Page 18 of Mafia Don's Twisted Proposal
I can’t see that working out.
So I don’t give him an answer. He doesn’t push, which is something else to appreciate about him.
“The chef will be here soon, and she’ll have dinner ready in about two hours. I look forward to sharing our first meal together.”
He gives me a chaste kiss and leaves the room. I take a deep breath, willing myself to relax. Whether or not I agree with Lorenzo about what’ll happen between us, I believe I’m safe here.
Lorenzo didn’t mention the house being guarded, but I picked up on movement at the edge of the property when we arrived. Even spotted a man dressed in black scanning the area with sharp eyes.
Going onto the balcony, I step up to the metal railing and look down into the backyard. It’s beautiful. Inground pool and hot tub, a pergola over cushioned seats, and what looks like a complete outdoor kitchen. I’m not much of a cook, but I bet Lorenzo’s chef can perform magic with that big grill and smoker.
This really would be an amazing place to live. Lorenzo hasn’t talked much about money, but it’s obvious he’s wealthy. I guess being the head of a criminal empire has its perks.
Then I see movement in the trees along the back of the property. Another man in black, obviously guarding the house.
It’s a harsh reminder that perks aren’t the only thing that comes with marrying a man like Lorenzo. His warning about the Bratva is still ringing in my ears. The undercurrent of anger when he talked about his enemies gave me a glimpse of a side of him that’s undoubtedly scary as hell.
But there was concern in his voice when he told me the Bratva would target me because I’m his wife. Endearing and terrifying in equal measure.
If I leave Lorenzo, his enemies will have no reason to come for me. I’m not part of their war.
Going back into the bedroom, I grab my phone and text Olivia, letting her know I’m delayed without going into detail.
We were supposed to catch a flight home together this evening, but I’m sure I’ll miss it. I don’t see Lorenzo letting me go that easily, and his guards are probably capable of more than just keeping enemies away.
I’ll need to come up with a plan. I like solving problems, and this is a big one.
Step one? Familiarize myself with my surroundings.
I leave the primary suite and start opening doors in the hallway. As suspected, they’re all bedrooms. Smaller than Lorenzo’s but still nice, decorated in a generic way that screams “expensive but unlived-in.” I think Jill would love the one with purple curtains before I remind myself that I won’t be having guests over here.
It’s way too easy to feel at home here.
The third floor has more bedrooms, making me wonder if Lorenzo built this house with the intention of filling it with children or if he just has a lot of overnight guests. I forget all that when I open the last door.
A movie screening room. One whole wall is a giant screen, with a dozen reclining chairs facing it. A projector is mounted in the back, and there’s an old-fashioned popcorn machine.
It’s amazing.
I wonder what kind of movies Lorenzo watches here. His occupation makes me think of classics likeScarfaceandThe Godfather, but my intuition tells me he’s more complex than that.
The realization that I want to get to know him better sneaks up on me. I wonder if I’m as messed up as he is, because I’m starting to feel conflicted about what I want.
I return to the first floor, and the smell of cooking chicken makes my mouth water. My hangover kept me from eating much at breakfast, and I’m starving.
The cook turns out to be an older woman with grey hair and a friendly smile. She’s busy chopping vegetables, so I don’t bother her beyond introducing myself and learning her name is Rose.
I check out the basement, confirming there’s no torture going on. Just gym equipment, including multiple punching bags that look well-used.
So far, I haven’t found anything that’ll help me escape Lorenzo. But I’m more in love with this house than ever.
When I return to the first floor, I pass by Lorenzo’s office and hear his muffled voice. He sounds pissed off. I wonder if his enemies have done something to upset him.
Would he tell me?
He’s been pretty open about his business practices, but do I really want to know? I’m not sure.
I decide to kill time in the living room until dinner’s ready. I’ve just curled up on the comfortable couch, trying to figure outwhich of three remotes turns on the TV, when there’s a sharp knock at the front door.
