Gemma Pov
We just arrived home today. I've decided to take a nap. Pretty soon I have to get the dress to meet my future husband if we click. This suitor was chosen by my Uncle Santos. He is Sicilian and he is a part of the mafia.
First Meeting
The suitor arrives looking a lot older than Gemma expected. Gemma slowly walks down the stairs. She greets everyone in the room, which includes her parents, uncles, and grandfather. The suitor steps forward I'm Armanno Mancinelli it's my pleasure to meet you. She didn't respond at all it was like she was in trance. Fabiana could do nothing but laugh at her daughter's reaction.
Finally, Gemma, responds by saying thank you. Her voice is low. The next she blurts out how old are you. Her uncle burst out laughing at their niece. Well my dear Gemma I'm 27 years old. There is a 9-year age difference between them. Armanno is so captivated by her beauty. Does my age bother you, Bella? She stutters slightly no, I was just curious. He smiles at her and asks if he could take her for coffee. Before she answers her eyes go to her father. Antoine nods his head that it's ok. So Gemma agrees to go out for coffee with her sexy new suitor.
Armanno POV
He is going to meet the famous Gemma Lombardi. Armmano was shocked when he was presented with the offer. Santos Lombardi approaches him about the wedding of his niece. Never thought he would consider marrying a 19-year-old woman. Then once he saw a picture he was interested in it. They wanted a certain suitor for her. Never thought he would have a virgin bride. Apparently, she has never dated or kissed a boy before. It's interesting, to say the least. Many people don't know that arrange marriage happens all the time in Sicily. According to the agreement he has dated her for a year. Then after a year, he has to marry her. Her father wants her to experience dating and romance. I don't mind giving her that.
From what I understand she has a brilliant mind. Then I found out yesterday that she is affiliated with the Black Guerrilla Mafia base in New York. Basically, she has ties to three mafia families.
Now that I have arrived at their compound in Sicily. I arrived with my brothers and a few enforcers. Did I forget to mention I'm head of Mancinelli's mafia Famiglia? Father retire last year I have taken over along with my brother as my Capo.
When we arrive we have to go through their security. Her parents Antoine and Fabiana Lombardi greet us. When getting further into the house I notice Santos, Rico, and Nico are also present. Even her grandfather Santos Sr. is present.
Buon pomeriggio everyone! Fabiana asks us to have seat. I will go get Gemma. She goes and presses a button on the wall and I hear the sexy voice say " I'm coming mom is almost done with my hair. " While waiting on her to come down I ask Santos about business. Everyone stops talking and looks at the stairs. A vision of beauty come down the stair with a shy smile.
Immediately I stand to greet her. I'm Armanno Mancinelli it's my pleasure to meet you. The funny thing she doesn't respond just stares at me. Strangely she responds by saying thanks. Then she blurts out how old are you. I can tell her nerves are getting the best of her. I have to remember she isn't used to being around men only her family.
So, Bella would you like to go get a cup of coffee? Instead of answering me, she looks to her father. Antoine agrees to let her go with the security detail. She goes with her mother while I speak with her father.
Antoine I would like to accept your daughter as my bride. He smiles like he has won the lottery. Good, we believe you would be a good suitor for my daughter.
Please be gentle with my daughter. She has never been around men like you. Only family and our soldiers. Gemma has led a very sheltered life. If your coffee dates go well then we will proceed to the next level.
Now Rosario goes everywhere with her, said Antoine. Rosario is her personal guard. I understand what he was saying. Before I can respond she walks back into the room. Armanno, I'm ready to go if you are. I love the way she says my name. Walking toward I grab her hand. Then we leave and get into Lambo following her security and mine.
So, Gemma, I understand that you visit America. Did you enjoy it and see some sites? Yes, it was fun and I got to visit a club for the first time. Gemma sighs, I met the president but I didn't enjoy that at all. Do you travel to America, Armanno? Yes, I have a few businesses in America that I travel to check on. Armanno I have a few businesses in America as well. Although my brother maintains those businesses. I've noticed that she is more comfortable talking about business.
Gemma POV
I'm nervous but talking about business is starting to make me relax. He is so fine and he smells good. Mother told me to talk to him like I would my brothers. But he doesn't look like any brother to me.
We finally arrive at the coffee shop. I see Rosario going secure about the location. I guess he knows the procedure because he doesn't move.
So what do you like being called? You can Gem if you like. Only my family calls me that. Gem, I was wondering how you feel about this arranged marriage. Well, Armando, I'm being honest I trust my parents and family with their selection. Honestly, I don't think it logical that I will find someone who wouldn't try to use me. This way I'm protected and I can get to know you. Must warn though I don't have much experience with dating. I live a very sheltered life. So there will always be bodyguards in my future. I have accepted that lifestyle. He smiles at me I felt my insides melt.
Armanno POV
To say I was shocked was an understatement. She is the first one I met that was content with this situation. She isn't my first possible bride. Arranged marriage is a tradition in Sicily. From what I understand I'm the first suitors she has met. Not the first suitor her parents have met though.
I have definitely found my wife. Now I just have to convince Gemma. Well, Gem tells about me yourself.
Well, I like reading, researching, and working in my lab. I love dancing and singing in my built-in studio. Also, I can speak 8 different languages. Most people don't know English is my second language. Another interesting fact is I have three college degrees.
I was speechless I didn't realize she was that smart. If you don't mind me asking what are your degrees in? Well, I studied Mathematics, Physics, and Engineering. Then I got bored with college and decided I want a lab. So my parents built me one in the house.
I hope that I'm not boring you too much, said Gem. No this is all exciting. Hopefully one day you will let me see your lab. Sure that would be fun.