Page 78 of Captured Innocence

Another five minutes passed until Vincenzo made a turn, heading up a long driveway. When he reached the top, I had to admit that the view was even more incredible.

With the engine stopped, both Vincenzo and Luis immediately exited the vehicle, the back doors opened.

“There are some things that need to be said, Sophia. I never lied to you, but I also haven’t told you everything you need to know about our pasts and the decisions that forced us to take different paths. Just know that you meant and mean the world to me. I couldn’t care less about other women. You were truly the only person in my life that meant anything to me. I hope you can believe that because it’s coming from what is left of my heart.”

I was stunned by his words, shocked how much they meant to me. And I had no idea what to say in return.

Fisting my hands, I waited as Mattia climbed out, thinking about everything I wanted to say to him. I hated him. I loved him. I wanted him. I needed him. He was my everything. And I was utterly terrified that once we returned to Italy, he’d disappear again. I couldn’t take it. The ache in my heart increased to the point I was hollow inside, tears threatening to strip away all of my strength. How many times had I thought about a sit-down meeting with him and what I would say if that occurred? More times than I could count. How many fantasies had I concocted with a beautiful, perfect ending attached to the end? Too many.

Enough that I no longer believed in fairytales.

Mattia was right in that we were both adults, my naivete shattered a long time before. He wouldn’t be able to charm me into thinking that I mattered much to him. That was perfectly fine with me. I needed to face what we’d shared like any other situation, with practicality in mind.

Even if my heart wanted something else almost desperately.

He remained stiff and unmoving a few seconds before heading toward his men, talking to both in a hushed voice. After they’d walked away, he walked around the back of the SUV and I held my breath. When he bent over, I closed my eyes briefly. The scent of him alone was driving me crazy, so much so I wanted to keep my distance but knew it wasn’t possible.

“Come on,” Mattia urged. Although his tone was firm, there was an encouraging gentleness with it, as if he was trying to allow me time to adjust to my surroundings.

Vincenzo had driven for what seemed like hours, although I could tell by the sun lowering in the sky that maybe two had gone by. I was aware we were in Switzerland but honestly, had no idea where. I had a feeling the Capo had been told to take the scenic route to our destination.

Granted, I’d been able to enjoy a gorgeous view, the countryside utterly incredible. The deep greens of the lush valleys were a picturesque tapestry of vivid colors, the regal snowcapped mountains a stunning backdrop. For any other woman in this position, perhaps she’d feel protected, enough so she could enjoy the environment. But I had a sense that everything was crushing down on my shoulders and would continue to do so until Mattia not only discovered but exterminated the enemy.

That was what my family did, crush the rodents who dared attack us. Maybe I should also be grateful that’s what usually occurred.

He’d remained almost entirely quiet, although he’d glanced at me as often as I’d glanced at him. I’d also noticed that Vincenzo had seemed amused at our cagey, ridiculous behavior.

Leaning forward, I peered at the gorgeous chalet, shocked that it was exactly like pictures I’d seen of the Swiss Alps. I’d always wanted to come here but had never found a reason. However, the reason chosen for me wasn’t on my bucket list.

He pulled me to the door of the SUV, easing me onto the cobblestone pavers. The three-story house was on a knoll overlooking a valley with a small town beside a stunning crystal-clear lake. From where I stood, I could swear I was able to make out fishes swimming in the rippling water.

Or maybe I was stuck in a crazy fairytale that I’d soon learn had no happy ending.

Or just maybe I was as jaded as I’d been accused of being.

Vincenzo had a weapon in his hand, wasting no time heading toward the front door. Luis had regained much of his strength and his color, which surprised me. The doctor had lost his life to save the man’s. There was something sick about that.

“Nice place,” Luis said. “Stay right here, boss. We need to ensure everything is secure.”

“He should be resting,” I told Mattia after the two of them had walked away.

“And he’ll get his chance. Right now, I need to make certain that you’re the one protected.”

“I’m not fragile. No matter what you think.”

“No, you’re not. However, you’ve already learned how dangerous the situation is. This isn’t over yet by a long shot.”

“Why do I feel like that everything you touch is dangerous?”

He smiled and it seemed strange that his expression was genuine, the sunlight accentuating the twinkle in his eyes. When he curled his hand, lifting his arm as if he was going to stroke the side of my face, I reacted involuntarily, flinching and pulling my head away.

The sparkle in his eyes immediately died, his smile fading. He turned away on purpose, his jaw suddenly clenched so much I was certain his face hurt. “Maybe because you’re right. I hope one day you’ll be able to trust me.”

“I don’t know if I can, Mattia. So much has changed, so many lies told over the years.”

“I’m not your enemy.” He studied me for a few seconds, but I sensed he knew exactly what I was talking about.

“You’re not? That’s what I’ve always been told. My father. My sister. My brother.” I laughed and the sound was nothing but bitter. “But when I was in your arms, I thought the sun rose and set with you. You were my hero, my first and the only man I wanted at the time.”

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