In the mansion, Ellen brought breakfast to Bianca, who leant against the window, lost in thoughts about her life, the lingering touches from Octavio, and his words. Her reverie was broken by Ellen's knock.
"Good morning, dear. How are you?"
"I was just enjoying the warm sunshine and reflecting on everything that's happened, Miss Ellen."
"We've already talked about this. You can just call me Ellen."
"Okay, Miss... I mean, sure, Ellen."
"That's right. Now tell me what you were thinking about?"
"Oh, it's nothing..."
At that moment, Bianca blushed deeply, betraying her embarrassment. Ellen, piqued with curiosity, pressed to uncover the truth.
"Don't hold back, young lady. You can tell me. Whatever you say will stay between us; you have my word."
Bianca sheepishly smiled and confided the intimate details of her encounter with Octavio. She shared her nerves and the current state of her heart, as well as his declarations. Ellen was overjoyed, sensing that her son was indeed developing feelings for Bianca.
"My dear, I can't speak for Octavio, but aside from myself and my late daughter, I've never seen him act this way. Whatever he may be feeling, you should give yourself a chance to feel it too. He clearly stated he's not interested in your sister, and you can take him at his word. Octavio is a man of integrity; if he said he desires you, then there will be no one else in his way."
Carefully hanging on every word, Bianca learned about Octavio's past—how he changed after training and the harsh upbringing he endured, believing that sons must be tempered with iron and fire to become respectable men. Ellen also spoke of her daughter's death and Octavio's subsequent transformation.
Bianca was appalled by the stories, contrasting them with her father's protective upbringing. Octavio's cold, calculated demeanor now made sense, and yet, she couldn't ignore how he had defended her against cruel gossip and even killed to protect her. He'd never belittled her blindness, countering her sister's claims that no man would cherish and respect a blind woman.
"Now that you've had your breakfast, let's get this room ready to move everything to the other bedroom."
"What? I won't go to his bedroom."
"Bianca, it's best to do as Octavio has asked. Later, you can discuss things calmly with him, alright? I promise he won't hurt you. And if he forces you into anything, call for me, and I'll help you escape. I won't let him harm you. Oh, and dear, not to be rude, but we're going somewhere sophisticated. I think another dress or attire would be more appropriate."
Ellen was embarrassed and fibbed about Octavio's order for her to make Bianca change her dress. However, keen Bianca detected it was for Octavio's sake, and not for a visit to a "sophisticated place."
Despite her reluctance, Bianca agreed to change to spare Ellen any trouble. She listened as Ellen directed the staff to transfer belongings to Octavio's room.
Later, as Octavio arrived and summoned them, Bianca and Ellen descended the stairs to meet him. Octavio had a smug grin, triumphant at seeing Bianca out of that dress.
They headed to the state's premier designer store where attention turned to the great Octavio Martini upon arrival. A flirtatious saleswoman approached Octavio, sliding her hand over his arm.
"How may I assist you today?"
"First, remove your hand from me. Second, attend to my mother and wife with whatever they request."
The saleswoman, embarrassed, promptly serviced Ellen and Bianca. Observing Bianca's blindness, she began to dismiss her, not knowing Octavio was watching after sensing the woman's ill intent.
While Ellen tried on a dress, the saleswoman insulted Bianca. But before Bianca could respond, Octavio demanded the manager with authority.
The boutique owner eventually appeared.
"Mr. Octavio, what an honor to see you and your family again. How can I assist?"
"My warning is this: in three hours, your store will be closed. Pack up and disappear. If I find you, you won't be pleased. Thank your esteemed employee for mistreating my wife."
Signaling a security guard, Octavio's will was understood and put into motion. Octavio, Bianca, and Ellen left for another store, against Bianca's desire. They purchased clothes, shoes, and jewelry befitting a Don's wife. Later, they dined while many eyes watched the eminent CEO, his shadowy side concealed behind the façade of a celebrated businessman.
Back home, in the office, Octavio received confirmation that the boutique was taken care of, and its owner had fled to the States. The meddling saleswoman's fate was sealed, and he chuckled darkly with his guard.
"No one messes with my Bianca."
***Download NovelToon to enjoy a better reading experience!***
Updated 103 Episodes
Download
Like this story? Download the app to keep your reading history.
Comments