Ellis Barker approached Vittorio's office door in the mansion slowly. With gentle knocks, she announced her presence before turning the doorknob and entering. Her heart raced as she found Vittorio leaning against his imposing desk, completely engrossed in analyzing some documents. He hadn't noticed her entrance, allowing Ellis to appreciate that moment for a few seconds.
Her eyes roamed over Vittorio's body, capturing every detail that made him irresistibly attractive. The slightly open white shirt subtly revealed the tanned skin of his chest, while the muscles outlined themselves beneath the fabric. His focused and serious gaze conveyed the determination and leadership that characterized him.
Ellis couldn't help but feel a wave of warmth wash over her body as she admired the sight before her. She admired the unique combination of strength and vulnerability that Vittorio exuded. Amidst the papers and the seriousness of the moment, he appeared even more fascinating. The brunette stood there, motionless, for a moment, admiring her husband's attractive figure.
With a soft sigh, Ellis decided it was time to announce her presence. She took a step forward, causing the floor to creak slightly under her feet, capturing Vittorio's attention.
"Don Vittorio, may I come in?" she asked, keeping her voice calm, quite different from the emotions she felt inside.
Vittorio's dark eyes finally lifted from the documents, and he met Ellis's gaze. A glimmer of surprise and pleasure crossed his face upon seeing her there, interrupting his concentration. Vittorio raised his eyebrows, taken aback by Ellis's presence. A glimmer of admiration passed through his eyes as he watched her, taking in her image.
"Ellis," he said, his tone soft but filled with warmth. "Of course, come in."
Ellis took a few steps forward, approaching Vittorio. Her heart pulsed with a mix of emotions, from joy to a certain nervousness. She stood by his side, observing him with tenderness.
"I have great news to share with you," she said, containing her enthusiasm.
Vittorio carefully closed the documents and directed all his attention to Ellis. His deep gaze overflowed with curiosity and affection.
"Tell me," he replied with a gentle smile. "I'm eager to hear what you have to say."
A smile lit up Ellis's face as she moved closer.
"I went to the university today and secured a spot to return to studying," Ellis revealed.
Vittorio nodded, a glimmer of pride in his eyes.
"I'm glad to hear that. I'm proud of you, Ellis. I'm sure you'll achieve great things at the university."
"Ava Brown, the department head, praised my records and said she's excited about my enrollment at the university. And, to my surprise, she mentioned that you played a significant role in this opportunity."
Vittorio raised an eyebrow, curious about Ellis's words.
"Me? What exactly did she say?"
Ellis moved even closer, admiring Vittorio's intrigued expression.
"Ava mentioned that you provided financial support to the university but also hinted at my potential as an exceptional student. She thanked you and the Amorielle family for that."
Vittorio sighed, a hint of guilt appearing on his face.
"Yes, I admit it. But I only did it because I saw your potential, Ellis. When we were in Milan, visiting those places, I could see your passion and talent. I knew you deserved this opportunity."
Ellis felt a mixture of gratitude and emotion upon hearing Vittorio's words. She approached him, seeking a more intimate conversation. With a radiant smile, Ellis decided to seize the moment and express her feelings.
"Vittorio, I truly appreciate what you've done for me, for the university, and for my career."
Vittorio set the papers aside and approached Ellis, enveloping her with his strong arms.
"I did it because you deserve it."
Ellis felt her heart fill with gratitude and a deep connection to Vittorio. However, there was one more issue to address with the mobster.
"You know, Vittorio, I was thinking... Living here in the mansion is so far from the university. It took me nearly two hours to get there and another two hours to return today. I'd like to talk to you about the possibility of moving back to my house in Brownsville. It would be closer to the college, making my routine easier."
Vittorio looked at her, thoughtful for a moment, opposing Ellis's suggestion, and stepped back, walking toward the window. He seemed deeply lost in thought.
"Brownsville is as far from the university as the mansion," he replied, slightly terse. "I don't see how that would make a difference."
Ellis tried to explain her perspective, hoping Vittorio could understand.
"I could take the subway, saving an hour on the commute. It would be much more convenient and allow me more time to study and focus on my studies."
Vittorio remained restless, concerned about Ellis's safety.
"I don't think it's safe for you to travel alone on the subway. Besides, it would be difficult to have security guards protecting you at your house in Brownsville."
Ellis retorted, feeling her independence threatened.
"I don't need security guards, Vittorio. I can take care of myself just fine, and everyone in the neighborhood knows me. I don't want to feel trapped. I want the freedom to come and go like anyone else."
Vittorio turned to her, with a serious expression.
"Ellis, the security guards are not negotiable. And your return to Brownsville is also not a viable option."
Ellis was beginning to feel suffocated by the restrictions and excessive control. She felt the need to assert herself and express her own will.
"I'm not a prisoner, Don Vittorio."
Vittorio turned to face Ellis, his eyes conveying conflict and determination.
"You're not my prisoner, Ellis, but my wife. And as your husband, I must ensure your safety and well-being. I can't give up the security guards, nor allow you to return to Brownsville."
Ellis felt a mix of anger and sadness in her heart.
"So we're husband and wife, right? If you consider me as such, then you need to show it. Let me go back home. I can't continue feeling like an object in your life. If you see me differently, then prove it."
Vittorio seemed surprised by Ellis's assertiveness. He paused for a moment before responding, his voice filled with tension.
"Ellis, if you leave, it will be difficult for us to stay together. Believe me, I'm trying to protect you, take care of you. It's not a matter of an object but of security."
Ellis stared at him with determination, reminding him of her reality.
"We're only together because of this contract you imposed on me, Don Vittorio. Don't forget that. If you want me to see you differently, then respect my wishes. And right now, I want to go back home. If I can't go back home, then we're just fulfilling contractual obligations, not having a real marriage. Let me go back home."
Vittorio seemed conflicted, about to respond when Rocco entered the office, interrupting the conversation.
"Don Vittorio, it's time," Rocco said briefly.
Vittorio looked at Ellis, promising to continue the conversation later.
"We'll talk later, Ellis. For now, I need to take care of some things. Excuse me."
With those words, Vittorio left the office, leaving Ellis alone with her frustrations and uncertainties.