Chapter 5 - A Change of Fate
The transition happened with terrifying speed.
By noon, two security guards were carrying Elena’s meager belongings up the grand carpeted staircase to the third floor. The guest suite was larger than any home Elena had ever lived in—it featured two spacious bedrooms, plush velvet sofas, a private bathroom with marble fixtures, and a balcony overlooking the estate’s pine forest.
Sophia stood in the middle of the room, her small shoes sinking into the thick carpet, while Meera giggled, jumping up and down on the soft king-sized bed.
"Mommy," Sophia asked, running over to Elena, who was standing frozen by the window. "Are we going to live here now?"
"Yes, baby," Elena murmured, still unable to wrap her head around the reality. "For now."
A knock sounded at the open door. Rosa, the housekeeper, walked in carrying several large boxes wrapped in colored paper. Behind her was a young woman carrying armfuls of clothes.
"Compliments of Mr. Moretti," Rosa said with a warm smile. "New clothes for the girls, shoes, and some toys. The tailor will be here tomorrow morning to adjust everything."
Sophia’s eyes went wide as Rosa set the boxes on the coffee table. Inside were soft wool coats, cotton dresses, leather shoes, and plush teddy bears. Meera immediately grabbed a giant brown bear, hugging it tight against her chest.
"Rosa," Elena pulled the older woman aside, her voice laced with worry. "Is this a trap? Is he using us for something?"
Rosa’s smile softened, her eyes showing a deep, ancient understanding. She placed a hand on Elena’s shoulder.
"Mr. Moretti lost his wife and six-year-old daughter eight years ago, my dear," Rosa whispered. "A bomb in his car. Since that day, this house has been a graveyard. Cold, silent, dead. Last night was the first time in eight years I heard laughter in the dining hall."
Elena looked toward her daughters, who were unpacking the toys with pure excitement.
"He's not a saint, Elena," Rosa warned gently. "He is a ruthless man who rules this city with iron and fire. But he honors his debts. And right now, he considers himself in debt to your daughter's bravery."
Down in the courtyard, three black SUVs pulled up to the front entrance.
Mateo stepped out onto the gravel driveway, flanked by Marco and six heavily armed guards. He was dressed in a tailored navy suit, his expression hardened like steel.
"Is everything prepared at the eastern docks?" Mateo asked Marco as he pulled on his leather gloves.
"Yes, boss," Marco replied, checking his handgun before sliding it into his holster. "Romano’s men took over Warehouse Four two hours ago. They think you're going to negotiate."
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"We aren't negotiating," Mateo said, stepping into the back seat of the lead SUV. "Romano thinks he can push me into a corner. It's time to remind him who owns this city."
As the motorcade roared out through the heavy iron gates, Sophia stood on her third-floor balcony, watching the black cars disappear down the winding road into the forest.
