Chapter 13

Vincenzo gripped the steering wheel tightly, briefly diverting his gaze from the road to check on Luna in the back seat. Her eyes reflected shock, and she was moaning in pain as he struggled to remain calm in the urgent situation. Traffic continued, but his focus was entirely on taking care of Luna. Vincenzo took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves as he drove to one of his safe houses. The imposing mansion rose in the distance, offering a secluded refuge. Upon arrival, the security team was ready to act, and Vincenzo carefully carried Luna inside, guiding her to one of the luxurious rooms.

As the private doctors examined Luna, Vincenzo stayed by her side, deeply concerned. The tension in the air was palpable, but his determination to protect Luna was unwavering. As the hours passed, Vincenzo felt a pang of anguish in his chest, waiting for news from the doctor.

The mansion, usually quiet, was now bustling with activity. Despite his calm facade, Vincenzo maintained constant vigilance. He knew danger still lurked, but his priority was ensuring Luna’s comfort and safety.

Anxious, Vincenzo waited in the hallway while the doctor examined Luna. When the doctor approached, Vincenzo fixed him with a look of apprehension.

“Mr. Vincenzo, the tests indicate that Luna experienced a severe shock, but there are no major physical injuries. Her body responded well to the trauma, and with time, she should make a full recovery.”

Vincenzo, relieved but still concerned, asked, “And what about the emotional side? She went through a very difficult time.”

“I understand, sir. Emotional trauma can take longer to heal, but with support, therapy, and a positive environment, she has a good chance of overcoming it. The love and care you show are crucial in this process.”

Vincenzo, determined, said, “I will do whatever it takes to ensure she has all the support she needs. Thank you for taking care of her, doctor.”

“If you need anything, don’t hesitate to contact me.”

“Thank you very much, doctor.”

Vincenzo breathed a sigh of relief at the news that Luna had not sustained major injuries. He walked to the door of the room, but as he peered in, a subtle anguish took hold of him. Hesitant, he stepped back a few paces, only to be surprised by Amália.

Vincenzo jumped slightly.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you,” Amália said.

“I didn’t know you had arrived,” Vincenzo replied.

“I just got here. I was told the doctor had just left, and I wanted to see if everything was okay. Why don’t you go in?” she asked.

(Hesitant) “I... I don’t know. I guess I don’t dare to face her after everything. Nate almost abused her. If I hadn’t arrived in time, I couldn’t even think about what he might have done, not to mention the psychological and physical abuse,” he recalled sadly.

“My son, don’t be like your father. If your mother were alive, she would tell you the same thing. Your father is a bad person. I don’t know how he could do that to a poor girl who did nothing to him. She’s not to blame for her father’s or brother’s mistakes.”

“I won’t let him get near her again. I won’t allow anything to happen to her. Unlike my father, I don’t mess with innocent people. I’ll deal with her father and brother myself.”

“I know you’ll do your best to ensure nothing happens to her. You’ve reinforced security, which is very good. Now, go in and talk to her. She needs to hear that everything will be okay, especially going through this and being away from her family.”

“You’re right. I’ll go in and talk to her now.”

“I’ll wait in the kitchen and prepare something to help her recover.”

Amália went downstairs to prepare something for Luna in the kitchen. Vincenzo carefully opened Luna’s room door. She remained huddled in bed, still frightened by the recent events.

“Are you okay?” he asked, concerned.

“Are you asking me that? I almost got raped. I suffered psychological abuse and assault,” she said, crying.

“Please don’t cry. I’m so sorry this happened, but I promise I won’t let anything happen to you,” he assured her.

“It’s all your fault. If you hadn’t kidnapped me, my father and brother would have protected me. I’d be safe from you, especially from you, a cruel man.”

“Why do you keep repeating what you heard in the news? I’m not as bad as people say. Journalists are paid to make up stories. I’m sure if you get to know me better, you’ll see that.”

“And why should I trust you just because you told me about my father? Does that make you a good person?”

“I can’t explain it, but I wish you wouldn’t see me as an enemy. I know you’re scared after everything that happened, but you’re safe now. I’ll leave this phone here so you can call your father or a friend.”

“Since you’re being kind, why don’t you let me go?”

“If I let you go, I won’t see you again, and believe me, my father will do everything to hurt you.”

Hearing Vincenzo say he couldn’t let her go because he wouldn’t see her again intrigued Luna. For a moment, she saw sincerity in Vincenzo’s words.

“Well, I’ll leave you in peace. Rest a bit. Amália is making something for you to eat. If you need anything, I’m in the room next door.”

Vincenzo walked to the door to leave the room when he heard Luna call out, “Vincenzo.” He turned to look, and she continued, “Thank you for the phone.”

Those words of gratitude gave him hope that the ice between them might eventually break. He nodded in acknowledgment and left the room.