The next morning, as I woke up, I realized Marco was no longer beside me. My instinct told me he had probably left for work. But there was a heaviness weighing on me, the residue of the conversation we had the previous night. I was grateful that he had opened up to me, allowing me a glimpse into the painful memories he carried. However, it also saddened me deeply to think that such a tragic event had shaped his childhood.To imagine a young child, barely ten years old, compelled to witness the murder of his own grandparents - it was beyond comprehension. The sheer brutality and trauma inflicted upon him remains unimaginable.Despite our different upbringings, the experience of watching loved ones perish right before your eyes, especially when they sacrificed themselves to protect you, leaves a profound scar. I wish I could have conveyed to Marco that he bears no blame for what occurred. But the truth is, no matter how many reassurances I offer, he continues to shoulder the burden of g
I WAS OVERCOME with sadness upon hearing the news. The question, "When are you leaving?" weighed heavily on my emotions. Lucille and Renzo had become close to me, and now I was faced with the sudden news that Renzo would depart. I couldn't help but inquire further, asking, "And for how long?"Renzo reassured me, saying, "I'll still come back as your guard, Ma'am. I just don't know how long this assignment will take."The uncertainty of his return lingered in my mind. I expressed my genuine disappointment, replying, "Oh, that's quite unfortunate, Renzo."As I leaned back in my office chair, a wave of sadness washed over me. I looked at Renzo with a sorrowful expression, and he responded with a restrained smile, saying, "Take care, Ma'am Maddie. Until we meet again."And so, that's how it unfolded. Now, Carter and Finley are my new guards, but I find myself disliking them. My disappointment stems not only from knowing how much Marco trusted Renzo, but also from finding the replacements
My head throbbed as I gradually regained consciousness, my senses awakening in tandem. To my dismay, I found myself bound to a chair, my hands tightly restrained behind my back. Though my feet were free, I pondered why they hadn't tied them as well. Above me, a glaring light illuminated the room, reminiscent of those interrogation scenes from dramatic soap operas.Without missing a beat, I discreetly pulled out a small cutter nestled up my sleeves, a tool I always kept at the ready for situations just like this. Its inconspicuous nature allowed me to bypass metal detectors effortlessly, and its concealment was equally effortless.Just as I began attempting to sever the ropes binding my hands, the door abruptly swung open, interrupting my covert endeavor. My focus shifted to a man who stood before me, his face partially obscured. I furrowed my brows at him, my expression betraying no hint of the escape plan I was secretly concocting."Hello, Mrs. Moretti," he greeted me, his words ring
As I grappled with my emotions, one thought consumed me: I had always sensed there was more to Marco and his organization than met the eye. My knowledge ran deep, but my unease persisted. Why did this man's words unsettle me? It felt as though he possessed insider information, guarded secrets Marco himself hadn't revealed.Then, with a chilling shift in his gaze, he shattered my preconceptions. "Your father isn't responsible for your mother's death. He lacked the means to commit such an act. And no, my dear, Aunt Olivia didn't succumb to an illness," he revealed, his voice dripping with mystery. My heart skipped a beat upon hearing those words. "She was murdered."The revelation struck me like a bolt of lightning, crackling with a mixture of shock, confusion, and grief. Questions swirled in my mind, demanding answers. Who would want to harm my loved ones, and why? Suddenly, the veil of ignorance was lifted, thrusting me into a dark and treacherous world I never knew existed.Ronan sto
Most of their inquiries revolved around the conference explosion. It occurred to me that they weren't there because of Marco's call, but rather to uncover what transpired at the hotel. "Ma'am, we really need your statement," one of the officers insisted."My wife can't recall anything. Let her rest," Marco replied, hoping to buy some time.The house staff hurriedly guided me indoors. Marco remained outside, engrossed in conversation with the police.Suddenly, Lucille's name crossed my mind. "Where is Lucille?" I inquired, turning to one of the staff members."Sir Marco has the latest information on Miss Lucille's condition, Ma'am."I felt conflicted. Should I confront Marco? Ronan's words still lingered in my mind, and I was determined to uncover the truth. Ultimately, I decided to base my beliefs on whatever Marco would tell me.I was in my room, and the household staff had been assisting me with bathing and changing since I wasn't in the right condition. Suddenly, Marco entered and
"Why are you apologizing?!" I freed myself from his grip and took a step back. The pain in his eyes was evident as he noticed my retreat. "Marco, there's no need to apologize. You didn't hurt Mama, right? It's not your fault!"I clung to this defense, desperately convincing myself that Marco had no involvement. Everyone else was mistaken, and I refused to believe my own instincts or what Ronan had told me. I secretly hoped Marco would prove me wrong and show that I was misguided to entertain the doubts cast upon him.Marco's head dropped, shattering my hopes. Overwhelmed with emotion, I sobbed as he took a deep breath and eventually met my gaze once more."I don't want to lie to you, Maddie," Marco confessed. His words crashed into my world, leaving me devoid of strength. I crumbled to the floor, lost in my thoughts.Tears streamed down my face as I stared at Marco, his words echoing in my ears. He had confessed, confirming the unimaginable - he was the one who had taken my mother's l
Marco's staff graciously opened the door for me. Stepping inside, I stole a glance at Marco through the rearview mirror as my car pulled away. There he stood, outside the house, attentively observing my departure. Overwhelmed by emotions, tears streamed down my face, a testament to the weight I carried within. Sensing my distress, my driver offered me a tissue, which I gratefully accepted. Lost in my thoughts, I hadn't even noticed when we had arrived at my father's house.Rushing out of the car, I failed to bid farewell to my chauffeur. Anxious to find solace, I briskly entered the house.Violet's initial smile melted away as soon as she laid eyes on my expression. "Sis, what happened?" she inquired, concern lacing her voice.I held her tightly, tears streaming down my face, unable to contain the rush of emotions. Violet soothed me, her touch offering solace and comfort. Her concerned voice echoed in my ears, entwined with my own sobs.Seeking refuge, we sought shelter inside the hou
Initially, I asked Aunt Mildred to temporarily take on the role of acting CEO while I'm unable to work. Given her position as a board member, there is nothing wrong with this arrangement. I have already documented this in writing. This is only intended to be for a few weeks, possibly just one, as I need some time to gather myself. I believe I won't be able to fully focus on my work during this period."I am sorry, Aunt Mildred.""Okay, Maddie. I understand your situation and I'll make sure to keep you informed about everything happening in the company. Regarding Marco, what if he comes over?"I noticed Aunt Mildred's sudden silence, and I understand that she didn't mean to mention Marco."If he happens to arrive, please inform him that I am unavailable," I instructed Aunt Mildred as she headed out to the office. Despite her numerous responsibilities with our other ventures, I had reluctantly asked her to assume the role of acting CEO for our company. Unfortunately, I cannot prevent Ma