Episode 8

Throughout the entire journey to the party, Angelina remained quiet in the car. She didn't want Stella to accuse her of hitting on her future fiance or anything like that. As the car neared Don Vito's mansion, Angelina's heart raced faster and faster. She was about to meet Bernardo and confess to him. Afterward, they would be happy ever after. Well... that was what she hoped.

Don Vito's house parties were known for their glamour. A true spectacle of luxury, money, and sophistication. Being one of the wealthiest men in the United States and hosting the most powerful men in the world, the celebration was planned to be an unforgettable experience, truly legendary, a display of luxury and power that remained in the memory of all attendees. It was a party that transcended the ordinary, plunging its guests into a world of wealth and elegance.

Upon arriving at the imposing mansion, Pietro, Stella, and Angelina were greeted by a team of elegantly dressed staff, ready to cater to their every wish and need. Looking for courage, Angelina accepted a glass of champagne that a waiter offered her.

The place was meticulously decorated, with shimmering crystal chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, heavy drapes, and sophisticated furniture, creating an atmosphere of opulence.

The lighting was meticulously planned, highlighting every detail and creating an aura of mystery and sophistication. Soft and enveloping music echoed through the rooms, adding a touch of romance and sensuality to the atmosphere.

"Who are you looking for so anxiously, Angelina?" Stella asked, noticing her sister couldn't stop looking among the guests.

"A friend," Angelina replied sheepishly for being caught red-handed by her sister. She didn't want Stella meddling in her life, but since she hadn't found anyone else she knew, she had to stay close to her sister and Pietro.

"Angelina, I haven't had the chance to say this yet, but you look stunning," Pietro complimented, making Stella jealous.

"Thank you," Angelina smiled, bringing the champagne glass to her lips, careful not to look too much at Pietro. She knew he hadn't meant the compliment to be harmful, but he had no idea how crazy his sister was and that she hadn't liked hearing that at all.

"Don Vito is on the other side, speaking with some guests. Let's go and greet him," suggested Stella, knowing their father wanted them to fawn over that man. Since he couldn't be present, it was only natural for his daughters to play that role.

"Let's go," agreed Angelina, as it was an opportunity to walk around the party until she found Bernardo.

Near where Don Vito was, a large table had been prepared, full of gourmet delicacies, fine wines, and selected champagnes. The talented and experienced chefs from the 3-star Michelin buffet team crafted exquisite and tasty dishes, served with perfection and impeccable presentation.

The guests, dressed in elegant and stunning attire, moved through the party, displaying their wealth and style. Expensive jewelry, designer dresses, and impeccable suits were the fashion of the night. Every detail was a statement of power, refinement, and good taste.

"Good evening, Don Vito," Stella was the first to greet the long-time friend of their father, and Angelina followed suit.

"Hello, beautiful. Where's Joseph? I haven't seen him tonight," asked Don Vito kindly.

"An unexpected problem came up, and our father had to travel," Stella replied. "We hope our presence is enough to represent him."

"Of course, it is! I need young and beautiful girls at this event of old fogeys," joked Don Vito. "I hope you have a lot of fun because that's what this party is for."

The dance floor was the center of attention. After greeting Don Vito, Angelina was distracted by the colorful lights and the renowned DJ, playing a selection of lively music that got everyone up and dancing. People toasted with crystal glasses, celebrating amid contagious smiles and laughter. It was at this moment that she saw Bernardo arriving alone, and her heart began to beat uncontrollably. If he really had any serious commitment to Giovanna, the two would be together at this event. She thought excitedly.

"Stella, I'm going to move away to talk to a friend on the other side. Excuse me." Without waiting for a response from her sister, Angelina headed toward Bernardo as if no one else at the event existed.

Just before approaching him, Angelina headed to a corner of the party, where there was a sophisticated bar offering exclusive cocktails and premium drinks. Skilled bartenders prepared personalized drinks, serving them in cut crystal glasses. She wanted another glass of champagne, seeking courage in the alcohol to not back down from what she was about to do that night.

"Hi, Bernardo," Angelina greeted him timidly.

"Angel!" exclaimed Bernardo, embracing her warmly. "I've missed you! You look beautiful tonight." He complimented Angelina with a sparkle of admiration in his eyes.

"Thank you. I've missed you too."

They often conversed through WhatsApp, but it wasn't the same as meeting in person.

"Well, now I'm back. My course has finished, and I'll be living here for good. Your friend will always be here for you," Bernardo said laughing and kindly, but the phrase "your friend" bothered Angelina. It felt like he was trying to establish some distance from her. "Come with me; I want to greet Don Vito and the rest of my friends."

For the next thirty minutes, Angelina roamed the party with Bernardo, greeting acquaintances by his side. She liked this; it felt to her as if they were already a real couple.

"I want to dance," Angelina said after they had spoken to a fair number of people there.

"Let's go," Bernardo replied, taking her hand and leading her to the dance floor.

As they reached the spot where several other people were dancing, Bernardo encircled Angelina's waist with his arm, and she pressed her body against his. Due to her thin dress, Bernardo felt her body's contours and respectfully distanced himself slightly. Once again, that feeling of insecurity hit Angelina, feeling that he wanted to maintain a safe distance between them.

While dancing with Bernardo, trying to distract herself from those thoughts, she observed the people around her. There were a good number of guests there that Angelina didn't know. Of course, Don Vito was friends with the most powerful men in the world of the mafia, and a young woman like her couldn't possibly know all of them.