In the end, I find myself chuckling softly.
"You're full of surprises, aren't you?" I sit back in my chair. "Very well, Vittoria. I can respect a woman who knows her own mind. But remember, respect is earned in our world. You'll have to prove yourself."
She nods, posture relaxing slightly. "I understand. And I'm ready for whatever comes my way."
As I study her, I realize this arrangement may be more complicated than I initially thought. Vittoria Costa isn't just abeautiful face or political pawn. She's a force to be reckoned with, and I'm not entirely sure what to make of it.
One thing I do know: I won't tolerate anything close to disrespect.
"We'll see," I say finally. "For now, focus on the wedding. We can discuss your... role in the family more thoroughly after the ceremony."
Vittoria stands, smoothing down her dress. "As you wish, Cesare. Is there anything else?"
I wave my hand dismissively. "No. The wedding planner should be here soon."
She nods and turns to leave, but I call out just as she reaches the door.
"One more thing, Vittoria." My voice is low and deliberate. She pauses, hand on the doorknob, and looks back. "Don't mistake my appreciation for your intelligence as weakness. I may respect a woman who knows her own mind, but I will not tolerate disobedience or disrespect. Is that clear?"
Something shifts in her expression—resignation maybe—before she schools her features back into that careful mask.
"Crystal clear, Cesare," she replies, voice steady despite the tension I can see in her shoulders.
As she leaves, I find myself thinking about our conversation. Vittoria is more complex than I thought. Her intelligence and spirit could be valuable assets to our family, but they could also be threats if not properly controlled.
I'll need to keep a close eye on her. Mold her into the wife and partner I need without breaking that intriguing spark entirely.
The sound of raised voices from the hallway interrupts my thoughts. I recognize Lorenzo's angry tone immediately, followed by Valentina's defiant retorts.
Fuck me. More drama.
With a sigh, I rise from my desk. It seems I have more fires to put out before this day is through.
Stepping into the hallway, I see Lorenzo and Valentina facing off, both flushed with anger.
"What's going on here?" I demand, my voice cutting through their argument like a blade.
Lorenzo turns to me, jaw clenched tight. "Valentina was trying to sneak out again. She was planning to meet that boy from her school."
Valentina's eyes flash dangerously. "I wasn't sneaking anywhere! And Marco is just a friend. Not that it's any of your business, Lorenzo!"
"Enough!" I bark, silencing them both. "Valentina, you know the fucking rules. You don't leave this house without permission, especially not to meet some boy we know nothing about."
"But Dad—” she starts to protest.
"No buts." I cut her off with a sharp look. "You're grounded for the next week. No phone, no computer, no leaving your room except for meals and family obligations."
Valentina's face crumples with anger and frustration. For a moment, I think she might argue further, but then she turns and storms off toward her room. The slam of her door echoes through the house.
I turn to Lorenzo, noting the mixture of satisfaction and guilt on his face. "And you," I say, voice low. "I appreciate you looking out for your sister. She's going to rebel; we just need to make sure she's watched."
Lorenzo nods stiffly. "Up her security?"
"Yes. And Sofia's while you're at it. I also want two of our men assigned as Vittoria's guards."
His jaw tenses. I know he's fighting the urge to argue, but instead he gives a small nod and turns, ready to handle what I need.
Christ. I have a feeling things are going to get a lot worse before they get better.
