Girl’s Talk
The rest of the lunch went on uneventfully and I couldn’t help but steal subtle glances at Isabella, such a powerful woman whose words alone brought calm at least for a few moment.
After lunch, the men left the room. Dominico maintained a deep scowl on his face but he knew better to spit any ill word against me again.
“For the love of God, don’t be nervous,” Isabella said, walking over to sit with me when both of us moved over to the living room. “You’re young and beautiful. My children already love you, I love you too. And anybody that doesn’t will have to because you are Hollis’s. You belong to him and you are untouchable. Do you hear me?” I nodded, not sure I was okay with everything she said.
‘I belong to Hollis, for real?’ That’s some anti-feminist shit to say’ I wanted to tell her that I wasn’t really engaged to her son, that we’re faking it because he was trying to keep me alive and I really don’t think she should be mad at her husband because of something that isn’t real but her next words pushed the thoughts back into my head
“My son saw something beautiful in you that made him take the risk and go against his father just to be with you. He’s protecting you, I know. I hope you do something for him too, Ugo.”
I tried not to look nervous, but anyone would agree with me that it’s a very rare occurrence to eat on the same table with a Mafia family, and to have a chit chat with a woman like Isabella.
I smiled and nodded at her words. “I’m grateful to him.” I said.
“He’s happy with you. The way he stood up for you against his father, he’s never done that before. It was a proud moment for me, proof that he is indeed ready to start up his own family.”
His own family, what is she saying. Nobody is starting any family. At least not me.
“A few of the Genovese men even cursed Hollis for finding you first. Especially his cousin, Castello.” Isabella said as one of the maids handed us a glass of juice. “How do you wish to celebrate your engagement? A garden party or a night out at the club for all us girls.” Her eyes shined with joy. “Everyone is dying to meet you, you have no idea. I didn’t want to bring plenty family members around, until you’re ready to meet them all.”
“I can’t wait to meet all of them.” I lied, conveniently. “But I don’t think an engagement party is necessary.” I added.
“I do agree, since the wedding will take place soon.” Isabella replied.
I didn’t understand what she meant by the wedding taking place soon. I should have ask her, but I just didn’t have the strength.Content property of NôvelDra/ma.Org.
Glancing around, she took my hands. “Thank you Ugo, you’ll eventually know why I’m so grateful that you came into my son’s life. It might not make sense to you now, but eventually, it will.” Her fingers tapped my ring gently. “You deserve all that fight and more. You deserve it for making my son happy. I promise you, Hollis would never endanger your life. He cares about you so much to even try. And now that you’re going to be part of my family, your safety would be top priority. I’m glad you’re the one wearing this ring.”
I swallowed hard. Everything was sounding too deep for my little head. “I won’t be with your son for long.” I voiced out, accepting the voice in my head, telling me to tell the truth.
But to my surprise, Isabella smiled. “So while you’re with him, can you promise to make him happy, to stand by him?”
“I don’t understand. You’re not upset. You’re okay with the fact that I’ll leave him eventually?”
Isabella Genovese placed her glass of juice on the table. “Ugo darling, anything that will make my son happy, I’m in for it. Now when are we going shopping for your wedding dress? I know just the right place.”