The sun was setting on the horizon, painting the sky with warm shades of orange and red as Matteo drove along the winding roads leading to Pedesina. The gentle wind blew through Ellis's hair as she gazed at the picturesque landscape of lush green hills surrounding them. Lost in her own thoughts, she looked at the vibrant green hills and the small villages dotted across the landscape, while Vittorio admired her through the rearview mirror of the car.
The soft rays of the setting sun illuminated her features, creating an ethereal glow around her. Vittorio was captivated by her radiant smile and the way her hair danced gently in the breeze. He marveled at her elegance and how gracefully she carried herself, even in uncertain circumstances.
The car steadily made its way along the winding road, and as Vittorio occasionally adjusted the rearview mirror to catch another glimpse of Ellis, his admiration grew stronger. He observed the curious sparkle in her eyes, the faint crease on her forehead when she reflected on something, and the tenderness of her touch when she absentmindedly stroked her cheek.
Vittorio was enthralled by Ellis's spirit and strength. Her unwavering support and willingness to enter into this arranged marriage for the sake of his brother deeply impressed him. As he watched her, he couldn't help but feel a wave of gratitude and admiration for the woman who had become his wife.
At that moment, as the car continued its journey towards Pedesina, Vittorio silently vowed to protect Ellis at all costs.
"So, Vittorio," Matteo said, breaking the silence. "How are things going in New York?"
"They're going very well, uncle," Vittorio replied. "We're expanding our operations and making good profits."
"I heard a little bit about it. And what does your new wife think of the family business? Is she getting used to the customs of the Amorielle family?" Matteo asked, turning to Ellis.
Ellis shifted uncomfortably in her seat.
"I am... adapting," she said.
"Don't worry, my dear. You'll get used to our customs soon," Matteo explained with a laugh.
"He's right," Vittorio agreed, turning to face Ellis and offering a reassuring smile. "It will take some time, but you'll get used to it."
Ellis nodded, feeling a small sense of relief. Perhaps this trip wouldn't be so bad after all.
---
As the car entered the city, Matteo drove through narrow, ancient streets lined with majestic Italian-style mansions. Finally, they arrived at the Amorielle family's millionaire residence. The mansion stood imposingly before them, with its stone walls and elegant windows. Meticulously maintained gardens displayed a variety of colorful flowers and well-trimmed bushes.
Vittorio's uncle parked the car in front of the main entrance, and Ellis and Vittorio stepped out, feeling a mix of nervousness and determination.
As they walked towards the Amorielle family's property, Vittorio held Ellis's hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze.
"Don't worry, everything will be fine," he said.
Ellis smiled back at him, feeling slightly more at ease.
They climbed the steps of white marble, and with a gentle touch, the double doors opened to reveal the luxurious interior of the mansion. A Persian carpet stretched through the hallway, leading them to a living room adorned with elegant furniture and valuable artwork.
In the center of the room stood Carmela Amorielle, Vittorio's aunt. She was an elderly woman with gray hair and penetrating eyes that seemed to hide deep secrets. Her face displayed an expression of surprise upon seeing her nephew and his new wife.
"Vittorio, my dear nephew, you
have finally come to our home! And who is this charming young lady by your side?" Carmela exclaimed.
"Aunt Carmela, allow me to introduce Ellis, my wife," Vittorio announced, pointing towards Ellis.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Amorielle," Ellis smiled politely, still feeling somewhat uncomfortable in the Amorielle family mansion.
The woman, with her perceptive gaze and welcoming smile, stood up from her chair upon spotting Ellis. Her eyes sparkled with curiosity as she greeted the new addition to the family.
"Ah, Ellis, my dear! Welcome to Pedesina. I am eager to get to know you better. You have certainly brought a sparkle to Vittorio's eyes," Carmela commented, winking at Ellis. "Vittorio has never introduced us to such a charming woman as you."
"Thank you for your kind words and for allowing us to stay in your home," Ellis expressed her gratitude.
"Allowing? My dear, this house is yours," Carmela said.
The room fell silent. Ellis looked at Vittorio, unsure whether Carmela's words were merely those of a gracious host or if she genuinely trusted Carmela's sincere gaze.
"Aunt, we are a bit tired. Could you show us to our room?" Vittorio requested.
"Of course, my dear," Carmela agreed, walking towards the house's corridor.
Ellis and Vittorio followed Carmela, Vittorio's aunt, as she walked with steady steps along the grand corridor of the Amorielle estate in Pedesina. The walls were adorned with ornate paintings and family portraits, exuding an atmosphere of history and power.
Vittorio's aunt was excited to lead Ellis and Vittorio to the room that would be theirs during their honeymoon.
Carmela led them to a luxurious room at the end of the corridor, decorated in rich shades of burgundy and gold. It was a spacious and elegant suite, perfect for a honeymooning couple. There was an imposing bed with red silk curtains, scented candles lit in golden candelabras, and rose petals scattered on the floor. Ellis and Vittorio exchanged brief, nervous glances, knowing they needed to act like a loving couple to avoid any suspicion.
"Welcome to your room, my dears! I have prepared everything with great care for you to enjoy your honeymoon," Carmela said, turning to Ellis and Vittorio with a warm smile. "Vittorio and Ellis, I hope you are pleased with the accommodations."
Ellis glanced at Vittorio, trying to gauge his reaction.
"It's... beautiful," she said, her voice tinged with a mix of nervousness and admiration.
Vittorio nodded, his gaze fixed on Carmela.
"Thank you, Aunt Carmela. It's perfect."
Carmela's eyes shifted between the two, sensing their discomfort.
"Is there something I need to know?" Vittorio's aunt questioned. "Is there something in the room you didn't like? Were the rose petals too much?"
"Aunt Carmela, everything is perfect. Ellis and I are very grateful for your hospitality," Vittorio reassured, pulling Ellis closer to him.
"Yes, Mrs. Amorielle, it's very kind of you to provide us with such a beautiful place. We are truly impressed," Ellis agreed, smiling at Vittorio and trying to disguise her discomfort. She wrapped her arms around her husband's neck and continued, "I can't wait for us to inaugurate the room."
Carmela smiled, seeming satisfied with their answers.
"Very well then. I will leave you to enjoy the room. Feel free to join us for the family dinner later. Until then, my dears."
With a nod, Carmela departed, leaving Ellis and Vittorio finally alone in the room. They looked at each other again, realizing that the situation would not be easy to navigate.
The soft light of the candles flickered, casting a warm glow in the room, while the scent of fresh flowers filled the air. The luxurious curtains were drawn back, revealing a breathtaking view of the picturesque city of Pedesina outside.
Ellis sat on the edge of the bed, looking around the room with a mixture of nervousness and curiosity. She smoothed the soft fabric of the sheet and glanced at Vittorio, who stood near the door, contemplating the next steps.
"Don Vittorio," called Ellis, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "How do you want me to behave in front of your family? I ask because I don't want to cause any discomfort for you with them..."
Vittorio approached her, sitting by her side. His hand reached out to touch hers, but then he withdrew, remembering his promise.
"Well," Vittorio began, "I understand that marriage is a contractual agreement for you, but I would like you to act with me as if we were truly in love. I don't want to arouse suspicions, especially considering the purpose of our trip."
"What is the purpose of this trip, Don Vittorio?" asked Ellis, intertwining her hands as her eyes briefly met Vittorio's before averting them.
"Nothing you need to know, Ellis," Vittorio assured with a determined voice. "Can you maintain appearances with me?"
"Of course, Don Vittorio. I will do my best to keep up appearances."
"Great, we need to make everyone believe that we are deeply committed to each other, even if it's just a charade."
"It seems I'll be stuck in this performance for a while, Don Vittorio," commented Ellis, taking a deep breath and preparing for the task ahead.
"Try to focus on your debt, maybe that will help ease being around me and my family," said Vittorio, placing his hand on Ellis's shoulder, drawing her attention. "We are in this together, Ellis."
Ellis turned to Vittorio, a touch of vulnerability in her eyes.
"It's strange, isn't it? How we went from complete strangers to married people... without love."
Vittorio's gaze softened, his voice filled with sincerity.
"Indeed, it is. But I prefer to believe that our paths crossed for a reason, Ellis, and together we can face whatever is to come. I know I put you in a complicated situation, but we will find a way to deal with it together. No matter what happens, I'll be by your side."
In the stillness, the thoughts of Ellis and Vittorio intertwined, each contemplating the complex web of their emotions. They were fully aware of the delicate line they were treading. The two remained seated side by side on the bed, their thoughts blending in the shared space between them. The unspoken words hung heavy in the air, creating a fragile yet palpable tension. They shared a silent understanding, acknowledging the complexity of their situation and the profound impact it had on their lives.
Ellis could feel her heart racing, unsure of how to navigate the unknown territory they found themselves in. She looked into Vittorio's eyes, seeing a mix of apprehension and a glimmer of vulnerability. There was a spark of uncertainty in his gaze, revealing the weight of the responsibility he carried for his family's honor and her brother's debt.
Vittorio, usually composed and confident, now seemed lost in a sea of conflicting emotions. He contemplated the consequences of his arranged marriage, bound by a contract aimed at resolving a debt but with unforeseen implications for their hearts. He knew he had made a decision that affected not only himself but also Ellis, and that weighed heavily on him.
Silence enveloped the room, broken only by the distant song of birds outside. Vittorio smiled warmly at her, his eyes filled with sincerity.
"You're not alone in this, Ellis. And I promise to protect you from any mishaps as long as you're married to me," Vittorio assured. He got up from the bed and then said, "Now, I'll go find my uncle and discuss some matters. Take this time to rest, take a good bath, and get ready. When I come back, we'll face whatever comes our way. Starting with dinner with them."
With those words, Vittorio left the room, leaving Ellis to gather her thoughts and prepare for the challenges ahead.