SEVENTY ONE

Olivia pulled away slightly from Lucas' embrace, as she cleared her throat before placing the phone on her ear, “,Hello, Richard.” Olivia greeted.

“Olivia, it's good to hear from you.” Richard said, relief evident in his voice. “Are you okay?”

Olivia glanced at Lucas who was standing near her, his expression unreadable, “I’m fine really. I’ll be resuming work tomorrow.”

Richard sounded shocked, “You’re coming back to the office? How come? Did you escape from Lucas Moretti's mansion?”

Taking a deep breath, she answered. “No, I didn't escape, he let me go.”

There was a brief silence at the other end of the line for a moment, “What about the exposé, do you have it?”

Olivia felt the weight of Lucas' gaze on her, “No I don't, We will talk about that at the office.”

Richard sighed, “Alright , I'll see you tomorrow.”

As she hung up , Lucas stepped closer, “Is everything okay?”

Olivia smiled slightly, nodding , “Yes Lucas ….just, just that I might lose my job.”

Lucas chuckled, he pulled her closer into his arm, “Lose your job? Cause of the exposé you have about me?”

Olivia sighed, burying her face in his chest, “I can't publish the exposé Lucas. I can't do that.”

Lucas held her closely, wrapping his hand around her waist, “Even if you, it wouldn't change anything. And about your job, I'll handle that.”

Olivia immediately lifted her head away from Lucas' chest, stepping a bit away from, “No, no …..You’re not handling anything. I don't want any blood shed. I’ll handle it myself.”

Lucas nodded in surrender, “Alright baby, but if anyone hurts you or makes you sad, the person dies.” Lucas said, his tone more like a warning.

Olivia swallowed hard,not knowing what to say, Lucas stepped closer, and kissed the top of her head, “I have to go now.”

After Lucas left, Olivia stood at the doorstep watching him go until the car disappeared around the corner. She turned her attention to the grand entrance of her new home,a mix of emotions whirling inside her. The spacious living room greeted her with its soft beige sofas and elegant decor.

Olivia walked through the open plan kitchen, admiring the state - of - the - art appliances and marble countertops. She could already imagine cooking dinner here, maybe even having Monica over for one of their wine nights.

She moved upstairs, the footsteps echoing in the spacious hallway, as she opened each room that had beautiful furniture chosen with care. Finally she reached the master's bedroom, the king sized bed was covered with a luxurious duvet . She walked over to the closet and opened it, her eyes widened in surprise at the sight of what she saw.

Inside the closet, a selection of dresses hung neatly, each one more beautiful than the last. Tears welled up her eyes as she reached out to touch the fabrics.“Unbelievable,” she murmured , a wide smile spreading across her face.

With a heart filled with gratitude, she immediately grabbed her phone and dialed Monica's number.

“Hey Liv,” Monica greeted, her tone cheerful.

“Monica you won't believe this,” Olivia exclaimed as soon as Monica answered.

“What is it? Tell me everything!” Monica's voice was filled with curiosity and excitement.

“Lucas got me a new house,” Olivia said, unable to keep her excitement out of her voice. “It's absolutely gorgeous. You have to come see it.”

Monica let out a sequel of delight, “Oh my God, Olivia! That's amazing! This definitely calls for celebration. I’ll come over tomorrow night, and we will celebrate properly. Send me the address asap.”

“Absolutely,” Olivia agreed, smiling widely. “I can't wait for you to see it, there is so much to explore, and the closet….Monica, it's filled with beautiful dresses.”

Monica laughed, “It sounds like a dream, Who would have thought a Mafia boss could be this sweet, huh?”

Olivia chuckled, “C’mon Mon, Lucas isn't that bad, you know.”

Monica shrugged, asif Olivia could see her, “Lover girl. But I'm happy for you Liv. Honestly. You deserve this.”

They chatted for a while longer, making plans for the following night. After hanging up . Olivia continued a tour, feeling more and more at home, with each step.

……..🌵

Lucas returned to his mansion, his demeanor had shifted back to that of a powerful Mafia boss , he walked through the grand hallways, his step purposeful and strong.

Once he got to his study, Lucas called for Vincent. Vincent entered almost immediately, his expression serious as he faced Lucas.

“Vincent,” Lucas began, his voice low and authoritative. “I want you to arrange for security to be discreetly placed around Olivia’s new apartment. Wherever she goes, I want her protected, but she must be aware of it. I don't want her feeling uncomfortable or watched.”

Vincent nodded, understanding the gravity of the request. “Understood boss, I'll make sure it's done.”

Lucas leaned back in his chair, his mind briefly drifting to Olivia. He didn't want her to feel stiffened or unsafe, but he knew better than to let his guard down completely.

“One more thing,” Lucas added, “Make sure the men you choose are reliable. I don't want any mistakes.”

Vincent nodded curtly, “I’ll handle it personally.”

Vincent was about to leave when Lucas spoke again, “one last thing,” Lucas said, pulling out a file from the drawer. He handed the file to Vincent. Vincent reached to take the file from him, waiting for Lucas' instruction on the next thing to do.

Lucas cleared his throat, “That is a document of an estate , bought in your name Vincent Rodriguez. Continue being loyal and trustworthy.”

Vincent’s eyes widened in surprise, he wasn't sure on how to react, Lucas had taken him unaware, “Boss…I…I am really thankful for this.” Vincent replied, his voice filled with sincerity and gratitude.

Lucas nodded curtly, “It's fine, you can leave now.”

With that Vincent left the study to make the necessary arrangements for the security team, his heart filled with so much gratitude.