The Mafia’s Substitute Bride

Domenico nodded sympathetically, his expression conveying understanding. “I can understand, ma’am,” he responded gently.

“Call me Sofia,” she corrected him abruptly, wanting to assert some familiarity amidst her distress.

Domenico’s face showed a hint of concern, and he responded, “Oh no, ma’am! I am not permitted to address you by your name. I value my life too much,” he said with a chuckle, leaving Sofia perplexed. What did he mean by such a cryptic statement?

Sensing her confusion, he continued, tapping his chin as if deep in thought. “So, the issue lies in your desire to spend quality time with your husband while he fails to provide you with the attention you seek. Hmmm…” Domenico’s words trailed off, indicating his contemplation of the matter.

Then, he turned his gaze towards Sofia, mustering a gentle smile, and spoke with the utmost politeness, “Given that you are married to the most successful and affluent man in the country, you must understand the immense responsibilities and workload that rest upon his shoulders.”

Pausing for a moment, Domenico gauged her reaction, finding her silent and contemplative. He continued, hoping to offer solace and advice, “Grant him some time. I am certain that he, too, yearns for moments spent with you. Should you ever need to vent or voice your concerns, feel free to confide in me like a brother. I am always available to lend an ear.”

Sofia’s gloomy mood began to brighten at Leonardo’s brotherly gesture. Grateful, she responded, “Thank you so much, Mr. Russo, for lending me your ear.” Finally, a genuine smile graced her lips.

“Anytime. And call me Dom,” he suggested, returning her smile warmly.

Sofia pondered his proposal for a moment before suggesting, “How about I call you brother?”

A genuine look of happiness illuminated Dom’s face as he enthusiastically replied, “That would be wonderful! I’ve gained a sister. How marvelous!”

As their camaraderie grew, Dom shifted the topic, acknowledging Sofia’s boredom at home and missing her husband. “Why don’t you consider joining some clubs, like the ones society ladies often do?” he advised, hoping to offer her an outlet for her restlessness.

“Oh no, I’m too young to join those clubs,” Sofia pouted, her youthful spirit refusing to conform to the restrictions imposed by such establishments.

Dom nodded in understanding. “You’re right. Then how about your studies? Have you managed to complete your course?”

Sofia hesitated, her thoughts turning to her unfulfilled desire to finish her education, secure a decent job, and become independent. “No, I had to abandon it halfway when my father arranged my marriage with Leonardo,” she confessed, her voice carrying a hint of regret.

“Oh… I have a brilliant idea!” Domenico exclaimed, a glimmer of excitement in his eyes. “Why don’t you continue your studies and rejoin your school? Have a conversation with Leonardo about it and seek admission again. It would be beneficial for both you and Leonardo. You won’t have to stay at home all the time, and you’ll have something productive to keep you engaged,” he suggested, his words filled with genuine concern.

Sofia’s face lit up with joy. “Wow, brother! You’re absolutely brilliant. Thank you so much for suggesting that,” she expressed her gratitude sincerely, feeling a surge of happiness within her.

“The pleasure is mine,” Domenico replied with a warm smile. “So, if the matter is resolved, may I take your leave? Your husband will also require my presence at the office,” he informed her, his smile still intact.

Sofia giggled in response, nodding her head. “Of course, and thank you for coming. It was a pleasure to meet you,” she expressed her appreciation.

“Good night, Mrs. Morelli,” Domenico bid farewell respectfully.

“Call me Sofia!” she insisted, her voice carrying a touch of familiarity.

“Oh no. I must protect this beautiful face of mine,” Domenico playfully replied, his hand gently caressing his cheek. His remark elicited genuine laughter from Sofia, reaffirming her belief that he was a genuinely good-hearted man.

With that, Domenico took his leave, and Sofia eagerly awaited Leonardo’s arrival. Tonight, she would discuss with him the idea of rejoining her school, excited about the possibilities that lay ahead.

The day had been arduous for Leonardo, and as he settled into his car for the journey home, he couldn’t help but feel the weight of exhaustion. It seemed like an eternity since he had last seen the comforts of his residence. Amidst the chaos of an ongoing dispute between rival gangs, Sofia’s call had interrupted him, demanding his attention. The gangs had grown defiant, refusing to heed his commands. However, as the revered mafia king, the don, he possessed the power to dictate their fates. Disobedience would result in exile from the country, and they were well aware of the consequences.

Leonardo understood that Sofia must have grown upset due to his recent lack of attention. The past few days had been consumed by his demanding responsibilities, leaving him little time for his beloved wife. It was during this chaotic period that Domenico had picked up Sofia’s call, assuming the role of intermediary on Leonardo’s behalf. After their conversation, Domenico informed Leonardo of Sofia’s raging anger and her ultimatum for his immediate return home. Leonardo couldn’t help but find amusement in the fact that only Sofia possessed the power to threaten him in such a manner. However, he was left feeling helpless, torn between his duty to quell the rising tension between the warring factions and his yearning to be with his wife.

Deep down, Leonardo knew that Sofia’s concerns were not rooted in her safety. The mansion was under constant guard, with vigilant sentinels patrolling the premises day and night. Inside the house, servants attended to her every need, ensuring her well-being. No, her distress stemmed from a sense of loneliness, and Leonardo found himself missing her with an intensity he couldn’t ignore.

Leonardo had dispatched Domenico to check on Sofia promptly after her call. He knew he could rely on Domenico’s unwavering loyalty. As Leonardo’s best friend, Domenico had been a steadfast presence throughout Leonardo’s life, tackling every challenge that came their way. It was for this reason that Domenico held the esteemed position of Leonardo’s right-hand man.

Exhaustion consumed Leonardo as he reclined in his seat, his eyelids heavy with the weight of weariness. He leaned his head back, seeking a brief respite, allowing his eyes to flutter shut as he yearned for a moment of relaxation before arriving home.

Upon his arrival, Leonardo treaded softly, silently entering the premises. He had been making his way towards his room when he caught sight of Sofia curled up on the couch. What was she doing there at this late hour? He drew closer, concern furrowing his brow, and observed her slumbering form. Sofia slept soundly, her lips slightly parted, and a subtle crease of discontent marring her features. Oh, God! She had been waiting for him.

This realization struck Leonardo with a sense of foreboding. It meant Sofia’s anger still smoldered, and he knew he was in for a trying ordeal. Carefully, he bent down, his muscles straining as he gathered her delicate frame into his arms, intending to carry her to their room and settle her upon their shared bed.

However, the moment he lifted Sofia’s weight, her eyes fluttered open, and she instinctively wound her slender arms around his neck. “Leonardo! You’re back,” she whispered in a drowsy voice, her words dripping with affection. In that moment, with her tousled hair and partially hooded eyes, she appeared irresistibly tempting to him.

“Yes, my baby girl,” Leonardo responded affectionately, a warm smile adorning his face as he scooped Sofia up into his strong arms. With tender steps, he carried her towards their bedroom, his gaze filled with adoration for his beloved wife. “Why are you sleeping here? You should be resting in our bed,” he gently chided, his voice laced with concern.

Sofia looked up at Leonardo with innocent eyes, her face nestled in the crook of his neck. Her proximity sent an electric current surging through his body, causing his cock twitch in his pants. He fought back a groan, trying to maintain composure in the face of such tempting sensations.

“I was waiting for you,” Sofia replied, her voice filled with sincerity and longing. The words tugged at Leonardo’s heartstrings, reminding him of the time they had spent apart. He carried her up the stairs, each step a deliberate movement filled with a mix of desire and regret.

“I’m sorry, baby girl,” Leonardo apologized, his voice laced with regret. “These past few days have been incredibly demanding. There are countless matters that require my attention at work,” he explained, his tone tinged with frustration at the obligations that kept him away from his wife.

“Yes, it seems like everything requires your undivided attention except for me. Don’t you think I…” Sofia’s sentence abruptly halted, her delicate lips biting down on them shyly, revealing her inner turmoil.

At that moment, the radiance of her beautiful face faded, replaced by a tinge of sadness that dimmed her once-bright eyes.Material © NôvelDrama.Org.