Chapter 3 - The Cancelled Contract
Lorenzo turned his attention back to the terrified young mother still sitting on the marble floor.
"Get up, Maria," he said softly, offering her his large, scarred hand.
She hesitated for a second before placing her small, trembling fingers into his warm palm.
He pulled her to her feet and looked into her deep, emotional brown eyes.
"You are no longer a maid in this house," Lorenzo announced loudly so everyone could hear.
"From this moment on, you are my personal assistant, and your daughter is under my direct protection."
The remaining staff members gasped, but nobody dared to question the Don's orders.
Just then, the heavy doors to the east wing opened, and four men in sharp gray suits walked out.
These were the leaders of the Rossi family, the men Lorenzo had been meeting with before he heard Lily crying.
"Lorenzo, why did you walk out of our negotiation?" the oldest Rossi demanded angrily.
"We were about to sign the marriage contract between you and my daughter, Isabella."
Lorenzo looked at the old man, then looked at Maria, who was holding her breath.
"The marriage is off," Lorenzo stated bluntly, his voice echoing in the hall.
"I will not be marrying Isabella, today or ever."
The Rossi men turned red with fury and absolute humiliation.
"You disrespect our family for a dirty servant?" the old man hissed, spitting on the floor.
Pino barked aggressively, lunging forward until Lorenzo pulled the leash back.
May you like
"Get out of my house before I feed you to my dog," Lorenzo warned them.
The Rossi men stormed out, leaving behind a dangerous promise of war.
