My Mafia Fiancé Chose My Best Friend and Hid the Truth のすべてのチャプター: チャプター 1 - チャプター 10

Matteo picked Bianca up and headed for the doors. As he passed me, he stopped. A rare look of hesitation crossed his usually composed face."I'm sorry, Elena. Bianca's old injury is acting up. I need to get her to a doctor."Bianca wrapped her arms around Matteo's neck and nestled against his chest."No, Don," she said, her voice hoarse. "You should stay and host. They need you here."Matteo frowned and looked down at her. His deep voice had gone unusually soft. "Don't be silly. Someone else can host. You matter more."He turned his head just long enough to tell a waiter to help me upstairs, then strode off with her in his arms, leaving a roomful of guests trading looks.My stomach finally gave in, and I started dry heaving. The scent of the flowers only made the nausea worse, and I had to lean on the waiter just to stay on my feet."So that's Anthony Caruso's daughter? He was the family advisor back then. Such a shame he died in that ambush. I heard the Don's been looking out for her

While I was quietly finalizing my travel plans, a new baby in the family was about to be christened at the church.Matteo's mother, Victoria Rinaldi, had personally sent word that I was expected to attend the ceremony before becoming the Donna.My migraine had eased, though I still had no appetite. I changed into a formal dress anyway and went to the church.When I arrived, Bianca was at the entrance checking the guest list, looking perfectly fine as she smiled and greeted each guest.The moment she saw me, she had a waiter clear away the flowers near my seat."Elena can't handle strong floral scents. Swap these out for some unscented greenery."The waiter took care of it right away and set out lush green ivy instead.The seating had been arranged in advance, but once again, Matteo had forgotten what made me sick.I felt nothing at all. I just nodded to Bianca in thanks.She winked at me and leaned in to whisper. "Don't be mad at the Don. He's always been clueless when it comes to roma

On a Sunday two weeks later, I handed my luggage to the driver and headed to the estate for Victoria's birthday dinner.No one in the Rinaldi family knew it yet, but after tonight, I'd be gone from New York.The party was held in the main hall of the estate. Only close family, a few important capos, and longtime business partners had been invited.When I walked in, Victoria was holding Bianca's hand, deep in conversation with her."I heard you were in the hospital not long ago. Why didn't you rest a few more days?""I'm much better now." Bianca smiled as she handed her the gift. "You didn't think I'd miss your birthday, did you?"Victoria's youthful face lit up with a smile, and she had Bianca seated right beside her.Victoria didn't so much as glance my way until someone greeted me. Even then, she gave me only a cool glance."Elena, you're here. Have a seat."Matteo sat at the head of the table and motioned for me to sit next to him.Halfway through dinner, Victoria had the butler bri

Call after call lit up the screen. Uncle Enzo hesitated, then asked, "Is it the Don?"I nodded, looking down at the caller ID."Elena... sweetheart, I know this is a lot to take in. But if you really want answers, you should ask the Don himself."Uncle Enzo chose his words carefully, trying to be gentle."Uncle Enzo, I know... I just can't accept it yet. The person I've trusted most these past few years actually had something to do with my father's death."Matteo didn't love me. I knew that.But he knew the truth I'd been searching for all these years. Why didn't he tell me?I took a deep breath and answered.Matteo spoke at once, his voice anxious. "Elena? Thank God you're okay. I couldn't find you anywhere. Do you have any idea how worried I was? Where are you? I'll send someone to pick you up.""Looking for me? Why would you look for me?" I said flatly. "Isn't Bianca the one you really care about?"He was quiet for a few seconds, as if he hadn't expected me to say that.When he spok

ElenaEarly that evening, there was a knock at the apartment door.Matteo stood outside in his black coat, still carrying the chill from outdoors. His tall frame nearly blocked the hallway light.When he saw me, his face lit up for a split second. "Elena, you're all right. I'm so glad—""Come in," I said flatly, cutting him off.The apartment was tiny. Matteo signaled for his guards to wait by the door. They crowded the already narrow hallway.Uncle Enzo greeted him awkwardly, helped him out of his coat, and hung it on the back of the door.Matteo carried himself with a Don's authority, as always. Uncle Enzo instinctively hung back, too intimidated to sit down.I pulled out a chair, helped Uncle Enzo into it, and glared at Matteo. "Some people sure like to throw their weight around. This isn't your estate, and Uncle Enzo isn't your servant."Matteo paused as he reached for the back of the chair. Uncharacteristically, he avoided my gaze and quietly thanked Uncle Enzo.I sat down across