Page 84 of Monster in Disguise

Ever since the incident with Sarah, we had been on the hunt for a new teacher. After weeks of searching, we finally found Mrs. Evans. She is an elderly woman with over thirty years of experience teaching young girls. And despite our initial doubts and reservations, she has proven to be a great fit for us. EvenVenezia, who is notoriously picky about people, seems to like her.

With a playful lilt in her voice, she replies, "And you have Marcello," but I can tell from the glimmer in her eye that she's joking. I never would have thought she'd feel jealous of me spending time with him. But then again, we have been spending a great deal of time together.

We've been taking it slow, one day at a time. We've been getting to know each other better and exploring his newfound tolerance for touch.

Sometimes, as we sit together, I catch a look of wonder on his face as if he can't quite believe he's touching someone.

And the more time we spend together, the more my heart falls for him. It's inevitable when you get glimpses into someone's soul. He always wears a mask, afraid of being hurt. It gives him an air of aloofness and sternness to those who don't know him well. But I've also seen his tender side.

A contented smile spreads across my face as I think about our newly established routine. Since Marcello is constantly working from his study, I had asked if I could keep him company and read a book while he tended to his business.

To my delight, he had welcomed the idea with open arms, and now for weeks we have met almost daily in the study. The silence between us is comfortable and companionable, though I do catch him stealing glances at me every now and then.

"You have no idea how hard it is to focus with you here," he would groan.

"I can leave if I'm distracting you," I'd offered, not wanting to ruin his workflow.

"Don't even think about it. I enjoy having you here," he'd replied, going back to his work.

There are days when he's away. I know it's mob business, so whenever he is out, I can't help but worry. This life is too dangerous.

Despite the countless moments we've spent together, our physical intimacy has never progressed beyond kissing. Yet every time his lips touch mine, my body sets ablaze with desire. And yet, just as things start to heat up, Marcello always pulls back. It's like a tantalizing game of cat and mouse, and I long for more.

I can feel it in my bones—I am ready for more. I've devoured articles and books on the subject, seeking guidance and knowledge. But I have no idea if Marcello is ready for the next step...

It's strange how I used to believe I was different from other women, incapable of experiencing these intense desires and pleasures. The fear and hesitation had consumed me for so long.

But when I'm with him, all those doubts vanish. That night from years ago feels like a distant memory now, fading into the background as I focus on the present and the future with Marcello by my side.

I not only have a beautiful daughter, but now I also have an amazing husband who might one day come to love me.

Maybe it was all worth it.

Claudia's voice cuts through my thoughts like a sharp knife. "Mamma!" she exclaims, raising an eyebrow as she catches me lost in my reverie.

I snap back to reality and see her smirking at me mischievously. I playfully pinch her arm as I scold her, "Don't tease me, young lady!"

She puts on a mock pout and replies, "Fine, I won't. But know that I'm onto you." She points two fingers at her eyes and then towards me, indicating that she's watching my every move.

I shake my head at her with a fond smile, and we return to working on her dress together.

Later in the afternoon, Marcello knocks on my door. He places a huge box in my arms and tells me to get ready because he's taking me to dinner. Too flabbergasted to respond, I just nod.

I put the box on the bed and lift the top. Inside is a gorgeous off-white dress and a pair of sandals. I'm immediately touched by his gesture, and I take off my clothes, ready to try it on.

Marcello must have noticed that I prefer to wear mid-calf dresses, because he's chosen the perfect length. The shoes also fit. I'm entirely too amazed by this and can't help but wonder how he could have known. Maybe Amelia looked through my things and told him?

I shake my head, a smile playing at my lips.

He wants to take me out. I'm almost too giddy at the thought.

I try my best to look put-together, not wanting to embarrass him. I look into the makeup bag I'd gotten the last time at the mall, and I apply some foundation to cover my freckles and a little mascara to lengthen my lashes.

Satisfied with the result, I head downstairs. Marcello is waiting for me by the stairs, already dressed in a suit – not that he's ever wearing anything else.

"Lina... you look amazing." He takes my hand, tugging me closer. I blush at his compliment.

"Thank you. You too," I add gingerly. He leans in closer, inspecting my face with a slight frown.

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