Episode 10

Upon arriving at the mansion, Otavio asked his mother to take Bianca to her room so she could bathe. Otavio then went to the study with John and poured themselves a shot of whiskey.

"What predicament have you found yourself in, my friend? Quite the honeymoon... Do you intend to consummate the marriage?"

"I can't do that to her, she's been humiliated all day and just buried her father. Of course, if she wanted some fun, I wouldn't say no, but this little spitfire is different from the others; she's pure and I would do nothing without her consent."

"You do realize the council will demand proof that she's no longer a virgin, or her mother's life is forfeit. And the doctor can't be bribed since he's a council member. Have you told her this?"

"Damn it! I'm sick of these cursed old men and their foolish rules. I'll find a way, but I won't force her into my bed; you know, John, I would never do that."

"I'm aware, my friend; I oppose it too. But we have two days to sort this out."

"John, conduct a quick investigation into the council doctor's life. I want all the dirt no one knows about, to see if I can use it to coerce him into lying on the exam, assuming she's still a virgin, which I pray she is. Because if anyone's touched her, I'll kill the bastard along with her."

"I'm off to threaten that runt and find out where my buddy is. She's turned your head, eh? But seriously, Otavio, what are you planning to do once Laura is found?"

"As for Laura, I'm not sure. But with Bianca, let's just say she's not leaving my side again. I've decided she's mine and no one else will touch her."

"You've really fallen for the little spitfire, my friend. I'm happy for you. You know there'll be a battle with the council, but I'm with you all the way."

Otavio stayed silent, merely clinking glasses with his friend, John. He didn't understand this sudden feeling for Bianca, but knew he no longer wanted to be distant from the outspoken, beautiful, and innocent girl. Later, Ellen came down to the study to report that Bianca was not in good condition.

"Son, Bianca has changed but seems feverish, probably from the rain and her distressed emotions."

Otavio quickly stood, asking his mother to call for a doctor.

"Mother, summon Doctor Carlos immediately and prepare something for that stubborn girl to eat; she will eat, by force if necessary."

John couldn't hold back his laughter at the sight of his normally cruel and indifferent friend now full of concern for Bianca, and Ellen also smiled. Realizing this, Otavio grew irritable.

"John, do what I asked and quit the jokes; and, Mother, take care of what I've requested."

"No need, son. I've already taken care of her and was about to make her something to eat."

Otavio took a final swig of whiskey and headed for Bianca's room. She was seated on the bed, contemplating recent events. Otavio entered and stood quietly, hands in pockets, observing her.

"What do you want, Otavio?"

"Sometimes I think you can see and are fooling everyone."

"I'm blind, not stupid. I've learned to notice the details, how people breathe, their footsteps. You breathe heavily and tread firmly; you must be some fat, annoying, bald, toothless guy."

"I thought you'd be tamer sick, but you're only more impertinent. And to answer you, no dear, I'm quite attractive—or so many women say."

"You're conceited. Spare me. I don't want to hear about your flings."

"You should recall what you said earlier to Joice; you claimed you'd savor every bit of me. Trust me, you'll enjoy each piece."

Bianca, utterly embarrassed and shy knowing Otavio overheard her talk, didn't respond. He took advantage of the moment, seated himself near her, and gently touched her face, caressing her mouth. Both were breathing heavily as Bianca shivered with Otavio's proximity, something she'd never experienced with a man before. Otavio guided her hand across his face and chiseled abdomen. Flushed with the situation and trying to pull away, she found Otavio's grip firm as he traced her hand over his firm abs. Through his touch, she sensed his physical strength, deducing that he might also be handsome. Otavio, noting her reaction, swept her into his arms and pressed his lips to hers. Bianca tried to resist, but as he sought entry with his tongue, she eventually gave in and surrendered to her first kiss.