The Mafia’s Substitute Bride

Evelyn’s eyes remained fixed on Leonardo, her gaze smoldering with an intense desire that threatened to consume him whole. Her seductive stare held a promise of passion as if she would pounce on him the moment the opportunity presented itself. Her hunger for him was palpable, so palpable that it seemed she could practically taste him in the air. A slight sheen of perspiration glistened on her forehead, a testament to the heat that burned within her.

As Leonardo introduced Sofia as his wife, a flicker of something dangerous passed through Evelyn’s eyes. It was a burning gaze that bore into Sofia, filled with a lethal intent that could have incinerated her with its intensity. But just as quickly as it appeared, Evelyn concealed it behind a carefully crafted smile, masking her true feelings. Sofia, innocent and unsuspecting, felt a sudden wave of nervousness wash over her, unsure of the storm brewing beneath Evelyn’s facade.

“Nice to meet you, Sofia,” Evelyn said, her voice laced with a hint of sultriness, as she extended her hand towards Sofia in a seemingly friendly gesture. Sofia, eager to maintain a polite demeanor, reciprocated and began to extend her hand. However, before their hands could meet, Leonardo swiftly intercepted Sofia’s hand, capturing it possessively in his own. His grip was firm, almost possessive as if he were staking a claim over Sofia in front of Evelyn.

“Excuse us, Evelyn,” Leonardo declared in a cold, commanding tone. His words carried an undercurrent of dismissal as if he deemed Evelyn unimportant in that moment. “I have some more important people to meet. I will catch you later.” With that, he turned away from Evelyn, leading Sofia to the other side of the bustling hall. Sofia glanced back at Evelyn, her eyes filled with a mix of curiosity and apprehension.

As they walked together, Leonardo introduced Sofia to various members of his esteemed society. All eyes turned towards her, casting glances that held a mixture of curiosity, intrigue, and even judgment. Sofia felt like an outsider, but then their gazes met Leonardo’s steely glare. The onlookers swiftly averted their eyes, their expressions transforming from curiosity to caution, for they knew better than to challenge Leonardo’s authority and protection.

After a whirlwind of meeting and greeting countless people, Sofia’s parched mouth pleaded for a drink, while her stomach growled in hunger. A subtle tension lingered in the air as they approached the Anderson couple, Evelyn’s parents, an uneasiness that did not escape Sofia’s notice.

Finally, the flurry of social interactions came to an end, and Leonardo guided her to a seat. With a gentle gesture, he pulled out a chair, a silent invitation for her to sit. Sofia gratefully complied, feeling relief wash over her. The dryness of her lips compelled her to moisten them with a swift lick, a reflexive reaction to her thirst.

Leonardo’s eyes momentarily flickered upon her lips, capturing the subtle gesture before he beckoned a waiter to bring refreshments to their table. His voice, laced with warmth and concern, reached Sofia’s ears, “What would you like to drink, baby girl?” His gaze penetrated deep into her being, his eyes holding a mesmerizing power. A wave of conflicting emotions washed over her as she couldn’t help but be drawn to the sweet yet captivating aura he emanated.

Sofia, caught off guard by his intensity, replied with a touch of playfulness, “Anything will do. I’m quite adaptable when it comes to food and drink.” She saw him shake his head in amusement, a chuckle escaping his lips. His mere presence sent shivers down her spine, an intoxicating blend of sweetness and magnetism that left her breathless.

As he prepared to fetch their drinks, Leonardo issued a gentle warning, his tone tinged with possessiveness. “You wait here, seated. I’ll bring something for you. And don’t wander off without me.” His words held a protective edge, a clear indication that he cared deeply for her safety and well-being.

Left alone at the table, Sofia waited patiently, her eyes scanning the room. It was then that she noticed Evelyn, a smirk playing on her lips as she approached. Sofia couldn’t help but feel a surge of resentment towards the audacious intruder. Evelyn’s words dripped with mockery, aimed at undermining the connection between Sofia and Leonardo.

“So, finally, he left you alone. How long is he going to drag you around? You’re so dull and far from being his equal. He must be embarrassed,” Evelyn taunted in a condescending tone, relishing in her attempt to belittle Sofia.

Refusing to be drawn into her game, Sofia responded in a composed voice, “The dynamics between Leonardo and me are ours alone, and you needn’t interfere in matters between couples. I suggest you mind your own business.” Her words, though neutral in tone, carried an undertone of determination, a warning to Evelyn not to overstep her boundaries.

Unfazed by Sofia’s rebuke, Evelyn brazenly pulled up a chair and settled herself beside Sofia, shamelessly invading her personal space.

“I can and will because he is still in love with me,” Evelyn declared, a smug smile playing on her lips. Her words hung in the air, taunting Sofia, who fought the urge to deliver a resounding slap to Evelyn’s flawless face. The audacity of this woman, drooling over Sofia’s husband right in front of her.

Evelyn leaned forward, placing her elbow on the table, her gaze locked onto Sofia. Her voice dropped to a low, confident tone, as if she held all the power in the room. The flicker of mischief danced in her eyes as she spoke. Sofia could almost feel the weight of Evelyn’s judgment, her gaze scanning Sofia from head to heels, assessing her worthiness.

“Do you really think that you will be able to make him fall for you?” Evelyn smirked, her words laced with skepticism. Sofia remained steadfast, refusing to be intimidated by Evelyn’s display. She took a deep breath, her voice steady as she fought back.

“Very soon, he will be bored and will come back to me,” Evelyn taunted, her voice carrying a challenge that hung in the air between them. Sofia’s resolve hardened as she met Evelyn’s gaze head-on.

“No. It won’t happen. He is my husband, and he won’t leave me for anyone. I trust him,” Sofia countered, her voice filled with conviction. As her words landed, Sofia watched Evelyn’s beautiful face contort with a mix of anger and frustration. Evelyn’s teeth gritted, and a string of curses threatened to escape her lips.

“You bitch. What do you think? Will your magic work on Leonardo Morelli? He will never in a million years fall for you,” Evelyn spat, her voice dripping with venom. Her anger transformed her once-beautiful face into a fiery, red mask of rage. The air in the room grew tense as Evelyn’s fury burned bright. Without warning, she pushed her chair back forcefully, rising to her feet.

With each step, Evelyn’s high heels punctuated her anger, the sound of her stomping feet reverberating through the room. Sofia watched her exit, seeming to exhale, the tension dissipating slowly.

Sofia perched on the cushioned chair, her eyes darting around the bustling cafe. She could feel the warmth of the afternoon sun filtering through the windows, casting gentle rays that danced upon her face. Impatience tugged at her, a restless energy coursing through her veins as she eagerly awaited Leonardo’s return with their drinks. The anticipation mingled with a gnawing hunger, coaxing her to nibble on the tempting array of starters that sat before her, beckoning her taste buds.Content (C) Nôv/elDra/ma.Org.

Just as she took a bite, a waiter approached her, breaking her concentration. His voice, edged with a sense of urgency, reached her ears, “Ma’am, Mr. Morelli has requested your presence in room number 909.” Sofia’s gaze shifted from her half-eaten food, searching the sea of faces in the crowded establishment. Leonardo was nowhere to be seen, and a flicker of concern crept into her expression.

Expressing her gratitude to the waiter, she motioned for him to guide her to the designated room. As they traversed through the lively venue, his steps guiding her halfway, he pointed her in the direction she needed to go before excusing himself. Sofia continued her journey alone, each footstep carrying her closer to room number 909.

Her heart fluttered with a mixture of anticipation and uncertainty as she approached the door. It stood ajar, teasing her curiosity. Sofia hesitated for a moment, her hand reaching out to gingerly push the door open further. The wood creaked softly as if unveiling a secret it held within.

As the door widened, a gasp escaped Sofia’s lips, her eyes widening in shock and disbelief. There, before her, Leonardo and Evelyn were locked in an embrace, their bodies entwined.