AllFreeNovel
Share Us
He takes a deep breath as he looks away, perturbed by the memories from the night I tried to run away.
"Then I'll scream," I say, trying to lighten the mood with a small smile. "And you'll come running, right?"
"Of course." He manages a half-smile in return, but the worry remains etched across his handsome face. "Just be careful, okay?"
"I will," I promise, squeezing his hand one last time before releasing it. My pulse races as I take a deep breath and step into the hut.
"Good luck," Stefano whispers as the door closes behind me.
As I step further into the dimly-lit room, my heart pounds in my chest. The door shuts behind me with a soft click, and I'm suddenly aware of how alone I am. Despite Stefano's assurances, I can't help but worry about his overprotective nature. If he were to discover my spying efforts, would he act recklessly in an attempt to protect me? All he wants to do is be there for me, but little does he know his efforts to do so are only isolating me further because he's not the kind of man to just lend an ear. He's the kind to take on my problems, and that's something I can never live with. I contemplate this as I take slow, measured steps deeper into the hut.
"Isabella Torres," the Capo's voice echoes through the space, shivers running down my spine. He emerges from the shadows, his cold gaze meeting mine.
"Capo," I acknowledge, trying to keep my voice steady. My hands clench into fists at my sides, nails digging into my palms. He watches me intently, like a predator sizing up its prey.
"Sit," he commands, gesturing to a chair across from him.
I comply, taking a seat as gracefully as I can manage given the circumstances. All I can think about is Stefano, waiting outside, and the secret I must keep from him. "What did you want to discuss?" I ask, forcing my voice to remain calm and collected.
The Capo remains silent for a moment, studying me. I can almost feel the weight of his scrutiny. "You're a very interesting woman, Isabella," he finally says. "Your father was a great man, and I believe you have the potential to follow in his footsteps."
"Thank you, Capo," I reply, unsure of what else to say. My thoughts race, wondering if he suspects anything. I must be careful not to reveal any hint of my true intentions.
“We got off on the wrong foot, didn’t we, Isabella?” he asks. His voice lingers on my name. He almost sings it, Isabellaaaa… like a stalker hunting prey in the woods.
“Perhaps,” I try to be noncommittal.
"However unhappy you’ve been here, it was all for you," he continues, raising a finger, "you will need guidance. And protection."
"Protection?" I repeat, my eyes narrowing. "From whom?"
"There are many who would seek to take advantage of your family's legacy, Isabella," the Capo replies cryptically. "But worry not – I will keep you safe. You mustn’t fear me."
"Gracias, Capo," I say, swallowing the lump in my throat. What I truly want to do is tell him to fuck off. He offers me a thin smile, and I can't help but feel a shiver run down my spine. I know I must tread carefully around him, and ensure Stefano doesn't put himself in danger.
The Capo leans in, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Isabella, I have important news regarding your father's killers."
I stiffen, my breath catching in my throat. "What do you mean?"
"New information has surfaced," he explains, his eyes locked on mine. "I must go to Mexico immediately. They believe they've found the ones responsible for Diego's death."
Could this be true? Or is it just another ploy by the Capo to manipulate me further into his grasp?
"Mexico?" I repeat, my voice barely audible. “Who did it? Does Juan know?”
“Yes, Isabella," he confirms, his tone solemn. "Patience. All will be revealed in time. I will leave tonight. And I expect you to continue being good during my absence. Stay by Stefano's side."
"Of course, Capo," I reply, trying to hide the uncertainty that threatens to choke me. As much as I want justice for my father, something about the Capo's words doesn't sit right with me.
Why now, after all this time, is he talking to me with near kindness? Why is he going to deal with the murderers? Why am I not being taken along? Where is Juan in all of this?
“What about Juan?” I ask. “Will he be there in Mexico, with you? Please, tell me who did this.”
"I can’t reveal anything until I’m back. I need to verify everything once I am on site. Remember," he says, a warning underlying his words, "keep your wits about you, and trust no one. Not even Stefano."
My blood runs cold at the mention of Stefano's name. What could the Capo possibly know about our budding relationship?
"Gracias for informing me, Capo," I say, masking my unease with a tight smile. "I wish you luck in Mexico."
