Welcome

As Remo's sleek car glided to a graceful stop in front of the majestic mansion, Abby's eyes widened in surprise. The destination was beyond her expectations. As the car door opened, Abby emerged, her quiet demeanor contrasting with the magnificence that surrounded her.

Remo took her hand, leading her up the steps. Impeccably dressed servants lined the staircase, holding bouquets of flowers and genuine smiles. A gentle breeze carried the fragrance of freshly bloomed flowers through the air. The staff's eyes lit up as they saw Remo and Abby, ready to offer their warm welcome.

One of the servants stepped forward with a kind smile, addressing Abby, "Welcome, Mrs. Quinn. We're truly delighted to have you here." She handed Abby a bouquet of flowers. "Congratulations."

Beside her, Remo's voice was reassuring, "Abby, I wanted you to see our home and meet the people who keep things running smoothly."

Abby blushed faintly, nodding shyly, overwhelmed by the unexpected attention. Standing a little further back, the mafia men nodded respectfully at Remo, acknowledging his presence.

A robust man exuding charisma stepped forward, extending his hand to Remo, "Boss, she's a stunner. You've got good taste."

Remo shook the man's hand firmly, a subtle smile gracing his lips, "Thanks, Tony. Abby, meet Tony, a dear friend."

Tony tipped his hat slightly and grinned at Abby, "Pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Quinn. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to ask."

Abby managed a shy smile, her emotions a mix of nervousness and fascination. Remo's thoughtfulness had taken her by surprise, and the mansion's opulence along with the camaraderie of the men intrigued her.

Overwhelmed by the hospitality and grandeur, Abby glanced at Remo, her cheeks tinted with a bashful blush. "I... I didn't expect any of this," she confessed softly.

Remo's eyes sparkled affectionately as he tucked a strand of hair behind Abby's ear. "I know. I thought a bit of wedding day congratulations would be a nice surprise. Can't let you spend it all alone," he quipped, amusement dancing in his gaze.

Tony chimed in, chuckling, "And we're here to make sure Remo stays on his best behavior."

Remo laughed, playfully nudging Tony. "Don't worry, Abby. They're just here to keep me in check."

Abby smiled at their banter, feeling a sense of camaraderie amidst the unfamiliar setting. The mansion's grandeur was impressive, but it was the genuine welcome from Remo's associates that eased her nerves.

As the sun dipped, casting a warm glow, Remo gestured towards the open double doors leading into the mansion. "Shall we, Mrs. Quinn?"

Abby's heart fluttered at the use of her new title, and she nodded, her smile growing. Remo held out his arm, and she linked hers with his as they walked together, the servants and mafia men dispersed giving them privacy.

Remo guided her through the halls, introducing her to various staff members, from cooks to housekeepers, each of them offering warm greetings and smiles. The mansion was bustling with activity, yet there was an air of respect and order that Abby found impressive.

As they moved deeper into the mansion, Remo's tone turned more serious. "Abby, I know this is a lot to take in. But I want you to know that you're not alone in this. I'm here for you, and so is everyone you see around you. We're a family, in a way."

Abby looked up at Remo, her heart swelling with a mixture of emotions. "Thank you, Remo. I appreciate your support."

Remo smiled down at her, his gaze warm. "Anytime, Abby. Now, let me show you the library. I'm sure you will love it."

As they entered the library, Abby's eyes widened at the sight of the towering bookshelves lined with books of all sizes and colors. A cozy reading nook by the window invited her to curl up with a book, and a sense of comfort washed over her.

"It's beautiful," she breathed, her fingers tracing the spines of the books.

Remo's voice was soft, almost reverent. "Yeah—she—-" Remo trailed off but Abby heard the hint of silence in his voice. He had probably built this for Izabella, his dead fiancée. She loved reading books.

Clearing her throat, she offered him a faint smile.

"I'm sure Izabella would have loved to see this."

Remo's gaze flickered with a mix of emotions, a fleeting sadness in his eyes before a warm smile replaced it. "Yes, she would have. She had a passion for books."

Abby's heart went out to him, understanding that this library held a special place in his heart, a tribute to someone he had loved deeply. She reached out and gently squeezed his hand, offering him silent comfort.

"T-Thank you for sharing this with me," she said softly.