The Mafia’s Substitute Bride

After enjoying a warm and comforting bowl of soup, Sofia and Leonardo retreated to their bedroom. The moment the door closed, Leonardo’s strong arms enveloped Sofia, lifting her effortlessly and gently placing her on the soft bed. As he discarded his t-shirt, his playful demeanor took over, and they indulged in intimate moments. He made passionate love to her, their love deepening with every touch, before finally succumbing to slumber.

The following day, Sofia embarked on her usual routine of attending school while Leonardo departed for his office, each absorbed in their respective responsibilities. Lost in the busyness of the day, Sofia inadvertently forgot to contact Leonardo, her mind consumed by the demands of her studies.

Upon arriving home and preparing herself for lunch at her parent’s house, Sofia realized she needed to check on Leonardo to confirm his availability and punctuality, as he often struggled with time management.

Leonardo answered after just two rings, his voice filled with a sense of urgency and importance. “When are you coming? I’m ready and eagerly waiting for you,” Sofia questioned directly, her eagerness apparent in her tone.

There was a momentary pause on the other end of the line before Leonardo replied in a polite and composed manner, “Angel, I’m currently in the midst of a crucial meeting. Despite having informed my secretary to clear my schedule, I cannot overlook the urgency of this particular meeting. Rest assured, it’s my final engagement of the day, and once it concludes, I will join you,” he explained, aware that his revelation might dampen her spirits.

“But we will be late, Leonardo. How could you do this?” Sofia expressed her frustration, her disappointment evident in her words. “This is the first time I’m visiting my parent’s house after our marriage, and you’ve spoiled the mood,” she huffed, a mixture of irritation and longing lingering within her.

“Don’t be upset, baby girl. I apologize for inadvertently spoiling your mood. Why don’t you leave early? I’ll join you at the Ricci mansion. And remember, don’t forget to take your bodyguards with you; they’ll ensure your safety inside the house. You know I don’t want to take any chances,” Leonardo suggested, his protective nature shining through.

“Oh, come on, Leonardo! Now you’re being excessively possessive. It’s my parents’ house, the place where I spent my entire life before marrying you,” Sofia argued, her emotions fueling her response.

“Don’t argue with me, angel. Just trust me and do as I say. And if you refuse to take the bodyguards with you, I won’t allow you to go to your parents’ house,” Leonardo retorted, his tone conveying an arrogant and overbearing demeanor. Sofia felt her frustration grow. How could he presume to decide everything in her life?

Sofia chose to remain silent, her silence serving as a means of self-preservation. She didn’t want to engage in a fruitless argument.

“Angel, do you agree?” Leonardo inquired once again, seeking her compliance.

“Okay, fine. I will take them with me,” Sofia conceded, her voice tinged with defeat. She knew that if she defied his wishes, he would cancel their plans, and that was the last thing she wanted. After all, she longed to see her father. Despite his shortcomings, he was still her father, and her love for him endured, despite everything.

**************

Sofia’s emotions swirled inside her as she arrived at her parent’s home, the place where she had spent eighteen formative years of her life. Mixed feelings of anticipation and anxiety coursed through her veins, causing her heart to beat loudly in her chest. She knew her family never truly embraced her, and the decision to come for lunch brought a wave of uncertainty. With Leonardo absent by her side, she silently prayed for strength.

As the car pulled up to the grand entrance of the Ricci mansion, Sofia’s nervousness intensified. She had always been apprehensive in the presence of her family, a habit that could not be easily shed in just a few days. Taking a deep breath, she reminded herself that she was now Mrs. Morelli, no longer needing to succumb to intimidation.

A bodyguard from the front seat stepped out and courteously held the door open for her. Stepping out of the car and placing her feet on the ground, Sofia’s gaze fixed upon the imposing house. Memories flooded her mind, recalling the tumultuous years she had spent within those walls, heightening her unease. It was not a place associated with fond memories.

Entering the hall, Sofia noticed Emma and Carlo seated alongside Uncle Mak and Aunt Lana. Uncle Mak, her father’s stepbrother, shared a close bond with the family. However, Sofia couldn’t fathom why Uncle Mak and Aunt Lana had always harbored a dislike toward her. They had never done anything wrong to them. When her father’s gaze fell upon her, she sensed a hint of concern, but as soon as their eyes met, he quickly averted his gaze.

Emma’s smile brightened as she approached Sofia. “Sofia, my dear, I’m thrilled that you came,” she exclaimed, her eyes briefly shifting to the two bodyguards who followed Sofia inside.

“Wait a minute! You two stay outside and wait. This is my home, and I don’t want any intruders,” Emma retorted with annoyance lacing her voice.

“I’m sorry, ma’am, but we have been instructed to accompany Mrs. Morelli everywhere,” one of the bodyguards responded respectfully, adhering to their assigned duty.

Emma cast a questioning gaze toward Sofia, her frustration evident in her voice. “Why are these bodyguards following you inside your own house? How could there be any danger within your parental home?” she asked, her tone tinged with annoyance.

Sofia’s heart sank as she felt a pang of embarrassment in front of her family. Emma was right-there was no need for protection within her father’s house. After all, she had grown up here and knew it to be a safe haven. With a heavy sigh, Sofia turned towards the bodyguards, her voice filled with a mix of discomfort and resolve. “Please wait outside. I don’t require any protection inside my father’s house,” she instructed them politely, her desire for some privacy with her family outweighing the need for security in that moment.

One of the bodyguards responded, “But, ma’am, we have orders to accompany you everywhere outside the Morelli mansion. It’s for your safety, ma’am.”

Sofia’s frustration mounted, and she spoke with a slightly raised voice, her patience waning.

“I am telling you to stay outside. I don’t want you to follow me into my father’s house. I want to spend some uninterrupted time with my family,” she insisted, her tone firm and determined.

The bodyguards exchanged glances, momentarily unsure of how to proceed. Finally, they relented. “Okay, ma’am. We will wait outside,” they conceded before exiting the house.

Emma took Sofia’s hand and led her toward the sitting area, a warm smile gracing her face.Please check at N/ôvel(D)rama.Org.

“Come, Sofia. Look who is here to welcome you back home. I invited Mak and Lana. I thought you’d appreciate seeing your whole family after such a long time,” Emma explained, her eyes shining with affection.

Sofia greeted Mak and Lana, her surprise evident as they returned her smile. Lana stepped forward, enveloping Sofia in a tight embrace. Sofia was taken aback by this affectionate gesture, unaccustomed to such warmth from her family members on her father’s side. Apart from her grandmother, few others had shown her any kindness or acceptance.

“Welcome home, Sofia. I’m delighted to see you. You look absolutely beautiful,” Lana exclaimed, her words filled with genuine warmth.

Mak joined them, his concern and curiosity evident in his voice. “How have you been, Sofia? And how is your new family?” he inquired, the first display of interest and genuine concern for her personal life from her paternal relatives.

“Everything is going well, Uncle Mak. Thank you,” Sofia responded with gentle sincerity, grateful for the sudden show of care and attention.

Mak nodded and settled into a seat beside Sofia’s father while Sofia eagerly anticipated her father’s approach. She yearned for him to acknowledge her new life and inquire about her well-being. However, to her dismay, he remained seated, appearing oblivious to Sofia’s presence.

Suppressing a sob that threatened to escape her throat, Sofia fought back tears, grappling with a whirlwind of emotions stirred by her father’s indifference. She blinked rapidly, trying to regain composure, unwilling to let her tears tarnish this long-awaited reunion.

“Carlo, come and welcome your daughter. This is her first visit after her marriage,” Emma called out to him, hoping to spur a response. However, he remained unaffected, his silence and immobility speaking volumes. Suddenly, he stood up and abruptly left the hall, leaving Sofia feeling a mix of confusion and heartache.

Emma turned towards Sofia, her voice filled with compassion.

“Don’t mind him, Sofia. Come with me. I’ve prepared a special lunch just for you. I’ve instructed the chef to prepare all your favorite dishes,” she reassured, attempting to provide solace.

Guiding Sofia towards the dining table, Emma motioned for Mak and Lana to follow. Sofia, however, halted momentarily, a thought crossing her mind.

“Um… Wait, Leonardo will be joining us soon. I’d like to wait for him so we can all have lunch together,” Sofia informed Emma, observing the shock that flickered across her eyes. Emma glanced at Mak, momentarily speechless before redirecting her gaze back to Sofia.

“Why is he coming?” Emma scowled, her tone laced with disapproval