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We share a laugh in the midst of the commotion, our hands instinctively intertwining as we run back to the car. I help her into the passenger seat, taking note of how her wavy hair brushes against her face, her green eyes sparkling with amusement.
"Thanks for causing this scene, Stefano," she teases once we're inside. With a grin, I slide into the driver's seat, starting the engine and pulling away from the mess we’ve created.
"Anything for you, Bella. For you, I'd make the earth stop spinning if I could" I say playfully, feeling an incredible sense of happiness knowing we're together again.
"Please don't, that would cause mass destruction," she rolls her eyes.
We trade lighthearted jabs about our rocky journey towards being reunited, laughter filling the car.
"Maybe next time you should just kidnap me," Isabella suggests, arching an eyebrow. "It would save us both some trouble."
"Ah, the classic Torres approach," I joke. "Noted for next time."
She laughs, her eyes crinkling at the corners, and I'm reminded of why I fell for her in the first place. Our playful banter continues – two souls, once torn apart, finding solace in each other. After the hell we've faced together, we can use a good laugh or two.
As we drive through the bustling streets of New York, the realization dawns on me that we have no plan – no destination in mind. My grip tightens on the steering wheel as I turn to Isabella. "We can't go back to the compound. Not yet," I say, my voice laced with concern. "The mafioso doesn't know you're innocent."
"Agreed," she replies, her face sobering. "But where do we go? Felix's is out. They've been so hospitable, but I can't impose in their safe house again. It's far too small."
I rack my brain for a place of safety, somewhere that offers luxury and comfort while we figure out our next move. A smile spreads across my face as the perfect location comes to mind.
"Leave it to me, Bella. Just trust me, okay?" I ask, glancing at her.
"Of course," she says without hesitation, placing her hand on mine.
The city lights blur by as we make our way to one of the most exclusive hotels in New York. I pull up to the entrance, and Isabella's eyes widen as she takes in the opulent façade.
"Stefano, this is…" She trails off, clearly stunned.
"Nothing but the best for us, Bella," I reply, squeezing her hand. "I can call you Bella, can't I?"
She looks at me and smiles. "I'd like that. Bella," she tastes her new endearing nickname on her tongue. A name from me, just for her.
I give the car to a valet and we enter the hotel, our laughter filling the grandiose lobby. The marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and gold accents all scream luxury. Isabella's hand feels warm and electric in mine, our excitement palpable as we make our way to the front desk.
"Welcome to The Regal," the receptionist greets us, her eyes darting between us, no doubt sensing our giddy energy. "How may I assist you?"
"One night in the presidential suite, please," I declare with confidence, not wanting anything less for my Bella.
"Of course, sir. That will be $8,000 for the night," she replies, barely batting an eye at the exorbitant price.
"Put it on this," I say as I slide my platinum credit card across the counter.
"Enjoy your stay, Mr. Nitti," the receptionist says, handing us the room key.
"Thank you," I reply with a smile, leading Isabella toward the elevators.
Once inside the presidential suite, we're struck by its opulence – floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the city skyline, plush furnishings, and an inviting king-sized bed. It's perfect.
"Stefano, this is incredible," Isabella breathes, her eyes sparkling with joy. "We really have been slumming it running helter-skelter all these months, haven't we? God, I’ve missed this lifestyle."
"From now on, things are only looking up my love" I say, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead before picking up the phone to order champagne and food. "Room service? We'd like a bottle of your finest champagne, some caviar, oysters and tuna tartares please."
"Your order will be delivered shortly, sir," the voice on the other end confirms before I hang up.
"Come, let's enjoy the view while we wait," I suggest, guiding Isabella to the large windows overlooking the city.
"Stunning," she whispers, not just referring to the view, but also to the night itself – our unexpected reunion, our close escape from a destiny without each other, and now, this romantic evening. I couldn't agree more.
