The wedding of the former Chicago boss was a grand affair, attended by guests from the five major families. A buzz of anticipation filled the air as they gathered, their conversations a blend of business and celebration.
Isabella, upon arriving, couldn’t help but notice the heightened security. It was a fortress compared to her last visit – personnel patrolled relentlessly, and the sharp eyes of snipers dotted the rooftops, surveying the scene with military precision. The atmosphere was charged, a palpable mix of elegance and vigilance. She understood the necessity; the guests were influential figures, and any mishap could spell disaster for Emanuele.
Yet, in this grand setting, Isabella felt like an outsider, her presence incongruous with the opulent surroundings. She wouldn’t have chosen to be here if not for her mother – the singular beacon of love and stability in her tumultuous life.
Stepping inside, she was greeted by the luxury of a red carpet, bordered by delicate rose petals. Soft music wafted through the air, a serene contrast to the underlying tension. The scene was a paradoxical blend of beauty and latent danger.
Grazia’s warm greeting broke through Isabella’s unease. “Oh, Isabella, you look stunning today!” Grazia’s embrace and affectionate kiss on the cheek were like a soothing balm, easing Isabella’s nerves.
“This is my husband, Andrew Lee,” Grazia introduced, her voice filled with pride and warmth.
Andrew extended a friendly handshake to Isabella. “It’s a pleasure to meet you. Grazia has spoken so fondly of her new sweetheart sister,” he said with a genuine smile. His outgoing and amiable nature was immediately apparent.
“Let’s go and catch up with your mother,” Grazia suggested, leading Isabella further into the heart of the celebration.
The hall, alive with chatter and laughter, fell into a sudden hush as all eyes turned towards the balcony on the second floor. Emanuele had made his appearance. Dressed impeccably in a black tuxedo, his hair slicked back, he was the epitome of sophistication and power. His silence was commanding, drawing a mix of admiration and fear from the guests. Isabella, however, felt a surge of annoyance remembering his offensive behavior from the night before. Her gaze towards him was tinged with disdain.
Emanuele, from his elevated position, scanned the crowd, his gaze sharp and discerning. It landed on Isabella, catching her moment of discomfort.
Isabella, realizing she had been noticed, quickly looked away. She needed to find her mother, to be a part of the joyous occasion, to congratulate her on this special day.
Emanuele, despite the distance, sensed Isabella’s displeasure, whether from her reluctance to attend or the residue of last night’s encounter. Yet, he couldn’t deny her allure. Dressed elegantly, she radiated a blend of innocence and regality, like a princess amidst the throng.
At that moment, several clergy members approached Emanuele, breaking his contemplation. Rocco, with an approving nod, commented, “Emanuele, it’s evident the effort you’ve put into this wedding.”
Emanuele’s gaze scanned the crowd as he responded, “Of course, I want those Sicilian folks to know that if they dare to cause trouble on my turf, they’ll pay the price.”
“Wow, what do I see here?” Clark, appearing as if he had just discovered a new continent, whistled and exclaimed, “Emanuele, when did you gain a beautiful addition to your family? She’s with your sister, I assume you know her?”
It wasn’t surprising that Clark was astonished; he had been a playboy for many years, but women of Isabella’s caliber were a rarity. There were many beautiful women, and Isabella’s face might not have been the most stunning, but combined with her youthful and innocent demeanor, she was indeed unique.
Everyone followed his gaze and looked at Isabella.
Emanuele observed Clark’s glowing eyes, knowing that when this ladies’ man set his sights on a woman, they rarely escaped. He might pursue a woman for no more than three months before moving on.
“She is the one I mentioned to you, my stepsister. Any of you interested in marrying her?” Emanuele inquired.
The others, while also impressed, seemed uninterested in pursuing women. They remained silent.
Only Clark raised his hand and said, “I’m interested!”
His sky-blue eyes were fixed on Isabella, radiating excitement, like a hunter locking onto his prey.
For some reason, Emanuele felt a bit uneasy inside, but he didn’t show it. He raised his hand to signal a waiter to fetch Isabella.
At that moment, Isabella, who had been looking at her mother, was approached by someone beside her. They mentioned that Emanuele had requested her presence.
Isabella looked up and saw Emanuele gazing at her, not just him, but several unfamiliar men beside him were also looking her way.
In that instant, Isabella felt her blood run cold. Despite her apprehension due to Emanuele’s words, knowing she would undoubtedly be pushed into a difficult situation, being confronted with it in reality was terrifying.
“I… I need to find my mother. I haven’t had a chance to congratulate her,” Isabella said, her lips trembling, refusing to go.
However, her insistence was met with a firm response. “Miss Gould, I hope you won’t make this difficult.”
Isabella was led to the balcony on the second floor, and with every step she took up the stairs, she felt the intense scrutiny of Emanuele and the men beside him.
She felt like an object on display, and a sense of shame washed over her. The choking feeling in her throat grew stronger.
Once she reached the upstairs balcony, Emanuele seized her shoulders, making her face the men in front of her.
“This is my stepsister, Isabella Gould.”
Isabella looked at them, not wanting to exchange pleasantries.
These people were ruthless and had committed unspeakable acts. She only hoped they wouldn’t take an interest in her.
“Isabella, come on, greet everyone,” Emanuele said when he noticed Isabella’s indifference. His hand, which had been placed behind her waist, couldn’t help but give her a pinch.
Isabella had no choice but to reluctantly greet the men in front of her, “Hello.”
“Oh, Emanuele, you’ve startled my little sweetheart,” Clark approached and released Emanuele’s hand from Isabella’s back, then shook Isabella’s hand before placing a kiss on the back of her hand.
“Isabella, I’m Clark Campbell, the current CEO of the Campbell Group. It’s a pleasure to meet you,” he said with enthusiasm, still holding her hand.