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He rolls his eyes but then nods, slowly.
"Sure," he mumbles. "Get dressed. I'll be back in 5. Need to get changed."
Thank god. My plan is working. With the Capo still out of town, I can get away with a few leniences.
Fifteen minutes later, we walk to Stefano's car. He waits till I slide into my seat before shutting the door, then walks around to his side. Quickly, I chuck the phone near the accelerator, on the driver's side. He gets in, starts the engine and then comes a loud clang. He looks down, to see what his foot kicked.
"Oh," he mutters, looking confused as he bends over to pick up the phone. "So that's where you've been."
He looks over and sees me smirking.
Feeling embarrassed at having been caught talking to a phone, he blushes and says, ever-so-quietly, "I lost it yesterday."
"Uh-huh," I nod, my anxiety finally easing up. This time, I wasn't caught.
Chapter 14
Stefano
Weemergefromtheshady path into the sunlight, sweat dripping down our backs from the exertion of our run.
Isabella smiles at me, cheeks flushed, and I can't help but smile back. In moments like these, when she's completely free, I can see glimpses of the fascinating woman I had met on the flight. I wonder when she'd feel comfortable being herself around me again.
I yearn to explain to her that I'm not like the rest of the mafioso. That I do what I do within the bounds of duty, but beyond that, I pray for peace. We get in the car and drive back.
I play some music for a change. She begins to hum, and for a few minutes, we both sing, before she gets quiet.
The compound draws closer, explaining the shift in energy. I try to make pleasant conversation—until I see the black sedan parked in the drive.
My heart leaps into my throat. The Capo has returned early.
As we walk up the winding drive toward the mansion, my mind races.
I grab Isabella's arm, pulling her to a stop. "Go straight to your room. Do not come out for any reason."
Her eyebrows knit together. "What? Why?"
"Just do as I say." My tone leaves no room for argument.
After a moment, she nods and heads into the house.
I take a deep breath, steeling myself, before approaching the Capo as he emerges from the backseat. "Welcome back, boss"
The Capo narrows his eyes, glancing toward the mansion. "And where did you take her just now?"
"Just for a run. She was getting impatient around the house and I thought she's easier to control, the more tired she is," I meet his gaze steadily, hoping he can't see the lie in my eyes.
I can't betray any feelings for Isabella. Not if I want to keep her safe.
The Capo is silent for a long moment, scrutinizing me. Finally, he nods. "Very well."
Relief floods me, though I keep my expression impassive.
The Capo strides into the mansion, leaving me alone in the drive. I breathe out slowly, running a hand through my hair. I have to be more careful.
Isabella's life depends on it.
I make my way inside and up to Isabella's room, where I find her pacing like a caged animal. At the sight of me, she whirls around, green eyes flashing. "What was that about? Why did you rush me inside like that?"
