In Italy, another day began for Matteo De Vincenzo, a tall man with a robust and muscular physique, the result of years of rigorous physical training. His face was angular and well-defined. His penetrating eyes seemed to see right through people. His hair was always impeccably combed, and a thin, well-groomed beard framed his face, adding an air of authority and maturity. No one who looked at him could think that such a striking figure was an ordinary person, and he truly wasn't!

Matteo lived a luxurious life, surrounded by everything money could buy. He had a refined taste for expensive wines, luxury cars, and designer clothes tailored specifically for him.

Passionate about sex, he never used to hide or run from his desires and was often involved with several women. However, he never fell in love, and he didn't believe in love. For Matteo, love was a weakness he couldn't afford. He had been taught from an early age that trusting someone emotionally was a risk not worth taking, so he came to see love as a distraction that could compromise his focus and position as the future Don of the Mafia.

At 34, Matteo was already a well-known and respected figure in the Italian Mafia, not far from becoming the next Don, the most powerful man in the Mafia, replacing his grandfather, who had chosen him among his grandsons to succeed him.

Matteo grew up immersed in the dark world of the Mafia. From an early age, he showed a talent for business and an exceptional ability to navigate the dangerous networks of Mafia influence. He learned from the best, absorbing the teachings of his father, a respected capo of the De Vincenzo family, and other more experienced members of the organization.

As the future Don of the De Vincenzo Mafia, Matteo was determined to expand the family business and consolidate their power. He was a visionary who saw beyond the traditional boundaries of organized crime. He is always looking for new opportunities, whether in arms trafficking or, more recently, gemstone smuggling.

Over the years, Matteo built a solid reputation that would take him to the top, being respected by his subordinates for his strategic intelligence and ability to make tough decisions at crucial moments. His loyalty to the family was unwavering, and he was willing to do whatever it took to protect the interests of the De Vincenzo family.

As time passed, Matteo's rise to the position of Don became increasingly inevitable. He is constantly working behind the scenes, consolidating alliances and expanding the family business. His ultimate goal is to ensure that the De Vincenzo family continues to thrive and exert influence over the Italian Mafia for generations to come.

However, the path to gaining power was fraught with dangers and challenges. But with his unwavering determination and sharp intelligence, he was ready to face any obstacle on his way to becoming the next Don of the Mafia.

In the late afternoon, Matteo was in his luxuriously decorated office, in the heart of the De Vincenzo mansion in Palermo. The room, filled with antiques and valuable works of art, reflected the wealth and power the family held. Matteo was analyzing the plans for the gemstone smuggling operations, one of the lucrative businesses that had expanded under his leadership, when he heard someone knock softly on the door before entering.

"Matteo, can I come in?" Enzo asked.

"Of course, Enzo. Come in, I was just about to call you, we have a lot to discuss.” Enzo approached and sat in the chair in front of the desk.

Enzo was Matteo's confidant and advisor. They had known each other since childhood, and Enzo was someone Matteo could trust.

"What's so urgent?" Enzo asked, seeing Matteo with a serious look.

"It's nothing... I need you to arrange a trip for me. I'm going to Brazil."

"Brazil? That's a bit... unexpected, since you were there a short time ago. What exactly are you going to do there?"

"There are some pending issues to resolve with some suppliers, and besides, I want to see my cousin, Luiz. It's been a while since I've seen him."

"Luiz... Ah, I remember him." Enzo's expression changed when he remembered Luiz. "He was the one who came to train when he was young, and by the way, he was the best student at the time, he learned everything with ease.” Matteo frowned upon remembering that detail. “Is he involved in our business?"

"No, he's not part of the Mafia, but he's still family. I want to see how he's doing, and of course explore the Brazilian gemstone market, it has potential for our interests."

"I understand... And when do you plan to leave?"

"As quickly as possible. Arrange everything. I need the private jet and I want enhanced but discreet security, of course."

"Leave it to me. And what about the business here while you're gone? Any specific instructions?"

"I want you to take care of everything personally. Keep everything in order and be alert for any signs of trouble. I trust you to keep things under control."

"I thought I was going with you... but alright, you can leave it, Matteo. Nothing will escape my radar."

"I know I can count on you, Enzo. Now tell me why you came looking for me, I know something is going on,” he asked, looking back at the papers scattered on his desk.

"We need to talk about your brother… Carlo is acting behind your back. You know he always wanted to take the position of Don for being older, he never agreed with your grandfather's choice. He's starting to conspire, and that could be dangerous."

Matteo looked at Enzo, finally pushing the papers away.

"Carlo has always been ambitious, but he doesn't have the brains to lead. He's impulsive, he doesn't see the big picture." Matteo sighed, rubbing his temple.

"I know, but it seems like he's been making moves behind the scenes, gaining support from some smaller families."

Matteo clenched his fists in anger as he learned what his brother was doing.

"Let's keep this a secret, I'll pretend I don't know anything, I want to see how far his ambition goes, I don't want to act against my own blood."

"We can't underestimate Carlo…"

"I know, Enzo. I'll be careful, if he does..."

The conversation between Matteo and Enzo was interrupted by the sudden arrival of Carlo and Ana, his wife. Ana's eyes sparkled when she saw Matteo, evidencing the unrequited passion she had felt for him for years.

"Matteo, Enzo," Carlo greeted with formality in his voice.

"Carlo, Anna," Matteo replied, maintaining his composure. "What brings you here?" he asked, trying to catch any hesitation in his brother.

"I just wanted to talk to you for a bit, discuss some family business," replied Carlo, trying to sound casual; after all, he was there to try to find any important information he could use against Matteo.

"Of course, Carlo. Let's talk about this. Enzo, can you give us a moment?" Matteo asked. Enzo nodded and left the room, giving Matteo one last warning look.

"So what did you want to discuss, Carlo?" Matteo asked, crossing his arms.

Carlo hesitated for a moment, feeling the intensity of Matteo's gaze.

"Actually, I wanted to talk about the business expansion you've been doing. I think we should consider new alliances."

Matteo knew that Carlo was trying to buy time, but decided to play along for now.

"I agree. Alliances are important. We need partners we can at least trust."

"Matteo, you always have good ideas. I'm sure that under your leadership, the family will prosper even more,” said Anna, her sweet voice laden with ulterior motives.

Carlo shot his wife a warning look, aware of her fascination with Matteo.

"Anna, let Matteo and I take care of this. Please, give us a moment," Carlo asked, trying to maintain authority.

Anna hesitated but left the room, giving Matteo one last look of desire.

When she left, Carlo turned to Matteo, trying not to show how much he hated his brother.

"We need to be united, Matteo. The family depends on us."

"I've always been committed to the family, Carlo. But remember, betrayals will not be tolerated, we can't trust anyone," Matteo replied, in a tone that left no doubt about how he operated.

Carlo swallowed hard, feeling the weight of his brother's words. He knew he was playing a dangerous game, and Matteo was not someone to be underestimated.

"Of course, Matteo. We're in this together," Carlo stated, trying to sound convincing.

"Great. Let's make sure everyone knows that.” Matteo kept his eyes fixed on Carlo's, looking for any sign of weakness.

With that, the two brothers began to discuss family business, but the tension between them was evident. Matteo knew Carlo was up to something, and he would be ready for any move his brother made.

In Brazil, another day was beginning for Isabela, a beautiful young woman with a striking presence. Her dark skin contrasted with her light eyes that seemed to capture and reflect light in a mesmerizing way. Her long, slightly wavy hair cascaded down, framing her face. Isabela exuded a natural beauty that drew attention wherever she went.

She had just turned 24 and hadn't even had time to celebrate. Since childhood, Isabela had had a tumultuous life. Her parents separated when she was still little, and her father became an absent figure in her life when he left her mother to live with his mistress, contributing to a sense of abandonment and mistrust.

And the situation worsened when her mother remarried. Her stepfather had been eyeing her with desire from the beginning, creating an unbearable environment within the home where they lived. Her stepfather's constant harassment made Isabela feel insecure and always on alert, making her uncomfortable whenever she was at home, and she could only think about moving out, but she didn't have the financial means to do so yet.

Determined to escape this situation, Isabela dedicated herself to her studies and work with tenacity.

"It's going to work out..." Isabela said as she left college, feeling exhaustion take over after a sleepless night.

Isabela was studying business administration and was only one semester away from graduating. She saw the course as a path to financial independence and a stable career. She studied in the morning and in the afternoon worked in an office as an administrative assistant, where she was known for her competence and dedication, but the salary she received was not enough to cover all her basic needs and college expenses.

To supplement her income, Isabela worked as a bartender at a nightclub. The second job was exhausting, but she faced it as a necessity to raise money and leave her mother's house as soon as possible. At the nightclub, she had to deal with diverse and often difficult customers. She hated being harassed, but her ability to remain calm under pressure helped her face the difficulties of the nightlife environment.

In the middle of that night, during a short break. The pulsating lights of the dance floor hurt her eyes, and the vibrant music that echoed loudly bothered her ears. Isabela was visibly exhausted, sitting on a bench. Mel, a coworker, saw Isabela's state and approached with two bottles of water.

"Here, Isa. You look like you're going to pass out at any moment," Mel said, handing a bottle of water to Isabela, who accepted.

"Thank you, Mel. I really needed that." Mel sat beside Isabela, rubbing her back, trying to give her colleague strength.

"What happened today? You're more tired than usual."

"Don't even get me started... I have college in the morning, work at the office in the afternoon, and now I'm working here at the club. It feels like I don't have a second to rest."

"And you're still standing? How do you do it?"

"Honestly, I don't even know. I just know that I need the money to get out of my mother's house. The harassment from my stepfather is becoming unbearable... Yesterday when I got home, I just wanted to take a shower and lie down, but when I entered the bathroom, I forgot to lock the door, and when I started to undress, he came in... I can't keep living like this..."

Mel placed her hand on Isabela's shoulder.

"I'm so sorry, Isa. I can't imagine how difficult it must be. Have you tried talking to your mother about this?"

"I have, but she doesn't believe me. She thinks I'm exaggerating or trying to turn her against her husband. It's frustrating... She says that I'm the one provoking that man." Isabela vented, on the verge of tears. "That man is a bum... How many times have I had to drop out of college and use the tuition money to support the house because, according to him, he couldn't find a job? Mel, I should have graduated two years ago... I love my siblings, they are so little... it's not their fault they are that jerk's children, and I also love my mother, but she is blind, she doesn't believe me..."

"It must be terrible. And at college, how are things?" she asked, trying to change the subject so as not to see her colleague despair further.

"I think college is the only thing keeping me sane. It's tiring, but at least I feel like I'm building a future."

"You're a warrior, Isa. I don't know how you manage to do all of this. But please, take care of yourself. I don't want to see you crumble... If I could, I would take you to my house, but there's no way, you know I live in an apartment that looks more like a studio with my husband, we still haven't been able to move."

"Thank you, Mel. I really appreciate your support, and don't worry, I will achieve everything I want. My life will change... I will try to rest a little more... if I can find the time."

"Rest? In what parallel universe? Soon, Paulo, the creep, will come looking for you." Mel mentioned the owner of the nightclub, and Isabela grimaced, remembering him and the way he treated her, the indecent proposals he made.

"Don't even get me started on that man..."

"But seriously, if you need anything, I'm here for you."

"Thanks, Mel." Isabela hugged her colleague, grateful for the strength she gave her.

"Let's go, girl! We still have a long night ahead of us."

"Let's go, then. Another night, another battle."

The two stood up and returned to work.

"I feel like something is going to happen, that something is going to change in my life..." Isabela had a sudden premonition.

"Really?" Mel asked, looking at her with interest. "What kind of change do you feel is going to happen?"

"I don't know for sure... It's just a premonition, a strange feeling that I can't explain. But I feel like I'm on the verge of something big, something that will change the course of my life... This is strange..."

"Maybe it's the universe preparing something good for you, Isa." Isabela smiled.

"I hope you're right, Mel. I just want this change to bring me something good, something worthwhile," Isabela said, feeling her heart race.

"Who knows, you might find a boyfriend... The love of your life..."

"And who said I want that? After what happened with Gustavo? After being abandoned by my father and having to put up with my stepfather and Paulo... I prefer to be alone," she said, returning to the nightclub bar.

It was late at night when Matteo left the office, tired and only thinking about sleep. To his misfortune, he encountered Anna in the corridor leading to his room. She was dressed in a sensual, transparent nightgown, clearly trying to seduce him. With a determined look, Matteo stared at her.

“Matteo...” Anna whispered, approaching him with a sly smile. “You work so hard... you need to relax.” She attempted to touch him.

With a cold and distant expression, Matteo took a step back, avoiding her touch.

“Anna, this isn't going to happen.” He said firmly; Matteo would never get involved with Anna. “You are my brother's wife, and I am not the kind of man who betrays his family for just one night of pleasure.”

Frustration and disappointment were evident in Anna's eyes, and Matteo didn’t wait for her reply. He headed toward the door of his room, leaving Anna alone in the corridor.

Upon entering his room, Matteo let out a heavy sigh. Not caring about the hour, he called Enzo.

“I need you to move my trip to Brazil up.”

“Alright, I'll see what I can do…” Enzo replied sleepily, not understanding Matteo's urgency.

“Do whatever it takes.” Matteo said, ending the call as he headed to the bathroom. “Spending a few days in Brazil will be good…”

If there was one thing Matteo didn’t want, it was to get involved with his brother's wife. Anna was beautiful and alluring, and she seemed willing to do anything to win him over, which could lead to trouble.

Matteo turned on the shower and let the hot water run over his skin, trying to relieve the tension that had built up. The trip to Brazil would be a chance to temporarily escape the problems and the pressure of his impending rise to the position of Don. At least, far from Italy, he could reflect on his next steps without the constant manipulative attempts surrounding him.

As the water cascaded down his shoulders, Matteo closed his eyes and allowed his mind to wander. He knew that the road ahead would be filled with challenges, especially with Carlo's opposition, and that the position of Don would come with immense responsibility. However, he was determined to prove his worth and lead the De Vincenzo family with the strength and wisdom he had inherited from his grandfather.

Anna returned to the room in a fury, feeling rejected and humiliated. When she lay down beside her husband, Carlo immediately noticed her mood.

“He rejected you, didn’t he?” Carlo asked with a mocking tone and satisfaction. He knew that Anna had always been in love with his brother and thought Matteo returned her feelings; that’s why he had done everything to marry her.

Anna shot him an angry glare but didn’t respond immediately. Frustration simmered within her, and Matteo's rejection felt even harsher in light of Carlo's words.

“You think you can seduce anyone with your body and beautiful face, but Matteo isn’t stupid. He knows exactly who you are and what you want.” Carlo continued, looking at Anna with a mischievous smile on his lips.

Anna clenched her fists under the covers, trying to control her anger. Matteo's rejection and Carlo’s words were like salt on an open wound.

“You're just angry because you know he never respected you as a real rival.” Anna retorted, her voice low but laced with venom. “Matteo has always been Grandpa’s favorite, and that eats you up inside.”

Carlo narrowed his eyes at her, his smile fading. He knew there was truth in Anna's words, but he wouldn’t admit it. Instead, he turned away, giving her his back.

“Grandpa is an old man nearing ninety; all I have to do is prove that Matteo isn't ready to replace him, and he will be on my side... Let’s see how much longer my little brother can keep that position untouched.” Carlo muttered, feeling anger towards Matteo. “Things are changing, and he has no idea what is coming.” Carlo's voice was threatening.

Anna shut her eyes, trying to push away thoughts of Matteo and the humiliation of the night. She knew the coming days would be crucial, and both of them, in different ways, were about to face a storm that could change the course of their lives. She considered that maybe she should tell Matteo what Carlo was plotting to gain her trust and ultimately win him over.

"Anna, don't forget that you have to give me a child, an heir. That's the least I expect from you," Carlo said, still facing away from Anna, his tone filled with warning.

Anna swallowed hard, the weight of Carlo's words intensifying her sense of despair. Her thoughts and desires were focused on Matteo, and if she were to have a child, it would be with him. Anna knew she would have to play her cards very carefully, but she was determined to change her fate, no matter the cost.