to go, but I really didn't have a choice either about it.

"I had a great time tonight, Sofia," he says looking at me. I have to bite my lip to keep from sighing at the way he says my name. I'm actually surprised he had a good time because he looked like he was going to be sick when we stepped into the diner.

"I'm glad. So did I," I say. He smiles, looking beyond me.

"I think your aunt is ready for you to come inside," he says laughing. I turn in my seat to see her gazing at me on the front porch. I laugh.

"Well, I'll see you later Luciano," I say. I get out, walking to the front door, and mentally prepare myself for what is about to come.

"Aye Sofia! I told you to stay away from him!" My aunt hisses as I make my way past her and into the house. I fight to not roll my eyes at her.

"We just went to eat. Harmless," I say in irritation. She grabs my arm.

"You don't know what he is, I don't want to see you get hurt!" she says. She's eyeing me in desperation.

"Enlighten me auntie then. Who is he?" I say catching her completely off guard. She looks uncomfortable.

"Can't you just trust me that he is a bad man?" I laugh shaking my head.

"I swear you and mom are one and the same. Just because of what happened, does not mean every man is the same auntie! I am keeping my guard up trust me!"

"No. You trust me. He is bad news. Nothing good will come of this." she says in a serious tone. We stand in the middle of the living room, gazing at each other.

"Fine," I say. I turn away from her before she can respond, storming my way up the stairs to my bedroom. I plop down on the bed and before I can even think, my phone vibrates. It's a text from a foreign number I've never seen before.

-"You busy tomorrow?"

-"Who is this"

-"Luciano."

I let out a laugh of disbelief.

-"How did you get my number?"

-"You gave it to me. ;)"

I try and think of when I gave him my number, and then I realize it. The only time I gave him my phone was at dinner. Which can only mean he lied about the phone call. He was playing on my sympathy for hardworking people.  And strangely, I'm not even upset. I type my response.

-"You sly dog."

"-Woof."

I laugh out loud, throwing my phone on my bed.

Luciano.

Maybe not all men are the same.

~

Chapter 5

"I told you. I don't know anything." The man sitting in front of me is shaking like a leaf and breathing hard. He's shackled to a metal chair, gazing at me with a pleading gaze. I let out a sigh, irritation coursing through my veins.

"Look. I really don't want to have to torture you for anything today," I growl out.

Peter Wilcox. The CEO of Wilcox enterprises. And a thorn in my father’s side. Which also means he's a thorn in my side. Not only is he helping someone dupe us, he is also funding the group of miscreants, so they are getting weapons and people. It's never been a secret that Peter doesn't like us.

Peter's laugh pulls me out of my thoughts.

"You can't kill me. I'm the face of a million-dollar corporation." I can't help but laugh. That's the problem with these guys. They get mixed up in this side of the tracks and forget that they are not immortal. That is why we live longer. We may own just as much, but we are born into this side of the tracks. We know to be smart and attentive.

I snap my fingers, catching Amadeo's attention. He has been hidden by the shadows the whole time I've been trying to talk some sense into Peter. I always keep him away from interrogations first stage because he always wants to kill the man the first second off the bat. He thinks that because of who his mother, and grandfather are that he can get away with murder. And maybe he can. But keeping him here for interrogations is dangerous.

He steps forward with that crazed look in his eye, and peter visibly pales. I wrap an arm around Amadeo's shoulder, pulling him close to me.

"Now look, Peter. We can do this the easy way, or the hard way. And trust me when I say Amadeo is hoping for the hard way." Amadeo chooses that moment to take a step forward.

"Wait. Wait!" Peter says aloud.

"I can give you a name. That's it though." I shrug.

"We need more than a name, Peter," I say stepping away from Amadeo, and he begins his descent towards Peter.

"Wait. Please! He only gave me a name to call him, said we wanted the same thing, and for security, he isn’t giving me anything more than that! That's it I swear! I swear!" he shouts. I pause. He sounds like he means it. I turn around, tapping my chin for effect.

"Ok. I like you; Peter I do. So, here's what we're going to do." I lean in, placing my hand on his shoulder.

"You're going to give us that name," I say. He gives me a weak smile, nodding his head vigorously.

"And I'm going to let Amadeo here take over because I believe that you are a dirty, lying sneak. And he always seems to be able to get the truth out of people," I say. I turn away, walking towards Amadeo.

"He's all yours. And try not to kill him," I say. Amadeo smiles at me, turning to Peter. I don't even bother staying. I know Amadeo will get the information we need, and even though he may end up killing Peter I really don't care.

The northern mob has more than grown over the past few years. My father took his father’s empire and quadrupled it. My father is a brilliant man that has really outdone himself. The only downside is that he's passing his empire on to me. And that terrifies me. All these years he's been grooming me, to take on his role as the Capo. But the whole Capo thing is no joke. And since our faction of the mob has grown beyond anything we could have hoped, the relations with Don Reno shouldn't even matter anymore.

But my father still wants me to go through with this damn marriage. And I don't want it even more so now than usual. Everything in me knows that I shouldn't be talking to Sofia, but I just can't help it. Everything about her draws me in. And with each passing day that I get to know Sofia, I despise Victoria all the more. Sofia and I have been talking to each other constantly over the past few weeks, and I find myself begin drawn in more and more to her, and further and further away from Victoria. I find myself constantly comparing the two, and Victoria just doesn't measure up.

Speaking of the devil, my phone vibrates in my pocket and it's Victoria. She's been bothering me to meet her at this restaurant because she wants to spend time together. I don't want that. Not in the least. I don't want to be near her. Everything about her makes me sick.

Peter's screams pull me out of my thoughts. I look behind me to see Amadeo already at work, and Peter is singing like a canary giving us all kinds of information, we need. It takes about ten minutes for Peter to tell us everything.

"Amadeo." His head snaps in my direction and I can see the crazed look in his eyes.

"That's enough. I think we've got everything. Right, Peter?" Peter whimpers shaking his head.

"I swear that's everything I know. I swear," he says out of breath. I smile at him.

"Good."

~

I step into my apartment, exhausted from the day. After Peter's interrogation session I had to relay all the information to my father. My mother wasn't home while I was there, and neither was Caterina so there was no reason for me to stay even after I gave my father the information he needed.

I immediately pull off my jacket, dropping it on the floor not bothering to hang it up. I head straight to the shower, letting the warm spray wash away all the stress. Maybe I just need to get away for a while. I'm sure my father won't mind, and it's not like I take vacations very often.

My mind wanders even further, and I find myself thinking about Sofia. I'm sure she's never been anywhere outside of this country before. Maybe I can take her somewhere discreet with me. Just me and her and get to know her way better. As of late, all I can get out of her is a mediocre conversation and a short phone call that ends with her rushing me off the phone. Her aunt despises me, and I know exactly why. But for some reason, her aunt refuses to tell her why. Which leaves her skeptical of me, and me just hoping her aunt decides to never reveal who I am.

I turn off the shower, stepping out of the bathroom, and heading into my bedroom, stopping cold when I see who's in my bed. Victoria. She's sitting atop my sheets, in red lingerie that stands out against her pale skin. She's wearing a lacy bra and underwear, and her blonde hair is curled, falling down her body in waves.

She's laying on her side and gazing at me with a sensual smile on her face.

"I was wondering when you were going to get out of that shower," she smiles at me, her eyes traveling down my body. Then I remember I'm completely naked. There isn't even a towel covering my body. I scramble for the shirt I had thrown down this morning, placing it in front of my manhood.

"Victoria, what the hell are you doing?" I hiss. Her eyes narrow at me slightly, before she replaces it with a sexy grin.

"Well, I figure since you've been so busy, we could spend some time together. And I have a copy of your key, so I figured I'd come inside and let you... cum inside." I want to slap her. I really do. There isn't a part of me that is even remotely turned on right now. I'm just thoroughly pissed off.

"Victoria, you know we're not supposed to have sex with each other until our wedding night." I don't miss the frown that appears on her face.

"Oh, come on Luciano. We're engaged anyways! It's going to happen sooner or later." I let out a sarcastic laugh.

"No, Victoria. It's going to happen later. When we are married."

I make my way to my closet, pulling on a pair of sweatpants grabbing one of my large coats. I walk out of the closet tossing it at her.

"Cover-up," I say. She stares at me in shock.

"Seriously Luciano?! I know you've been getting it from somewhere else, and when I offer myself up on a platter for you, you won't even take it?" I let out an irritated sigh.

"Look, Victoria. You know important our union is. I'm not going to screw any of it up by sleeping with you early or taking your virginity," I say.

"You want to spend time together? We'll spend time together." She eyes me untrustingly, but I don't care. If she wants to spend time together then we will. She's trying and so can I.

"Let's talk," I say. She stares at me as if I'm crazy.

"Talk." She repeats as if it's a foreign word.

"Yes," I laugh. "Talk." She throws her hands in the air laying back in my bed.

"Ok. What do you want to talk about?" I can sense the blatant annoyance in her voice. I shrug my shoulders racking my brain.

"I don’t know, how was your day?" I ask. She stares at me. Really stares. Then she jerks my coat on and stands to leave. I grab her arm.

"Victoria, wait where are you going?" I ask. She jerks her arm out of my grasp.

"Fuck you, Luciano," she growls storming out of my apartment leaving me alone to stare after her retreating form. I try and rack my brain for something I did wrong but come up with nothing. I lay back in bed, all the tension I was feeling coming right back to me. So, I do the one thing that I know will ease that tension.

I pull out my phone, immediately dialing Sofia.

~

Sofia.

Maybe I am about to make the biggest mistake of my life.

I stare up at the tall building that Luciano gave me the address to. As I step inside, I know people are staring at me like I'm crazy. Probably wondering why this colorfully dressed girl is standing in the middle of their pristine lobby. You have to be very well off to live here. I probably couldn't even afford one of the small apartments. Luciano told me he lived on the top floor and as I look at the map in the lobby, I see that it's the penthouse floor that he lives on.

"May I help you?" I nearly jump out of my skin as some snooty-looking receptionist speaks.

"I'm here to see a friend," I laugh nervously. She doesn't look amused. At all. Her gaze travels distastefully up and down my body taking in my outfit choice. She scoffs at me, and walks away from me, making sure to gaze over her shoulder.

I swallow my pride, trying to get rid of the sudden nerves I’m feeling. Luciano was being modest a few weeks ago on our date when he said he was learning the trade. It seems more like he owns it.

I step into the elevator, and sure enough, the slot for the penthouse floor has his name in it. I press the button, but the elevator doesn't move. That's when I realize that I have to have the key to get up there. So, I step out of the elevator, heading towards the receptionist.

"Um, I seem to have to have some kind of key to get to the top floor," I laugh nervously. She doesn’t laugh though. She only glares me down.

"And why exactly are you trying to get there?" she asks. I can feel my irritation beginning to peak.

"As I said earlier, to see a friend," I say narrowing my eyes at her. She doesn't break eye contact as she picks up the phone and dials someone.

"Yes, Mr. Pasquino. There is a woman down here claiming to know yo-" she pauses, and I can see the flash of shock on her features before she answers.

"Yes sir, my mistake. " She hangs up the phone and grabs a key from the wall handing it to me without another word.

The ride up to the top floor takes about a minute. There is a total of 60 floors in this building. And Luciano decided he wanted to live on the top. He sounded pretty upset on the phone earlier and asked if I could just come and keep him company, so I reluctantly agreed.

My aunt has been on my ass about him the past few weeks. She hates that I talk to him. But Luciano has been so sweet and attentive, completely different than any man I've ever met. Even my ex who had a silver tongue. I shiver as I think of him. No. He's in the past.

The elevator stops and the door opens to a long hallway, with a door at the end of it. I step out of the elevator, and head to the end of the hallway, knocking lightly. A few seconds later, Luciano pulls the door open. The sight of him makes my mouth water.

His black hair is still damp, he obviously had taken a shower earlier, and those eyes. Those steel traps that always catch me in them are staring at me with joy. I want to ask him if he's actually happy to see me, or if he's just amused at my outfit choice.

"Have any trouble getting up?" he asks. I let out a sarcastic laugh walking past him.

"You guys need a friendlier staff," I say. I hear his deep chuckle behind me, giving me chills. The good kind.

"So how was your day today?" I ask as I look around at his apartment in awe. This place is nice. More than nice. It's elegant. And expensive. I take notice that it's silent and turn around looking at Luciano. He's gazing at me with a curious expression on his face.

"What?" I ask. He laughs to himself.

"Nothing. Just... you asked me how my day was," he says in disbelief. I laugh.

"What. Never had a girl ask you that before?" I say as a joke, but his face turns serious.

"Actually, no. I mean, other than my mom and sister, no one usually asks," he says.

"Oh... I'm sorry, I didn't mean to-"

"No, it's ok really," he laughs. But I can tell that there is something off about it. Then I realize what he said.

"You have a sister?" I ask.

"Yeah. Just me and her," he says a little sheepishly.

"Wow, that's amazing. How many years apart are you guys?" I ask.

"Six."

"That's a good distance your parents put between you," I laugh. He only shrugs.

"Well Cat was kind of an accident," he says.

"Cat?" I ask in confusion.

"Caterina. That's my sister's name, we all call her Cat for short," he says.

"That's cute," I say smiling.

I've always wondered what it would be like to have siblings. I was born on accident, my father taking off before my mother even realized what happened. She raised me all alone. And how did I repay her? By getting in trouble causing her to send me away to live with my aunt.

Silence overcomes us and I look around the luxurious penthouse that Luciano calls home.

"This is nice," I say absentmindedly.

"You think so?" Luciano asks. I turn to him once again and see that he's smiling at me. I shrug.

"Yeah, I mean, I've never seen something so nice in person before." He only shrugs.

"I guess it must be something that I take for granted." I scoff at his words. Obviously.

"So, you never answered my question," I say as I turn back to him to see him watching me with such an intensity, it makes me squirm for the first time around him.

"Um, my day was very productive. I managed to get some information I've been seeking, and I managed to finally get you over to my place so it's a double win," he smiles cheekily at me. I can't help but laugh.

"Yeah, you got me over here..." I trail off as my eyes find a piano. It's sitting in the center of the living room, overlooking the city if you gaze beyond it and out the window. I look back at him with a raised brow.

"Quite a decoration you got here." He doesn't speak as I make my way to the piano. It's large and all white. And as I get closer I can make out the name inscribed across the top in silver.

Luciano

"This is yours?" I ask.

He laughs at me.

"Yeah, the whole place is." I give him an annoyed gaze.

"You know what I mean... You play?" I ask. He nods slowly, his gaze becoming uneasy.

"No way. Let me hear something," I say. I can feel myself getting excited. The fact that Luciano plays an instrument gives me a small window into the complicated mess that's his life.

He walks past me, sitting on the bench. He slowly pushes the keys back. Then his whole composure changes as he becomes immersed in what he's doing. He runs his fingers over the keys twice and begins playing. It's just a few random notes at first, and then the whole tune changes as a beautiful melody comes pouring out of it. I stare in awe as Luciano plays something that you'd have to be a master pianist to know how to play. He does it with such grace and ease, that I can't even guess that this was ever complicated for him.

His eyes close as he continues to play his song. And I notice the small smile that appears on his face. As if he's really enjoying himself as he plays. It's surreal seeing him like this. I've only ever seen him cocky and arrogant, but as I watch him play now, he seems so in love with what he's doing. It's like he's a totally different person.

He finishes the melody, and after a moment of staring at the keys, his eyes travel up to mine, and he catches me staring. But I don't bother looking away. I'm speechless. I had no idea he was so talented in something like this.

"That was... amazing…"

"I mean, wow. I really don't know what to say. How long have you been playing?" I ask. He smiles at me.

"Ah, since I was five. My mother taught me," he says. I take note of the hint of adoration in his tone as he speaks of his mother.

"That was absolutely amazing Luciano. You truly have a gift." He glances at me with an unreadable expression.

"Thank you," he says as if no one ever told him that before. I smile at him.

"So how was your day?" he asks. I launch into an explanation about how my day went, and Luciano intently listens. It's as if he's genuinely interested in everything there is to know about me. He only chimes in when he's asking questions. Other than that, he just listens and finds out more and more about me.

I don't even notice that the time has passed until my phone vibrates and it's my aunt asking where I am.

"Oh my gosh, I didn't even realize what time it is," I say looking at my phone with wide eyes. I stand to leave.

"I've really got to get going, my aunt is beginning to worry," I say, making my way towards the door, but Luciano grabs ahold of my arm.

"Wait." Even though I was in a crazy hurry up until that point, he has me wanting to stay. His eyes are piercing my very soul. He opens his mouth as if he's going to say something but decides against it. Then he changes his mind.

"I like you, Sofia." I feel my heart stop at those words. The room feels as though it is spinning. He likes me.

"I mean, I know I shouldn't. I know it's wrong of me, and I know you said you don't have the time for men, but I really do. And if I don't get this off my chest now, I don't know if I ever will."

Part of me wants to tell him to stop. Part of me wants to rip my hand out of his and run away. But another part of me, the selfish part, wants him to continue. Because deep down, I know that I am beginning to mirror those feelings. So, I stand quietly, and I let him continue.

"Sofia, I've never met anyone like you. I don't know what it is about you that makes me feel this way, but I want you. More than I've ever wanted a woman before. You're different. And I'm really developing strong feelings for you. And I don't think I'll ever be able to let you go." His eyes search mine for something.

He steps closer to me, causing me to crane my neck to look at him. Everything in me is screaming to get away. To just leave and tell him nothing can come of this. Images of my ex flash through my mind, but I do my best to push them away.

Luciano places an arm around my waist, pulling me in close to him, gazing down at me. Our bodies are skin to skin, and I can feel the heat from his skin against mine. I swore to myself that I was done with men. I'm here to get my education and push myself in life. No one is going to distract me.

Luciano's eyes flicker to my lips, and back to my face. His hand reaches up as he pushes stray hairs out of my face. I feel electricity shoot through me from the place his knuckles just touched. My mind is running haywire, I try and remind myself of my purpose, my promise to myself and my mother-

Luciano's lips lower to mine, and he kisses me.

All my resolve flies out the window.

~

Chapter 6

"The helium deposit only represents a quarter of..."

I feel myself dozing off as my professor drones on and on about things I could care less about. I've been trying hard all day to focus, but it's near impossible. Every time I close my eyes, every time I clear my head, every time I fucking blink, I think of Luciano. The kiss we shared; was unlike anything I have ever experienced in my life. It was like fireworks going off in my brain. And what do I do the moment he pulls away from it?

I shout bye in his face and run out of the room like it was on fire. I place my head in my hands, running my fingers through my hair. I'm such an idiot. My phone vibrates in my pocket, and I pull it out to see another message from Luciano. He's been calling me and texting me nonstop. And I've been avoiding him like the plague.

I can blame it on a number of things, as to why I'm avoiding him so much, but deep down I know that it is because I am scared. Scared of falling in love again. I barely know him and am already developing strong feelings for him. He's so different than any man I've ever met before. He's kind and gentle, and so attentive of me.

But I can't fool myself into thinking that he is actually different like I did the last time. With the last man that I loved. Or thought that I loved. Except with Luciano, everything seemed sincere. Like he truly cared for me.

"Ms. Munoz if you would rather talk on your phone than pay attention to my boring lecture, might I suggest the hallway?" I look up, and my professor is standing right in front of me, with her arms crossed.

I want to sit still, and just focus on the rest of the lecture, but I know that it is near impossible. Especially since I've been barely able to focus up to this point. So, I slowly rise from my seat, gathering my things, and leave the classroom with a smidge of my dignity still intact.

As soon as I step out into the hallway, I head to my aunt's cupcake shop. She is going to be furious with me for getting kicked out of class, but honestly, I don't even care anymore. She's always angry with me lately. Constantly giving lectures and telling me how I've been given an amazing opportunity.

I'm walking along the sidewalk when a familiar silver sports car pulls up next to me. The engine is so loud, I can barely hear myself think.

"Sofia!" I tense. I know that voice. I turn slowly and look to see Luciano's stupid, yet beautiful face gazing at me. There's a small smile playing at his lips, and it makes me blush even brighter. He turns his car off in the middle of the road, getting out and running around to stop me. I should have known he would show up sooner or later somewhere that I am. He always seems to know my location. I take deep breaths as I anticipate the moment he lays his hands on me.

"Wait, why are you avoiding me?" he asks. I open my eyes and am awestruck. Luciano is perfect. My gaze travels to his lips. Those same lips that kissed me the other day. I shake my head trying to clear my mind of these sexual thoughts beginning to form.

"Luciano, I told you. I don't have time for a man in my life right now." I say in the most convincing tone that I can. But even to myself, I don't sound very convincing. He pouts. He actually sticks out his lip and gives me puppy dog eyes.

"Why," he mumbles. His question catches me off guard. I immediately look away, not wanting him to see that I'm bothered by the question. But him being Luciano, he sees right through me.

"What?" he asks. I feel his fingers underneath my chin as he guides me to meet his gaze. His stormy eyes are digging deep inside of me, and I find it harder and harder with each passing second to keep my past from him. I open my mouth to respond when out of nowhere a horn blows.

"Move your car asshole!" I jump, staring at the man that's screaming out his window at Luciano. Luciano's whole demeanor takes on a change I've never seen in him before. He's cold. Rigid. He turns his head to the man.

"Go around," he snaps. His voice is like a whip. Even the man blinks in shock at the response he gets. And he looks like he's about to say something else but decides against it, going around Luciano's car. Luciano looks back at me.

"You were saying?" His whole demeanor is back to the one that I'm used to. Carefree and whimsical. I gaze at him in confusion.

"What was that all about?" I ask in confusion. Now it's his turn to look confused.

"What?" he asks. I wave my hands towards the road.

"That. That whole… exchange. I've never seen you so... angry," I say a little uneasy. Luciano lets out an uneasy laugh.

"He interrupted you in the middle of your sentence," He says as if the answer is obvious.

"But your car is in the road," I add. Luciano only rolls his eyes walking away from me.

"Let me give you a ride." He walks to the passenger side of the door, holding it open for me, watching me expectantly. I should just keep walking. He can't force me to get in the car. And if I do, I'm just giving him more permission to make advances on me. I'm letting him know that there may be a chance for "us". But like it always does with Luciano, my resolve is quickly dashed as he utters one simple word.

"Please."

~

"You never told me why you don't want a man in your life." Luciano says after a long moment of silence. I let out an irritated sigh. I guess I kind of always knew that he would bring it up again, I just chose to ignore it hoping that he would do the same.

"Just a rough past is all," I say hoping he'll drop it.

"How rough?" he asks.

"I don't want to talk about it, Luciano," I snap. I feel old emotions running through me. Fear, betrayal, hurt. All of which were the reason that I was forced to move out here anyway.

"Sorry. I didn't mean to pry..." We're plunged into silence a little longer. And suddenly, I feel bad for snapping at him.

"Why are you so interested in me anyway Luciano. You've got looks. And you obviously have money. What can I possibly bring to the table that will do anything to benefit your lifestyle?" I ask.

The question is out of my mouth before I can even think to filter it or tone it down. I always do this. Speak before I think. Luciano only chuckles, and when I look at him, he has a small smile on his face.

"My life is complicated as well. And you just so happen to minimize the complication significantly."

"What can I say, Sofia. I told you already I really like you."

I look down at my hands in my lap, my emotions running wild from his words.

"Luciano, I don't even know if I can give you what you're looking for.. I'm broken," I say. The car comes to a halt, and I look up startled. I immediately look around me and see that we're at a park. Luciano gets out, quickly coming around and opening my door for me and offering me his arm.

"Walk with me?" he says with a small smile. I slowly place my hand in his and he leads the way. The sun is shining beautifully through the trees, and there are children running and playing around us. If you saw us from a distance, you would assume that we were a simple couple taking a nice stroll through the park.

Luciano takes me to the edge of the large pond, where the dock meets the water. He takes off his shoes, and rolls up his jeans, taking a seat, his legs dipping into the water. He looks up at me expectantly. I let out a small laugh, taking off my shoes and sitting next to him.

The cool water is soothing against my toes in this heat.

"See how easily you did that?" Luciano’s voice appears out of nowhere. He sounds so relaxed and at ease.

"Did what?" I ask. He chuckles to himself.

"Sat next to me and put your feet in the murky pond water." He says it as if it's such a huge deal, but I don't understand the excitement behind it.

"Ok.. So?"

He turns to look at me.

"In my lifestyle, women don't do that. They don't put their feet in dirty pond water, and they sure as hell don't ask me how my day is," he says. I stare at him and for once feel pity for him. He's never experienced something so… simple?

"You bring a whole lot to the table, that people in my life never could. Trust me. My life is... a nightmare for most." He leans back, resting his weight on his hands as he aims his face towards the sun and closes his eyes.

He looks so relaxed. Like he's genuinely enjoying himself. Which is a lot for a man like him that drives an expensive car and lives in an expensive penthouse. This is a side of him I never even knew existed. In that moment I realize, he's opening up to me. Trying to reassure me so that I will let him into my life.

I look down at my hands, my eyes zeroing in on the scar across my left palm.

"My mother raised me by herself." I close my eyes, taking a deep breath.

"She worked her ass off every day to give me what she didn't have. I was a rebel growing up. Always getting into trouble, getting expelled, hell even I was shocked that I graduated high school. But I met this guy." A bitter laugh escapes me as old memories surface.

"Paul." I haven't said his name in months.

"He was my everything. Or so I thought. He turned me against my mom. Made me act out and get even worse... I was so mean to her." I remember everything I put her through and feel anger at myself for being so stupid over a man.

"But at the end of the day, he betrayed me. He tore apart my life in a matter of weeks and took everything from me. Everything. To protect me, my mom sent me out here. For a better opportunity. A better life. And to get away from trouble. Mainly my ex." I finally look up at Luciano, and he's staring at me with a high intensity, and I know he's listening acutely.

My eyes are beginning to sting, and tears roll down my face. I feel all the resentment and anger that I've tried to keep locked away coming up as I share this important part of me with Luciano.

"I vowed that I was done with men. Done letting them use me and take from me. I promised myself that I would focus on what's important, not just for me but for my mom. So that her decision to keep me instead of having an abortion wasn't the wrong one." I hastily wipe my eyes.

"That's why I can't be with you, Luciano. That's why I avoid you. You make me feel a way, that terrifies me and-and I just can't handle it if you're just-"

I'm cut off, as Luciano smashes his lips to mine. This kiss is nothing like the one we shared at his apartment. It's much more than that. His hands clasp through my hair, and he holds me in place as he kisses me with a passion. I close my eyes, and I kiss him back.

With everything in me, I kiss him back. I feel comforted and safe. Luciano finally pulls away. He reaches out grabbing my hand and placing my palm against his chest. I can feel his heart rhythmically thumping against his chest against my flat palm. His eyes are hooded and clouded with lust, and something else as he stares at me.

"Do you feel that," he whispers. My eyes widen and I nod.

"As long as it's beating. As long as I'm breathing, I will never do anything to hurt you, Sofia." He pulls my hand away from his chest, clasping it between his fingers and squeezing.

"I swear on my name," He says it with such a powerful aura as if his name is powerful, and swearing on it ensures my safety. I squeeze his hand back.

"Promise me, Luciano." He nods his head, never breaking eye contact with me.

"I promise you, Sofia."

~

Luciano

I'm fucked. Utterly, and irrevocably, and completely. I watch Sofia as she gets out of my car and walks into her aunt’s shop. She looks beautiful today as always. She's wearing a light pink dress with rainbow high tops, and a large bow pulling her hair back.

I want her. More than anything I've ever wanted before. Not just sexually. But emotionally. When she was telling me about her ex, I wanted more than anything to find him and snap his neck seeing all the hurt and pain he's put her through. But it's made me understand why she's so adamant about being alone. She's scared.

I'm not good for her. I'm already promised to another. I shouldn't be getting involved with her this deep. But I am. The sad thing is Victoria hasn't even crossed my mind. Not once. Each moment I spend with Sofia only drags me farther away from Victoria.

She's so materialistic and superficial. I couldn't imagine taking Victoria to the park. She'd probably have it condemned the moment she set foot in the grass because her heel got caught or something silly like that.

My mind is a frazzled maze right now from trying to decide between what's right and what should be done. I'm the future Capo right? Whatever I say should go. Why the hell should I have to marry Victoria. She won't even be a plus to us anymore. She'll just be a nuisance to me.

My phone chooses that moment to go off and I look at the screen to see it's my father calling me.

~

"I need you to do something for me." It always starts like this. He gives me the job, and I do it. No questions asked.

"What is it?" My father takes a seat in his desk gazing at me with a serious expression. I know that whatever it is, is super important for him to be looking at me like this.

"Ronaldo is out. I need you to take care of him." I raise a brow at him curious as to what could have happened. Ronaldo wasn't anyone special, he was just a guy that always got the job done and kept to himself.

"Why?" I ask. My father begins messing with the wedding band around his finger as he stares at our family photo.

"He's been embezzling from us."

"How do you know?"

He pulls out the files, laying them across the table. I open them up and my eyes bulge as I look at the bank statements. He's been doing this for years, taking small amounts so that it would be unnoticeable.

"Do you have a destination for me, or am I going in blind?" My father shakes his head, finally making eye contact with me.

"The mountains. He's going to be up there this weekend on a small vacation. I want you to make sure he doesn't come back. Do you understand Luciano?" he asks. I nod. It's simple. He wants him dead. And that is my specialty. Clean kills. My father is known for brutal tortures and horrid deaths, my sister is known for slicing up bodies, and I'm known for clean kills. Especially when it comes to making them look like accidents. Which is why I’m always put on high-profile killings.

"How soon am I leaving?" I ask.

"Friday." I nod my head. Friday is two days away. Plenty of time to get ready for my weeklong trip.

~

After I leave my father’s house, I head home. Or so I meant to do. I end up at Sofia's I just want to see her again. I leave my car up the street since it's so loud and walk to her house. I look around at the cute little neighborhood. Middle-class people obviously live here. There are decent cars in the driveways and modest homes.

I find myself imagining what life would be like if I were born into a normal family. My childhood consisted of living in mansions, enforced with security. Instead of playing tag, I was play hide and go seek with a gun and my father’s enemies. And one day, that life will be passed on to my children.

I see Sofia's house and pause when notice the second-story window. The light is on, shining through. The second-story window is a balcony that I can easily climb if I wanted. I pull out my phone and send her a text.

"look out the window."

If this is Sofia's room, then she’ll poke her head around the blinds. If not, then no harm no foul. She'll look out a different set of windows and I'll find those to gaze back at her through. My heart flutters in excitement when I finally see the curtains quickly drawn back, and Sofia.

I immediately get a raging hard-on. Her hair is down. Completely, and a messy mass of curls. And she's wearing a tank top, without a bra so I can see her perky nipples through the thin fabric. And she's wearing light pink underwear. Her eyes are spitting fire as she looks around, and when her gaze lands on me, her mouth drops open in a wide "O".

I imagine that pretty little mouth wrapped around my cock as she su-

"Luciano, what are you doing here?" I'm shocked out of my imagining, Sofia's angry voice slicing it up like ribbons. I look up and she has a robe on now and is staring at me in disbelief.

"I wanted to see you!" I whisper shout back. She lets out an exasperated sigh, running her fingers through her hair.

"And you couldn't wait until tomorrow because...??" I know she's being serious and very upset with me, but I can't help myself. I chuckle. She looks so damn cute. Like a pissed-off kitten. I shrug at her.

"My aunt is sleeping! Do you know what time it is?" I once again shrug at her as I make my way to the tree that just happens to grow near her window. I grab onto the branches and easily pull myself up and onto the balcony. When I look at her again, she's gazing at me in shock.

"Luciano, how the he-" I cut her off by kissing her. I feel an exploding relief. It's only been a few hours, yet I feel like it's been days. Her lips are so soft and warm against mine. I lightly trace my tongue against her pouty bottom lip and walk her backward into the bedroom, kicking the balcony door closed behind me.

I feel her hands on my chest, and all too soon, she pulls away from the kiss. She's gazing at me with wide eyes, her hand over her mouth. I laugh at the sight.

"I just missed you," I say. I turn away from her before she can respond looking around the room. It's light green, with paintings all over the walls. Not only that but there are signs that a person actually lives here. There are books on the desk, shoes by the door, clothes are even on the floor by the bathroom door. I notice that the TV is on, and the show, Friends, is on. Why does that not surprise me? If Victoria saw this room she would burn half the things in it.

"Luciano, you can't possibly be serious," I look at Sofia and she's giving me a stern look. I love that about her. I take a step towards her, putting on my charm.

"Can't I just.. hang out for a little wh-"

"Are you crazy? My aunt is downstairs!" She cuts me off and I laugh finding it refreshing. She's the only woman that has ever been able to resist my charms. Another thing I like about her.

I kick off my shoes, toss my jacket on the chair, and flop down on her bed.

"Aye, Luciano!" She runs her hands over her face then launches into scolding me for something. I can't tell you what it is because she's scolding me in Spanish. It's the sexiest damn thing I've ever heard. I want to tear her clothes off right now and take her right here on this bed. I want to make her scream my name because I gave her that pleasure, and I'm the only one that can.

I hop up from her bed, grabbing the edges of her robe and pulling her flush against my body.

"I love it when you talk Spanish to me. Do it again," I growl bringing my hands up to push her hair away from her face. Her eyes widen slightly, and before I can touch her face, her hand shoots out of nowhere, slapping me.

"Flacate!" She hisses. I jerk my hand back utterly shocked by that. I let out a confused laugh. She ducks underneath my arms, walking around to the door in her room and pulling it open to reveal a bathroom.

"Ok you can stay, but here are the rules. If you're going to be in my bed, you need to shower. And two, if you so much as touch me sexually, I will cut your fingers off and eat them for breakfast, Luciano." She says it with such a fire. I chuckle at her and raise my hands in surrender.

"Ok," I chuckle walking past her and into the shower. After I'm showered and in a pair of shorts her uncle used to own, I'm lying on top of the covers of Sofia's bed. She won't even let me get underneath the covers. I want nothing more than to crawl under the covers with her and cuddle, but that is obviously not going to happen tonight.

I hear her chuckle next to me as something funny happens on Friends. We're watching TV. I've never actually sat down and enjoyed a woman's company before. At least not one that I wanted to sleep with. But oddly enough, I don't mind this. It's nice. Comforting.

"Thank you, for opening up to me today, Sofia," I say. I feel her tense next to me, and she shifts to look at me. After a long pause, she finally speaks.

"Thank you for listening," She says with a small smile. I can't help myself. I lean in to kiss her, only to be stopped by her fingers against my lips. She's giving me a sly smile.

"No no Luciano. Especially not in these circumstances." She gestures to the bed. And I get it. I laugh it off, but deep down I want to pout at the rejection.

The night gets later and later, and as the night passes, Sofia leans more towards me. So now, she is asleep in my arms. I find myself genuinely interested in this show that she is so crazy about. It's funny. She jumps in my arms, and I look down at her. Her eyes are still closed. She lets out a deep breath, her lips parting slightly. She's beautiful. So damn beautiful. And she's beginning to trust me, and let me in.

I feel an overwhelming need developing inside of me as I watch her unconscious body. A need to protect her and love her the way she deserves to be loved. I will do that for her. I will be that man. For her.

I feel my eyes grow heavy as I watch her sleep. And eventually, I fall asleep, with the one woman that has managed to tame me in my arms.

~

Chapter 7

I jolt awake as a knock sounds at the door.

"Sofia, you awake?" I don't have the time to get my bearings before I feel a sharp kick in my back, and I'm sent flying off the edge of the bed. I hit the ground with a loud thud, hiding me from the view of the door, just as Sofia's aunt opens her door.

"What was that?" I hear her aunt ask. Sofia shifts in her bed.

"Nothing, tia, just my phone," she laughs nervously. Her aunt is silent for a moment before speaking.

"Ok... well, I'm leaving for the shop. You don't have to come in until later, it should be slow today. Just don't forget to go by the bank and take out that money before three, ok?"

"Yes ma'am," I hear the click of the door and the retreating sound of footsteps. Sofia falls back on her bed in a heap letting out a loud sigh.

"That was close," she murmurs. I slowly stand, looking at her. She has her arm slung over her face, and the blanket is barely around her thighs giving me room to see everything she has to offer. She opens her eyes looking at me, then realizing her predicament, she grabs a pillow and throws it at me.

"Stop it you perv!" she hisses. I can't help but chuckle.

"Sorry, you just look so damn sexy in the mornings," I say turning my back to her. I look at my watch and see that it's already 9 AM. I should be getting everything together for my impromptu trip that I leave for tomorrow.

"What are you doing today?" I ask. I hear Sofia shuffling towards her bathroom, and when I turn around, she's pulling her shirt over her head with her back to me and heading to the shower. She nonchalantly tosses her shirt on the floor and disappears from my view. Damn. I have a raging hard-on from the sight. I hear the water running then she finally calls out to me.

"Just going by the bank for my aunt, then working," she says.

I look towards her bathroom door which is still cracked open, and it takes everything in me not to go in there and pull back the curtains. I take a deep breath. Or five. And grab a sheet of paper off of her desk. I write her a quick note and leave it on her bed.

-I'll see you at 4.

I then head to the window, taking one last look into the bedroom that she occupies, and head to my car.

~

I step out of the shower, heading straight to my closet to get some clothes on. As I maneuver through my house I for once notice how bland it is. There is no personality in it, like Sofia's bedroom. The closest thing I have to color in here is gray. And the only thing that reflects my personality is the piano in the living room.

I let out a deep sigh, running my towel through my hair when I feel a familiar tingle running up my spine. I immediately turn around, and sure enough, I have an unexpected visitor. Cat. She's looking at me in defeat. I let out a deep sigh, walking towards my dresser for a shirt.

"What is it, Cat?" I'm really not in the mood for her today.

"You haven't been answering my calls," she murmurs. I pause midstride when I hear something in her voice. She sounds really sad. Which is out of character for her. I turn to face her, and she has her head down and her hands in her lap.

"Cat what's the matter?"

She finally looks up.

"I just wanted to tell you that I'm sorry," she says. I gaze at her in shock. She's apologizing? Before I can question her, she continues.

"I was behaving like a spoiled brat. I should have never said what I did about our mother. She isn't weak at all. And it was selfish of me to say so. It was also insensitive of me to talk about her situation knowing that you're very well in the same one." She finally looks at me.

"I'm really sorry, Luciano. I can't take you being mad at me. Please don't ignore me anymore." I gaze at her a little while longer and let out a small laugh. I walk to the edge of my bed, taking a seat next to her, and wrap my arms around her.

"I could never stay mad at you Cat."

~

"So, dad's sending you up to the mountains?" Cat's looking at the sweaters and jackets that I laid out to pack.

"Yeah. On official business," I say. Cat doesn't respond. She only folds the jacket and places it in the suitcase I laid out.

"When's the last time you spoke to Victoria?" I feel irritated at the mention of her name.

"I don’t know, why?" I ask.

"She's been calling me nonstop asking where you are and what you're doing. But she told me not to tell you she was asking," Cat chuckles. I pull a gray shirt over my head, walking to my weapons vault.

"Yeah well, she showed up last week practically naked asking me to sleep with her," I say. I'm walking past Cat when she grabs onto my arm. I look at her with a raised brow but she's staring at me in confusion.

"You mean... sex?" she asks. I laugh shaking my arm loose of her grip.

"Yes. Sex."

"And you didn't do it?" she asks.

"No. I can't even stand to be in the same room as her let alone have sex with her," I say. I hear Cat laughing.

"Well, that's going to be a problem when it's time for you to produce an heir." I roll my eyes.

"Anyway, long story short, when I refused her and told her we could talk, she stormed out of here telling me, 'fuck you'."

Cat laughs even louder.

"Gee, I wonder why she would have said something so horrible." She continues to laugh as she conjures up more jokes to make fun of Victoria.

"I'm surprised she even knew that word. What's a young lady like her doing using such foul language?" She says sarcastically. I can't help but laugh along with her.

"Wait. How'd she even get in here?" Cat asks.

"She has a key," I say.

"Well, it may be time to change the locks, Luciano," she snickers. She says it as a joke, but the idea sticks with me. Maybe that would be a much better idea. We grow silent, and I find my mind drifting to Sofia. I'm supposed to go on this trip, and I'll be gone for at least a week. That means being away from her for an entire week.

I perk up as an idea pops into my head. What if I brought her along? Sort of as a mini-vacation for her. I wouldn't even have to tell her about what's going on, I can just tell her I'm going on a business trip and she's welcome to come with me. That's perfect!

"What's perfect?" I tense when I hear Cat.

"What?" I turn to face her and she's eyeing me.

"You said, "that's perfect'. What is?"

"Uh, nothing. Sorry, just talking to myself," I chuckle nervously.

"What are you hiding Luciano?" she asks.

"Nothing, Cat," I snap. She's quiet for a second, then I hear her walking toward me.

"You may be able to fool your friends, but you can't fool me." She's looking at me hard. Studying me.

"It must be something big if you don't even want to tell me about it." She seems to be mulling it over, then she gets this 'Ah Ha' look on her face, then shock, and finally disbelief.

"It's that girl isn't it." My emotions come to a raging halt.

"No."

Cat laughs at me; she's got me all figured out.

"Yes, it is! You like her," she says.

"Look, Sofia and I-"

"Sofia? Oh, she has a name now?" Cat brings her hands up over her mouth.

"You've met her, Luciano you like her you really do! Oh my gosh, you're in deep shit if you th-"

"I know that!" I shout. Cat jumps from my sudden outburst.

"Don't you think I know that Cat? I didn't mean to, I didn't mean to even talk to her but somehow I did, and you know what? I liked her. I liked talking to her. I liked getting to know her, and I want to know her more. I want her ok? I don't want Victoria in the least, I want Sofia." 

Cat's eyes widen with each word that pours out of my mouth, but I can't stop myself. With everything that's been going on and all the stress that's been mounting, I've literally been unable to talk to anyone about my true feelings. What's really going on deep inside me.

I slowly sink down on the edge of my bed.

"I know, I'm in deep shit, Cat. I shouldn't even be entertaining the idea of Sofia, but the more I talk to her, the more I find that I like what she has to offer. And I just... I can't leave her alone.." I turn to look at Cat expecting her to be disappointed in me, but I'm shocked to find pity. There's a pity in her gaze.

For me.

She walks so that she is standing right next to where I'm seated on my bed and places her arm on my shoulder.

"I'm sorry, fratello... What are you gonna do?" I let out a deep sigh.

"I really, don't know."

"Knock Knock!" I tense as I hear the loud click of heels echoing off the walls of my penthouse.

"Luciano, where are you?" I look up at Cat and I see the annoyance that's plastered on her face, just as Victoria walks in the doorway of my room. She pauses as she sees Cat. She's wearing a black dress that clings to her body and bright red stilettos that could stab a fucking cat. Her hair is piled high on top of her head with large curls, and she's wearing dark red lipstick. Such a stark contrast in comparison to Sofia. I can't even imagine Sofia wearing something like that.

"Oh, Caterina, it's nice to see you again." Victoria plasters on a smile, but Cat doesn't return it.

Victoria's gaze reaches me and she walks over to me, leaning in to give me a kiss, but I move away from her. She notices, a frown appearing on her blood lips and she stands up straight.

"Look, I've been doing some thinking, and-" She pauses, her gaze traveling to Cat.

"Can you give me and my fiance some privacy?" I see Cat crossing her arms over her chest and I know she's about to get violent, so I stand between them.

"It's ok, Cat. I'll see you later. Thanks for coming by." I smile at her, and she looks between me and Victoria, before finally pulling me in for a hug.

"I'll see you when you get back,"  she says, before turning to leave the room. I hear my front door close and finally turn back to Victoria.

"What do you want, Victoria," I ask.

"I just want to talk," she says. I raise a brow at her.

"Oh. Now you want to talk. Because last time I tried that, you got pretty upset with me and stormed out of here remember?"

"Luciano, I did not come here to fight with you."

"Then why did you come." She shrugs, looking around, and then takes a few steps towards me.

"You've been different. Distant. It's like I don't even know you," she says as she places her hand on my chest and presses her body flush against mine. It takes everything in me not to shove her away.

"I just got back from my trip to Milan, and I was thinking. Maybe, you and I can go somewhere together." I gaze at her in confusion but don't speak. So she continues.

"There's a charity ball tonight, the minister of Justice is going to be there, and I promised that my fiance would show up and say a few words." She looks at me with puppy dog eyes, and I scoff, walking away from her.

"So that's what this is about. You need me as eye candy," I say. She huffs in irritation.

"Oh, come on Luciano. It's not like I'm asking you to do anything crazy. I just need you on my arm tonight so that I can fulfill my end of the deal," she says. I roll my eyes, as anger begins to form inside of me. She hasn't even apologized for last week. She just shows up and expects me to roll over.

"Don't you ever get tired of fighting for power, Victoria?" I ask in irritation. I turn to face her and she's gazing at me in shock.

"I mean, let's be honest. It's no secret that you only tolerate me because I'm your family's ticket to power," I hiss. She looks taken aback, then feigns anger.

"That is not true, Luciano! You know I love y-"

"Don't say that. Don't throw that word around as if it means something to you when you know it doesn't." I turn away from her walking to my bed and grabbing my suitcase hastily zipping it up. I begin walking towards the door, and I hear her footsteps coming at me from behind. Her hands grab onto my suitcase, ripping it from my grasp. It clatters on the floor and I turn around just in time to see her hand coming at my face.

I snatch it just in time. Inches from connecting with my face. I stare her down, and she does the same. I count to 10 in my head, my anger steadily growing, so I try and calm myself before I do something I'll regret. I let go of her, stepping back.

"Don't forget who you're speaking to, Luciano. I am your soon-to-be wife. You had better learn to live with that," she hisses. I narrow my eyes at her as my anger overflows.

"Let me tell you something, Victoria. We may be engaged, and I may be forced to marry you, but I will never love you." I say it as a test, to see how she'll react. If she'll be hurt by my words or not. But she does just as I suspect. She narrows her eyes and laughs. She fucking laughs and stands taller.

"You really think I care? Our marriage isn't for love, Luciano. It's for power. What does love have to do with it? Do you think love runs this world? No. Money. Power. Fear. That's what rules this world." She steps closer to me until she is pointing at my chest, looking me dead in the eyes.

"If you think I'm in this for love, you've got another thing coming. I could care less about your affections towards me." We stare each other down for what seems like an eternity until she finally decides she's done. She laughs at me, and whips around, heading for the door.

I'm walking through the lobby when I see Victoria on the phone. She looks angry. I try and find a place I can eavesdrop, and settle for a group of people that are doing an amazing job at concealing me.

"There's no way it's happening now. I may have pushed him a little too far." She pauses.

"I don't know! He refuses to touch me. He wants to wait until our wedding night if we even make it that far... That's why I tried to sleep with him, to get pregnant then we would have definitely had it in the bag but he's so stubborn. He's nothing like his father. He's like his bitch mother." She flips her hair and walks to the exit so I can no longer hear the conversation, but I don't want to. My ears are ringing. I feel so much anger at her words.

She was trying to get pregnant by me? That explains why she'd been throwing herself at me as of late. I laugh to myself, but I feel numb. This is hell. My father has sentenced me to hell. With her. I walk out of the lobby, to the parking garage below, and throw my suitcase in the trunk of my car. I get on the driver's side, speeding out, knowing my exact location.

~

The bell goes off above my head as I open the door to the cupcake shop. There are a few people in here, and I see exactly what I'm looking for. Sofia is wiping down one of the tables.

She's wearing simple white shorts and a tank top, that's open to her ribs so I can see the splatter paint sports bra underneath. Her hair is up in a messy bun, but that doesn't stop the many curls that fall out of it, tickling her neck and cheeks. I smile as I get closer to her, and she finally realizes the purposeful footsteps coming her way.

She looks up and shock crosses her face when she sees me.

"Luciano, what are you-"

I cut her off as I grab her in my arms and smash my lips to hers. Relief floods through me. She's my reprieve. My break from everything. She makes me feel. She makes all of my anger dissipate.

I forget about everything as I kiss her. I forget about my anger and suffering, and the betrayals that surround me. All I can think about is her. Her scent, her touch, anything that relates to her. I feel her hands on my chest and pull away from the kiss. She's staring at me in shock. A light blush crosses her cheeks, and her lips are swollen. She looks sexy as hell.

"Luciano, what's gotten into you?" She asks, her gaze darting to the counter. I wrap my arms around her, pulling her in close to me so that she is flush against my body.

"Nothing, I just missed you." I reach up to push her curls out of her face.

"God, you're perfect. Have I told you how perfect you are?" She raises a brow at me, and a small smile appears on her lips. She reaches up, placing her hand against my forehead.

"Did you hit your head when I kicked you out of my bed this morning?" she asks. I smile, and eventually, a laugh overcomes me.

"No. You just, make me so happy. You have no idea." I say in a serious tone. Her gaze widens, and a blush appears as she looks away. It's so fucking adorable. I lean in close to her so that I'm inches from her lips.

"Kiss me," I murmur. She does. She gives me a soft kiss and pulls away with a twinkle in her gaze.

"Ok, Papi, I've got to get back to work and you're distracting me.=," she laughs, walking around me. I watch her as she walks around to the other tables and begins wiping them frantically.

"When do you have a break?" I ask. She points at the clock.

"An hour." I nod my head and walk outside to wait.

~

"Here you are." The woman smiles seductively as she hands me both ice cream cones, but I don't care. I hand Sofia her strawberry ice cream cone, and we continue walking in the park. It's comforting, having her walk next to me like this. I smile to myself. It's as if we were an actual couple. 

I wish we were.

"I'm going out of town tomorrow," I say. I stop walking and turn to face Sofia.

"What for?" She asks.

"Business." This catches her attention and she looks like she's going to ask me to go into more detail, but decides against it.

"So where are you going?" she asks.

"Up in the mountains," I say, watching her as she enthusiastically eats her ice cream cone.

"How long are you gonna be gone?" she asks. I chuckle as I waggle my brow at her.

"Why. Gonna miss me?" I laugh. She playfully hits me on the chest and begins walking again.

"Hardly." I chuckle to myself as I watch her lean figure sway in front of me. I begin to imagine that figure on top of me, moaning out loud, screaming my name until-

"Luciano, you coming or you just gonna stand there?" I'm pulled from my imagination to see Sofia far away from me, she's looking at me with an amused expression. I take on a light jog to reach her.

"So you never answered my question," she says.

"About a week or so."

Quite honestly I'm not sure. I have to watch his schedule and use my intuition to know when the right moment is to kill him. So it could take a week, but it could also take a few days.

Sofia moves her body against mine as she looks up at me and pops her leg up.

"Well, good luck on your business trip Mr. CEO," she jokes. I laugh, and before I can think the words are out of my mouth.

"Come with me," I say. Her smile drops and she looks like she's confused.

"What?" She asks.

"I said, come with me," I say searching her face.

"I'll be gone most of the time, so you won't even have to worry about me trying anything, it'll be like a vacation for you." I quickly try and find excuses for her to come with me, but she is still staring at me like I'm crazy.

"Luciano, I-"

"Please. It'll be fun, and it's perfect for you to get away. You'll be my guest," I say giving her a pleading smile, but she looks confused still.

"Why are you being so nice to me? You're willing to take me on a vacation with you?"

"Why do I have to have a reason to be nice to you, Sofia? What if I just want to?" I say staring in those hazel eyes.

"I...I don't know what to say," she murmurs. I feel the ice cream cone melting over my hands, but I don't care. I'm so focused on her, willing her to just say yes and come with me.

"Say you'll go."

~

Chapter 8

Luciano

No. She said no. I should have known that she wouldn't come with me. The disappointment is still there though. Any other woman would have jumped at the chance to have a free vacation. But that's where I made the mistake. Sofia isn't like most women. She's different. And she surprises me at every turn.

"Here's the itinerary for Ronaldo, Mr. Pasquino. He landed about 3 hours ago. His reservations are also on there." I look up as my flight attendant, Danielle hands me the paperwork.

She even smiles suggestively at me. Danielle and I have a past together. Not a romantic past seeing as she works for my family, but an intimate past. I can see that she wants to explore some of that intimacy today as well on this long flight. And she looks damn good, her breasts are pushed up high and everything. But she isn't Sofia.

I haven't had sex since the night before my birthday. And I won't lie, it's killing me. But every time I look for someone, my mind wanders, and I find myself comparing them to Sofia. I want her. Bad. Even now I can feel a stirring in my pants at the thought of her.

"Can I get you anything else, Mr. Pasquino?" Danielle rubs her hand along my shoulder, causing me to look up at her. I give her a sexy smile, grabbing a hold of her hand and pulling her between my legs. She smiles back at me. I move my eyes down, and she takes the hint kneeling in front of me.

~

Ronaldo Vortman.

It's a strange feeling, watching the man that protected you as you grew up. He wasn't anyone special, but still, he was family. He's been a part of my training since I was a child and a part of my father's security. And he's been stealing from us all along.

I feel bitterness as I watch him. He's at the bar, throwing money everywhere with whores in his arms even though he has a wife. Such a careless man. If he was going to steal from Luca Pasquino of all people, he should have at least been smart about it. Everyone knows when you cross Luca Pasquino that's it. He's a ruthless man. And I have the wonderful pleasure of calling him father.

If I could have the pleasure of choosing who I was going to spend the rest of my life with, I would take that chance so fast. But I was born to the Capo. And that decision fell on my father. I don't know why. It's a ridiculous rule. When it's time for me to have children, I am never going to force that burden over their heads. No matter what the play for power is.

I train my gaze back to the traitorous bastard that's enjoying himself. He has no idea what's about to come his way. He's so confident in himself, he doesn't even pay attention to his surroundings. He takes one of the bottles I had delivered, popping it open and guzzling it down. In the process, he gives some to the women around him. I laugh to myself. He just killed them without even realizing it. I check my watch. It should take effect in about 4 hours. I wanted this to be silent. Where he wouldn't even know what hit him, but watching him now, I want to know why. Why he would betray us.

I stand from my seat, heading to the back exit to wait for him to "retire" to his room.

~

I step into the suite, Ronaldo seemed to have no guards this time. I push the door to the bedroom open and sure enough, he's lying in the center of 4 naked women. Two of which are as good as dead. I turn my nose up in disgust. How these women could sleep with him looking the way he looks is past me.

I give a light-pitched whistle, and his eyes fly open as he looks around. He tenses, causing the women around him to shuffle. His eyes land on me, and I see the terror in his gaze.

"Luciano..." He all but whispers my name. He clears his throat, wiping the terror from his eyes letting out a nervous laugh.

"To what do I owe the visit?" He motions to the women around him.

"Can I offer you a-?"

"Aren't you married, Ronaldo," I say. His eyes widen. The women slowly one by one wake up, eyes widening as they look around sleepily and see the man standing over them with a gun. Light gasps fill the room, some of them even looking to Ronaldo for safety. I chuckle at the sight.

"This man is married did any of you know that?" I ask. Their eyes widen, some of them even shake their heads. Now I laugh.

"Oh? So, you didn't notice the ring on his finger?" I growl.

People that violate the sanctity of marriage disgust me. They all have a choice. Something that was taken from me. They fuck over their spouses without so much as a second glance.

I aim the gun at the blonde, and she gasps, whimpering in fear.

"Get the fuck out," I growl, "Now!" I snap after they take too long to move. They run past me, but I grab the two that Ronaldo inadvertently killed.

"Not you two." I motion for the floor.

"Sit." They whimper, taking a seat. I look back to Ronaldo.

"Why?" I ask. He glares at me for a moment, before letting out a laugh.

"Because my wife isn't the only woman out there, Luciano. You should know that."

"You know that's not what I fucking mean." I hiss. He looks confused for a moment, then sits back on the bed.

"Ah. The money." He looks at me.

"You can at least let me put some clothes on, Luciano." I don't respond.

"C'mon. For old times sake?" I keep my eyes trained on him.

"Why? My father took care of you. He gave you more money than you deserved. Why would you steal from him? From us?" I repeat. He narrows his eyes at me.

"What do you think makes this world go around, Luciano. Why do you think your father is so powerful? Fear. Fear is what controls people. And what comes in at a strong second? Money."

"So, you just betrayed the family for money."

"That family is a curse. I didn't betray anyone. And I am not the only traitor amongst you." He leans back, knowing his words have caught my attention.

"So, before you kill me, let me tell you something Luciano. Be wary of who your father brings in and out of your family. To gain or lose. He is making a mistake by bringing in all these outsiders. No matter the gain," he says.

I turn to the women, cowering underneath me, and shoot them both in the head. They collapse on the ground, and I turn back to Ronaldo, who is staring at me in shock.

"You killed them when you decided to share your little drink. I just didn't want them to feel the pain you're about to in..." I look at my watch.

"About 30 seconds," I finish. I turn to leave the room, calling over my shoulder.

"Thanks for the warning, Ronaldo." I step out of the room just in time to hear his gurgling and scream of pain. I step into the living room to find the women I sent out of the room, trying to get out of the front door. I raise my gun, firing two shots, killing them instantly. Their lifeless bodies hit the floor in a heap.

No witnesses. My father was very clear about that. It seems that this trip has given me more than just a kill. There are traitors among us. This is going to be very interesting indeed.

~

Sofia

I pick up the penny on the counter and spin it for what seems like the millionth time today. I never thought I'd say it, but I miss Luciano. He's been gone all week. On his trip he invited me to come with him on. I wanted more than anything to go, but my aunt would never allow it, and I don't know him well enough. For all I know he could be taking me to the mountains to kill me.

I chuckle to myself at the thought. Luciano doesn't seem like the guy to hurt even a fly. He's sweet and caring. I sit up straight as I realize that I'm thinking about him again. I look at the clock again, willing it to move faster. I've never had a problem working in my aunt’s cupcake shop, but since Luciano's been gone I find myself waiting for work to be over, so the day will go quicker, and I can be closer to seeing him.

I told myself that after what happened with my ex, that men were out of the question. But Luciano has made that very impossible. He makes me feel like there's hope for me. Especially with him. There's a surprise with him every day. The door to the shop opens, causing the bell to sound throughout the store, and in walks a man.

He looks slightly familiar, but I can't pinpoint where I've seen him before. You would think that I wouldn't forget those cold blue eyes though. His whole demeanor is off. Scary. He pushes his hands in his pocket as he walks around the store gazing around.

"Can I help you, sir?" I ask. He looks in my direction, and my blood runs cold. He seems so cold.

"Is the owner in?" he asks. Even his tone chills me to the bone. But I try and keep my composure.

"No, she's out for the moment, but she'll be back in about 15 minutes," I say giving him a smile. He chuckles, walking to the counter, his tall body towering over me as he gazes down on me.

"Tell her, the boss sends his regards. She'll know what I'm talking about." I narrow my eyes at him, opening my mouth to give him a snide remark, but my aunt comes out of the back in a sweaty mess.

"Please, I'm here!" She shouts. I look at her in confusion and she gives me a be quiet gaze. The man stares her down, and motions for her to follow him. She moves to go from behind the counter when I grab hold of her arm.

"What's going on?" I ask worriedly. She only shakes her head at me, but I can sense that something is off.

"It's fine, Sofia,” she murmurs jerking her hand from my grip. I watch worriedly as she walks from around the counter heading to the front of the door. Her and the man exchange words, but I can't hear them. She reaches in her apron handing him an envelope.

He still doesn't look happy though. I stand from my seat, about to walk towards them, when she whips her head in my direction. She holds her hand up stopping me. He gazes in my direction, narrowing his eyes and saying something to her. Then he walks away. She watches him leave, before stepping back into the shop.

She looks stressed, but when she sees I'm watching her, she gives me a smile.

"What was that all about?" I ask. She waves me off though.

"Oh, nothing. Just rent is all." She tries to go back to work cleaning off a table, but I get up from my seat and walk to her to let her know that I'm worried.

"Auntie." I grab onto her hand, and she looks up at me with wide eyes. But I don't waver. I stare her down.

"If there's something going on, you can tell me." She doesn't move. Only stares me down. She looks as though she wants to tell me something, and the moment she opens her mouth, she closes it. She looks behind me and panic blooms on her face. I smell it. Smoke. My heart explodes in my chest as I turn around to see the blazing inferno spreading rapidly from the kitchen.

"Dios Mio."

~

Luciano

I burst through my father’s doors, rage fueling me.

"What the hell!" I shout. I hadn't even realized my mother was in his office. She looks at me in shock, probably because she's never seen me like this.

"Luciano!" she gasps. My father's gaze slowly travels up to me, and he motions to my mother.

"Elise. Leave us," he says. And she does just that. She stands, and leaves the room, giving me a worried glance before she exits. His cold gray eyes travel up to mine, and he levels me with his gaze. Maybe that works to intimidate others, but not me.

"You want to check your tone before you make a big mistake, son?" He asks, which only serves to piss me off even further.

"You fucking burned down the cupcake shop?? Their payment wasn't even due yet!" I shout. He narrows his eyes at me.

"Yes. It was. She was short last month, and she was supposed to have the rest in full, which she failed to do. So, she faced repercussions." He sits back in his seat with a raised brow at me.

"You could have fucking killed her," I hiss. Now he crosses his arms and leans back in his chair, tilting his head at, me.

"Who. The shop owner?" He reaches under his desk and throws some pictures down on his desk.

"Or her fucking employee!" Now he's shouting. I look down at the pictures, and sure enough, there is a photo of me and Sofia at the park together. There is also a picture of us kissing.

I grab them.

"Where did you get these?"

"Luciano. You're the son of the biggest crime family in the world. Did you really think that something like this would stay quiet?" He growls. I look up at him in irritation.

"Yeah right. You had someone tailing me." He doesn't deny it or confirm it.

"Are you stupid, Luciano? You are to be married in a years’ time. Now isn't the time to-"

"I don't want to fucking marry that bitch!" I shout.

"Oh, please Luciano. You're acting like a spoiled child."

"Am I? Tell me, what kind of gain are we getting from this union?" He turns on me, anger in his face.

"When I was forced to marry your mother, I was just like you. I didn't want to do it. But I knew my duty. And look at us now."

I let out a bitter laugh.

"If you think that I can ever love Victoria, then-"

"It's not about love you fu-"

"Luca!" We both pause.

My mother. She's standing in the open doorway. Tears are forming in her eyes, and her bottom lip is trembling. I watch in fascination as my father melts. His whole angry demeanor just disappears as he rounds the desk going to my mother’s aid.

"Elise.. I-" She cuts him off as he gets closer to her. Her eyes move to me, and she shakes her head running out of the room. My father doesn't spare me a glance as he takes off after her.

"Shit," I hiss to myself, heading out of the house in irritation.

I head straight home. I don't even know how to face Sofia. Knowing that her aunt is in the hospital, and her aunt's shop is virtually destroyed because of me. How can I do that knowing it was my father behind it?

After I'm showered and unpacked, I leave all the lights out in my apartment and lay on my bed. I'm literally at a loss for actions. It seems the moment I take time to do something for myself, I end up creating a butterfly effect that hit six people. Maybe I just need to leave Sofia alone. It's for the best.

At that moment, a light knock sounds on the door. I sit up in confusion. If it were anyone that had a key they would let themselves in since I haven’t changed the locks yet. I reach for the gun beside my bed, and slowly make my way to the door. I thought I tied up all loose ends when it came to Ronaldo, but maybe I missed someone. The knock sounds again, but it's harder this time. More urgent.

I walk through the dark house, and finally reach the front door, looking through the hole. I can't see anyone. I slowly unlock the door, calming my nerves, and yank it open aiming my gun at Sofia.

Her eyes widen and she gasps in fear.

"Shit! I'm sorry," I say immediately putting it away in the waistband of my pants. She's already backing out of the doorway.

"No wait please," I say reaching for her. I grab onto her and immediately notice that she's crying. Her eyes are puffy and red as well as her nose. Her hair is also wilder than usual.

"Hey.. what's wrong why are you crying?" I lean down to her eye level, reaching out to wipe the tears falling. She opens her mouth to speak, but a broken sob comes out. I pull her into me, hugging her.

"Shhhh. Come on inside," I say. She rubs her eyes and sniffles, getting tears all over my chest. But I don't care.

Sofia's sitting at the kitchen bar, with a cup of hot chocolate in front of her. She stares at the mug but doesn't speak. And I don't push her to. I know why she's so upset. But she doesn't know that. So, I patiently wait for her to open up to me.

"My aunt is in the hospital," she whispers. I flinch from her voice. It's hoarse.

"What happened?" I ask. She sniffles again, the sound pulling at my heartstrings.

"There was a fire. It happened so fast… And the smoke..." She breaks off again, crying. After she calms herself down a bit, she speaks again.

"The shop is... destroyed." She's quiet.

"Visitor hours are over... And I just hate sitting in that house all alone...," she trails off. In light of the circumstances, I'm glad she came to me. It shows that she has some kind of emotion for me. She trusts me.

I walk around the counter and spin her on the barstool so that she is facing me, as I step between her legs. I place my fingers under her chin, lifting her to meet my gaze and offer her a light smile.

"I'm glad you came, Sofia. My home is always open to you," I say. I watch in fascination as her eyes grow wider, and tears form, falling down her face. I won't lie. Some women don't look great when they cry, but Sofia looks sexy as hell when she does.

"Shhh. Hey, you'll get through this, ok? I promise everything is going to be ok," I murmur as I step closer to her so that I'm hugging her. She just doesn't even realize that everything will truly be ok. She doesn't know how much power I have over this situation.

I don't know how long she cries into my chest, but I don't mind it at all. It's nice holding someone. Never in my life have I held a woman that I truly cared about. And doing it now, I feel such peace.

I find myself growing even more fond of Sofia. Protective.

"I'm sorry, to come here and cry all over you. You must be exhausted from your trip." She moves to leave, but I hold her.

"Wait. Where are you going?" I ask. She hastily wipes her eyes.

"Uh, home. I have to get some sleep and try and fix-"

"Stay here," I say.

The words are out of my mouth before I can stop them. I want her to stay here. Especially now when she told me she hates being home alone. She furrows her brow at me and opens her mouth to protest.

"It's not about me. I know that you're in a very vulnerable state right now and need someone to be there for you. I'm willing to do that. I have a guest room, and you can stay in there," I say. I walk away from her heading to the hallway. When I hear she's not following me, I look back at her.

She's watching me with uncertainty. But finally, she stands and follows me to the guest room.

~

I'm standing outside Amadeo's house. Sofia went to sleep, and once I changed the locks on the house I decided to pay him a visit. Me and him usually make those runs together involving that section of the city.

He jerks open the door, and before he can utter a word, I'm yanking him by the collar out of his front door and smashing him into the wall.

"What the fuck man," I growl. His eyes grow wide when he realizes the mood I'm in. I rarely ever put my hands on anyone. And everyone knows when that happens, I'm not happy.

"What?" he asks. He has clear confusion on his face.

"You burned down that fucking cupcake shop!" I hiss.

"I was just following orders!" he growls.

"And orders were to burn it down?!" I shout.

"Why do you care?" We stare each other down, and I drop him. He fixes his shirt in irritation, but I don't miss the hesitation in his movements. He's nervous. I let out a deep sigh.

"The woman from the shop," I say. Amadeo raises a brow at me not getting what I'm saying.

"The owner?" I let out a deep sigh shaking my head.

"No. Her employee." He's silent.

"Shit man."

I let out a bitter laugh. That seems to be everyone's response.

"I'm sorry, Luciano. I didn't know I swear." Amadeo is apologizing but I'm not listening. Her aunt is in the hospital. That could have easily been her. I move quicker than he expects, using my forearm to smash him into the wall.

"From now on, that place is under my protection. Sheis under my protection," I growl. Amadeo's eyes widen with each word I speak. He's moving his hands to my arm, but I keep him pinned.

"What about… Victoria...," he chokes out.

Rage explodes inside of me. What about Victoria? I'm so sick of everyone worrying about her. She’s only In this for power. She was even trying to get pregnant by me before the damn wedding. Ronaldo's words flash through my mind.

"Be wary of who your father brings in and out of the family."

I force my arm tighter against Amadeo.

"Victoria is as good as dead," I growl. Disbelief crosses his features.

"You tell anyone that, Amadeo. And I will kill you myself," I growl. And I'm serious. My father is already against me. Everyone knows that I am engaged to her. But I don't want her. Period. And I'll be damned if I let her control my life any longer.

Something about her entire family is off.

~

"Luciano?" I look up at the sound of the soft voice. I came home and immediately began to play my piano, my only reprieve from everything that is wrong with the world. Sofia is standing next to me, wearing a large t-shirt and shorts. Even now her style is different. Most women around me sleep in nightgowns, and the flimsiest clothing I have ever seen. Even her hair is flowing down her back in wild curls.

"Are you ok?" she asks.

"I'm sorry... did I wake you?" I ask. I sometimes get so lost in my playing; I don't realize how loud I'm being. She shakes her head walking towards me.

"No. I couldn't sleep." She takes a seat next to me on the piano. She smells like vanilla. I love it. She picks up her fingers, lightly brushing the keys.

"You play beautifully." I smile at her compliment. Victoria has never complimented me on playing.

"You should hear my mother. She's way better than me. Music is her forte," I say absentmindedly. She turns to look at me.

"You talk about your mother a lot. You two must be very close."

I smile to myself as thoughts of my mother run through my mind.

"Yeah. She's everything to me... She and my father had a rough past, and even though I came out of it, accidentally, she never resented me for it. She loved me and treated me with so much care and attention. Even though she knew that I would have to take over the family business one day," I say.

"What's so bad about that?" Sofia's question catches me off guard. I got so caught up in talking to her about everything, I didn't bother filtering my story.

"My family's business isn't one that you would want to be caught up in," I say. Sofia seems like she wants to ask more but doesn't. And for that I am thankful.

"Well, it seems like your mother is an amazing woman. And you seem to be doing right by her, Luciano." She smiles at me.

I wish. If only she knew that even though I have my mother’s personality, I am my father’s slave.

I let out a deep sigh, looking at her.

"Tell me something about you, Sofia."

She lets out a small laugh.

"There isn't much to tell," she murmurs.

"Why'd you decide to move out here?" I ask.

She tenses. It's a small movement, but I notice. This is uncomfortable territory for her. She looks at me, with fear-filled eyes.

"I... I don't want you to see me any differently than you do now, Luciano," she whispers. I gaze at her in shock.

"Sofia. Nothing you tell me can make me see you any different than I do now," I reassure her. But she's not having it. She looks away from me, at the piano keys.

"You're so different," she whispers.

"What?" I ask.

"You." She looks at me, her expression troubled.

"You're just so different than anyone I have ever met. I don't get why. You want something from me, don't you? Something. Men always want something," She says as she looks away. I reach out, grabbing her chin gently leading her gaze back to mine.

"You're right, Sofia. I do want something. I want you. I want your heart. I want your love. I want your trust and anything else you have to offer. I want everything from you, Sofia. Not to break you in the end, but to build you up. To grow with you. That's what I want." She searches my gaze for something.

"But..." I don't let her finish. I lower my lips to hers, cutting her sentence short. Her lips are soft, and she kisses me back immediately. All the sexual tension I'd been feeling, fires back into me, and I can't stop myself.

I deepen the kiss, tracing her bottom lip with my tongue, and she opens her mouth to let me in. All the while my fingers roam from her face down her body. I feel every curve of her lean body and move my hands under the large shirt she's wearing. She doesn't have a bra on. I groan out loud in pleasure. And she moans as my hands run over her breasts.

I don't think anymore. I only feel. I keep my lips on hers, as I pick her up, and carry her to my bedroom, dropping her on the soft sheets. I crawl over her body, kissing her again, as my hands reach for the waist band of her shorts.

"Wait, Luciano." Her panicked breathing and frantic hands pull me immediately from my haze. She's scared. I immediately sit up in the bed, moving away from her.

"I'm sorry," I immediately begin to apologize. She's already moving away from me though, bringing her knees to her chest. I immediately notice her body language.

"Sofia..." I move to her, gently grabbing her hand.

"You're shaking." I stare at her convulsing hand. She's scared.

"Sofia... talk to me," I say. I sit in front of her. She looks at me and there are tears in her eyes.

"I-I'm sorry..." she murmurs.

"No no. You have nothing to be sorry about," I quickly say.

"Just... talk to me... please." She looks up and stares at me for a long time.

"I came here, for a better life.. away from him," she whispers. I narrow my eyes at her.

Him?

"My ex... He got bad. Out of hand... He started to hit me... and force me to do things." I can feel my anger surfacing.

"I was still being rebellious. I was scared of him, but I wouldn't leave him. He would threaten me. And then, one night when I tried to leave him..." she trails off, her tears coming, and I feel my heart sinking. I don't want her to say it. I feel my heart aching for her. Finally, her eyes meet mine, and I see all the pain and suffering and fear that she keeps hidden all the time.

"He.... raped me."

~

Chapter 9

Raped. She was fucking raped. I'm standing over Sofia's sleeping form. In my bed. She's sprawled out all over the place, her body stretched along the mattress at an impossible angle. I smile to myself, of course even the way she sleeps is different.

I keep having to calm myself down. Every time I look at her body, I get so angry. She didn't get to explain to me how it happened. She only told me that it did. Then she started crying until she fell asleep from exhaustion. That explains everything. Her lack of trust, her obvious hate for me the moment she met me. Why she was constantly accusing me of wanting something from her.

She was in an abusive relationship, and he took from her. Everything. That's why she's so adamant about focusing. I want to ask her this guy's name. Who he is and where he's from so I can go and murder him. But the topic is very sensitive for her.

"Shit," I murmur aloud.

Now that I know this, my protectiveness of her has grown tenfold. I want to show her that I am different and that I will protect her. From everything and everyone. I step out of the room, looking at the clock on the wall. It's three in the morning. I need to get some sleep, but I can't sleep especially right now.

I head into the living room with my computer, pulling it open and searching Don Reno. Victoria's father. They are up to no good. Ronaldo's final words are nagging at me constantly, making me wonder who all could be betraying us. Who could be brave enough to, and what their reasoning could possibly be?

And why the hell hasn't my father picked up on it yet? Usually, he's on top of these types of things. Something bigger than me and Victoria's wedding is at stake here. Even though we're a major crime family, people don't necessarily know that. They see us as business owners. Successful business owners. We hide behind some farce to keep our real business out of the way. So whenever we make a move, it's public. Lucky for me, Sofia has yet to even google my name. If she did, she'd find all kinds of information on me. Even the "conspiracy theories" that just so happen to be true.

I narrow my eyes at an article, that says Don Reno is building a training ground. What the hell for? Since when is he into weapons? Don Reno's specialty is drugs. Not just the petty kind. The good kind. The illegal kind. The kind that the FDA doesn't approve because it would put medicine companies out of business. So what the hell is he buying land for? That's our area.

I stand, heading into the kitchen to grab my phone when I notice the light is blinking on it. Shit. I press the lock button and sure enough, I have messages and missed calls. Some from my father, some from my mother, some from Cat, Amadeo, and several from Victoria.

"Shit," I mutter.

I open my messages to see Victoria sent me an apology. Several. After she cussed me out and told me how much she hates me. My mother sent me some telling me to call her. I roll my eyes, dropping my phone back on the counter. I never can get a break can I. If this is how my life is before I'm even the Capo I can't imagine what it will be like once that burden is thrown on me.

I turn back to my bedroom, tired. Just tired of everything. I don't want to think anymore. Not tonight. So I head back in my room to find Sofia still fast asleep. I know I shouldn't, but I want to. So bad. I want to crawl next to her and pull her warm body into mine and go to sleep. But I can't betray her trust. Especially when she is so vulnerable.

So I grab a pillow, and head back into the living room, making myself comfortable on the couch. I close my eyes trying to go to sleep, but I can't. The nagging of her aunt and the shop is killing me. If her aunt doesn't pay next month, things will be much worse than a fire. We will go after her personally. And there is no way she'll be able to pay us. Especially after all the damage done to her shop. She would have to triple that just to pay for damages.

I don't want that for her. But most of all, I don't want that for Sofia. Seeing her distress just this night is killing me. Then it occurs to me. I'm the one that collects it. I'm the son of the Capo. I am Luciano Pasquino for crying out loud.

I can pay for it. I'll pay for the damages, and I'll pay for her protection too. That will keep them afloat, and it will keep Sofia happy. I smile to myself at the new solutions that arise. And finally, sleep overcomes me.

~

Sofia.

It smells amazing. My mouth is watering before I open my eyes. I slowly crack my eyes open and realize that I'm in Luciano's bed. I sit up immediately, checking my body. I'm fine. Nothing happened.

I opened up to him last night. I told him about my past and why I was so scared of him all the time. I almost slept with him, and if my fear for Paul hadn't risen, I probably would have. I lay back in his bed staring at the ceiling. The room is huge, and very nice. And this bed is amazing. It molds to every crevice of my body. I sit up in the bed, rolling over and pushing my nose in the pillow. It smells just like Luciano.

I quickly get out of bed, and head into his shower. I'm sure he won't mind if I use it.

~

Ten minutes later I'm walking into the kitchen, and Luciano is with his back to me, looking at something on his computer. He's sexy as hell. His hair is wild and he's not wearing a shirt. I can see all the muscles in his back as well as... scars? I take a step closer to make it out better, but he perks up immediately and whips his head in my direction. His whole demeanor relaxes as his eyes land on me.

It makes me think of last night when he opened the door with his gun pointed in my face. It's scary to see that side of him. I can make excuses for him and say that it's because he's an important person in his company, but I feel that's wrong.

He gives me a wide smile as he comes towards me.

"Goodmorning beautiful," he murmurs as he pulls me into an embrace. I close my eyes at the contact. I love it when Luciano holds me. I love the heat from his skin, and the way he adores me. But now, I feel like he feels like he's walking on eggshells with me since I told him what happened.

He pulls away from me, his eyes landing on my body, then I remember that I wore one of his shirts after my shower. His brow raises slightly but he doesn't say anything as he steps away and heads toward the table, pulling out a chair.

"Have a seat," he says. I slowly make my way to the table, sitting down and pushing my seat in. Luciano heads into the kitchen and comes back with a plate of food, setting it in front of me. I stare at the plate in awe.

"You made this?" I ask in disbelief. He chuckles at me.

"Of course." So he can cook too. Add that to the list of reasons why he's perfect.

A few minutes into our meal, Luciano speaks.

"Sofia…" I look up and he's watching me with a serious expression. Which is rare for Luciano, which means that he is worried about something. And I have a pretty good idea of what it is.

"I need you to talk to me," he says.

I look back down at my plate. I knew that this would come. I knew the moment I told him what happened, he would want to know everything. And how it even got to that point.

"Um.." I trail off, not knowing what to say. I want to tell him, but I fear he may look at me differently. I feel a hand over mine and look up in shock.

"Sofia." He says my name so gently, so soft and with so much emotion, I can't help but tell him. I stare into his stormy eyes, mesmerized by the color, and open my mouth.

"Paul and I were together for a few months... I had just broken up with my last boyfriend and met Paul at a bar. I was rebellious. I was angry at my mother for God knows what, and I wanted to do everything I could to hurt her. Paul is older than me, so he has access to everything. Drugs, Alcohol, parties. He would help me sneak out, give me drinks, and turn me against my mother even more."

I take a deep breath before I continue.

"He just got really out of hand. We almost got caught by the cops a few times, and when I realized what I was doing wasn't worth it, I wanted to stop. But he wouldn't let me. He would hit me, push me, threaten me…," I shudder as I remember him getting angry with me.

"I told him that I was done. I was leaving him, and he went crazy. He started yanking on me, and pulling at my clothes... I begged him to stop, but he told me I belonged to him. And then, he..." I trail off, choking on my tears as I recall the nauseating pain. The horrible feeling, I felt afterward. And even then, I couldn't go to the police about it. No one believed me, and he dragged my name through the mud.

I jump in shock, Luciano is in front of me, I was so caught up in my thoughts, I hadn't heard him move. His stormy eyes are staring into my soul. As I look at him, I realize just how much he truly cares for me. He would never hurt me. A smile crosses my features, and I realize just how much I trust and care for Luciano.

I slowly, reach up, brushing my fingers on his face. His skin is so soft, so smooth.

"Luciano... I want you to do something for me," I say. His eyes widen slightly, and he moves even closer to me.

"Anything."

I close my eyes, trying to find the strength to ask him this question. But I hate that Paul has this hold over me. I'm fearful of men, fearful of sex, fearful of anything along those lines because he took that from me. I don't want him to have my first time over my head. So I open my eyes, and look Luciano dead in his eyes.

"I want you to have sex with me," I say.

He's frozen. I don't miss the blush that crawls up his neck, and the swallow.

"Sofia…" His voice is hoarse.

"I don't think that now is the best time for that. I mean, you're very vulnerable, and you're not thinking str-"

"I am thinking straight Luciano," I snap. He straightens his back at my response.

"Look, last night, you were shaking because I touched you. Do you really think it's a good idea?" he asks.

Damn him for being so attentive, and patient, and knowing everything about me. But I'll be damned if I pass this opportunity up.

"Please. Luciano," I murmur. He's quiet.

"Paul took my virginity. He's the only man I've ever been with, and I didn't consent to that. Please don't let him keep that hold over me," I say. I keep my eyes trained on my hands, hating how pathetic I sound. I feel Luciano's fingers wrapping around mine, and I look up in time to see a gentle smile on his face.

It melts my heart. He keeps stepping backward and pulls me out of the chair, and I follow in behind him, back to his bedroom.

We step through the doors, and Luciano closes them and walks over to his dresser grabbing a remote. He presses a few buttons, and the windows close, plunging us into darkness only for a few seconds as dim lights illuminate the room. I look back at him in shock, and he's already on the edge of the bed holding his hand out for me.

I slowly make my way to him, my heart beating out of my chest from my nerves. He pulls me between his legs and looks up at me.

"Last chance, Sofia. Are you sure about this?"

His face is serious. His eyes are serious. His tone is serious. I'm literally begging him to have sex with me, and he's still worried about my well-being and me being ready. And that's how I know I want it to be him. No matter what happens after this, he is a good choice. I nod my head.

He reaches up, brushing my hair behind my shoulder, and begins to unfasten the buttons on his shirt that I'm wearing. His eyes are so focused on the task.

"I have to ask, Sofia. Do you have any diseases? Did Paul give you anything?" He asks. I feel my cheeks burning from his question. If he's asking me this, that must mean he isn't going to use a condom.

"No," I whisper. My voice is so weak from the nerves that I'm feeling. I don't know if it's from being scared, or from being excited. Luciano finishes with the last button, letting the shirt hang open, before he reaches inside, pushing it off my shoulders. It falls to the ground in a heap.

His eyes burn bright as he takes in my naked body. I'm standing before him in nothing more than a pair of underwear. His hands press against my stomach, running up to my breasts, where he cups each of them. I let out a soft gasp. I feel a tinge of fear, but I shake it off. This is what I wanted. This is Luciano. He won't hurt me.

"You ok?" he whispers.

I look at him nodding my head. Suddenly, my body is being lifted and I'm thrown back onto the soft mattress. Luciano crawls over me, his lust-filled gaze roaming my entire body.

"You are beautiful," he says as his eyes roam my body. I feel my cheeks burn, and look away, but Luciano doesn't let me. He leans down, capturing my lips. My body immediately responds. I feel myself getting hotter with need. He kisses me even deeper, pushing his tongue in my mouth and stroking every corner.

His hands continue to roam over my body until I feel his hand traveling down my stomach, and into the waistband of my panties. I immediately tense, and Luciano notices. He moves to pull away, but I wrap my arms around his neck letting him know that I'm ok.

His fingers brush against my clit, adding the perfect amount of pressure to give me arousal. I release his lips to let out a loud moan. I've never felt such a feeling before. Luciano places a kiss along my cheek, and down my throat, latching onto it and eliciting more pleasure. I gasp aloud, running my fingers through his thick hair as he moves even lower, pulling my nipple into his mouth.

At the same time, his fingers push inside of me, stretching me. Instead of pain though, I feel pleasure. His fingers begin working back and forth, and I feel a build-up within me. His tongue swirls over my nipple, and there is so much pleasure going through my body, that I fly apart.

"Come for me," Luciano whispers. And I do. My body shudders in pleasure, as I come apart from Luciano's talented fingers. After I come down, I slow my breathing and open my eyes. Luciano is over me, watching me with such adoration.

"You are fucking beautiful," he says. He leans in, giving me a light peck on the lips, and slowly pulls his fingers from my body. A light shock wave rips through me, and I twitch under him. Luciano sits back on his haunches, studying me.

"Let's get a shower," he smiles. I stare at him in shock.

"What?" I ask in confusion.

"Sofia. I understand what you're asking me, and one day I will give that to you. But right now, you want it because of him. Not because of us." I lay my head back on the pillow staring at the ceiling.

"I want more than anything to take you right now, you don't understand. But I can't do that to you. Not when you don't really want it," he says. I look back at him, and he's watching me with a careful gaze.

"How old are you, Luciano?" I ask. The question catches him off guard because he blinks and furrows his brow.

"Twenty-nine."

I let out a soft laugh. Luciano acts like a man beyond his years. He doesn't act his age, not in the slightest. He's wise. Even his eyes seem like they've seen more than someone his age should have. But I doubt he would tell me that.

I slowly sit up in his bed, and I don't miss the darkening of his gaze as well as the hardening in his pants as he takes in my body. I can see that he wants me. Bad. Yet he's putting my feelings before anything else.

"Shower with me?" I ask. He gazes at me for a moment before a laugh escapes his lips, and he falls back on the bed.

"You're killing me." He murmurs.

~

After we showered and picked me up some clothes, we head straight for the hospital. Luciano insisted on coming with me. He acts like nothing between us happened. Like we are the same as we were yesterday, and he didn't sexually touch me. But every time I look at him, I feel butterflies in my stomach at the memory of what he made my body do.

"Sofia." I jump when I hear his voice pulling me out of my thoughts.

"What?" I look at him and he's watching me in confusion, his head tilted to the side.

"You're leading the way... remember?” I let out a nervous laugh, waving him off and continuing to walk ahead of him, keeping my gaze trained on the hallway ahead of me. I can feel his presence behind me with every step that I take. It drives me crazy.

We finally reach my aunt's room, and she's still asleep when I slowly push the door open. The light beep of the heart monitor giving me an indication that she's stable. I walk by her bedside, placing the vase of flowers I bought in the lobby for her on her bedside table.

My gaze falls on her unconscious form. I feel guilt tugging at me. She's always worried about me, stressing herself out. Even now in her sleep she looks stressed. I reach out, taking ahold of her hand.

"I'm sorry, tia." I murmur. I feel hands on my shoulders, rubbing them comfortingly, and realize that Luciano is behind me. I don't push him away though. This comfort is everything to me right now. I reach up, grabbing ahold of Luciano's hand in mine.

We spend the day sitting in my aunt’s room. She's unconscious for most of it. Luciano and I sit in separate chairs, but I have my feet propped up on his lap, and he rubs my legs to my ankles soothingly. I don't even know if he realizes he's doing it. I look at him, and he's looking at nothing in particular. His eyes are trained ahead, but not focused on anything.

I take the moment to appreciate his soft features. I'm willing to bet he looks like his mother more than his father. Either that or his father is a pretty boy as well. His dark hair is falling across his face and those eyes. I realize that they are my favorite feature. They are so pure and bright. Luciano seems to have a sense that tells him when someone's watching because his eyes shift from their unfocused position, directly on me.

My heart stops as I catch his gaze. At one point I would have hated myself for feeling this way. But now that he has shown me a side to him that is caring for me personally, I allow myself to feel nervous around him because I like him.

"What are you thinking so hard about?" I ask. He raises a brow at me, a small smile appearing on his lips.

"What makes you think I'm thinking hard?"

I laugh.

"Because you're only ever attentive to your surroundings, but I got at least 5 seconds of staring in before you noticed," I joke. He laughs as well, revealing his teeth. Perfect. Like him.

"So tell me," I smile. He looks as though he's debating on whether or not to tell me, and it makes me nervous.

"Just confused as to how this all went down is all." I eye him curiously. That's what I was trying to figure out as well. We passed safety inspections, which meant that a kitchen fire should have never started and gotten that bad out of hand. But it did. And that's what scares me the most. Before I can speak, my aunts coughing brings my attention to her.

Her eyes open, and I'm immediately up out of my seat trying to check on her.

"Tia?" I ask stepping next to her. She's looking around in confusion until her gaze finally falls on me. She reaches for my hand, squeezing it hard.

"Oh, I thought for a second that I had lost you," she whispers. I let out a small laugh.

"It was me that almost lost you," I say. She opens her eyes, looking at me giving me a small smile.

"I'm glad you're ok," I whisper just as the tears come on. We sit in silence for a little while, and I hear footsteps as Luciano comes to my side. My aunt looks up, and immediately fear clouds her eyes. I open my mouth to ask her what's wrong, but she speaks before I can.

"What is he doing here." I blink in shock. She's talking to me in Spanish. Which means she doesn't want him to know what we're saying. I open my mouth, responding in Spanish.

"He gave me a ride to the hospital," I say leaving out the details of me going to his house and spending the night.

"Sofia, what did I tell you abou-"

"He's not bad, auntie. He cares for me." I add. She glares at me as if I just cussed her out and told her to go to hell. She takes a deep breath.

"He really does, auntie. He's different than Paul. He won't hurt me-"

"Sofia. Won't you go get the nurse for me?" She switches back to English, and I move away from her bed to get the nurse. I expect Luciano to follow me, but my aunt is staring him down. I see the fear in her eyes as well as the fierce need to protect. But why she would be feeling that way towards Luciano of all people is beside me.

"Ok…," I look at Luciano, and he gives me a reassuring grin.

"I guess I'll be back," I say.

It takes everything in me not to drag him out of the room, or stay and eavesdrop, but I know that my aunt wants to be alone with him, which is probably a part of her intimidation technique to protect me. I quickly head up the hall to find the nurse.

~

Luciano

Ana is staring at me long and hard. I can see that she fears me, but her love for her niece is stronger. I already know that she doesn't like me being here. Just by the way she was talking to Sofia in front of me in Spanish. So, I have no idea what their conversation was about.

"What do you want with her. Haven't you people taken enough from me?" I feel my heart aching at the hurt and defeat in her tone. I slowly walk away, grabbing the chair from the corner of the room and moving it right next to her bedside. I take a seat, looking at her before speaking.

"Ana. I don't want to hurt her. I will never hurt Sofia," I say as seriously as I can.

"If this is some, sick, twisted way for you people to get y-"

"It's not. I assure you." I can understand her reluctance towards this, but I'm here to convince her otherwise.

"Why haven't you told her who I am. Who I really am?" Ana knows we are the mafia. She knows because she pays us for protection. Yet she tells Sofia to stay away from me and not the reason why.

"Sofia is like her mother. Strong-willed. Smart. Hot-tempered. If she knew who you were, and why you come to my shop, she would do her best to prevent that. And end up getting herself killed in the process. I can't let that happen. Her mother sent her here for a better life. So that she can have a chance. She's been through so much..." she trails off.

"I'm going to offer you a proposition, Ana." I say. I keep my eyes focused on the door so that I can stop talking the moment Sofia comes back.

"I'm going to repair your shop."

"I'm also going to pay your protection fees," I add. I move my gaze to her, and she's staring at me in shock.

"But you must do one thing for me in return."

"Keep my identity a secret and ease up on Sofia. I am developing strong feelings for her. And with that comes my protection. At all costs," I say in a serious tone. Ana looks at me with a narrowed gaze.

"How long until your issues reach her as well. I can never sentence her to that," she hisses.

I hear footsteps coming back up the hall, and I know immediately it's Sofia. Just by the buoyant rhythm. I look back to Ana, a small smile crossing my face.

"I don't think that's your choice," I say just as Sofia walks in with a smile on her face.

"It took some running around, but I finally got ahold of your nurse. He'll be up in about 5 minutes," she smiles.

She begins walking through the room, and I keep my gaze trained on Ana. I know exactly where Sofia is walking to. I slowly place my hand up just as she comes around, placing her hand in mine, and leaning against my back.

"So did you two have a nice chat while I was away?" I watch as Ana realizes that Sofia likes me. And there's nothing she can do about that. I smile rubbing my thumb over Sofia’s palm.

"Yeah. We did."

~

I leave the hospital before Sofia’s mother arrives. She sent her daughter out here to get away from a man, so there's no telling what she'll do once she figures out about me. Sofia was reluctant to let me leave, but it seems I've been doing all the thinking for her. Her mind is frazzled by everything that has happened so suddenly, so I seem to be making all the choices that need to happen.

I smile as I remember her words to me.

"I'll see you this afternoon, right?" Butterflies flutter in my stomach as I recall her words to me. She wants to see me. When she asked me to have sex with her earlier, I just about lost it. It took all of my willpower and thinking to make sure that I took it easy with her and didn't cross the line. She's vulnerable right now and I can't take advantage of that.

I feel myself getting aroused at the memory of her shuddering in pleasure underneath me. I've never wanted to take a woman more than I did in that moment. Her body is perfect. She's perfect. And I love everything about her.

I am the future Capo. Our family is already large enough. We don't need more ties, more strangers. I don't have to marry Victoria. I change lanes in my car, heading towards my father’s house. I am going to tell him, that I refuse to marry Victoria.

It takes me 10 minutes to reach his house. When I pull up, I notice that there are other cars in the driveway. I study them in confusion, but none of them look familiar. I get out of the car heading to the front door walking through the house. It's silent. Somethings off.

"Mother," I call out. No response.

"Cat?" No response.

I head straight for my father's study and see the door is closed. I don't even knock. I push the door open, and my heart drops into my stomach at the sight before me.

Don Reno and Victoria.

My father's gaze travels past them, reaching me. His icy gaze for once chilling me. Something is wrong.

"Ah. Luciano. Right on time. Won't you join us?"

~

Chapter 10

Don Reno stares at me, giving me a smirk. I want to punch his damn teeth in. My gaze travels from him to Victoria, and she's watching me with an innocent look on her face. Probably fucking scared her dad will hit her if she does something wrong.

"What is this?" I ask letting my irritation shine through. My father frowns at me, but Don Reno only laughs.

"Good to see you too, Luciano!" he shouts as he gets up to come over to me. I hold my hand out letting him know that I don't want to touch him. Not in the slightest. He gives me a firm shake but keeps his gaze trained on me.

"It seems that Don Reno and Victoria are having a slight issue." My father speaks over him. I look to Victoria, narrowing my eyes at her.

"What?" I say wishing he'd just cut to the fucking chase already. Don Reno moves back to his seat, keeping his gaze on me. A look of amusement on his face.

"Luciano, my boy-" I give Reno the dirtiest gaze I can muster, and he immediately stops midsentence. I look at my father, waiting for him to give me the explanation. Because there is no way I'm listening to Reno. My father immediately takes the hint, clearing his throat.

"Luciano, calm down let us be civilized before you go blowing things out of proportion," he says. I have to bite back the smart-ass remark threatening to come tumbling out of my mouth.

"You know that your marriage to Victoria is in a few months. And Victoria has told us about the efforts she's been trying to spend time with you." I bite down on my jaw, rage exploding within me.

"Luciano, it's time to grow up and stop pouting about things. This marriage is happening whether you want it to or not." My father’s voice is stern, but I can feel the beast within me awakening. The monster that I keep buried deep inside of myself is clawing to the surface.

I try and think of something, anything that will deter the direction of my thoughts, but I can't. My gaze travels to Victoria, and she's staring at me with a smug smile. She thinks she's won. She thinks that this "intervention" is going to help her lock me down, but she couldn't be more wrong. If anything, this has sealed her fate.

I let out a small laugh and look back to my father. I give him the best smile I can, and with that the last restraint that I have on my beast snaps. He's free. I can already see the plan formulating in my head. Step by step.

"Ok. Victoria, I am so sorry if I gave you that impression. I've been so busy with my duties that I must have turned that neglect on you and for that I sincerely apologize," I smile at her, putting on the best charm I can. As she stares back at me with those wide blue irises, with each second that passes more and more hatred spills out of me.

Reno laughs aloud, patting Victoria on the head like a child.

"Sometimes she just forgets who it is she's marrying. She's used to the attention," He says light-heartedly. He thinks this is over. He thinks that Victoria is back in my good graces, which means we can rush the wedding because she's going to hop in my bed and get knocked up, but he couldn't be more off. I laugh along with him, and my gaze travels to my father. And for the first time since that last time, I lost control, he's watching me with worry.

"Come. I'll walk you out Victoria," I say.

After I walk her and her father out, I return to my father’s office. My fake smile earlier dropped completely. Rage is pouring out of my pores like a waterfall as I smash open his doors. He's standing behind his desk and meets my gaze head-on.

"You want to play, Pop? Let's play," I say, smiling at him. Excitement is building up within me. I bring my hand down on his desk and point my finger right at him.

"I won't marry her. Call off the wedding, or I will kill them. All of them." I don't wait for his reaction. I turn walking out of his office, and I'm not shocked when I don't hear his footsteps behind me.

~

Sofia

I keep my gaze trained on the TV. My mother and my aunt are talking away behind me, but I can't join in the conversation even if I wanted to. My mind keeps wandering to Luciano. He refused to sleep with me, even when I begged him to. How does a man like that exist? He's too perfect. There has to be something wrong with him. But the question is, what? What could it possibly be?

My phone vibrates and I pull it out to see a message from Luciano.

I need to see you.

I can't help but smile at that message. He needs to see me. Not he wants to. I told myself not to get too attached to him, but it's been so hard the way he's been acting with me.

"Sofia!" I jump as my mother swats me on the arm.

She's been on the bus out here since the accident. She just arrived today, and she and my aunt have been inseparable since. My mother is a beautiful woman. With black hair that falls down her back and bright eyes that could capture any man in her snare. Yet she's never had the time for men because of me. And the trouble I caused her growing up.

"Honestly Sofia where is your head today?" my mother scolds me.

"Sorry, mom. I just have a lot on my mind," I mumble. She watches me a moment longer before relenting.

"How are classes going? Are you getting your lesson?" she asks sternly. I give her a smile nodding my head.

"Yeah. I've got all A's and finals are in a few weeks so it's going pretty great." She smiles at me.

"Sofia I'm so proud of you. See what happens when you focus and apply yourself?" she smiles. I nod my head, turning my gaze back to my phone because Luciano is calling me. It takes everything in me to ignore his call. I turn back to my mother giving her the best smile I can.

"Yes, Mama," I say.

My mother turns back to my aunt and begins asking her about her release. It seems that she will be staying here for a few days, which means that I may not be able to see Luciano as much as I'd hoped. And with the shop being burned down, repairs and cleanup would be taking up my time as well. I look down at my phone to see a new message from Luciano.

"Come over."

I stand up, looking at my mother and my aunt.

"I have to meet some people at the library for a group project. I'll see you guys at home?" I ask. My mother nods to me, but my aunt watches me suspiciously as if she knows something.

"Be careful, Sofia." I give them both a kiss and head out the door.

I take a taxi to Luciano's, which gets me there in 30 minutes. As I walk to the front desk, I notice a woman fussing at the clerk. She's beautiful. With platinum blonde hair and bright blue eyes, and stark red lipstick on. She's also intimidating. As if she owns the world, and she knows it.

"Why isn't my fucking key working," she hisses as I approach.

"I'm sorry, Ms. Victoria, but he changed the locks, and I'm not authorized to give you the keys." The woman smashes both her hands on the desk, looking like she's about to spit fire.

"You know who the fuck I am, right?" she hisses.

"I'm his fucking fiancée! Give me the fucking key, or I will make sure you neve-"

She cuts off as I clear my throat behind them. What an awkward situation. Her fiancée must have dumped her and changed the locks. I almost feel bad for her if she wasn't taking it out on the front desk clerk.

"Um, I just came to pick up the-" The clerk's eyes widen as she takes me in, and she cuts me off.

"I'll be right with you," she frantically rushes out.

The woman called Victoria is staring daggers at me and turns back to the clerk to continue her rant. The poor clerk looks like she's about to have a heart attack. I narrow my gaze turning on the woman called Victoria.

"Hey!" I step between her and the clerk.

"She just works here she has nothing to do with you and your relationship problems! Calm down!" I shout at her. She stares at me in shock, then her eyes narrow.

"And just who the fuck do you think you are?" She all but screeches. I scoff at her.

"Doesn't matter who the fuck I am, you're bullying her when you know she can't fight back!" I growl stepping closer to her. If looks could kill I'd be dead. But she obviously is all talk, because she gives me a smile, that is bone-chilling.

"You don't know who you're dealing with," she says calmly. She turns back to the front desk, dropping her key deliberately on the floor.

"I'll be back," she says turning to leave the lobby, her tall heels stabbing the floor and echoing loudly. I turn back to the clerk, and she looks pale.

"I'm sorry you had to go through that. I just hate people like that," I say. The clerk stares at me in disbelief for a moment longer, before handing me the key.

"Thank you, for standing up for me," she says.

"Even after the way, I treated you. I'm sorry." I give her a smile taking the key.

"No problem. I just hate bullies," I say turning to the elevator.

I push open the door to Luciano’s penthouse and am greeted by an emotional melody. It's ringing loudly, off the walls and through the house. I follow the chilling melody to the main room where Luciano's piano is, and sure enough, he's sitting behind it with an intense expression on his face.

I know immediately that something is wrong. His face is lackluster of emotion. He looks angry. A look that I've never seen on his face. His usual joyous features are etched in anger, a frown on his lips. Even the way he plays the piano, he's beating the keys instead of his usual glide over them. It's unnerving.

I move closer to the piano, making my way around, not knowing if I should wait until he's done, or stop him before he breaks the keys.

"Uh.. Luciano." I murmur, but he doesn't hear me.I lightly touch his shoulder, and he tenses, the music stopping abruptly. It's quiet. You would never have thought that a beautiful melody was filling the air seconds before. Suddenly, a horrible chord fills the air as he slams his hands down on the keys.

He jerks away from the piano, walking to the window overlooking the city. I stare at his back in confusion. His whole body is tense.

"What must it be like to be free?" He murmurs. I move away from the piano, walking over to him.

"Luciano, is something the matter?" I ask. He turns away from the glass looking at me with those stormy eyes. He looks confused. Then he smiles, but it's off.

"God, you are perfect," he says. He reaches out, gently running his fingers through my hair and staring at the strands.

"You know, until I met you, no one has looked at me with such irritation before. Or spoke to me with such a fire." He smiles lazily.

"You are your own person. It amazes me." His hands drift to my face, and he rubs his thumb lightly over my cheek.

"How can someone that knows true fear still not be afraid?" he asks. He sounds as if he's asking himself the question. But I'm frozen to the spot at his words. I knew he liked me, but he thinks that I'm perfect? I reach up, grabbing his hand in mine, pulling it away from my face.

"Luciano, what's wrong?" I ask. He furrows his brow, and his face goes blank of any emotion. His hand squeezes mine, and he steps closer to me.

"My family is dangerous," he says.

I blink in confusion. The whole conversation just went left. I open my mouth to speak but Luciano shakes his head as soon as I do. He looks pained as if he doesn't want to speak his next sentence.

"As much as you don't trust me, Sofia. Have you never googled me?" he asks. I narrow my eyes at him. No. I never thought to.

"Luciano, you're scaring me." He lets out a bitter laugh.

"You haven't. I am being groomed to take over my family’s business. And that means that I have to make certain sacrifices for the greater good of my family." His hands tighten around mine.

"But I don't want to sacrifice you," he whispers. His gaze is piercing me to the very core.

"What are you talking about sacrificing me?" I ask.

For once fear of Luciano, and who he truly scares me. I thought he was just a man that owned a huge corporation, but apparently, he isn't. And now he's telling me he's dangerous? He's just talking in riddles and it's scaring me.

He lets out an exasperated sigh.

"My father. Doesn't want you in my life." I immediately jerk my hand from his grasp, feeling immediate betrayal.

"Ok," I rush out.

I immediately turn away, all but sprinting for the exit, when I feel Luciano's grasp around my arm. He jerks so hard that I'm yanked backwards and spun around so that I'm in his hold. His arms are wrapped tightly around me, and his face is buried in the crook of my neck. His deep chuckle reverberates through my body.

"Impatient as always," he mumbles. He pulls away from me, looking down at me with an adoring smile, and I feel my heart melt at the sight.

"I said he doesn't want me with you. That doesn't mean that I don't want to be with you, Sofia. He's not dictating this part of my life as well."

"But.." I trial off not knowing what to say. Luciano was speaking in riddles up to this point. His eyes trail down to my lips, and I feel myself growing self-conscious being so close to him all of a sudden.

"I don't think you understand what you do to me, Sofia. It's not just a physical lust for you. You keep me on my toes. You're yourself when you're with me, you don't fear me," He says it as if it's the most amazing thing he's ever witnessed in the world.

"Sofia, I won't lie. I have this fierce need to protect you. I want you with me all of the time. I want to grow with you and watch you grow. I want to see you succeed and prove everyone that's ever doubted you wrong. I want you to make your mother proud, and follow your dreams, and I want you to one day trust me completely." He lets out a deep breath, and my heart stops as he gets ready to say his next sentence.

"I don't know this feeling that I have for you, and I won't label it as love, yet. But Sofia, I am falling for you. Fast and hard." His eyes are so intense that I feel like I'm about to explode from the burning of his stormy gaze. I open my mouth and close it not knowing how to respond to him. His hand slowly squeezes mine, and he brings my palm flat against his chest.

I look at his chest as I feel the heavy thump against my palm. My eyes slowly travel back up to his and he's watching me with pure adoration.

"Feel that? As long as it's beating, as long as I'm breathing. I will do everything in my power to keep you happy. Because right now, there is nothing more important to me, than your happiness."

My ears are ringing. He's basically professing his love for me without saying he loves me. Because that would be impossible, right? We've only known each other for a few months.

"Luciano, I-"

"You don't have to say anything. I know your past. I know that it will take some time for you to accept my feelings for you. Just promise me, that you will try." He gives me a soft smile as I nod my head. Of course I will. At this moment, I feel as though I could put all of my trust in Luciano, and he would take care of me. He would guide me to safety.

So, I do what only seems right in this situation. I move my body in closer to Luciano's bringing our bodies flush to each other, and rise on my tiptoes, putting my lips against his.

He kisses me back, and I feel his arms wrapping around me, pulling my body flush against his.

"You just don't understand what you do to me," he murmurs against my lips.

Suddenly, my body is being hauled up, and I wrap my legs around his waist as he carries me out of the living room. I know the direction he's taking me, and I feel my heart rate rising. He's taking me to his bedroom. No sooner are we in the dim room, does he drop me on his bed. He stands over me, his gaze roaming my entire body. He leans down slowly and places a long scorching kiss against my lips.

"I want to make love to you so bad, right now," he whispers. I stare into his stormy gaze, and he stares back. His eyes drop to my lips and back up again.

Then he does the exact opposite of what I was expecting. He lays down behind me and pulls my body in close to his so that he is spooning me from behind.

"Luciano-"

"Shhhhh. I just want to lay here, like this, with you." He murmurs. His arm is wrapped around my waist, keeping me flush against him. His breathing is slow, and I can tell he's falling asleep.

"I'm just so tired, Sofia. I'm tired of doing everything because it is my duty to the family," he murmurs. I don't respond because once again he is speaking in riddles.

"You make me feel like I'm normal. Like I'm not the son of Luca Pasquino." He says his father's name for the first time and the way he says it is as if his father is some kind of great man.

"Luciano… what will I find if I google you?" I whisper. For once I'm afraid for him to answer.

"Don't."

His breathing evens out, and I realize he's fallen asleep. My thoughts are frantic now. The way he speaks, the name Pasquino holds a lot of power. He told me not to, but the moment I leave, I'm going to google him.

~

It's 10 P.M. when I finally leave Luciano's place. My mother and aunt are frantic, but I just tell them that I was running late with a group project. Luciano offered to take me home, but for once I need a little space from him. Something was up with him earlier. He wasn't his usual self. Something was off. Different.

I eventually make it home, and my aunt and mother are already asleep, which means I can head straight up to my room to do my search. I quietly make my way up the stairs, my nerves frying the whole way. Luciano didn't touch me other than that kiss, sexually. He just wanted to hold me. Which wouldn't bother me, but his words are ringing in my ears.

"Have you ever googled me?"

Usually, when you google someone, you just get their name back, maybe a Facebook page. But I never thought to google him. My screen lights up as I type in his name. I stare at the screen as it reflects back his name.

Luciano Pasquino.

The moment I press enter everything could change. What if he is something crazy, or something that really is dangerous not just emotionally? My finger hovers over the enter key. Should I do it? Images of Luciano flash across my mind, his smile, his laugh. His constant want to be around me, and be near me, just to have a break from who he really is. Could I shatter that with just one second?

I'm about to press the button when I pause as Luciano's words flash across my mind when I asked him what I would find if I googled him.

"Don't."

~

Chapter 11

I haven't heard from Luciano in a few days. With tending to my aunt, and the cleanup of the shop, I've been busy trying to get my life situated. I ended up not googling Luciano. I don’t want to ruin the perception that I have of him, and I want to trust him. So that's what I'm going to do. Trust in him.

A check came in the mail from an anonymous donor for the repairs of the shop, so once cleanup is done, we just have to pay for repairs and new equipment. Even now I can't understand how my aunt managed to burn down the place.

My mother already left to go back, so it's once again me and my aunt. For once, I feel happy that she is proud of me. And I'm glad of the decision I made to move and become a better person. But now that my mother is worry-free, my aunt is constantly worried. She's always eyeing me, asking who I'm talking to. But we both know that she knows it's Luciano.

The bell above the door rings as a customer walks in.

"I'm sorry, we're clo-" I cut off when I see who it is, my heart racing and my mouth-watering. Luciano steps into the shop, a cocky smirk on his face. He's wearing a tight-fitting gray top that accents his eyes beautifully, and his hair is wild and curly today.

"Hey beautiful,” he smiles at me. He walks up to me, placing his arm around my waist and pulling me in close for a searing kiss.

"Hi," I mumble dumbfounded once he pulls away. He looks around the shop as he speaks.

"I haven't heard from you in a few days. Busy?" he finishes his sentence with a raised brow in my direction. I gesture to the shop.

"A little," I say. He laughs softly, but I don't miss the frown on his face.

"Shouldn't you guys have someone else do this?" he asks. I only shrug.

"It's no big deal. I've worked harder than this, and besides. We're almost done." I give him a soft smile, trying to convince him that I'm not tired in the least. He stares me down, for an eternity before letting out a sigh.

"Let me take you out."

"For what?" I ask in confusion. He gazes at me strangely.

"Because you've been hard at work, and I want to spoil you," he says as if it's obvious.

"Um, ok.. just let me go tell my aunt." He nods his head but doesn’t respond. I run out of the main room of the shop and into the kitchen where my aunt is putting away new pans.

"Tia, I'm going to take a break now." She turns to me, with a frown and looks past my shoulder.

"Is that devil taking you somewhere?" she hisses.

I'm a little taken aback at her hate for Luciano. Especially after the accident, it seems to have grown exponentially.

"He's not a devil, tia," I say in irritation. She only scoffs at me.

"You're supposed to be focused, Sofia. And now you're running around with that delinquent, not even caring about your classes?" she growls.

"What? Tia, I'm making all A's. I'm doing great in my classes, and Luciano has nothing to do with my past, why can't you just trust me?" I half shout.

"It's not you that I don't trust Sofia, it's him! He is no good!" she shouts at me.

"Why!" I shout back. She glares at me, then goes back to putting things away.

"No. Tia, you can't just say things like that to me, and not explain to me why you hate him so much! He's done nothing but shows you respect and been kind to me, so why do you hate him!" I shout. She's still silent, and that drives me crazy. So, I let out a huff, and run out of the kitchen.

~

"I want you to meet my family." I look up from my sundae, and Luciano is watching me with a dreamy expression.

"What?" I say in complete confusion. He laughs out loud.

"I said, I want-"

"Yeah, I heard what you said, I just meant like... I can't believe it," I clarify.

"Why?" I ask looking at him.

"Because, you are special to me, and I want them to realize how special you are." I sense the underlying tone of something else in that sentence. I just don't know what.

"But didn't you say that they didn't want you to be with me?" I ask. He shakes his head.

"I said, my father. But if he wants me to take over for him, then he's going to have to learn to live with my decisions."

"My sister on the other hand has been dying to meet you, and I want you to meet my mother more than anything," he smiles at me. I smile back. He wants to introduce me to his family. That's a huge deal.

"So.. when do you want me to meet them?" I ask.

"Tonight," he responds almost immediately, and I choke on the ice cream in my mouth.

"Tonight?!" I shout. People around us turn to look in my direction, and I immediately begin to apologize, but Luciano is staring at me with a look of amusement.

"Is that an issue?" I open my mouth to protest but decide against it. If Luciano wanted to go as far as introducing me to his family, that is a big step. I want to let him know that I am ready for anything.

"Not at all," I smile.

~

I thought that I was ready. I really did. But I'm not. My palms are sweaty, and I keep bobbing my knees up and down in the passenger seat. The longer we drive, the more doubts that flow through my mind. I barely got out of the house with my aunt breathing down my neck about where I was going.

I look up, and Luciano is staring at me.

"What?" I ask. He looks back at the road, chuckling to himself.

"Nothing. Just, I've never seen you dressed so... elegant before," he says. I raise a brow at him.

"And what's that supposed to mean?" I hiss. He laughs.

"Nothing bad, you just always wear such exciting outfits, I'm not used to seeing this," he says gesturing to me. I look down at the red dress that I went out and bought just for the occasion. I wanted my best to impress his family, and I figured dressing like they most likely do would be a good start.

Luciano comes from old money. I can see it in the way he acts, the way he interacts with the world around him. And I'm pretty sure one of my bright dresses would not have fit into this dinner tonight.

"Don't be nervous, Sofia." He reaches over placing his hand in mine, and I feel all of my nerves dissipate as he rubs his thumb back and forth across my knuckles. He brings my hand to his lips, places a soft kiss against them, and sending electricity through my veins.

"Just be yourself. I want them to see why I fell for you," he says, and I swear my heart turns to mush right there.

The rest of the drive is me asking insane questions, and Luciano answering them. Eventually, we pull up to a massive gate with a giant cursive P on it. Not only that but there are men here, with guns standing at attention. Luciano lets down his window and once they see his face, the gate is opened.

I don't even realize my mouth is gaping until Luciano speaks.

"What?" he asks. I blink, trying to clear my thoughts.

"Your dad has guards?" I ask in confusion. Luciano nods his head slowly, but keeps his gaze trained ahead as we pull up the driveway to the massive estate. It's magnificent. And intimidating.

"This is your family's house..." I whisper. Luciano turns off the car and moves to get out. Once he sees that I'm not moving, he ducks his head back into the car.

"You coming?" he asks. I immediately shake my head, clinging to the seatbelt. He lets out a laugh.

"C'mon Sofia," he says in amusement.

"Luciano, are you crazy?" I hiss. I can't tear my gaze away from the massive house in front of me. Who buys a house this big? Who has that kind of money to splurge? What the hell kind of empire is Luciano taking over?

My door is pulled open, and Luciano is there, grabbing a hold of my arm trying to pull me out of the car.

"No!" I hiss.

"C'mon, Sofia." He says as he wraps his arms around my waist.

"No!" I say a little louder. He lets out a sigh, and leans closer to me in the car, and places his lips against my throat. My muscles turn to mush, and all fight and common sense that I had flies out the window as a wave of lust washes over me. Luciano chuckles, and in an instant has me out of the car.

I grasp onto him as tightly as I can, and he's smiling down at me.

"You made that much more complicated than it needed to be," he jokes. But I stare at the looming house ahead of us.

"What is it your family does exactly?" I ask as we get closer.

"We're in trade." He says simply. We're barely at the door when it's swung open, and a girl comes running down the steps towards us. She's beautiful. She makes me look like a rat. Her hair is black like Luciano’s, and runs down her back, in straight layers. Her eyes are also the same cold shade as Luciano's. She's wearing a black dress as she runs towards us.

"Oh my Gosh!" she squeals. She doesn't slow down as she nears us, and she smashes right into me, hugging me with all her might.

"It's so nice to finally meet you!" she shouts. She pulls away staring me in the face.

"Wow, so you're the woman that stole my brothers’ heart. Wow, you are beautiful! Much better looking than that God awful Vi-"

"Cat!" Luciano shouts next to me. Cat seems to realize her mistake and gives me a sheepish smile. She lets out a nervous laugh.

"I am so sorry,” she murmurs.

"I'm Caterina, Luciano's little sister. But everyone calls me Cat," she smiles at me.

"Oh, it's uh nice to meet you Cat," I smile at her.

"Well, come on inside our mother is dying to meet you!" she says pulling on my arm. I look at Luciano for help, but he has a troubled look on his face as I'm dragged into the house.

The interior is just as magnificent as the exterior. I'm sitting in a living room, and Cat is sitting next to me. Luciano is standing by me with an arm around me as we wait for his parents to show up.

"So how exactly did you get my brother wrapped around your finger. Because let me tell you. He's never been this crazy about a woman before." Cat smiles at me. I let out a nervous laugh

"Um, I don't know really," I say. For once I don't feel as confident as I usually do. Cat makes me just as nervous as Luciano. She's cold. Calculating. Even though she's nice and buoyant, she is still watching me as if she's studying my every habit.

"Well let me tell you, Luciano is usually dad's puppet, but ever since he met you, he's actually had a mind of his own," she laughs.

"Cat don't you think you've spoken enough?" Luciano growls above me. Cat looks at him, and a flash of fear appears across her features before she covers it up.

"Sorry for making you wait; I couldn't find the right thing to wear." I hear a beautiful, elegant voice and turn to look at the entrance of the living room. A beautiful woman is walking in, with all of Luciano's features minus the eye color. Hers are a bright brown. But her hair is just like her daughter's. She doesn’t even look like a mother if anything she looks like an older sister. And on her arm is a man that could make the devil himself crawl in fear. He has his arm protectively around his wife, and he's gazing at me with an icy cold gaze that makes me want to leave.

I immediately stand, going to meet his mother. I hold out my hand to her.

"Hi, I'm Sofia," I smile. She smiles back at me, and I see true joy in her eyes as she takes me in.

"You are beautiful," she smiles.

"Not as beautiful as you," I nervously laugh. Luciano comes up behind me and pulls his mother in for an embrace.

"It's good to see you, mama. You look amazing."

After the introductions, we sit down and have a nice conversation. Luciano's father, however, does not look happy at all. And it makes me nervous as hell.

"So how did you two meet?" Luciano's mother has been doing all the talking.

"Luciano actually came into the shop that my aunt owns," I say. Now his father perks up.

"Oh? Wasn't that shop burned down?" he asks.

"Yeah... but we've been working to get it back and running again," I say. He raises a brow at me.

"You don't think any more accidents will occur-"

"Luca!" Luciano's mother hisses at him. I look at Luciano in confusion, and he's glaring daggers at his father. Cat seems to notice the tension and perks up, shifting the direction of the conversation.

Once dinner is ready, we all sit at the massive table that Luciano's parents call a dinner table. It's more like a feast table for thirty people.

"So. Sofia. Has Luciano told you anything about our empire?" I'm shocked that Luciano's father is speaking to me seeing as he's been rude to me all night and has been glaring at me as if the staring would set me on fire.

"Um, nothing specific," I say. I look at Luciano, but he's once again staring at his father. And he looks angry.

"Figures he wouldn't tell you. Why else would you be here at this table?"

"Luca," Elise speaks up, eyeing him, but he's not listening to her. He and Luciano are having a staring contest.

"Personally, I don't see how working in a cupcake shop would be beneficial to our empire."

Cat chokes on her food in front of me.

"And I don't see why Luciano feels the need to force us to meet someone that I have no intention of accepting into my emp-"

"That's enough, Dad." Luciano's voice comes out like a whip. His father only laughs.

"What is the point of this, Luciano. Do you think it will change my decision?" he growls.

"Luca..." Elise starts, but he continues on.

"Really, son? Do you think that this is, ok? Openly defying me, and bringing this... low-class woman to my home will suffice?" He shouts, but Luciano is out of his seat, fists balled up about to go at it with his dad. I swallow all of my pride, and all of my hurt from his father’s words, and grab onto Luciano's arm as quick as I can.

"Luciano, stop," I say calmly. He pauses, and looks down at me in anger, but doesn't continue. I stand from my seat, smoothing my dress and holding onto Luciano for support as I look at his father.

"I apologize for any inconvenience I may have caused by showing up tonight." I look to his mother, and she's staring at me in shock and pity.

"Thank you for having me, you have a beautiful home, and it was a real pleasure meeting the two of you," I say looking at her and Cat. I move my gaze back to Luciano's father who is seething.

"I wish I could say the same for you." I look to Luciano.

"Will you please take me home?"

~

The car ride is silent. Tears are running silently down my face as I think of Luciano's father’s words about me. Right in my face.

"Sofia.."

"Don't." I cut him off. I don't want to hear anything he has to say. He lets out a deep sigh.

"I'm sorry... I didn't expect my father to act that way." He speaks anyway.

I keep my gaze down. I don't want him to see me crying. I swore that I would never let anyone make me cry, and here goes a complete stranger that does it in a matter of seconds. The way his father spoke, makes my skin crawl as I think about it. He was so cruel.

"Sofia, please. Talk to me," he says after the silence overtakes us again.

"What is there to say, Luciano?" I snap at him. I'm about to keep my mouth shut, but I feel the anger rising.

"Why would you bring me there? You obviously knew how your father felt about me, why would you do that!" I shout.

"I know that I don't measure up to you and your family, Luciano, I-!"

"Don't." I pause mid-sentence from his tone. He sounds so angry with just one word.

"Don't ever think that you don't measure up to my family. You are above us. Far above us."

"I'm sorry. I didn't think that he would react like that. I told him what I wanted, and I meant it. And I don't care how he feels about you, Sofia. I want you and that will not change." The car is silent. I don't know what to say. I'm hurt by his father’s reaction, but I'm touched that Luciano cares this much.

"But... what if I ruin your chances at taking over your father’s business. What if I mess up your family?" I ask. Luciano laughs. He actually laughs as if I just told the funniest joke ever.

"There is no way, you could ever jeopardize anything that has to do with my family, Sofia." He reaches over, grabbing a hold of my hand.

"Ever." He adds for emphasis. I bite my lip at the smile threatening to appear on my face. It's hard to be upset when he makes me feel so good.

"Why don't we do something fun." Luciano perks up next to me. I look at him in confusion.

"Like what?" I ask. He shrugs.

"I don't know. I've never really taken the time out to have fun," he says. Now it's my time to be confused.

"Seriously?" I ask. He laughs.

"Yeah, seriously. My life never called for anything personally recreational," he says as if it's nothing, but I couldn't imagine living a life that was just doing what my father said, and never having any personal fun. A new idea dawns on me, and I smile.

"Can we stop by the store?"

~

"I really don't see how this is fun," Luciano complains for what seems like the hundredth time. The muffled music is beyond the door, pulsating the sound of the club we're in. It's obvious Luciano has never been here or anywhere like this before. I stare at the white shirt that he has and reach down to pick up the bucket of bright pink paint that we went and got.

Without warning, I pick it up, tossing it all over him. There's shock on his face, and he looks completely taken aback. I grab the next vat of paint, smiling at him.

"We're not done yet," I say.

After I splatter Luciano and myself down, I push open the doors to the massive rave beyond. The loud music and the pulsating lights cover the entire room. And the blacklights above cause all the paint and bright colors to shine bright in the room. I turn to Luciano, and he's looking a little uneasy. So, I reach out grabbing his hand and pull him into the middle of the room.

People are around us, dancing and jumping, and having a good time. When we reach the destination, I turn to look at Luciano, and he looks really tense. But he looks amazing in this lighting with these bright lights and colors.

I smile at him, and yell at him trying to make my voice sound over the music.

"Loosen up!" I shout. I begin dancing to the beat around me and keep eye contact with him as he does so. But he still looks so tense. It's not so much dancing that he looks tense doing, but his eyes are roaming around the room as if he's expecting someone.

I reach up, placing my arms around his neck, and pulling my body flush against his. I move to the beat, and grind my body against his, and slowly he begins to relax. I feel his hands on my back, and he moves them down until they're on my ass, moving me with him.

The music pulses through me, and I feel myself getting lost in the beat. And when I open my eyes, Luciano is gazing at me with a lust filled gaze. The world around me disappears, and I can only see Luciano. His eyes drop to my lips, and out of habit I run my tongue over them.

He dips down and smashes his lips against mine.

~

Chapter 12

I don't know how we got back to Luciano's nor do I care. All I care about is the fire running through my body. I've never experienced such intensity just from kissing. Luciano is carrying me through the rooms, his tongue in my mouth, and his hands all over my body. I let out a soft moan.

Luciano lays me down gently on the soft bed and crawls over my body. He leans over me, pressing soft kisses on my throat. I can't help but reach up, running my fingers through his hair. It's so soft, slipping right through my fingertips. He moves on from my neck, kissing me on the lips again. His fingers move down my body, pulling my pants off. His fingers roam up my legs and wrap around the waistband of my panties removing them as well.

He sits up, and pulls his clothes off, taking my shirt with them, so that we're both naked. My heart is rapidly beating, and I dare myself to look at his naked body. My eyes widen. His body is chiseled perfection, all the way down to his engorged shaft that rests at full mast between his legs. I hear a deep chuckle and look up at Luciano. He's smiling down at me.

"Like what you see?" He asks.

I swallow and lick my suddenly dry lips. Luciano's eyes follow the movement. Then they drop to my body. He slowly runs his hands along my breasts, cupping them and running his thumb over my nipples. Instant pleasure rushes through me, and I gasp as the pleasure finds its way between my legs, heat pooling inside my sex.

"You're beautiful," Luciano murmurs right before he kisses me again. His hands travel from my breasts between my legs, and he rubs my clit, sparking pleasure. I moan spreading my legs wider for him to have easier access and he takes the opportunity to push a finger inside of me, getting me ready for him. I shudder in pleasure, feeling light spasms of my pussy anticipating the orgasm I know he is willing to give.

Luciano chuckles against my lips pulling away from me. All too soon, his fingers are gone, replaced with something bigger. I open my eyes and he is over me, hovering at my entrance. Images of Paul flash through my head, and a tinge of fear appears within me, but I have to fight against my instincts. This is Luciano. He would never hurt me. Never. He seems to sense the direction of my thoughts grabbing ahold of my hand, lifting it so that it is pressed against his chest. I feel his rapid heartbeat and look up at him. He's watching me with hooded eyes, but I can see his fierce need to protect me. I nod my head slowly to him, and he slowly pushes himself inside of me.

I open my mouth, letting out a loud moan as he fills me. The tip of his cock pushes past my entrance, slowly stretching me until he is fully sheathed inside of me. It's unlike anything that I've ever felt before. With Paul it was all pain, and fear, no pleasure, but with Luciano, it's different. He begins to thrust, keeping a steady pace and I take my hands running them through his hair and over his back where a light sheen is beginning to form.

With each thrust, I can feel a build-up within me, same as the last time when Luciano gave me an orgasm with just his hands. I feel myself getting hotter and hotter with each stroke as he brings me closer to the edge, his shaft guiding me to the release I crave. I open my mouth, letting my moans fill the air, dropping my head back as pleasure washes over me. I can feel Luciano’s lips pressing against my throat as his tongue suckles the sensitive flesh. Luciano's thrusts become more urgent just as my orgasm hits. I can feel my inner walls pulsating on his shaft, and I open my mouth to let out a scream. Luciano chooses that moment to place his mouth over mine, swallowing my moans. I can feel my inner muscles pulsing around Luciano's thick length.

All too soon, the warmth of Luciano is gone as he pulls out, finishing above me. I watch in awe as his hand closes around his cock, fisting himself until his cum spurts out, landing on my stomach. His eyes meet mine, and he leans over me, placing a warm kiss on my lips.

~

Luciano

"What the hell was that!" I shout. My father is having one of his rare off days. Him and my mother are sitting in the backyard having lunch when I decided to show up and crash the party. My mother looks up in shock, but my father keeps his head down.

"I don't have time for this, Luciano," he growls.

"Yes you do," I hiss. He finally looks up.

"You didn't have to treat her like that." He gives me a bitter laugh.

"Why would I treat her any differently. I've put up with this infatuation long enough, now it's time for you to stop playing games," he says calmly. I gape at him.

"You can't be this ignorant, Father. I told you I am not marrying Victoria."

"Yes you are." He doesn't miss a beat. I let out a laugh of disbelief.

"Have you even been keeping an eye on Reno?" I say in irritation.

"You do realize they are up to no good, right? They are trying to trap me in that damn marriage because they are up to no good, and you are so blinded by this damn union that you can't see that!" I shout.

"Watch your tone with me, son." He growls slowly standing. I take note that my mother is watching us in fear, but I am so upset with the way things were with Sofia, I don't even care. He needs to hear this.

He slowly stands up from the table, and I step closer to him.

"I have done everything that you have asked me to do, without question. I can take over for you without having to marry that conniving bi-"

"Luciano," My mother says softly. I keep my gaze on my father though.

All my life I have done everything he has asked me to do. Without question. He sees how much I hate Victoria, he sees how untrustworthy Don Reno is. He knows how he felt when he was forced into marriage. He was lucky enough to have someone like my mother though. But I know Victoria is nothing like my mother. She's entitled, and bossy, and an all-around bitch. And I refuse to do this.

"I'm out," I say. My mother gasps and my father narrows his eyes at me.

"What?" He growls. Before I can blink, he grabs me by the collar yanking me face to face with him.

"You don't get to choose to be 'out' son. This is who you are. And you're going to throw that away for some… woman?" he growls.

"Luca.." My mother is up from her chair and coming towards us panicked. Her hands are on my father’s trying to pry them from around my collar.

"Luca, stop." She's full-on panicking now.

"I gave you life, Luciano. This is your life. You can never walk away from this. You will never walk away from this, and as your Capo you will do as I say," He growls.

"Luca!" My mother shouts. My father is in an anger-filled haze because he lets go of my collar and pushes her hard. She crashes into the table, and that's all it takes for my rage to come to the surface. I break his hold on me, and lunge for him. Pure rage is fueling me.

"Don't ever touch her!" I shout.

"Luciano, stop!" I hear my mother screaming.

My father and I are literally fighting through the yard. I'm on top of him.

"You're a selfish bastard that has never cared about your damn family!" I shout. Before I can hit him, he throws me off of him, hitting me across the face.

"Every decision I make is for the good of the family!" he shouts.

"Not your fucking family!" I shout back. He lands another blow.

"Luca, stop!" I register my mother screaming at us. At the back of my mind, I know that this is wrong. It's wrong of me to even fight him like this, especially in front of her. His hands clasp around my throat.

"Luca!" My mother’s shrill cry breaks through to him.

He looks at her with such anger, then back down to me. Both of our breathing is ragged from exertion. His eyes slowly widen as he comes to the realization of what he just did. Especially to my mother. He slowly gets off of me, standing to face her.

"Elise... I-" He cuts off. For once, my mother looks angry. She walks towards my father.

"I told you the moment you announced it that this would not go easy. I told you, Luca. You sentenced my son to a life he didn't want, and for what? You and I both know that Reno is not a good man. Why is this so important for you?" Her voice is stern. My father lets out a sigh.

"Elise, I told you. Reno is the final piece to the puzzle. We will be untouchable if I can jus-"

"No, Luca. When will your thirst for power end?" She gestures towards me.

"Look at your son, Luca. He is telling you he doesn't want this... He's fighting you on this he has never fought you for anything in his life... Can't you just let it go?" She's pleading on my behalf. And I feel my heartbreaking. By doing that I have pitted my mother against my father. And that's never a good thing. My father is getting angry. I can see it the way he's biting down on his jaw.

"That's not how it works, Elise. I couldn't just tell my father I didn't want a marriage," he growls. My mother looks down.

"Neither could I, Luca... But you aren't your father, and we're further along than he was." She steps closer to him, placing her hand on his cheek.

"Please. Don't do this." He looks at my mother, and slowly reaches up clasping her hand in his.

"I'm sorry, Elise. But that's not how-"

SMACK

My eyes widen in shock, and so does my father's. She slapped him. She looks at me with tears spilling over. I hate seeing my mother cry. It kills me.

"I'm so sorry, Luciano,” She mumbles before turning away from us both, and heading into the house. I look at my father, and he's vibrating in anger. I slowly stand up, wiping the dirt from my clothes. I take one last look at my father and walk away from him. I'm done.

~

The door is yanked open, and I'm greeted by Victoria. Never has a person brought me such anger and hatred before. Her eyes widen slightly.

"Luciano, what are you doing here?" she asks.

"I need to talk to you," I say. Rarely do I make it a point to come to Victoria's house. But this matter has gone beyond my father's. So now it's time to either break this off peacefully or do what my first mind told me to do.

Kill her.

Victoria steps aside, inviting me in. I step by her, taking note of the expensive perfume she is wearing. Sofia never wears perfume. If anything, she wears some kind of lotion that is sweet and scented. The scent coming off of Victoria is nauseating.

"To what do I owe the pleasure?" she asks. I walk to the living room, and she follows me.

"Please. Sit down," I say. She eyes me carefully but sits down.

"I haven't heard from you in weeks, and when I come back from my trip, you changed the locks and left me off the authorized list, and you come to my house telling me you want to talk? No, Luciano. I think I'm the one that needs to talk to you," she growls.

I laugh. God her voice is so fucking annoying. Every time I'm with her, I find myself growing more and more annoyed.

"The wedding is off," I say.

I wait for her to scream, to panic, to tell me it's not. But she doesn't. She crosses her arms and narrows her eyes at me. Then a small smile appears on her face and twists into a cruel grin. She laughs. As if what I just said was the absolute funniest thing in the world.

"No, it isn't Luciano," she says confidently. I look up at her.

"Look, Victoria. I don't love you. I don't want to be with you-"

"Let me explain something to you, Luciano. I've spent my whole life training for us to be married. This is my father’s ultimate accomplishment as the Don. And I didn't spend all these years, planning just for you to suddenly decide you don't want to do it anymore," She growls at me. I quirk a brow at her.

"Victoria, that's not really your choice.” She smiles.

"Oh, isn't it?" She picks up a remote and turns on the screen. My heart drops into my stomach. Sofia. It's Sofia. She's walking with her aunt, shopping for something. I turn back to look at Victoria, and she's smiling at me.

"Your problem Luciano is that you think that everything revolves around love. You don't think I put two and two together when you suddenly grew more and more agitated with me? I'm not as dumb as you think," she says. I'm up before I can stop myself.

"What the fuck do you want," I growl. She smiles at me, tilting her head.

"Oh. It's not what I want, Luciano. It's what you want. Do you want your precious lover’s brains splattered all over the damn pavement? Because that's what you're going to get if you call off this wedding," she says.

She has me. She knows she does. She sets down the remote, walking away from me.

"And I won't stop there. Maybe I'll get your sister next huh? Or maybe even your father. We all know accidents happen with the Capo's all the time. Or maybe even your precious mother," she threatens. I'm across the room, with her throat in my hands before I can register my thoughts. I slam her into the wall, and she cries out in pain.

"If you touch my mother, I will break every bone in your body and make you eat them," I hiss. Her eyes fill with fear, but she quickly hides it. She reaches up pulling her body flush to mine.

"Oh, Luciano. It makes me so hot when you speak to me like that," she says. I jerk away from her in disgust. This can't be fucking happening.

"So here's the deal, Luciano. Tell no one of this arrangement, and no one will die. But if you so much as utter a single word, I'll start with your little girlfriend, and pick them off one by one. I look back to the screen, and Sofia is laughing at something her aunt said. She's completely unaware that her life is on the line in this very moment.

As I watch her on the screen, even now I can see the very reason I fell for her. Everything about her calls to me. She's my soulmate, and I'm forever forbidden from seeing her. It kills me. I love her. She's the first and only woman I've ever loved this way. I slowly walk to the screen, getting closer to her. Her hair is out and curly. I smile softly to myself as I remember our conversation this morning.

(Flashback)

I'm sitting in the tub, and Sofia is in between my legs. The heat from the tub, and the water causes her hair to curl up into tight curls. I push the hair aside, placing a soft kiss on her shoulder, causing her to giggle.

Last night was everything to me. I've never felt that way when having sex with someone. It was always about getting off. Finding release. But with her, it's everything.

"You're perfect," I murmur. She laughs softly.

"You're just trying to get me in bed," she jokes. I can't help but smile.

"You're right." I place a kiss on her shoulder. It's nice to be able to have this kind of banter with someone. Just being myself for once. Sofia turns around in the water so that she is laying on top of me. I gaze at her face. She's glowing. I did that. My eyes are drawn to the small baby hairs that tickle her throat.

"You know what I love about your hair?" She smiles.

"What?"

"I love how curly it is," I say truthfully. It amazes me. Anytime Victoria curls her hair, she uses heat and hairspray. But for Sofia it's just natural. She blushes at me, looking away.

"Really? I always hated it," she says. I frown at that.

"Why?"

"The girls used to make fun of me for it. They said it was weird. That I looked like a poodle." I raise a brow at her, leaning in and kissing her lightly on the nose.

"Well I think you're a beautiful poodle. My poodle," I laugh.

"Aye, Luciano." She swats at me.

"I love it when you wear it all out," I add. She only smiles softly as she looks away.

(End Flashback)

And now, she is wearing it down despite her personal feelings towards it. I turn back to Victoria.

"Why are you doing this, Victoria?" She scoffs at me, rolling her eyes.

"Everyone knows that to be on top you need power. You have the power, Luciano. You literally have the world at your fingertips."

"Victoria, your father has his own empire,”  I say. She laughs at me.

"Do you really think my father's minuscule empire is going to do anything? That's why we need you, Luciano. You are the key. Your father turned what his father left him into an empire. And everyone wants to be a part of it." I narrow my eyes at her, thinking of the information that I came across involving them.

"You're planning on taking over my father's empire," I say.

"Duh," she quips.

"That's why you bought all that land. And that's why your father is bringing in more and more recruits. If you had gotten me into bed with you, and I got you pregnant, then you would have had the marriage in the bag, and no need to wait. No need for my father either. You were going to murder him."

"The sooner the better," she says. How could I have been so stupid? All this time I was worried about the wrong things.

"Why are you telling me all this?" I ask.

"Because. Now you know the risks if you try and call this wedding off again. Now you know what's all on the line," she smiles at me. And I want to end her. Right here. How could my father have been so foolish as to do dealings with these people and he never even picked up on their betrayal? All because he was too busy fighting me trying to make me marry her.

I turn away from her, needing to get away and process everything that I just heard.

"Not so fast, Luciano." I tense, slowly turning around to see Victoria taking off her clothes. Dread settles over me.

"I don't want you seeing that low-class bitch anymore. And just to make sure you understand who your loyalties lie with..." She walks towards me, pressing her body flush against mine, reaching down my jeans. Her cold blue eyes travel up to mine.

"I think it's time we start trying for that baby, don't you?"

~

Sofia

"Luciano?" I call out. His apartment is dark, but there is no music coming from his piano. I got a text from him earlier, telling me to come over, but he is nowhere to be found.

"Luciano?" I try again. I round the corner to the living room, and that's when the noise starts. The large screen TV is on. And Luciano is on the TV. With someone else.  My eyes widen as I take in who it is. It’s the woman from the lobby. She's stark naked, being loud as fuck while she bounces up and down on Luciano's cock.

My eyes are burning from the tears that are beginning to form. I feel betrayal and hurt, but most importantly, I feel anger.

"He is quite the lover, isn't he?" I jump as the woman on the tape stands up from the couch. I hadn't even seen her. But here she is wearing a tight blue dress with blood-red lipstick on, her blonde hair falls down her back gracefully. She begins walking towards me, her heels making a loud click against the marble.

"I honestly didn't expect Luciano to be so weak as to cheat on me with someone else. Me, his fiancée." She stares at me in disgust. My mouth drops slightly. Fiancée? So, Luciano was the fiancée she was fussing about in the lobby.

"Oh. I'm guessing he didn't tell you, huh? Yes, we've been engaged since we were 7. Our wedding is at the end of this year," she brags. My legs feel weak, and my heart is fluttering so fast, I wouldn't be shocked if I had a heart attack in the middle of the floor. But I mask my emotions.

"So you see, you were just a sideshow," she growls. I try and tune her out, but even when I try, I can still hear her loud moans on the TV behind us. More and more tears fall.

"I guess he had some kind of infatuation with the lower side of life. Maybe he wanted to see what it was like to fuck a little dirty-" She doesn't finish her sentence. I ball my fist up and smash it across her face. I channel all of my anger, and rage into that punch and boy does she go flying.

I stare at her as she hits the ground.

"I don't give a fuck about what you have to say," I growl, turning to leave. I sprint for the front door, and just as I reach for it, it's pulled open. My eyes widen in shock, as Luciano's surprised face comes into my view. We stare at each other for a long time, and I see genuine worry cross his features as he takes in my tears.

"Sofia-" I shove past him, but he snatches my arm, preventing me from walking. I hear the click of heels and realize his fiancée is coming. Luciano does to.

"Shit," he whispers.

"Sofia, please. I can explain-"

"Explain what Luciano. How you cheated on your pregnant fiancée?" The woman growls from the doorway. I try and walk away from the both of them as this new bout of news destroys all of my defenses. She's fucking pregnant too? Luciano whirls me around to face him, his stormy eyes pleading with me.

"Please, Sofia, let me-"

SMACK

I slap him across the face, and before he can say another word, I snatch him by his collar, bringing his face close to mine.

"You are a despicable ingrate. You will burn in hell for this," I growl.

He looks genuinely hurt by my words. Even now he's putting on that stupid act, pretending that he cares. My eyes drift to his fiancée. And with the little bit of dignity that I have left, I turn and head for the elevator.

~

Chapter 13

Sofia

"Sofia, what is wrong with you? You've been moping all day?" My aunt and I have the day off, and instead of spending it resting, we're spending it in the garden. It feels nice to have the sun shining down on me. But each time we get quiet, my thoughts run right back to Luciano. And that damn video of him and her.

He's no different than anyone I've ever met, and I fell for it. I hate myself so much right now. I told myself that when I moved out here, I would not deal with men. It was about getting my lesson and doing better for myself. But despite my aunts warning, I fell for him when I shouldn't have and now I'm paying the price for it.

"Sofia?" I look up at my aunt, and she's watching me with worry.

"It's nothing, tia." I mumble. I stare at the dirt for a moment longer and stand heading into the house.

"I'm sorry, I just don't feel like gardening today,” I call over my shoulder.

I step into the house, pouring myself a glass of water. The kitchen is silent, and my thoughts are loud as hell. Warm tears stream down my face. There is an actual pain in my chest. How could he do this to me? Why would he do this to me? I throw the cup of water at the sink, causing water to splatter everywhere.

"How could I be so stupid?" I whisper pulling at my hair.

No matter how hard I try, I can't forget him. Everything he's said to me. He seemed so sincere when he was talking to me, professing everything to me. Every time I close my eyes, I see him and her together. And it hurts me. I walk upstairs to my bedroom, closing the door behind me. As soon as I step in, I pause.

My phone is lighting up on the desk. I pick it up to see another missed call from him. Sixty-Seven to be exact. Why is he still calling me? I place my phone face down. All I really have to do is block him, but I can't bring myself to do that. I really fell for him. Hard.

I turn to my bed, flopping down on the mattress. I pull my pillow into my face and scream as hard as I can. I scream until my throat is raw, and my tears subside. I can't be this hurt over him. I should have learned my lesson with Paul. He was such a smooth talker. I pull the pillow in close to me, squeezing it tight. Men are dogs. Disgusting dogs.

I feel broken. I really do. Like someone has reached into my chest and pulled my heart out. It didn't feel like this with Paul. But nothing is normal with Luciano. I should know that by now. I stare at the wall. I need to get out of here.

~
I'm sitting at a table in the middle of the mall. I tried getting out, getting something to eat, but even food isn't appetizing anymore. I feel nauseous just thinking about it. So, I settle for a smoothie. I'm staring at the thick whip cream when someone takes a seat in front of me. I look up in irritation and pause.

It's the man from the shop. The man that Luciano showed up with. He has a sucker in his mouth, and an amused smirk on his face as he stares me down. I narrow my eyes at him, trying to mask my fear.

"Sofia," he says as if we've been friends forever. I immediately stand up, not wanting to hear anything someone associated with Luciano has to say. He snatches onto my arm quickly, his cold blue eyes meeting mine and forcing me to sit still.

"I think you're going to want to hear this sweetheart," he says. His gaze is so serious, I slowly sit down. He pops the sucker back in his mouth.

"Smart girl."

"What do you want," I snap. He raises a brow at me.

"I see your manners haven't improved in the slightest." I open my mouth to say something else, but he stops me.

"I was sent here, to put things into perspective for you." I scoff at him.

"What could you possibly put into perspective for me. I saw him cheating with my very own eyes," I say. He laughs. He actually laughs.

"Damn. She's smarter than I gave her credit for," he mumbles to himself. His cold eyes meet mine.

"I'm Amadeo by the way." After silence stretches over us, he cracks a smile. And it looks unnatural on his face. There is just something about his aura that throws me off.

"Just figured you would want to know the name of the man that's going to be protecting you from now on."

"Excuse me?"

"What do you know about the world around you?" he asks. I stay silent. He laughs shaking his head in disbelief.

"He must really like you to keep everything from you like this."

"Luciano, isn't who you think he is. And I can tell by your reaction, you don't know the first thing about him. About us and who we really are." He pulls the sucker out of his mouth, and gestures to the mall around us.

"This entire building is a part of the Pasquino empire. Each and every shop pays extra to safely reside here."

"Ok. You're talking in riddles," I growl beginning to get irritated. He reaches into his pocket pulling out a letter handing it to me. I take it from his hand and move to open it. I look up in confusion, and he urges me to open it.

Tears spring to my eyes when I see the handwriting. It's Luciano's. His neat handwriting. I move to immediately tear it up, but Amadeo's hand moves over mine.

"You're going to want to read it."

Sofia,

I am so sorry. For everything that I have put you through and am about to put you through. First and foremost, I want you to know that I love you. With everything in me, I love you. And I will never regret that. Before you, life was just black and white for me, but now that I've had a taste of you, I can never let you go. And I never will. You're everything to me. And now I finally have a reason to live. I know that all the evidence points to me cheating on you, and physically I won't deny it. Yes. But I had to. I can't explain everything right now, but I swear you will have answers, just don't give up on me. For reasons, I can't tell you right now, I can't be seen with you. Or it will be your life on the line. I told you my life was dangerous. My family is dangerous. Which is why I have assigned my most trusted friend to you. He may seem a little intimidating, but Amadeo will protect you. Trust him. Only him. It will be a while before I can contact you again but know that I am working to protect you. I love you, Sofia. Only you. I want you to google my name when you get home. It will explain everything. And if you want nothing more to do with me after that, I will understand, and you can send Amadeo away. But if you are willing to give me the chance, I will be forever in your debt.

I love you, Sofia.

-Luciano

I'm rapidly blinking, so much emotion is running through me at this note. Should I be angry? Should I believe him? Is he lying to me? I look up and Amadeo is watching me carefully.

"So, what now?" I ask wiping my eyes hastily. He sits back, popping the sucker in his mouth.

"Now, we get you home safely, and you follow Luciano's instructions."

"Who are you? Why are you doing what he tells you without question?" I ask. He only smiles to himself.

"That's for you to find out."

~

Once Amadeo gets me back to my house safely, I head inside locking the door. He told me he's going to be watching my house, until I give him a signal. Flash my light once if I want him to leave, and twice if I choose to believe Luciano.

I walk to the kitchen, where I find a note from my aunt that says she went out with some friends. Which gives me the house to myself. I head to the freezer, grabbing a pint of ice cream and head upstairs to my room. I close the door behind me, taking a seat in front of my computer. The screen turns on, and I immediately type in Luciano's name. I stare at the letters in black and white on my screen.

Luciano Pasquino

I press enter.

Immediately, pictures of him pop up. With important figures, smiling, and with beautiful women on his arms. So, he is obviously someone that is important. I click on the first article that shows up.

"The Pasquino empire has agreed to trade weapons with the military, giving huge advantage"

My eyes widen. So, is that the trade that his family is in? Is that why they're dangerous because they sell weapons? I scroll down even further, trying to find something that will give me a bigger clue.

"Son of Luca Pasquino officially turns 18"

I read through the article but it only talks about how Luciano's father is proud of his son. I go back to the original search page and keep searching for something. All I see is more information about their empire and how successful it is. How smart they are. How lucky we are to have them. I take note that the senator’s daughter is married to someone that is a part of the Pasquino empire. Apparently, she went missing when she was little, but was discovered and brought back.

It's a cute little story.

Nothing crazy stands out to me though. Finally, I see it. An article that stands out.

"Mafia boss introduces first born after months of being underground."

I click on the article and read it. It's on one of those conspiracy websites. So surely it can't be true. But it's very intricate and detailed. It even has pictures of dealings. I see Luciano’s father, holding his wife and their son with a small smile on his face.

My eyes widen in shock as I read the article. Luca Pasquino, one of the worlds most feared names. The leader of the Mafia. The leader of the Pasquino's who own the entire continent that is the U.S. Apparently, they began in only the north, but Luca expanded that when he married his now wife whose father was the southern mafia boss.

My mind shifts to Luciano's words.

"I'm learning the family trade."

"I have to take over for my father one day."

"My family is dangerous."

The moments he would tense up if I snuck up on him, the time he pulled a gun on me when I showed up at his door unannounced. I gasp as Amadeo’s words run through my mind.

"This entire building is a part of the Pasquino empire. Each and every shop pays extra to safely reside here."

My aunt's shop. Luciano and Amadeo show up and my aunt suddenly became jumpy and scared. That's why she was so scared of them. Of him. That's why she warned me away from him, but I was so damn hardheaded I didn't listen.

Luciano is the son of the world's most renowned mafia boss, and one day he'll take that over. And become the boss himself. And I stole the heart of the world's next most powerful man. Blood is rushing through my ears as I try and process everything. Luciano is in the mafia? So that means that Amadeo is as well.

I drop my head in my hands as I try and comprehend everything. What the hell have I gotten myself into? I look towards my window, remembering that Amadeo is waiting for an answer from me. What do I do? Do I shut Luciano out forever? He's bad for me. Bad for my life. But I feel so strongly for him, and he does for me.

But where does his fiancée tie into this? I slowly stand from my chair, walking to the window to give my signal.

~

Luciano.

The screams of my victims echo throughout the room, giving me such a reprieve. For once, I get to hear something that doesn't drive me crazy. All I want is to kill Victoria. In every way that is possible to make her suffer. She's been blackmailing me with Sofia's life, and I've had it.

Every time I try and rest, Sofia’s words rip right through me. The hurt in her eyes, and the hatred she had for me. All because of Victoria. After Sofia stormed out of my apartment, I found out everything that Victoria did, right down to the fucking sex tape she made of us and showed to Sofia. That crossed the line. I was going to give her a quick death, but that moment made me realize how much I want to see her suffer.

It's been literal hell trying to keep her plans to myself. But lucky for me, I had rounds with Amadeo and was able to explain everything to him. He was on board with me the moment he realized unmerciful murder would be involved. It's telling my father about the plan and protecting my family that would be tricky. Victoria and her family are watching their every move. So, the moment they see something out of the ordinary is the moment that they will kill them.

Lucky for me, my father is smart as hell. Amadeo's father is married to the senator’s daughter. And if it weren't for everything he and my father did for the senator, he wouldn't be the senator right now. So, I would have to resort to using their help.

I stare at the man in front of me. He's blubbering like a baby. But I'm not listening. I just need some release for all of this anger.

"I'm going to let go of your fingers now," I say. He nods his head vigorously. Currently, he only has two more fingers left. The other three have been crushed by my plyers.

"I'm going to ask you this one more time. How many has Don Reno recruited?" I ask.

"I don't know the specifics, I swear! All I know is that he's gotten at least 500 new people," he cries.

"Now tell me, James. Why on earth would he need that many people when he smuggles drugs for a living Hm?" I ask. James looks away.

"If I tell you, he'll kill me," he pleads with me. I laugh. I pat him lightly on the head.

"Oh James. That's where you're mistaken. Right now, you're as good as dead.".

~

I walk into my apartment, exhausted. Emotionally I am drained. I tense when I see the lights already on. I around the corner to find Victoria in the living room, strewn across my couch. I walk right past her, ignoring her.

"Luciano!" she snaps.

"What do you want," I growl. I hear her get up and walk towards me. It takes everything in me not to fucking strangle her.

"I haven't seen you all day," she says. I turn to look at her, mustering all the hatred I can in my gaze.

"Do you really think that I want to look at you today?" I ask. She glares at me and narrows her eyes.

"This is about that bitch isn't it?" she growls.

"Obviously. She's not a bitch, Victoria. Don't call her that."

"Oh, I am your fiancée, Luciano! I can call her whatever the fuck I want to!" she screeches. I roll my eyes turning away from her.

"Luciano. Luciano! If you don't talk to me, I'll have my father’s men murder that ugly who-" I'm on her before I can think. My hands are around her throat, and I slam her into the wall.

"Listen to me," I growl out.

"I am marrying you, aren't I? I'm fucking you whenever you want to. You are getting the power that comes with having my goddamn name. Stop fucking threatening me with her life," I hiss out.

Her eyes widen, and she knows she has pushed me. I let go of her and step back.

"You realize you're nothing more than a pawn to your father, right? He could care less what happens to you the moment we say our vows. As long as he has the connection. And you're going and making an enemy of me, now?" I laugh in disbelief.

"If you hurt her in any way, I will kill you, Victoria. Don't threaten me with her anymore." Just in the nick of time, my phone rings and I pull it out of my pocket to see a call from Amadeo.

"Yeah," I answer.

"We need to meet, boss."

"Ok."

I hang up the phone, and head to the door.

"Where do you think you're going?" Victoria shouts. I stop, turning to face her.

"In case you forgot, I am the son of the Capo, Victoria. So, my duties don't stop the moment you decide to blackmail me. "

"You realize I have her under surveillance. If you so much as call her, I'll know!" she calls after me. I roll my eyes, walking out the door eager to know what Sofia's answer is.

~

I walk into Amadeo's house, which is surprisingly messy. There are books everywhere, and packs of food.

"Amadeo?" I call out. I hear shuffling in the kitchen, and walk towards it, but to my surprise, it's not Amadeo in here. It's a woman. She's pretty. Her hair is pulled up high on her head, leaving a few tight curls that fall out gently caressing her neck. Her skin rivals the color of caramel, yet she has flour on her face.

I clear my throat, and she immediately stands up with wide eyes.

"Oh, my gosh, I'm so sorry. I told Amadeo I'd have the place clean before you got here, but I just lost track of time and-" She continues to babble on, but I'm still trying to figure out who she is. Now that I can see her more clearly, she is very beautiful. And her eyes are green. Not an emerald green, but a light green with brown towards the iris.

"Leah." She jumps, as Amadeo’s voice comes from behind me. I half expect him to be angry, but he just walks past me and kisses her gently on the nose. I stare in complete confusion and discomfort as Amadeo shows a part of himself that I have never seen before. He's gentle with this woman.

"I'll call you later, ok?" he says. She smiles back at him, nodding her head before ducking past me. I watch her leave and look back at Amadeo in shock. But he's back to his cold and rigid self.

"Why have I never met her?" I ask. He only shrugs.

"I keep my personal life very far from business," he says simply. I follow him to his office and close the door behind him.

"Please, tell me you have some good news.” He stares grimly at me and opens his mouth.

"Well, she knows who you are. Who you really are." He says. Dread settles in the pit of my stomach.

I wrote that letter, quickly and in hopes that it would buy me some time to fix things. I know that what Victoria did tore Sofia up inside. Especially after everything that she's been through. And there was no way I could tell her who I was. Especially with all the spies, Victoria has. Lucky for me, Amadeo is the best at what he does and was able to contact Sofia discreetly.

"How is she?" I ask.

"Honestly, she's terrible. Stressed. Crying all the time. Throwing things. Cussing at the air. She almost hit me a few times today and the moment she realized the note was from you she tried to tear it up." I smile at that. Yeah, that sounds like Sofia. Feisty as ever.

"But she's still strong," he adds.

"So... what'd she say?" I ask. I look up, and Amadeo is smiling at me.

"She's giving you a chance, Luciano."

After all this time. All this stress. All this hatred and rage and anger. All these days being separated from her, I feel joy. Actually, pure joy. She loves me back. She's giving me a chance. Even though she knows who I am, she's giving me a chance. She's trusting me. I smile until I'm laughing, placing my head in my hands.

"Thank you, so much Amadeo."

"No problem boss. The question now is, how are we going to off your fiancée?" he asks. I have to reign in my joy for a moment.

"I got some information today. Reno has recruited more than 500 men. My father for some reason is unaware of all these developments, and I think it's because we have a traitor. Someone close to my father that isn't giving him all the details. We can't tell my family about any of this because Victoria and Don Reno are watching them. The moment they see them do anything out of the ordinary, they will slaughter them." I feel my blood burning at the thought.

"Amadeo, what I'm about to ask you is something very serious. I need you to act on my behalf." Amadeo's eyes widen in shock.

"What?" He says in confusion.

"Get Collette, let her know what's going on. Tell your father and get me someone from the other side that can help. I'm turning this over to you. Make all the moves, do everything that you think is best. Victoria is watching me as well." I sit back in my chair.

"I'm trapped. And the more she tries to make me sleep with her, the closer I am to getting her pregnant, and I can't have that. We're on a timetable, Amadeo. I need this done as quickly as possible. And there is no one that I would trust with something this serious, as much as I trust you." I stand up, holding my hand out to him.

"You're my right-hand man, Amadeo." He stares at me with wide eyes, and for once I see emotion in that usually cold blue gaze. He stands, clasping my hand in his.

"You can count on me, boss."

~

Chapter 14

"It's an honor to have you here, Mr. Pasquino." I give a smile shaking the hand of yet another esteemed member of society. My nerves are grating, and my patience is thinning. Victoria is on my arm, keeping me in her sight all night.

It's driving me crazy how bad I want to break her fucking arm.

"Luciano, stop being so damn mopey," she growls at me. I stop midstride to focus my attention on her.

"It's kind of hard to when my fiancée is blackmailing me," I growl.

She only rolls her eyes and roughly jerks me along. This night is never ending. I haven't seen or heard from Sofia in a week, and there is no way that I can anytime soon because Victoria is constantly dragging me around. I can only pray that she doesn't get pregnant before I can kill her. Because if there is a child inside of her, that changes the whole game. And I don't know what I'll do.

"Luciano!" I look up, and relief washes over me.

Cat is walking towards me with a smile on her face. I haven't seen her in a long time either nor have I spoken to my parents. I haven't been able to for fear that I may put their lives in danger. And with the way things went down between us the last time I saw them, I doubt my father will have anything to do with me. I quickly break away from Victoria, walking towards Cat and pulling her in a tight embrace.

"You're all in danger, Don Reno is responsible," I whisper quickly in her ear before I pull away.

She pulls away from me doing a perfect job of masking the fact that I just whispered life-changing news into her ear. She looks at Victoria, keeping the same energy.

"Victoria, haven't seen you in a while how have you been?" she asks.

"Great," Victoria smiles but it doesn’t come off as sincere. Cat raises a brow at her, but I step in between them

"What are you doing here?" I ask. She gestures behind her.

"One of my friends needed a date to a benefit, and I just so happen to be free tonight," she says smiling. Victoria wraps her arm around me, pulling me along.

"Well, we have to go now," she says. I walk with her slowly, and Cat waves to us.

"Save me a dance brother?" she calls after us. I look at Victoria.

"You won't even let me talk to my sister?" I ask in disbelief. She shakes her head.

"Can't risk you ruining our plans." I stop her, turning to face her.

"Victoria. I told you that I would go along with your plans. What more do you want from me?" I ask. She narrows her eyes at me.

"I want you to forget about that girl, Luciano!"

"Sofia?" I ask. She crosses her arms over her chest and nods.

"You're distracted. All the time. You won't even give me attention you know that I deserve," she whines. I look at her incredulously.

"Victoria, you are threatening the lives of everyone I love, and trying to sabotage my father’s legacy. How in the hell can you expect me to give you any kind of attention when you're the reason this is going down in the first place?" I ask. She points at my chest.

"Luciano. I am the one that should have your heart. Not her."

"I thought you didn't even care about that?" I ask. She scoffs at me.

"If someone else has your heart, then what do I have. The shell of a man that I don't want. I want you, Luciano. All of you."

"You don't want me. You just want to control me," I say. She shrugs next to me.

"Is there a difference? You were willing to throw it all away for some girl you just met. What would anyone give to have that kind of power over you?"

~

We finally arrive back at my apartment, and Victoria is already throwing herself at me. She walks into the bedroom and stands in front of where I'm seated on the bed, making her back face me.

"Help me with my zipper?" she says innocently.

I stand up, and pull the zipper down her dress, exposing her spine. I can't help my thoughts as they travel to Sofia. Victoria doesn't even compare. Victoria drops the dress off her shoulders, the fabric pooling around her legs. She turns around, pressing her body to mine, and begins running her fingers up my chest. It takes everything in me not to break her damn hands.

"C'mon, Luciano. Let's not fight anymore tonight," she murmurs, running her hand down the front of my clothes. Just in time, there is a knock on my door. I've never felt more relieved to have a surprise guest.

Victoria made me change all the locks on my house and forced me to give her the only key. So even my close friends aren't allowed inside without my express permission. I walk quickly through the house and swing the door open.

I'm met with cold blue eyes that I've never been happier to see. Amadeo looks troubled though.

"We have business to attend to. Your father's order," he says. I nod my head and turn to see Victoria coming towards us in a robe. She takes a look between Amadeo and me and crosses her arms.

"Where do you think you're going?”

"We have business."

"Luciano, if you thi-"

"If I may, Ms. Victoria. In case you forgot, Luciano is the future Capo, and before you barreled your way into his life, he had duties and responsibilities first and foremost to the family. And if you can't accept that, and continue to hinder him from doing his duties, then I don't think you are fit to be his wife. Or the wife of any Capo,." Amadeo says. His voice is cold and filled with irritation, and Victoria doesn't say another word.

"Now, if you'll excuse us, Luciano has to go and risk his life to protect this family and your lifestyle. Goodnight, Ms. Victoria."

I haven't felt this happy in a long time, and I turn to Amadeo.

"You are a lifesaver man," I smile, clapping him on the back.

"So, what's the job?” I ask. He shakes his head at me, placing his finger to his lips.

~

"There is no job." I look over at Amadeo, and he has a smug smile on his face.

"I set up a meeting between you and your parents, who are halfway across the world right now. Your father has hidden them, quite well I must add. Even I can't pinpoint his exact location." I can't help the smile that crosses my face.

"Amadeo you son of a bitch," I laugh.

"I knew I could count on you!" I shout. He shrugs, with a smug smile on his face.

"I even convinced him to leave the entire family out of it. Which means Don Reno is in the dark about the turn of events." =

We arrive at the warehouse, and I hop out, feeling much better than I've felt in a long time. For once there is no security, but I do see someone that I trust with my life. Collette. She runs to me, giving me a tight hug, a huge smile on her face.

"Why didn't you tell me what was going on?" she says after she hits me on the chest. I shrug.

"I didn't think it would get this bad out of hand," I say honestly. She makes a face at me.

"Well of course it will. You don't have the first clue about how to handle women, Luciano. Especially power-hungry women." I roll my eyes, and we all make our way into the warehouse. The computer screen is already up, with my father on the other end. I take a seat, meeting his gray eyes that mirror mine.

"Luciano.".

"Papa." I haven't seen or spoken to him since our fight in the backyard, when he beat the hell out of me and pushed my mother.

"I'm sure Amadeo filled you in on everything,” I say. He nods his head.

"Still think this union is a good idea? I told you they were up to no good." He gives me a bitter smile.

"I'm sorry, Luciano. I was blinded by power, and every time you told me something was out of the ordinary, I just thought it was another way of you trying to run from your responsibilities," he says. I shake my head in disbelief.

"Papa, I have never run from my responsibilities." I hold his gaze.

"You know that." He nods his head.

"I know, son."

"The question is now, what are we going to do about Don Reno and Victoria?" My father sits back in his chair.

"That's simple. Kill them. All of them," he says. I smile.

Words that I've been wanting to hear from his lips finally come. Then I remember why I was so hesitant in the first place. I look down, for once unable to hold his gaze. I know my father. Even though Victoria and I aren't going to work out, he will not approve of Sofia. Ever.

"Papa... I can’t..." I say. The room is quiet. I notice Amadeo and Collette look at each other, and my father is watching me.

"What?" He snaps forcing me to meet his eyes, mustering all the strength I can.

"If something happens to her, Sofia will die." My father’s expression shifts to one of anger. Murderously so.

"The cupcake girl," he hisses. I nod my head.

"Luciano. If you don't get rid of her, the entire family is in jeopardy!"

"I know, and I will. It's just going to take some planning and a little longer than it needs to."

"Luciano, are you really-"

"Yes," I say in the most serious tone I can muster.

"If it weren't for you, we wouldn't even be in this mess. I've done everything you have asked me, my whole life. Never once have I questioned you. But now, it's time for me to make my own decisions," I say. His eyes narrow at me, but I continue.

"I love Sofia. I want her to be my wife. I want her to live this life I've been damned to live because she will be my reprieve. And I don't need your approval anymore," I say. My father’s face goes through a myriad of emotions.

"I know you don't believe in love. The traditional sense. But I do. And I love her. It may be your empire now, but pretty soon it will be mine. And I want her by my side." For once I can't read his expression. He has a blank expression on his face. He shakes his head and stands.

"Be careful, son." The screen goes black. I look up, and Collette is looking at me with her jaw open, and Amadeo is even shocked.

"I don't think the Capo is going to take too kindly to your words when this is all over," he says forcing me to laugh.

"At this point, I don't care," I say standing to leave. Amadeo steps closer to me.

"Sofia is back home with her mother, I guess for the summer. Classes ended today," he says simply.

"We need to get her out of Victoria's eye line as well," I add. Amadeo nods his head but looks a little uncomfortable.

"Victoria visited her." My heart stops.

"What?" I shout.

"I'm sorry. I couldn't move without Victoria knowing you still had eyes on Sofia…” I nod my head trying to make myself understand his logic. I head for the car, but Amadeo stops me.

"Wait. Luciano. Whatever she said to her, Sofia looked really upset," he says with a serious gaze. I nod, my heart beating a thousand miles a minute. I told Victoria to leave her alone, yet she still went and did something.

"I need you to tell everyone to lay low. Even Victoria’s people. If they're hiding themselves and their families, they won't have an eye on me. I'm going to send Victoria away somewhere, and I'm going to get Sofia and hide her." Amadeo nods his head in understanding.

"Then you, and anyone you care about go into hiding. I'll be in touch, and we're going to go and get rid of the entire Reno clan." Amadeo nods his head, his excitement peaking. I turn away from him, heading to the car.

Now I just need to go and prepare everything and make sure that when the time comes, no one that I love will be in danger of Victoria. Because one slip up, and I could get everyone killed.

~

Sofia

"I want to say a big thank you to those of you that studied this semester. And for those that cheated to get by, thank you to you as well because I still get the passing percentage." The classroom erupts in quiet laughter as the professor gives us the final goodbyes for the semester. I haven't heard from Luciano in a few weeks, nor have I seen Amadeo. But I know he's there.

Once I get everything packed for the summer, I'm going to spend the first half of the summer with my mother. And the second half with my aunt so that I'll be with her already by the time school starts. But I don't want to leave her here. Especially knowing what I know now. I know the whole reason behind our shop burning down. And once everything settles down, I will give Luciano a piece of my mind.

"I hope you all have a great summer and be safe when traveling," my professor says.

Everyone gathers their things, moving to leave the classroom. I'm officially free for the summer, but I don't feel any excitement like I did. I don't get to spend any of my free time with the man that I love because his conniving fiancée is out to murder me and his family.

Do I even want to be a part of this? Already worrying about this makes me exhausted. I sound like some kind of housewife of Beverly hills or something. His fiancée is out to get me and I'm ok with that. Luciano said he was going to explain everything, but I haven't heard from him or Amadeo in a while. Am I still even on board with everything?

I step outside, walking my usual route when a car pulls up next to me. It's a limo. I slow my pace in confusion, looking but the windows are too tinted. The door opens, and out comes Luciano's fiancée. My blood runs cold. She barely stands over me in her heels, and I'm flat-footed. I want more than anything to stomp a hole in her. She glares at me with those piercing blue eyes and turns her nose up at me.

"Get in." She growls. I look at her like she's crazy and scoffs.

"You're crazy if-" I’m cut off as she pulls out a tiny gun, pointing it at my stomach.

"I really don't feel like fighting with you about this, slut." I narrow my gaze at her but listen getting into the limo. She slides in next to me and signals the driver.

"Now, I'm going to let the whole hitting me in the face thing slide-"

"Don't. I'll do it again if you piss me off," I say to her. She looks angry at my response, but I don't care. She obviously isn't going to shoot me, or she would have done so way before she bothered pulling up on me.

"Luciano has been very moody lately, and I can't help but think it's because of you," she says to me. I look around the interior of the limo, not knowing how I'm supposed to respond.

"Well, I haven't spoken to him since that lovely video you showed me," I say. She scoffs.

"You don't have to speak to him. He has feelings for you." My heart flutters at the mention of Luciano having feelings for me. Even she noticed it so it can't all be false. He really does love me. But I hide my emotions.

"What do you want?" I say. She leans away from me reaching for something.

"I just want to let you know that nothing is ever going to happen between the two of you. So even if he tries to seek you out, make you his mistress, he already has other responsibilities." She drops something on the floor in front of me, and my heart drops into my stomach, my breathing catching.

Pregnancy tests. Three of them. They're all positive.

"Luciano and I are starting a family now you homewrecking whore. Do-" She begins threatening me, and talking shit to me, but I'm not listening. I only keep my eyes trained on the tests. She's pregnant. She's fucking pregnant. There's no way. There is no fucking way. I want part of this crazy bullshit.

"You don't have to worry about me and him. Like I said earlier, I haven't spoken to him since that day at his place," I say quickly reaching for the door. I don't miss the smug smile on her face though as I shove the door open and step out onto the sidewalk. I begin walking, keeping my gaze trained ahead, watching as the limo disappears for good.

Then I let my tears fall. I always told myself I would never let another man make me cry. But I should have known Luciano would be that exception. He is always the damn exception.

~

1 Week Later

Living with my mother has been absolute hell. She's always on me, asking why I'm so mopey and sad. I can't tell her my heart is broken. I can never tell her that. Because she will be disappointed in the fact that I found a man when I was supposed to be getting my lesson. She finally let me out of the house to have some time to myself, and what do I do? I go straight to the bar.

"Another one please," I say. The bartender looks like he's about to tell me no.

"Please. I had a bad breakup," I slur out. He moves away from the counter to make me another drink, this time accompanied by a shot glass. I smile, grabbing the tiny glass and downing it swiftly, welcoming the burn trailing down my throat.

Luciano is expecting a baby. By his fiancée that the whole world knows about because he is in the mafia. Scratch that. He's the son of the mafia boss, but soon he will be the boss. Damn. Why do I have to pick the worst people to fall for?

I pull the note that he wrote me out of my pocket, smoothing out the crumpled edges. My eyes travel down to my favorite sentence.

"I love you. With everything in me, I love you."

I choke on a sob, tears falling down my face. Why does everything have to be so fucking twisted? How can he claim to love me, cheat on me, lie to me, get someone pregnant, and me not even hear anything from him? How is that even possible? I lay my head down against the counter in frustration. I came here to drown my thoughts out, and now it seems like they're only getting louder.

"Sofia... long time no see." My body tenses and my blood runs cold at the familiar voice. I immediately sit up in my seat, and turn.

Paul. He's standing right next to me, an evil smirk on his face. He leans in closer to me, pushing a stray curl out of my face. I feel my body shaking.

"I've missed you," he says. His eyes travel to the empty glasses in front of me, and back to me.

"You drunk?" he asks. I shake my head, trying to look as sober as I can, but fail miserably. Even the room is swaying lightly. He laughs, causing me to shiver in fear. The same laugh he had as he forced himself on me, taking my virginity. He takes a drag of his cigarette, putting it out on the counter and getting in my personal space.

"You know, when you skipped town after that magical night we shared, I thought for sure I'd never see you again." He reaches out, his finger tracing the collar of my shirt.

"And then you changed your number?" He leans in, nuzzling my neck and I close my eyes in fear.

"That really hurt me," he murmurs placing a soft kiss on my shoulder that makes me want to hurl. His fingers thread through my hair, and he roughly jerks on it causing me to cry out in pain.

"If you make a sound, I will break your bones, Sofia. Understand?" he growls in my ear. His hand wraps around my arm, and he yanks me off the barstool, heading for the exit. I try and get my mind about me, get my brain to function, but the alcohol has made me slow.

"Please, Paul." I'm sobbing, trying to pry my arm from his.

"Paul, you're hurting me." I cry out. He only pulls me harder, until we're outside of the building, and he's pulling me down an alley. He shoves me roughly into the brick wall, and I cry out in pain.

"Shut up," he growls.

His hands roughly force under my shirt, and he begins pawing at my breasts. I reach up trying to get him to stop, crying and screaming under his palm as he reaches for my pants.

"I missed you so much," he murmurs in my ear.

All I can think of is Luciano. His heartbeat.

"As long as this is beating, I will always protect you."

He lied to me. Like every man has. He hurt me like every man has. He's just like everyone else, and now he has a whole new family. I'm screaming until my throat is raw. Suddenly, Paul is ripped from my body, he cries out in pain, and I watch in shock as a silhouetted figure punches him. Over, and over, and over again.

He doesn't stop, even when blood is pouring from Paul’s face, and he's knocked into unconsciousness. The figure grabs Paul’s head between his hands, and with a twist of his wrists and a sickening snap, Paul's body falls lifeless.

I gasp in shock and begin backing away quietly. The figure turns, and I can't make out anything in this dark alley. I'm paralyzed in fear as he walks towards me and begins to take off his suit jacket. Oh God, he's going to rape me too. I begin crying even harder, feeling weak from trying to fight off Paul.

"Please... I'll give you my money, just don't do this," I cry. The figure is standing directly over me and squats so that he is at eye level with me. My heart stops as his face comes into view from the moonlight. He wraps his jacket around me, and the familiar scent of him fills my lungs.

I can't look away from the mesmerizing pair of gray eyes.

Luciano.

~

Chapter 15

I stare at Luciano with tears in my eyes. He looks as sexy as he did the day I met him. His dark hair falls in his face, and his bright gray eyes are shining bright. I slowly reach up, trying to see if he's really here, or if this is just a dream. Then I remember why I'm so angry in the first place.

SMACK

We both stare at each other, his face morphed into one of shock. I stare at him in anger. I try and hit him again, letting my rage fuel me at his betrayal.

"How could you!" I repeat over and over again. I swing and try my best to land a hit on him, all of my anger consuming me to the point that tears are falling freely down my face. Luciano has a good hold on my arms, not letting me land a hit on him, and it drives me crazy.

"I hate you!" I cry. I notice the hurt in his features, but he keeps his hold on me.

"How could you do this to me, after everything that I told you! After I-" My heart stops as I realize something. I look down to Paul's lifeless body, and back to Luciano in horror.

"Oh my God... You..." I trail off not knowing what to say. Luciano steps closer to me, staring into my eyes.

"Shh. Sofia, let me explain..."

"No!" I scream hitting at him, trying to make him get away from me.

"I am not listening to anything you have to say, you're a crime Lord for god sakes!" I scream trying to get away from him.

"I thought… I thought you were going to give me a chance." My heart aches at the tone in his voice and I stop my struggling, yanking my hands from his grasp. I keep my gaze trained on his feet, not wanting to look into his eyes.

"That was before you disappeared, and your fiancée turned up pregnant," I say. I notice Luciano stumble backwards.

"What?" I look up, and Luciano is glaring at me in horror. He takes a step away from me, shaking his head. He grabs ahold of my shoulders, holding me steady so that I am forced to meet his gaze.

"Where did you get that information from?" He's gazing at me in complete desperation, and I stare back at him with wide eyes. He looks horrified.

"Your fiancée. She showed me the tests before I left," I say. His hands slowly drop from my shoulders, and for the first time ever, he looks helpless. He steps away from me, with his fist over his mouth as he stares up into the sky. He punches the wall.

"Fuck!" he shouts. I jump as fear crawls up my spine. He looks towards me and walks at me with a quick pace. I immediately back away, out of reaction and he notices, stopping.

"None of that matters Sofia. I want nothing to do with her. It's you that I want." I stare at him incredulously. My eyes drop behind his shoulder at Paul's lifeless body. He did that with his bare hands. And he hasn't even flinched about it.

I turn away from him, not wanting to speak another word to him. I just need to get away. I hear his footsteps behind me as he calls out my name. I feel his hand closing around my arm and turn back to him swatting him away.

"No! Everything about you is a lie!" I scream.

"Don't touch me! Don't touchme!" I shout as my voice cracks.

"Sofia!" he hisses at me, pressing his body against mine. I immediately begin hitting at his chest, anything to get him away from me.

"Stop!" he shouts. I don't stop. I keep going until I have nothing left. No energy. No fight. Nothing. And I fall against him. And I do what I promised I would never do again. I cry. This is all such a mess.

"I'm so sorry... the last thing I ever meant to do was to hurt you..."

"But you did!" I scream in his face.

"You knew everything about you, would hurt me and you still threw yourself into my life. How could you? How could you be so evil?" I ask. He is stunned into silence. For once, he doesn't have an answer.

I yank my arms out of his grasp and begin walking away.

"Sofia... please." His voice sounds so sad. So, broken. So I stop, and look at him.

"I love you. Only you," he says, "give me a chance to fix things."

I shake my head in disbelief.

"You can't fix anything, Luciano. What's done is done. She's pregnant. You ha-"

"Don't say that," he snaps at me.

"Sofia, I want nothing to do with her. Nothing. And that kid she's having is a part of that." My eyes widen as I realize what he's saying. I shake my head.

"Luciano. That "kid" is your blood. Your child." He doesn't respond. I shake my head in disbelief. I don't know the man in front of me. Apparently, this is the true Luciano. And the man I fell in love with is nothing but an act.

I turn my back to him, and try and stumble away, the alcohol still strong in my system. But he grabs ahold of me.

"I'm not letting you go," he growls. He's using a tone I've never heard before. A tone that scares me. I look into those eyes and see something dangerous lurking there. Something I've never seen before. It terrifies me.

"You're not leaving me,"

I open my mouth to respond, taking a step forward when out of nowhere, excruciating pain jolts through my abdomen. It's as if my whole body is paralyzed in pain. Luciano immediately notices and grabs ahold of my arms steadying me. Somethings coming up my throat, and a rush of blood comes spilling out of my mouth, splattering on his shirt. A look of horror crosses his features, and his gaze quickly travels around the alley. He immediately hoists me up, and the pain is worse. I try and cry out, but I can only stifle a groan.

Luciano is running somewhere, and he's handling my body roughly. My body is going numb.

"Sofia! Stay awake!" Luciano is yelling at me, repeating the same thing over and over. To stay awake. And I am trying. But it's hard. So hard. I feel so heavy. And exhausted. I reach for my shirt, because it's wet and sticky, and when I pull my hand back there's blood on it.

I look with wide eyes, and reach for the hem of the shirt, slowly raising it with shaky hands. There's a fucking hole in my abdomen. I open my mouth and let out a scream.

~

A breeze. There’s a soft breeze on my face. It's so nice and cool. I slowly open my eyes, and they feel heavy. So damn heavy. The room blurs a little before it finally comes into view. I don't recognize this room. It's beautiful. Beige. Elegant. And the beach is right outside the door. I immediately try and sit up, wincing in pain when a sharp stabbing sensation rips through my stomach. I can't sit up. Tears spring into my eyes, and a moan of pain escapes me.

"You're awake," I hear a relieved voice, and cut my eyes to see Luciano walking towards me with a soft smile on his face. He looks happy. Relieved. But seeing him just brings back all my pain and memories. I hate him. I open my mouth, to tell him just how much I hate him, when a cough rips its way through me. Causing more pain to rip through my stomach. Luciano is by my side immediately.

"Don't speak." He places a straw to my lips.

"Drink," he says.

My throat is on fire, so I do as he says. It's quiet and I want nothing more than to fill the silence with my anger. But it'll have to wait. I look around the room once again in confusion.

"We're on a remote island. You'll be safe here," he says. I look at him in shock. And open my mouth.

"My mother," I whisper in a panic. My voice is weak and basically nothing more than a whisper and a crack.

"I have taken care of everything. Don't worry,” he says.

"What happened?" His features shift taking on a grim expression, and he shakes his head. He's not going to tell me what fucking happened to me?

"Take me home," I whisper. He lets out a deep sigh. He reaches for my hand, but I muster the strength that I can and jerk it out of his grasp. I don't realize until a tear falls down my temple and soaks my hair, that I'm crying. I am crying in front of the man that hurt me.

"This is such a mess," Luciano says.

"Please, just let me explain." I turn my head away from him. I can't tell him how I feel, but I'll be damned if I can't somehow show him. I hear a soft laugh, and realize he's laughing. I turn my head and look him in the eyes. He gets quiet and moves closer to me on the bed.

"Please," he says softly. I stare at him. Long and hard. I wonder how he can be capable of everything that he has done in the past few weeks. I wonder who he truly is. Because the man that he showed me when we first met is all but non-existent. I don't know this man in front of me. And that's what scares me the most.

The Luciano I met wouldn't hurt anyone. He wouldn't kill a person with his bare hands. He wouldn't cheat and lie. He wouldn't get rid of his blood. The Luciano I met was kind. Gentle. Patient. Barely able to form a sentence let alone talk back. He was there for me. Always finding a new way into my heart. This man here, this man that is watching me with those eyes. Those once stunning eyes that are now terrifying, I don't know him.

He's different. I can see that. He almost seems dangerous. Like if you saw him in the street you would walk through a puddle just to avoid him. My memories go back to his words in the alley.

"I'm no letting you go. You're not leaving me."

Those words haunt me. Those words are a red flag. A warning. A glimpse of who he really is. I know that what I'm about to do, I will regret it. I should go to sleep until he takes me home. I shouldn't delve. I should just leave him. He's dangerous. But as this stranger sits next to me, and begs me to let him explain, I want to know who exactly he is. I want to know everything from his mouth. I want to know what he represents.

"Ok."  My voice is a little stronger. But still comes out as a whisper. "Tell me."

He looks hesitant. As if he doesn't want to, but he changes his mind. He takes a deep breath.

"My full name is Luciano Pasquino. I am the first-born son and heir to the Pasquino empire. The largest Crime family in the U.S... In a few years, my father’s legacy will be my own. To run, and to control. I am the Mafia."

~

Chapter 16

Luciano

Who am I?

It's a question that I've known the answer to since the day my father put a gun in my hands. I've never doubted who I am. I've never felt any kind of way about it. I've only ever embraced it. But now, that I sit next to the woman I love more than anything in this world, the woman that I am doing everything in my power to keep, I've never felt more conflicted.

In my eyes, my family’s eyes, I am the heir to the throne. The empire. I am a hero, a son, a leader, I am legendary. But in her eyes, I am evil. A murderer. Heartless. A criminal. I hate it. I hate it so much.

"I have been groomed to take my father’s place since I was seven. We own the North and the South. Our power reaches beyond minuscule drugs. We deal arms. Weapons. To whole countries. Which is why we have the government in our pockets. I started killing when I was seven. My father taught me the ropes and let me loose on the world. His world. I have lied, cheated, and done what was necessary to keep my family in power. Safe." I take a breath and look at Sofia. She's staring straight ahead. But I don't miss the tears that are falling down her cheeks.

Shit.

"Victoria and I were engaged at a young age. My father thought it was a good way to ensure more power. More reach. These tiny little groups around here that cause trouble for us, calling themselves a mafia, well some of them are the real deal. I gave it a shot with her, but I never loved her Sofia. I told her the wedding was off, and the day I went over there to tell her, she had a gun on you. You didn't know it. You were living your life. She threatened me with your life, I couldn't refuse." She still doesn't speak.

"Please say something." I can't stand the silence. Not knowing what she is thinking.

"You lied." She looks up at me and I see the pain in her eyes.

"I told you everything. I shared my pain with you. And you still..." She trails off, choking on a sob.

"Is that what happened to me?" she asks. I know without asking she's referring to the bullet wound. I nod my head.

"She had eyes on me. I was so eager to see you, I didn't realize I had a tail." She's quiet again.

"Please say something," I say.

"I don't know what you want me to say…”

"Tell me you still love me," I say desperately. That's what I want to hear. She looks at me, with hurt and pain in her eyes.

"You killed him…you killed Paul with your bare hands. And you haven't even blinked. Is that the kind of monster you are?" she asks.

Her words sting. But she's right. In her eyes, it hasn't bothered me in the slightest doing what I did. In my eyes, it's just another body that lost its use on this Earth.

"Yes," I answer her honestly. No more lies. She shakes her head in disbelief.

"And now you've taken me God knows where to sate your sadistic cravings."

"I did it to keep you safe-"

"Before I was shot, Luciano, you told me you wanted nothing to do with Victoria. With her child. Your child. Did you mean that?" I can see in her eyes, she wants me to say no. She wants there to be some form of the man I paraded as. But I'm not.

"Victoria isn't going to be a problem anymore," I say. She lets out a bitter laugh.

"Why, because you're going to kill her too?" She's lashing out, out of anger. But she doesn't know how right she is.

"Look. You're hurt, you're scared and tired. Just get some rest," I say. I move to get up, but she reaches for my arm, grabbing ahold of my sleeve. She winces in pain but does everything in her power to keep eye contact with me.

"You wouldn't kill that child. It's innocent." I stare at her. I really stare. I try and feel whatever it is she's feeling, but I just can't. I slowly pull my arm out of her grasp, leaving the room. I can't take the way she looks at me anymore.

~

Sofia

The mafia. The fucking mafia. And not just a small little drug dealer either. A serious, dangerous, family of killers. Trained killers. Luciano was only seven when he began killing. I can see that part of him shining through sometimes. That evil part.

We've been on this island for three days by my count. He's barely spoken to me. It's weird. It’s almost as if he's avoiding me. I'm standing in the doorway of the beach house Luciano owns. The sky is graying. It reminds me of his eyes. He's sitting by the water, letting the tide reach right in front of him. Seeing him like this makes it impossible to think that he is capable of the things he's told me. But then, every time I close my eyes I see Paul's lifeless body lying in a heap.

And now he's threatening to kill not only that woman, but his unborn child as well. I can see instances where he acts just like his father. The one time I met that man he was despicable and terrifying to me, and Luciano replicates him perfectly. Especially before I was shot, he was telling me he wasn't going to let me go. What did he mean by that?

I make my way down the steps and towards Luciano. I don't know how he senses me coming, but he does. He slowly turns to look at me. I wish more than anything that he was the man I fell in love with. But he isn't. That was all a lie. He looks back to the ocean, letting out a deep breath.

"You told me you would give me a chance. You knew who I was, and you told me that you would still give me a chance. Doesn't that make you a liar?" I can hear the anger in his voice. I let out a deep sigh, sitting next to him.

"That was because I didn't know who you truly were. I thought you were the same man. That was before your fiancée turned up pregnant, and you murdered a man before my eyes, and have been threatening the life of her and your child."

"Stop saying that." I look at him. His gaze is trained straight ahead.

"What?" I ask.

"Stop calling that my child. It's not,” he growls. My eyes widen at his expression. He's serious.

"Luciano, there was footage-"

"I don't love her. I don't want her. I did what I had to do to keep you and my family alive," he snaps. I stay quiet. I don't know how to respond. It's a fucked-up situation.

"In my world, betraying your Capo is signing your death sentence."

"There is no room for mercy."

"Is that why you burned down my aunts shop?" He shakes his head.

"I didn't. Amadeo did. On my father’s orders."

"I love you, Sofia. I want you by my side.” I keep my gaze trained down. I can't be who he wants. I can't be ok with his daily occupation. Eventually, it will consume me. And I will resent him.

"Luciano... I need you to take me home…" Silence.

"It's not safe."

"I don't care if it's not safe. I want to go home," I say. He slowly stands up from where he's seated. He lets out a chilling laugh. I look up just in time to see that glint his father has.

"That's not how things work, Sofia." He turns away from me, leaving me by the ocean. Alone.

~

Luciano

My mind is running a mile a minute. After our conversation on the beach, I can feel myself shutting down. I can feel my inner demon threatening to come to the surface. It's taking a lot of focus to keep it at bay. A lot.

Victoria has disappeared off my radar. It's going to be hell trying to find her. My parents are safe, and Cat as well. Amadeo doesn't have anything to worry about since his grandfather is a powerful man. Collette and her family are lying low just in case. We all know that Don Reno wants my father’s head on a platter. And he can't have mine until I am married to his daughter. But if what Sofia says is true, and she is carrying my child, we may not need a wedding anymore. An heir. My blood. That's all it takes to continue running the empire. And I'm such a fool I let her exploit my one weakness.

Victoria may have been a great business-woman in another life. But in this life, she's dead as soon as I get my hands on her.

She has no idea where this island is. She doesn't even know it exists. And lucky for me, the person that shot Sofia wasn't counting on me being such a good shot back. So, with no one to report back to her, she's in the dark about my whereabouts as well. I look up when I hear footsteps. Sofia passes by the doorway, her eyes trained straight ahead. I miss her. I miss her sass and charm, and how she used to not fear me. Now all she does is watch me.

I probably shouldn't have murdered her ex in front of her, and not so brutally either. But when I caught him with his hands on her, I didn't think. I only acted.

I do my last-minute checks with leads on Victoria and her family’s location, and head out of the office. I walk to where my room is and pause in the doorway. It's empty. I don't want it to be.

I turn away from the door making my way up the hall. I peek in the guest room, but it's empty as well. Sofia is somewhere around the house. With all my emotions and stress building up, I make my way down the stairs and into the living room. I head straight for the piano.

I don't even bother thinking. I just let a melody pour out of my fingers. And it's not long before I lose myself in the music. All my problems, stress, and worries disappear. There's just me and the music. I don't know how long I sit here, but even when my fingers begin to cramp, I still play. I don't want this feeling to end.

I feel fingers on my shoulder, and tense. Immediately I open my eyes and shift my gaze. Sofia is standing in front of me. She's leaning against the piano. My heart flutters as I take her in. She's beautiful. Her hair has curled up. She is looking at me with worry.

"You didn't respond when I called your name. I wasn't sure if you were ok." I let out a bitter laugh.

"No. I’m not ok. But that's just life. My life anyway," I say bitterly. I stand from the piano, moving to close the wood over the keys.

"You don't have to stop," she murmurs next to me.

"I was done anyway." I close the piano cover and make my way towards the stairs.

"Luciano.." I pause when she says my name. But I keep my back to her. I hear her footsteps, and in the next moment, I am completely shocked. She wraps her arms around me from behind, placing her face against my back.

"I really do love you. I'm sorry if I'm hurting you," she whispers.

I slowly reach up prying her hands from around my waist. I turn so that I am facing her. Her eyes are big, and a little puffy from crying. And her lashes are stuck together from the tears. She's still beautiful. I plaster a light smile on my face. I push her stray curl out of her face.

"I love you too." Her eyes widen as she stares at me. I can't help the laugh that escapes my lips. For once, she is speechless. Happiness consumes me from her words. As long as I know she loves me, I'll be happy.

I bring my other hand up, cupping her face between my grasp. I don't wait for her to tell me no. I don't wait for hesitation from her. I bend down and kiss her. I half expect her to shove me away. But all she does is gasp. And that gives me the perfect opportunity to push my tongue in her mouth.

I feel relieved. Happy. She kisses me back without protest. I think at the back of our minds, we both know this may very well be our last moments together. I can't refuse her. She doesn't want to be a part of this and I can respect that. But that doesn’t mean I’ll deny her in this moment. And this moment gives me hope that maybe one day, she may even change her mind.

I hoist her up, carrying her up the stairs. I don't stop kissing her until we are in my bedroom. I lay her gently on the bed, reaching under her shirt to push it off. I'm careful not to jostle her wound. I don't think she's even thinking about that. She's reaching for my clothes, pushing them off of me.

We're a tangle of limbs until both of our clothes are gone, and we're both completely naked. I take the time to pull away from her and admire her body. So soft. So perfect. My gaze rakes up and down her body as I take it in. And when I reach her face, she has a blush on her cheeks.

"You're perfect," I say. She is about to roll her eyes when I lean over her, placing my hands in her hair. I capture her gaze with mine.

"You are perfect, Sofia." I murmur. She gazes at me with wide eyes and nods her head in understanding. I let out a soft laugh kissing her again. I don't ever want to stop.

And I don't. Not when I hear her soft moans under me. Her cries of pleasure, and her nails digging into my back. She is everything to me in this moment. I can't live without her. If this is the feeling my father has with my mother, I can see how his behavior spiraled out of control. The thought of losing her is so foreign to me, I don't know how I'd function if I ever did.

"I love you," I whisper in her ear.

"I will always love you, Sofia." I say again. I don't know if she hears me, or if I'm even understandable right now. But I mean it. She is everything to me.

Everything.

~

Chapter 17

One thing about being who I am is that I can stand quietly in the doorway without Sofia knowing I'm here. I've been watching her for the past few minutes. She's getting dressed. Something as simple as pulling on a shirt, and it's the most sensual thing I've ever seen. She's sexy without trying to be.

My gaze lingers on her curves before they disappear beneath the fabric. I wish more than anything I could stay here a little longer and make love to her, but duty calls. We've been on this island for about a month now. And that's given her time to heal, and us time to get closer. Which makes saying goodbye harder than it should be.

I can feel my inner demon coming to the forefront. I want to strand her here and tell her she can never go home and that she is mine now. But I know that I would be doing nothing more than caging something that is meant to be free. And the idea of her growing to resent me, kills me. The thing I love most about her is the fact that she isn't afraid. She's herself. And taking away her freedom would turn her into someone else.

I'm pulled from my thoughts when I hear a soft gasp. She finally noticed me in the doorway. I don't miss the soft blush crawling up her neck as she looks away in embarrassment. I let out a soft chuckle pushing myself away from the door. I make my way over to her, my fingers itching in anticipation, just to hold her. I pull her in my arms.

"After everything we've been through, and you're still embarrassed to have me look at you?" She opens her mouth to give me some snarky comment but pauses.

"Yeah," she murmurs. She looks into my eyes.

"It's scary. Knowing I have the heart of the man most people fear," she says. I frown at that.

"You don't ever have to fear me." She laughs softly.

"If I had known who you were when you walked into my aunts shop that day, I might have responded different… I could have gotten myself killed, " she says voicing her Aunt’s fears. She may have if I were anyone else and she knew my purpose of being there. I give her a soft kiss on her forehead.

"I could never," I say. She rests her head against my chest.

"I believe you." I smile at that. She's beginning to trust me again. I pull away from the hug.

"So, would you consider being my bride? My queen, my right hand?" I ask. She smiles softly.

"Luciano. I'm flattered, really. But we barely know each other deep enough to be ready for marriage. And your world is a little too foreign to me. I don't think I would be a fit." I know she wouldn't be a fit. She's outspoken, dominant, reckless, and disrespects me in the way that no wife should to their Capo.

But none of that bothers me. I love her more for it. She may not be perfect for the world that I live in, but she'd be perfect for my world.

"What about when this is all over?" I ask. She keeps her gaze trained down.

"Luciano... I couldn't be with you knowing you killed an innocent." If only she knew how many innocents I have killed just to set an example. But I know what she's referring to specifically. I feel her fingers around my jaw. She focuses my gaze on her own, giving me a stern look.

"Promise me, Luciano. No matter what, you won't kill that child." Her gaze is serious. I meet her gaze letting the lie roll off my tongue.

"I promise," I say. I almost feel bad when I watch the smile that graces her face.

"Good."

~

We're loaded and on the plane in the next 30 minutes. Once we reach the mainland, I'll drop Sofia off back at her home. Amadeo has already scouted and it's clear. Also, my father’s men are guarding her so she'll be safe.

We have a lead on Don Reno's entire organizations whereabouts. Once we depart, we will begin the extermination of the Reno clan. There have only ever been three instances where an entire clan was wiped out. One involving my father. He trapped my mother's entire family in a room and shot them all down in cold blood. And the ones that didn't show up, he hunted down. He exterminated the entire Trovoli clan. Apart from my mother and uncle.

He told me this story when I was younger, when he was teaching me about sacrifice and tough decisions. But I couldn't imagine being my mother. Her entire family, gone. Wiped from the face of the earth by the very man she was forced into a marriage with. I can't help but smile at the irony of it all. My fiancée's entire family is about to be exterminated by the man she was forced to marry. But in her case, she will be a part of that downfall as well. Unlike my father, I have no compassion for her. She will die along with them.

I look at Sofia, who is fast asleep next to me. I take a moment to let my heart actually ache. I'm going to miss her. I can only pray my father’s men do their job.

It takes us an hour and a half to reach the mainland, and even then, we have to take a private jet back to the city. It's baffling to me how Sofia slept the entire way. After everything went down with her being shot, we moved her mother and aunt to a safe house. It wasn't the easiest thing to do, but we got it done.

We pull up to the gates, and I gently shake Sofia awake. She moans softly, and opens her eyes, looking around. She immediately looks out the window and looks at me in confusion.

"Where are we?" She asks.

"A safehouse," I answer. I pull the car to a halt before we reach the doorsteps. I know that her mother and her aunt will attack once they see us, and I want a proper goodbye. I move to get out of the car.

"Walk with me?" I ask. She nods her head getting out of the car.

We come around the front and I grab her hand in mine. We walk for a few minutes. It's nice. Having her like this, next to me. I can pretend we're normal. Like I'm not about to leave her. I slow my pace when I see the rooftop in view and come to a stop. I turn to look at Sofia.

She looks really tired. Her skin is  also flushed. As if she's sick.

"Are you alright?" I ask. She nods her head, gesturing her hands over her face.

"I'm fine," she says. I reach out to touch her skin trying to check for a temperature, but she swats at my hand.

"Luciano, I said I'm fine," she snaps. I don't believe her though. But I don't push it. I can have someone look into it for me while I'm gone. I let out a deep sigh.

"Sofia... if I don't come back-"

"What?" she gasps.

"In my line of work, coming back isn't always guaranteed…" Honesty, right?

"I want you to know you're the best thing that has happened to me. You've given me a reason to bother coming back at all. I was dead before I met you, but the moment I saw you in that shop, I was hooked. I know I say it a lot, but I've never had a reason to until I met you. I love you, Sofia. I love you so much," I say.

"You have literally shown me a part of myself I never knew existed. I want you to know that you changed me for the better. And no matter what, you will always be the only woman I have ever loved. This whole situation is fucked up. But honestly, you are the only thing that makes sense in it right now," I say honestly. She's tearing up.

"So, if I was your wife, would these kinds of speeches be a regular thing?" she asks halfheartedly. I can't help but laugh. I pull her in for a hug, and kiss her on top of her head, breathing in her scent. I don't know how long this will take, or if I will even come back from it.

I feel her squeezing me hard as she buries her face in my chest.

"Just promise me you'll come back..." she says in a broken whisper. I pull her in closer.

"I promise."

~

Two weeks later

One. Two. Three. Four. Five. Six. Seven.

Seven on Reno's people. The hunt for them all has been hell. They finally picked up on us hunting them down. It started as staged deaths so that suspicion wouldn't arise. But recently they realized what was going on. I'm pretty sure they know that it's us who is killing them off. Seeing as Reno hasn't even tried to contact my father.

I look up to the ledge my father is sitting on. It's strange having him here with me, helping eradicate. Honestly, I thought that this was my job. My burden to take on alone. Like when he and his friends took down that organization. But apparently, he feels as much responsible for this as I do. And he lets it show. He's had majority of the kills. Then Romelo, then Nicolai. Amadeo and I come in after them. It seems even in their older age we are still no match for the monsters they have become.

My father locks gaze with me and holds his hand up motioning for me to be ready. I take aim and wait for his signal. He gives the signal, and we all pull the trigger at once. I immediately move on to the next man, and leave the one, only aiming for his knee so he can't run. He collapses in pain, and I rush from my hiding spot. I know my father is covering me. I yank up the man who is moaning in agony.

"Where is Reno," I say. He glares at me, and I see it before he decides. He spits in my face. Luckily, I anticipated it and dodge, bringing my fist back and smashing it into his face.

"Gonna be awful hard to understand you if your jaw is broken asshole," I growl out. I pull my blade from its holster, stabbing it into his side and twisting it. I make sure to miss all the arteries.

"Where the hell are they?" I growl. He groans in more pain but manages a sentence.

"You think you've won, Pasquino?" he laughs.

"The Don is onto you. All of you. He's got big plans for you all. You'll never get away with this betrayal." He growls. I'm about to stab him again when I hear my father.

"Luciano." His voice is strong, and confident. I pause, and slowly step away from him. The man sees my father, and I don't miss the fear that clouds his gaze. Or the light sheen of sweat that begins to form over his brow.

"My son is still learning the ropes." His tone is cold. He grabs the man by the collar, bringing his face inches from his own. Even I have to fight the shiver that threatens me from his gaze.

"I want to explain the severity of this situation to you. My son, my wife, my daughter, my entire family. My empire. It’s all in danger because your leader, who you blindly follow decided to betray my kindness." He reaches down to his holster, and pulls out his blade, pressing the tip of it against the mans forehead.

"They say the brain will cease function when the skull has been breached as a last-minute attempt to shield the excruciating pain that follows. Shall we test that theory?" I stare in shock at my father.

So, this is the man that everyone fears. He's always had a thing for blades. When I was younger, I discovered the jagged scar of his name that he carved into my mother’s flesh. To this day I have no idea what the reason was for. But if he could do that to his wife, who he claims to love so much, I can only imagine what's in store for anyone he considers a stranger.

I'm pulled from my thoughts as the man’s cries of agony echo through the night air. The tip of his blade is past the man’s flesh of his forehead, digging deeper.

"I can feel your skull," my father laughs. This is going to be a long night.

~

Sofia

"Sofia, eat something." My mother hisses at me. I shake my head. Lately, I've been stressed. So stressed that I can't keep anything down, and I can't sleep. I can barely function. I constantly feel nauseous. It could be from the stress of the situation or the possibility that Luciano may never come back. I don't know.

All I know is all my mother does is yell at me, tell me how stupid I was. How I lost focus and how this is all my fault. I know. I'm aware. But right now, as she yells at me some more, my head is pounding, and nausea is coursing through me. I quickly stand from my chair and open my mouth.

"Can you just.. stop for one second, mother!" I shout. Tears are brimming my eyes and spill over.

"Just.. stop.. All you've done is yell and berate me. I know I messed up! I know this isn't an ideal situation! I don't need to hear it from you!" I shout. I storm away from the table, ignoring her calls. I head straight to my room, slamming the door. I plop down on the bed, just needing some peace and quiet for a few minutes. That's when I can't keep it down anymore.

I jump up from my bed and run into the bathroom, letting everything spill from my stomach. I stay hunched over the toilet for a few minutes, until I'm dry heaving. I immediately flush it and run cold water over my face and in my mouth.

I walk back to my bed, taking a look out the window. Guards are everywhere. It's a scary thing to see. All of them with their guns and knives and serious expressions. It makes you realize the severity of the situation. I take a look at the sky. The sun is beginning its descent over the land. Another day trapped here. They literally bring everything to us. Because if we step out into public, it can be dangerous.

I roll over in the bed, still having the taste of vomit in my mouth. So, I head into the bathroom to find some mouthwash. I pull open the cabinet door, and my eyes fall on everything under the stocked sink.

Shaving cream, soap, shampoo, conditioner, razors, towels, tampons, pads... My gaze lingers. Tampons. They haven't been opened. I haven't opened them. I haven't needed them because I haven't had a period. I quickly run to the bedroom, grabbing my watch, and checking the date. I should have had a period by now. Last week if I'm not mistaken. And I pray that I am. My hands are shaking. Oh God. There's no way.

I stand up, pulling open the door to the room and looking in the hallway to see if my mother is anywhere to be found. I can't deal with her right now. I walk down the stairs, heading to the front of the house. I pull open the door, finding the nearest guard.

"Excuse me," I murmur. He looks at me. I take note that he looks a little uncomfortable with me approaching him.

"I uh... I need something from the store."

~

Luciano

I keep my distance from my father. He's dangerous at the moment after that interrogation. It awakened an old part of him that is very dangerous. Even now he is still sitting in the corner with blood soaking him.

I feel vibrating in my pocket. My heart begins to speed its pace. It's my emergency phone. I told the men from the safe house to only call if it's an emergency. This phone hasn't rung in the weeks we've been away, and it decides to now. I take a deep breath and pray something hasn't happened to Sofia.

"Yeah." My father looks up, and takes note that I'm on the phone.

"Sir, it's Leo. We have a bit of a situation." I keep my face blank, my heart calm, and clear my mind from the threatening fear that's coming on.

"What is it," I rush out a little too fast. He pauses taking a deep breath. If I were there, I would kill him for taking so long to answer me.

"It seems that the woman you brought to the safe house is... pregnant."

Chapter 18

I shouldn't be here. But I am. I'm standing in the doorway of Sofia's room. She's fast asleep in the bed. Probably exhausted. The light from the moon is shining over her body. I can't help but smile. She's pregnant.

I look around the room, heading into the bathroom. Sure enough, there are 5 tests on the counter. I let out a soft laugh. She's so dramatic. I leave the bathroom, walking back into her room to stand over her body. Her lips are slightly parted, and her hair is falling in her face. My gaze travels down to her stomach. She's carrying my child. My blood.

When she accidentally let it slip about Victoria, I only felt rage. But after that phone call, in the midst of all of this stress, I actually feel happiness. Not an ounce of anger or regret resides in my system. I'm itching to touch her. To wake her up, and tell her how happy I am. But I can't. I'm not even supposed to be here. And the guard that told me said that she didn't want me to know. It makes me wonder how she plans on handling the situation.

I lean over her, placing a soft kiss on her cheek. She moans in her sleep and rolls over. I guess I could have been smarter on that island, but that was the last thing I was thinking about. I don't know how this will all play out, but I do know that no matter what, she will be by my side now. There is no way that I can let her go.

~

The car ride is silent. It's just my father and me. Me and him have never really been all that close, but I feel like I need him now more than ever.

"Dad. Can I ask you a question?" I say. He's quiet for a moment.

"Yeah."

"When you guys found out you were having me.. how did you feel? Were you at all scared?" I ask. He looks shocked by that question. Then strangely uncomfortable. Something I've never seen on his face before.

"I don't think this is a conversation you're old enough to hear, son," he says. I loo at him in disbelief.

"What? Why?" I ask. He keeps his gaze trained ahead, but I don't miss the tightening of his fist around the steering wheel.

"Why the sudden interest?" He's changing the subject. Now it's my turn to be uncomfortable. I look straight ahead, keeping my gaze on the road. I know he's going to be angry when I tell him.

"Sofia... she's pregnant," I say. Silence. I don't dare look up either. So, we both ride in silence until my father decides to break it.

"How could you be so reckless," he hisses.

"Victoria is as well," I say. May as well get it all out there. The whole car screeches to a halt.

"What!" He shouts. I feel his hand around my throat, as he smashes me into the door. His eyes are terrifying, as is the sneer on his face. I pull my hands up to pry his fingers from around his throat, but his grip only tightens. So, I hold my hands up in surrender.

He glares me down, and finally decides to let go. Not at all gently. I smack my head on the window.

"Look, I know it's bad, bu-" He whips his gaze around to meet mine, forcing me to stop mid-sentence.

"Dad. Just say something," I say. He places his hand back on the steering wheel and begins driving.

"You're a fucking disgrace."

~

Blood. Blood. More Blood. That's all I need to sate my desires right now. Nothing more, nothing less. Screams of agony, begging for mercy, nothing phases me. I want them all dead. They all caused this. All this anger and hatred is all their fault.

We've finally made it to the final front. The place that Victoria and Don Reno are hiding. The security is crazy, but we're even more so. Men fall, bodies roll, and I do everything in my power to make it to that damn door. The door that will end all of this.

"You're a fucking disgrace."

My father and I have never seen eye to eye. But deep down I always knew that he was proud to have me as his son. But now, I don't know. Hearing those words from his lips tore through me. Like a hot knife through butter.

"Luciano!" I look up when I see Amadeo coming towards me. His gaze is filled with worry.

"Everyone's been taken out. You need to have that looked at." He points to my arm, and I look down in confusion. Shit. There's a bullet hole in my arm. I didn't even realize it. I shake my head at him, making my way to the door.

"Luciano-" He places his arm on my shoulder, but I whip around quickly, pointing my gun at his face.

"Don't fucking touch me. I'm finishing this." I growl.

His gaze widens. Never have I pulled a gun on him. On anyone in the family for that matter. But never have I been in such a torn situation either. I walk to the massive oak double doors, pushing them open. My body is lurched to the side, as a body collides with mine. I quickly aim my gun and hit the two men that were waiting on this side of the door. And when I turn to see who attacked me, I see Amadeo. He's holding his stomach in pain.

"Shit, Amadeo!" I shout. I take note that my father is already stepping over us, scanning the room. Amadeo looks up at me, grimacing in pain.

"You're such a fucking idiot sometimes," he laughs but flinches again. He took a bullet for me. I put pressure on the wound.

"Shit, I'm sorry man," I say in a panic. His father is over me in an instant, shoving me aside. He grabs Amadeo's head between his hands focusing his gaze and begins speaking to his son. I don't miss the worry in his gaze.

"Luciano." I look to my left, and my father is standing by the desk. He has a look of irritation on his face. I slowly get up and make my way over to the desk. Don Reno is sitting behind it.

"How lovely it is to have the Pasquino's come down from their high horse to mingle," he says. I pull out my gun, aiming it at his head.

"Where is Victoria," I growl. My father isn't into threats though. Out of nowhere, a gun goes off, and Don Reno cries out in agony. My father steps in front of me, pressing the burning steel against his forehead.

"When I was young, my wife's family tried to overthrow me. They were using her as a pawn in their twisted game. And do you know what I did?" he asks. Don Reno laughs.

"Everyone knows. You killed them.” My father smiles, but it's not at all kind.

"I tied her father to a pole and beat him within an inch of his life. Then I pulled the trigger. Multiple times, waiting until the last bullet to end his pitiful existence. I trapped her family in a room and gunned them all down. Every. Last. One. I tortured her cousin, the person she held most dear in the world, and I let her brother do the honors of killing her. But it wasn't a simple gunshot. It was much worse than that." I stare at my father in horror. Even I wasn't aware of the depth of which he took her family out. I thought he got others to do it. Not that he killed them himself, and so brutally too.

"Now... I love my wife, and I did that to her family. So, imagine, Don Reno, what I have in store for you," he says. And the Don breaks.

"You won't get away with this Pasquino! We will rise again, and-" My father laughs. A boisterous laugh that shocks us all, even Don Reno into silence.

"You seem to lack the mental capacity to understand… no one can rise once they're dead." Don Reno looks at me, and I see the desperation in his eyes.

"Wait. Don't you want a chance to save your girlfriend?" My father frowns and I see his finger twitch on the trigger. Reno smiles.

"I have to hand it to her. Victoria is a cunning girl. She never dreamed that you would outsmart her though. When she couldn't get you to herself, she came up with that pregnancy lie to drive away that girl and make you accept your responsibility. She didn't realize how rebellious you were in the end." He laughs looking at my father

"You must be proud," he says.

"Before I am taken away, I have to tell you this one last thing. Call it a gift. By the time you make it, your girl will be dead." He laughs turning around the screen he'd been holding.

I'm trying not to panic. It's showing us footage.

It's the safehouse Sofia is in.

"Oh my God," I whisper. I turn to my father.

"We have to go now," I say. He raises a brow at me.

"We? I think you misunderstand, son. This is some kind of vendetta your ex-fiancée has against you. This is your problem. My only job was to end the Reno clan. As I have done. That girl is the root of all of this. Either way, I will be satisfied." I can't believe he's saying this to me. I jump. I grab ahold of him. I hear footsteps, but my father holds his hands up stopping them.

"I have been a loyal son to you. And now, the woman who I love, and my unborn child's life is in danger, and you're saying you won't help me?" I growl. I let go of his shirt and Don Reno laughs next to us.

"Soon to be deceased!" he calls after me as I storm out.

"I'll do it my damn self.”

~

Sofia

I wanted to be a painter. But then I decided to do what would make money. Not what you love. That is, until I met Luciano. And now as I sit here, sketching his face, I wonder if I should go and do what I love.

I decided to keep the baby news from him. If he's not back before I begin showing, we'll part ways and he'll live his life without anyone the wiser. Of course, one day my child will want to meet his or her father, but until that day arises, I won't stress on it. This world, this environment is too dangerous to raise a child in. I don't want my child a part of that. Getting a goodbye speech from their father every time he has to do something because him coming back is a 50/50 chance.

I begin shading in his eyes and can't help but smile. I wonder if our child will get those eyes. Those bright gray eyes I've become so fond of. When I first got the test back, I was so scared. I was freaking out. But now that I've had time to think of it and calm down, I know that there is nothing I can do, but embrace it. What's done is done. All I can do is love this child and give it the affection it deserves.

Maybe I should tell Luciano. Maybe we can come to some sort of agreement.

Pop

I look up when I hear a loud popping noise. What the hell was that? I set down the notebook and make my way to the window. But before I can look out of it, a guard comes bursting through my door.

"Wha-"

"Shhh!" He hisses. He looks at me and motions for me to quickly come to him. I make my way over to him, trying to calm my nerves.

"Someone is attacking," he says quickly. He looks both ways in the hall and begins quickly walking. I immediately look around for my mother. But I don't see anyone anywhere.

"Wait, where's my mother?" I ask. The man looks at me quickly.

"She's already off the compound." That's impossible. She wouldn't leave without me.

"What about my Father?" I ask.

"He went with her," he says hurriedly.

I try not to panic. He just confirmed my fears. Whoever he is, he isn't supposed to be here. He would know I don’t have a father. I keep my cool as I follow him down the stairs. Then, when he's completely turned around, I plant my foot into his back, kicking him down the stairs. He cries out in shock and pain as he's sent tumbling unexpectedly down the steps.

I turn and sprint back to the room, and slam the door putting the lock in place.

"Shit," I whisper. When I move to look out the window, I see the gore. Bodies, and blood everywhere. I slowly back away from the door.

"Oh my Gosh," I whisper.

I'm trapped. I don't know what to do, and Luciano is nowhere to be found. There's a loud bang on my door, and I let out a squeal of fear. I look towards the window, and run to it, pushing it open. If I can get down to the first story, I can escape through the woods.

Another hit sounds, as does the gunshots. I look around in a full-blown panic. I quickly yank the sheets off the bed, and run to the window, about to tie them to something when the door opens, and the guard comes storming in. He sees me and immediately grabs me by the hair forcing me to my knees.

I cry out in pain, and then I hear something that instills more terror in me. The loud click of heels against the hardwood. A sound I will never forget. Then, she rounds the corner. It's Luciano's fiancée. She's glaring me down, with a gun in her hand.

Chapter 19

We're on the lawn, awaiting Luciano's arrival. My mother is nowhere to be found, and Victoria has been doing nothing but talking shit to me. Lucky for me she doesn't know about the baby, unlucky for her, she isn't even showing.

"Why are you doing this?" I ask. She places her gun against my temple.

"Because if it weren't for you, I would have the entire Pasquino empire in the palm of my hands," she growls. She then emphasizes her frustration with a kick to my face. I cry out in pain and move to attack her, but she holds the gun to my face.

"Don't even think about it," she snaps.

Oh I'm thinking about it. Hard. I want to sock her in the face. But I can't risk it.

"Why wait for Luciano? Why not just kill me now?" I grit out.

"Because then he won't be able to suffer," she says. Finally, the car pulls up, and Luciano jumps out. His face is contorted in rage.

"Ah. Ah. Ah. I wouldn't be so quick to jump, Luciano. Unless you want her precious brains splattered all over the grass.” He pauses mid stride and looks from me to her, and back to me again.

"What do you want, Victoria?"

"Drop your weapons," she says. He looks angry but does so anyway.

"Victoria, whatever this is, we can talk about it."

"No. I'm done talking, Luciano. I gave you the chance to save her, I gave you the chance to love me, but you just couldn't do it!" she shouts.

"Look around you, Victoria. You've lost. All of this, and for what? Your family is gone, your father is in our custody. Just give up. Hurting her won't do anything but seal your fate." I feel the cool steel against my temple.

"Oh?" Luciano looks ready to have a heart attack.

"It will hurt you," she says. I squeeze my eyes shut in fear, trying to calm myself down. I feel a rough squeeze on my hair.

"Tell her you love her, Luciano. Tell her everything is going to be ok," she laughs behind me. Luciano meets my gaze.

"I love you. Everything's going to be ok." Even though he says so, his voice gives away just how panicked he is. I just might die here today. Me and our unborn child. Victoria laughs over me.

"This is crazy, I've never seen you so nervous Luciano!"

"Victoria, what do you want?" he asks again.

"Nothing! Don't you see? You said it yourself! I have nothing to gain or lose anymore! I just want to see you suffer as I suffered!" she shouts. I feel the gun at the back of my head.

"No! Victoria, please! Don't do this... she's pregnant. She's pregnant with an innocent life. Please don't be that heartless. Don't do this!" he begs. My eyes widen. He knows? I look at him in shock, and he gives me a soft smile, filled with sadness.

"Yeah... I know." I feel a sharp pain in my back, as Victoria attacks me.

"You fucking bitch!" she screams. She hits me across the face with her gun and aims for my stomach when out of nowhere, several shots are fired off. Victoria falls backward off of me, and the men next to her collapse. I look around in shock and see that Luciano is still without a gun. But then I look over his shoulder and see his father, and a man I've never seen before coming towards us.

I smile in relief and immediately stand to run to Luciano. He knows, and he's happy. He's smiling back at me when his face immediately turns into that of panic.

"No!" he screams, but I hear it. A shot. I don't know where it's headed until I feel a sharp pain in my lower back. I cry out in pain, unable to continue running. I collapse, and Luciano catches me in his arms. I take note that his father is running over me to the opposite direction.

Luciano’s panicked grey eyes fill my vision as he lifts my shirt, inspecting my wounds.

"No.. no no no no no no," he keeps moaning as he looks down. I'm focused on him though. He's beautiful. I cough, and taste blood in my mouth, as it spills over my lips. That means it must be bad. I reach up, placing my palm against his cheek, feeling his skin for possibly the last time.

He begins tearing at the fabric of his shirt and jostles me forcing a grunt of pain. He immediately notices and stops moving.

"Luciano..." I manage. But it's broken. And so weak. I can feel my body shutting down. I'm dying. I know it. And he knows it too. I feel warm tears rolling down my cheeks. I won't get to spend a life with him. We won't get to raise our child. We won't even meet him or her.

It's getting harder and harder for me to breathe. Luciano is shouting at everyone around him, but his words sound like I'm underwater. I try his name again.

"Luciano..." This time he hears me. He looks at me, and tears are streaming down his face.

"I... love you..." I say. His eyes widen.

"No. Don't say that you're not dying! You have to be here, for me for our child, you can't give up, please! Please!" he screams at me. I let out a sob.

"I'm sorry," I say. He stares at me in shock, and I watch as sadness clouds his gaze. He squeezes his eyes shut as more tears stream down his face.

"I'm sorry..." he says. He opens his eyes.

"I love you, Sofia," he says. The world around me is blurring, and my body is numb. The pain from the bullet is gone. I can't breathe anymore. But I fight for a few more breaths.

"Dont... be.. a..fraid... to...live.." I manage. I take in his face, one last time. The face I will never see grow old. The face that hours earlier I was drawing. The face that changed my life forever. The face of the man I love. I look at those gray eyes. I stare. I stare until I can't focus on them anymore. And slowly my gaze drops, and sadly, the world falls away.

~

Luciano

"No. no no no! Sofia!" I scream. Her body has gone limp in my arms. Her eyes are still open, but I know that she is no longer behind that gaze. But I still try. This can't be real. This can't be happening. I push her hair away from her face, taking in her features. I wipe the last tear that is still falling from her eyes.

"Sofia, please... Please! Come back!" I sob. I gently shake her, but there's nothing. She's gone. They're gone. Her and my child. They're both gone. I pull her body into mine, squeezing her tight.

"Don't leave me," I whisper. But she doesn't move. Her heart isn't beating. I throw my head back, and scream. I scream in agony and pain. This can't be real. This can't be. It just can't.

I don't know how long I sit here, holding her. But I don't want to move. I don't want to accept the reality that she's gone.

"Luciano." I tense when I feel my father’s hand on my shoulder.

"No…," I whisper.

"I can't leave her..." I sob. In my life, I have never felt as much agony as I am feeling in this very moment. Just a few weeks ago, I had everything. And it was all taken from me in an instant

~

Black. The worst color. The color that everyone is sporting today. I stand a good distance from the funeral taking place. I wasn't invited. I was expressly told not to bother showing up. But I did anyway.

I stare at the casket, that holds Sofia's body. The funeral for our child is tomorrow since her family didn't know about it. And it's expressly for me and my family. Sofia was six weeks along before her death. I know she would want to be buried next to her child.

I feel numb as I watch the event take place. How else are you supposed to feel? I've never felt so lost, and angry in my life. Why her? Why not me?  I'm the one that's not a good person. She didn't deserve this.

I feel a hand on my arm, and tense. I look and see Cat standing next to me. She gives me a warm smile and comfortingly rubs my arm. She hands me the brochure with Sofia's life on it. I haven't spoken to my family period. I hate my father. And I know my feelings would only cause trouble for my mother.

I turn my gaze back to the funeral. Her mother is crying as the preacher speaks. As is her aunt. I feel my heartache for them. The sun is shining high in the sky. It's a beautiful day. Sofia would have loved it. It's a bitter reality.

"Dad said he's going to come tomorrow," Cat says. I shake my head.

"Tell him not to bother."

"Luciano-" I jerk my arm away from her.

"If you came here to lecture me about dad, save your breath," I growl. Her eyes widen and she drops her gaze.

"I'm sorry," she whispers.

I turn back to the funeral when I see everyone placing roses on her casket. I walk away from my sister, and make my way straight to her casket, ignoring the gasps when they see me. I don't care what they think of me. She isn't going in the ground without something from me.

I stand in front of her casket, and there's silence around me. I stare, keeping my expression blank. I reach into my suit, pulling out a rose to place on her casket. I stare at the rose that sits atop the wooden box that holds her body. And I stare some more. I can't bring myself to move. Not an inch.

Then I feel a pain in my chest. My legs give out, and I collapse in front of her casket. I drop my head, not caring that all these people are watching. I let out a cry, and sob, and beat my fist into the ground below me. All of the composure I had, melting away.

And when they lower her into the ground, I feel a part of me dying inside. A part of me that didn't exist until I met her. I lay next to her grave, unable to move. Not even when the night falls over the land. I can't leave her. I just can't. I sit here for an eternity until I hear footsteps behind me. I think it may be the groundskeeper, but when I look up, I'm shocked to see my mother.

She has a rose in her hand. She slowly sits next to me, placing it on top of the plot. She then wraps her arm around me, and I let her. I lay my head against her, letting my tears out.

"I'm sorry, Luciano." I don't respond. I don't need to. She knows the pain I'm feeling.

"I will be here tomorrow," she says. I pull away, looking at her. I never told her about the baby. I didn't want her to know.

"Your father told me," she says softly.

"No parent should have to bury their child. I remember, when I first found out that I was pregnant with you... the circumstances weren't normal in the least. But I knew that I had to do everything in my power to protect you." She pulls away from me, looking me in the eyes.

"This is something that no one should ever have to go through. I can't imagine the pain you're feeling…" Tears are beginning to fill up in her eyes, spilling over as she mirrors my pain.

"I'm not going to tell you to feel better about this. Only you can heal in your own time. My door is always open for you, my son." And instead of standing to leave like I expected her to, she stays with me. She holds me as I cry for the loss of the woman I love, and the child I never got the chance to embrace.

Chapter 20

Shots are fired, and Victoria is thrown back away from Sofia's body. She's safe. Sofia looks at me, and all her worry dissipates from her face, as a smile of happiness appears and she stands, running towards me. I smile back, moving my legs forward letting my guard down for a split second. Victoria picks up her gun and aims at Sofia who is running towards me, with no idea of the danger that lurks behind her.

I move my feet as fast as I can, my weapon too far away to do anything but scream as she fires the shot. It's as if the world is in slow motion, the bullet comes for Sofia, coming to end her life. I can't do anything. I can't jump in front of it, I can't stop it, all I can do it watch. It hits her, and her features contort in pain as she falls in my arms.

I gasp awake, sitting up in my bed. That nightmare again.

This has by far been the hardest week of my life. I don't know what to feel anymore. I step into my empty penthouse, exhausted. The lights are out. It's dark. Empty. Quiet. I close the door behind me, making my way straight to the kitchen, grabbing me a drink, and not bothering with a glass.

I take a seat on the edge of my bed, staring at nothing in particular, just trying to wrap my mind around the fact that she's gone. Forever. Never is she coming back. Never will I get to hear her voice again. See her face again. Touch her. Smell her. Make love to her. She's non-existent.

I'm suddenly unable to breathe. It's as if something has caught in my throat. A loud noise fills the room, and I realize that I'm crying. I stare at the bottle in my hands, tightening my grip and throwing it across the room. It shatters against the wall, sending expensive alcohol flying everywhere. I don't care though. I bury my head in my hands and let out a scream. I voice my anger, until my throat is raw.

I can't understand, why her. Why the fuck her. Each time I close my eyes, I see her face. I could have saved her. I could have done something different. My parents have reached out, trying to talk to me and make sure I'm ok. I reject the calls. They come and see me, but I have nothing to say. What can I say? Nothing that I do will bring her back. Nothing. I am no longer a man that could have been.

I slowly stand, heading into the closet to get dressed. Once I'm fully dressed, I make my way to the garage, getting in my car and heading to a specific destination.

The Catacombs.

The drive takes me about 30 minutes to reach, but it gives me plenty of time to clear my head and come up with ways to make them suffer how I have suffered.

I reach the gate, and the guards let me through. I walk around taking note of the terrifying exterior. It's a place my father created just for the occasion of torturing unlucky souls. I keep walking until I reach the room I came here for. I stare at the door.

98

I place my fingers around the knob, pushing it open to reveal the very person I came to destroy. Victoria. Her hands are chained above her head, her body shaking from the cold. She looks up at my entrance, and I see fear in her gaze. I close the door behind me and walk to the chair as I pull off my jacket.

"Sorry I didn't come sooner. I wasn’t ready emotionally…so I probably would have killed you in the first few seconds." I let out a laugh, meeting her gaze.

"And I don't want that. Not yet anyway." I walk over to the table with all of the instruments on it and stare.

"Luciano, I was angry. I was blinded by a love that I thought was being taken from me. I am so sorry, Luciano, please don't do this." Victoria sobs. She's moaning and begging behind me, but I don't listen. She can say what she wants. None of it means a thing to me anymore.

I walk over to the furnace and pull out the metal poker. It's burning bright red from the heat. Victoria is quivering behind me. Begging.

I face her and begin walking towards her eyeing the poker. It's as if the world has silenced itself around me. I pause when I'm directly in front of her, and I stare. I stare and try and think to myself if there was anything I could have done to prevent the way things ended up. But my thoughts are bothersome. My hatred for this woman is bubbling to the surface.

"You lied about being pregnant. Why?" She doesn't answer right away. She is crying and begging. And I let her. I don't know how long she begs me, but I stay silent while she does. And when she realizes, nothing is going to change, she answers.

"I... just needed her out of the picture... I needed you to realize your responsibilities," she sobs. I shove the poker forward, burning straight through her torso, and latching it into the wall. She screams in agony and pain. And I revel in it.

I let go of the poker and stare at it as it protrudes from her side. A sight that brings me little satisfaction. I want to see her suffer. And right now, she isn't suffering enough for me. I reach for the poker and push it through deeper until it's scraping the wall behind her.

She's screaming and crying. I reach up, grabbing a handful of her hair forcing her gaze to meet mine. I want her to feel the anger and despair as it pours out of me. Gnawing at every fiber of my being.

"You took my life. I'm going to return the favor. Slowly. Painfully. Until you feel a fraction of what I am feeling."

I once tried to keep the demon inside of me at bay. But that died the day they did. My love, and my child. Now, I am nothing more. Nothing more than a walking mass of rage and hatred. And that will never change.

~

Epilogue

Elise

I worry a lot. I worry for my whole family. I worry for my husband, for my daughter, but mostly for my son. My son whose face used to light up when he saw me. My son that used to check on his family all the time. My son, who cried after he killed a man. My son who fell in love and had his family taken away from him at a young age.

He walks into the house with the same expression he always has. Hatred. Anger. Despair. His eyes hold such deep sadness. It breaks my heart knowing there is nothing I can do for him. I make my way down the stairs.

"Luciano!" I call out his name, approaching him with a large smile on my face. His gaze flickers over to me, and he gives me a soft smile, that doesn't reach his eyes. Not even close. I pull him in an embrace, enjoying his warmth before he pulls away from me. Distant. Broken. I keep his face between my palms, running my thumbs over his cheeks.

"How are you?" I ask.

He reaches up, pulling my hands away from his face. He places a soft kiss against my palm and turns away from me without another word. I watch as he moves further and further away from me. Gone is my carefree Luciano. He has been replaced with a man that is distant. Cold. Unfeeling. A man that with time, may be even worse than my very own husband.

~

Luca

The door to my office pushes open and in walks Luciano. He's different since that day. He's cold. Detached. I stand from behind my desk, moving to greet him, but he holds his hand up and sits down in a chair, looking at me expectantly. I recognize that look in his eyes.

It's the same look Romelo had when he was younger. When he murdered his parents. If not worse.

"I'm glad you could come in, Luciano. " I say. He only stares. That's all he ever does. He listens, responds when expected, and fulfills his duty without complaint. Without emotion. I thought that I wanted my son more like me, but the way he is now, I feel worry.

"I wanted to talk to you about taking some time off." His eyes narrow slightly.

"Why." His tone is cold. Detached. I let out a deep sigh.

"Your mother and I are worried, Luciano. I don't think you've processed things prop-"

He interrupts me with a laugh. He actually throws his head back and laughs. It doesn't have the usual ring to it though. It's in this moment that I realize, it's evil. My son has become someone else entirely. Nothing like the man I wanted him to be, but worse. He stands from his seat, not an ounce of fear or hesitation in his gaze. He walks up to me until we're both face to face. His eyes mirroring my own.

"I've processed things just fine, father. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have more important things to worry about than processing." He turns his back on me, yanking open the door to my office, revealing Elise. He walks right past her without a second glance.

Her worried gaze meets mine. We both know. Our son died along with that girl and his unborn child. And in his place, a monster was born.

~

Luciano

The sun is setting, casting an orange glow over the sky. My gaze falls back on the graves. The graves of people I will never be able to have and hold. I don't know how to cope with it anymore. So, I've opted not to feel anything. Nothing but rage. It's what I feed on. I let out a deep sigh, placing my hand over her gravestone.

"I'm sorry, Sofia. I can't be the man you want me to be… I’ll never be that man." I slowly stand up, feeling nothing but despair and emptiness inside. 

I have no reason to be anymore. I stare at the setting sun and turn my back on the graves. I walk to my car and get in speeding away from the life that could have been, but now will never be.

Author's Note 

Thank you for reading Luciano's story! Delve into my profile for more from the  Deadly Vows series!