CHAPTER 49

"Ehi, che ci fai qui? Questo posto è di proprietà di Don Vittorio Amorielle. Chi sei tu?" a man shouted as he approached the couple who were kissing.

Vittorio and Ellis quickly separated, looking at the old man in surprise.

"Chi sei tu, amico?" the old man reinforced.

"Mi dispiace, signore. Ci stiamo solo godendo il panorama. Non sono nessuno di importante," Vittorio replied, raising his hands towards the man. "Stiamo già lasciando la proprietà del signor Amorielle."

"Americani..." the man grumbled before leaving Ellis and Vittorio alone again.

"Let's go," Vittorio said, leading Ellis towards the car.

"What happened?" Ellis asked, wide-eyed. "Did we invade his property?"

"No, actually he informed us that we invaded our own property," Vittorio replied with a smile. "Or rather, Don Vittorio Amorielle's property."

"And did you tell him who you are?" Ellis asked, curious.

"No. I chose to keep him in the dark. After all, that's how you reveal the best people," Vittorio replied, looking at Ellis with admiration. The brunette smiled, and then he raised an eyebrow, not understanding. "What's wrong?"

"Well..." Ellis let out, suspiciously, while fixing her hair.

"What? It's true..."

"Okay, fine. I'll be forced to believe you since I don't understand Italian," Ellis said.

"You don't understand Italian and you want to visit Milan?" Vittorio mocked. "Tell me, how would you go to Milan like this?"

"Well, like any good tourist would. A pocket guidebook, a cell phone with internet, a good translation app, and faith," Ellis replied, walking ahead of the mafioso. "Faith?"

Vittorio exclaimed, incredulous. He opened the car door for Ellis to get in, then said, making her stop at the door, "Admit it, Ellis, you're relieved to be going to Milan with me."

She put a mischievous smile on her lips, approached Vittorio, and provocatively said, "Without a doubt. Besides, it's always good to have a real-size translator." She finished by getting into the vehicle.

***

Vittorio and Ellis entered the imposing entrance hall of Vittorio's mansion in Pedesina. The opulent environment vividly contrasted with the picturesque town they had just returned from.

As they prepared to move forward in the mansion, Matteo intercepted them. He had a serious expression and gestured for Vittorio to accompany him to his office. Sensing the seriousness of the situation, Vittorio exchanged a glance with Ellis before following his uncle.

"Is your uncle okay? Did something happen?" Ellis asked, concerned.

"It's probably business matters," Vittorio reassured her. "Go upstairs and pack your things for our trip to Milan. In the meantime, I'll talk to my uncle and organize the entourage that will accompany us."

"Entourage?" Ellis asked, surprised by the choice of words.

"Yes, we need some men to accompany us there. After all, Milan is not Pedesina, and we can't be exposed," Vittorio replied before leaving Ellis and heading to the office.

***

Within the luxuriously furnished office, Vittorio took a seat behind his imposing desk, while Matteo stood before him, with a firm and unwavering posture. The tension in the room was palpable as Matteo began to speak about the matter that had brought them there.

"In the city restaurant, Sofia came home saying she ran into you... Accompanied by Isabela Bianchi. Is there something I should know?"

Vittorio took a moment to compose himself, trying to hide any signs of nervousness.

"Uncle Matteo, Isabela and I have known each other for years. We were just catching up as old friends. There is nothing more to it."

Matteo's eyes narrowed, clearly disbelieving Vittorio's explanation.

"Friends, huh? It's hard to believe that a meeting with our investigator is just a casual chat. Especially when she's been digging around, asking questions about our affairs."

Vittorio maintained his composure, his voice firm and determined.

"Uncle, I understand your concerns, but I assure you there is no reason to worry. Isabela and I have a history, but it doesn't affect our business. You need to trust me on this."

"You better not get involved in anything that could compromise this family, Vittorio."

"My intentions are solely to protect and strengthen our family."

Matteo's eyes narrowed even further, but before he could respond, Vittorio changed the course of the conversation.

"And speaking of compromising our family... what's happening in Pedesina? People seem fearful and nervous. What kind of activities are taking place to cause such agitation?"

Matteo hesitated for a moment, contemplating his response.

"It's nothing, Vittorio. Just some local disturbances. Nothing for you to worry about."

Vittorio's eyes narrowed, his curiosity piqued.

"Are you sure, Uncle? Because Ellis told me a different version of the events she witnessed today with Sofia..." Vittorio commented.

"Ah, Sofia told me about what your wife did today. She went around paying for everything she was buying..."

"I believe she did that right after one of the saleswomen spoke to her about the terror caused by our family. I don't like people out there saying they're not sure if tomorrow will come because of our name," Vittorio denied, serious. "A name that my wife carries."

"Believe me, there's nothing, Vittorio. Just rumors and empty gossip. You know how these small towns are. And when they encounter people who let their imagination run wild, like your American wife... Una giovane donna sciocca..."

"Zitto, Matteo!" Vittorio shouted, pounding the table. "Never dare to insult my wife again! Ellis is my wife's name, and she is not foolish! Never dare to disregard her, Matteo."

Matteo's expression wavered for a moment, sensing the weight of Vittorio's words.

"Apologies, my nephew... I was only explaining that there's no reason for concern. We have everything under control. I've been in this business for a long time, and I know what I'm doing. After all, I was well-prepared to be the next Don..."

"And we both know what you did to lose that opportunity that passed to my father and then to me," Vittorio said, serious.

Matteo's expression faltered for a moment, realizing the weight of Vittorio's words.

"Apologies, my nephew... I was just explaining, there's no reason to worry. We have everything under control. I've been in this business for a long time, and I know what I'm doing. After all, I was very well-prepared to be the next Don..."

"And we both know what you did to lose that opportunity that passed to my father and then to me," Vittorio said, serious.

Matteo's face hardened; he avoided Vittorio's gaze, and a brief expression of guilt crossed his features.

"I don't care who you think you are, Matteo. Remember who is the boss of this family."

"I'm sorry, Vittorio, but you know I always had the best interests of the family in mind," Matteo said, slightly defensive.

Vittorio's eyes fixed on his uncle, his voice carrying authority.

"Yes, but I'm the one carrying the weight of our name and reputation. Be cautious with your actions in this city because there is no room for forgiveness with me."

The environment fell into silence as Vittorio's words hung in the air, subtly shifting the power dynamics between the two men. Matteo realized the gravity of his nephew's warning, and a mixture of frustration and respect flickered on his face.

"Understood, Vittorio. I'll be careful with my actions. And I emphasize, family comes first, and we must protect what is ours at any cost."

Vittorio nodded, acknowledging his uncle's words, but the underlying tension remained. The conversation exposed the latent power struggle within the family, leaving both men aware of the precariousness of their positions.

"Ellis and I are going to Milan today to spend some time on our honeymoon," Vittorio commented, breaking the silence.

"Great, the boys went there too. I'm sure Mrs. Amorielle will love the city," Matteo said, trying to maintain cordiality.

"Yes, she told me it's her favorite city," Vittorio began as he ran his hand over his face. "Anyway, I need to prepare the men who will come with me in the entourage."

"If you want, I can do that for you."

"No, I'll do it myself," Vittorio declined, staring at his uncle, seriously. "The only thing I expect from you is to keep me informed about everything that happens in this city, uncle. I want everything to be peaceful in Pedesina. So, don't test my patience."

The tension between them hung in the air as Vittorio stared at his uncle.

"Don't worry, Don Vittorio. We'll leave everything in order."

***

Vittorio sat behind the wheel of his sleek black sports car, the engine purring with power. By his side was Ellis, her excitement palpable as they embarked on their journey from Pedesina to Milan. The sun hung low in the sky, casting a golden, warm glow over the picturesque landscape.

As they left behind the charming cobblestone streets of Pedesina, the scenery unfolded before their eyes. Rolling hills adorned with vibrant, green fields stretched as far as the eye could see. The countryside was dotted with charming farms and vineyards, their beauty enhanced by the soft rays of sun filtering through the clouds.

Vittorio stole glances at Ellis, observing the sparks of joy in her eyes as she took in the breathtaking landscape. Her smile was contagious, and he found himself unable to resist smiling back. It was in moments like these that he felt a renewed lightness in his heart, a sensation he hadn't experienced in a long time.

Ellis leaned back in the comfortable leather seat, relishing the gentle breeze caressing her face through the open car window. The sweet scent of blooming flowers mingled with the earthy fragrance of the countryside, creating an intoxicating perfume that filled the vehicle. She felt a sense of freedom and release as if the worries of the world had momentarily evaporated.

Casting a glance at Vittorio, she couldn't help but notice the subtle softening of his features. The stern and stoic expression he often wore was replaced by a touch of contentment, a vulnerability she found enchanting. It was as if the weight of his responsibilities and the darkness of his past dissipated for a moment, allowing a glimmer of light to enter his life.

"What's wrong?" Ellis asked.

Vittorio glanced at Ellis, noting a pensive expression on her face. He turned his attention back to the road before breaking the silence.

"Ellis, why is Milan your favorite city?" he asked, his voice low and filled with genuine curiosity.

Ellis turned to him, briefly meeting his intense gaze before averting her eyes, a slight smile playing on her lips.

"I'll only tell you if you tell me your plan B," Ellis proposed.

"I don't have a plan B, Ellis."

"Everyone does, Vittinho."

"Ellis..."

"Vitinho..."

"Alright, but you go first," Vittorio said, staring at Ellis.

"I've always dreamed of being an architect. You know, designing buildings that could withstand the test of time and leave my legacy. Just like in Milan," she began, her voice carrying a touch of nostalgia. "I even got accepted into New York University. But circumstances forced me to give up that dream."

Vittorio's eyebrows furrowed with sympathy.

"What circumstances?" he asked gently, sensing the weight of her unspoken pain.

Ellis sighed, her eyes turning to the passing landscape.

"My brother," she answered, her voice tinged with a mix of sadness and determination. "He got involved in dangerous business... with the wrong people. You know because he owes you half a million dollars. When he got arrested, I had to do something to save him, to protect what's left of my family."

Vittorio listened attentively, his grip on the steering wheel loosening slightly. He admired Ellis's strength and selflessness, understanding the sacrifices she had made for her loved ones.

"Now it's your turn," Ellis said, breaking the silence.

"Well, what can I say..." Vittorio began, receiving a curious look from Ellis. "My plan B is my plan A."

"Alright, Vitinho, one day you'll tell me," Ellis said, letting it go.

Ellis turned her gaze back to the moving landscape, feeling a growing connection between them. She sensed a shared understanding, a nonverbal bond that transcended their circumstances.

The journey continued, the winding roads leading them through small villages and charming towns. Vittorio's fingers tapped rhythmically on the steering wheel, reflecting the beat of his pulsating heart. He had grown accustomed to a life filled with danger and darkness, but being with Ellis had brought a glimpse of hope and warmth into his world.

As they continued their journey, the city of Milan emerged on the horizon, its skyline a symphony of modern architecture and historical landmarks.

"We've arrived," Vittorio notified Ellis, who held her breath.

As the car advanced toward Milan, the vibrant city lights began to pierce through the twilight, beckoning them with promises of adventure and new beginnings. Vittorio and Ellis exchanged a glance as they smiled.

At that moment, amidst the beauty of the Italian landscape and the blossoming affection between them, Vittorio and Ellis felt the emergence of something special.

***

The doorbell announced the arrival of another customer, which was strange for Donatella, as she had asked one of her saleswomen to put up a closed sign. She looked at one of her employees and gestured for her to go, and the store owner returned to counting the stock with the others.

However, within seconds, the saleswoman returned, visibly frightened, and looked at Donatella, saying, "They're here for Martina."

Martina didn't wait for instructions; she walked out of the stockroom and approached the four men in black suits who were waiting for her. The tallest one took off his black glasses, smiled at her, and said, "Are you, Martina?"

"Yes, I am... Is something wrong?" the bewildered saleswoman asked.

"Well, we just came here to let you know not to worry about your tomorrow," the man began, motioning to his men. "Because you won't have one."

Those were the last words Martina heard before being taken away forever.