Page 53 of Velvet Chains

I smiled, squeezing her hand. "It went perfectly," I replied. "I think I made a good impression."

Isabelle grinned mischievously. "I knew you would. And what about my father? I noticed that you two had been talking when we left you alone."

I leaned in, my voice barely audible. "I told him I want to marry you."

Isabelle's eyes widened, her face alight with joy. "I didn't think you would say it today. And? What did he say?”

To her question, I simply got down on one knee.

“Isabelle, will you marry me?” I asked in response, pulling out the ring she had chosen back in Palermo.

“Yes, oh my God, yes!” She smiled as I slid the ring on her finger. I grazed the back of her hand with my lips, then I finally stood up and pulled her in for a kiss.

Mine.

CHAPTER THIRTY

ISABELLE

Although Vincenzo and I had discussed several possibilities, I was still confused by my parents’ reaction to the news that we would be moving to Italy.

I expected frowns and some anger, however instead what we got was an offer that I couldn't refuse. They had both recently retired and thought it was as good a time as any to make a change.

I was stunned by their decision to move to Palermo with us, but after the shock, I began to think about it. Vincenzo had informed me that things were stable and there wouldn't be any danger. This way, I could get the best of both worlds; to be with my lover and not be completely separated from family.

"We can't think of a better way to spend our retirement. We'll be close to you and Vincenzo, and get to live on vacation forever." Mom giggled, already sounding excited at the prospect. I was excited too, the thought of starting a new life without getting separated from my parents was one I loved. I looked up at Vincenzo to see that he was smiling too.

"And let's be honest, we're excited to escape the chaos of LA. With all you've told us about it, Palermo seems like a perfect place for us." My dad chimed in.

"I know, I feel the same way. But are you sure you're ready for such a big change?" I asked hesitantly.

“We've always wanted to live abroad, and now we have the perfect opportunity. Italy isn’t a shabby place to be."

"I'm so happy you're doing this. It will mean the world to Isabelle and I to have you both close by. Last night, Isabelle was just telling me how much she would miss you." Vincenzo said, making me beam with joy.

“Don't worry, we'll get our own place. I'm sure you newlyweds won't want two old people hanging around all the time.” My mum teased, making us laugh and deny it. Vincenzo promised to help them find a place close enough to his estate.

With that, it was settled.. We threw ourselves into the preparations to move.

As the plane touched down in Palermo, I felt excitement, nervousness, and a hint of nostalgia. I was leaving behind the fast-paced life of LA, where I had spent the last few years building a career and making friends. But I was also returning to a new life with my fiancée, and my parents. I also spoke to Sarah, who promised to come visit whenever she could. She had some interests in Palermo beyond me and the baby as well, it seemed.

I had a lot to look forward to.

Vincenzo had painted me a beautiful picture. We were going to live on his estate first, and after the baby was born, we would move to the house he had near his family's vineyard. It was the kind of life I wanted for me and my family.

As we settled into our new home, I was struck by the beauty and charm of the buildings and scenery around me. The crystal-clear waters, the lush green hills, and the ancient architecture all captivated my senses. While Vincenzo finished tying up loose ends, my parents and I spent our days exploring the local markets, trying new foods, and practicing our Italian.

My parents got a villa close to ours and just like that, Palermo felt like home.

I found myself embracing the slower pace of life, the strong sense of community, and the rich cultural heritage. My parents and I started taking Italian classes, and joined a local cooking group. I was working on a book of my own, partly fiction, partly based on my life, and I already had a publisher.

I spent a lot of my evenings with Vincenzo, my presence beside him showing a united front to the world. I would go with him to events and Mafia gatherings.

One night, we returned after a long night of dancing at the most glamourous Mafia social gathering. We were both tired but I was happy that I could help him in the carefully weaved conversations that paved the way to negotiating business.

“Once I'm done with the rest of Antonio's men, we will have all the time in the world.” Vincenzo promised me as we sat on the terrace. I looked at him and the light of assurance that shone in his eyes lit a fire within me.

I found myself leaning into his arms as he tilted my chin up and claimed my lips. I gasped and held onto his shoulders for balance as he carried me into the room to finish what we had begun.

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