Episode 6

"Now, please me, you enticing woman," he commanded, tapping his taut muscle against her face.

"Yes, Sir," Agatha nodded with a sly grin and skillfully engaged with him as he had demanded.

Dom Mauricio's thoughts drifted to the maid who served him earlier, her mouth, her smile, her gaze. With that image in his mind, he grew more assertive with Agatha, whose face flushed and who struggled to keep up with his intensity. He pulled her hair firmly and only stopped when he realized she wasn't Sabrina, yet he felt the urge for release.

"Get on the sofa," he ordered and stood up. He took a protective sheath, tore it open, and applied it.

Agatha complied and then felt Dom Mauricio's forceful presence. He was harsh, and she found a twisted delight in feeling dominated by him, utterly fixated on this man who had made it clear he harbored no affection for her. Dom Mauricio was unconcerned by the noise she made, yet he didn't want to hear Agatha's voice.

"Quiet, I don't want to hear you," he commanded while intensifying his actions, still consumed by thoughts of Sabrina. He closed his eyes, gripped her waist more tightly, and escalated his pace until their moment reached a climax. Afterwards, he quickly disentangled himself and retreated to the bathroom to clean up.

Agatha was still in the room when he emerged. She picked up her clothing and went into his bathroom to get ready.

"Sir, may I have a word?" Agatha asked, emerging from the bathroom.

"Speak," he responded, without sparing her a glance.

"I was wondering if you could assist me with a slightly higher sum this month; I've had some extra expenses and could use a little more," Agatha said, her hand on his shoulder.

"Agatha, I will provide it, but don't get used to it. I already pay you more than you deserve. Moreover, I expect better performance from you in your duties. Now leave," he said, removing her hand.

"Thank you, Sir," she replied with a smile, unfazed by his harsh tone, and left his office.

Dom Mauricio remained pensive, still feeling tense and unrelieved even after his encounter with Agatha. He was unable to shake off the memory of the maid that morning—her legs, her face, her eyes, her smile.

"I must be going mad," he thought as he decided to pour himself another whiskey.

Time passed within the buzzing atmosphere of Villa Sereno Resort, resonating with power and ambition. Dom Mauricio sat at the epicenter, steering the business with resolve and strategic foresight. After some meetings, he welcomed his father, Vicenzo Menecucci, into his office at the resort.

"Father, what a surprise to see you here," Dom Mauricio said, rising to his feet.

"Hello, my son. I heard you were back from your trip, and I wanted to see you," Vicenzo said warmly, embracing his son.

"Yes, I arrived this morning from the United States. Our earnings have tripled this month. Would you care for a whiskey?" Dom Mauricio offered after greeting his father and went to his bar for two glasses.

"A double, on the rocks, please. I saw the reports you sent. The profits have indeed spiked. You're doing an excellent job," Vicenzo commented, taking a seat.

"The plan is to continue growing. Just wait a few days to see the projected figures for next month," Dom Mauricio said, handing his father a whiskey glass and taking a seat to enjoy his own drink.

"The board is very pleased with your leadership. You've kept a low profile, which is excellent," Vicenzo noted, sipping his whiskey.

"We've positioned more men in American police and government. Advantages like these keep everything under control. But tell me, what brings you to my office? I know it's not just out of longing," Dom Mauricio said curiously.

"My son, you know me well. I'll get straight to the point. We can no longer delay discussing an alliance crucial to our prosperity."

"I'm listening, Father. What is it about?" Dom Mauricio inquired, taking another sip.

"While you've excelled in business, we must consider the future heir of our family. I've spoken with my godson Lorenzo. It's understood you're a man with vast responsibilities, yet Laura awaits your marriage proposal. It's time to strengthen our bonds with a marriage alliance. I promised the Cursino family many years ago, and we must honor that commitment."

"She's expecting me to propose, is that it?"

"Exactly, my son. A marriage uniting our families will benefit us all," Vicenzo affirmed.

"I don't know if Laura is the right woman for me, Father."

"Of course, she is. You've grown up together. She's charming, a law graduate, poised—a fitting spouse. You knew this time would come. You must uphold your role as the Don."

"I understand. But an arranged marriage, Father? I'm not comfortable with that. When I marry—if I do—I want it to be my choice, like you chose mother and your second wife after she passed. There must be feelings involved, which I currently lack for Laura," Dom Mauricio said, revealing his reservations.

"Son, marriages aren't always about feelings. Sometimes, it's about responsibilities and our family's future. Your mother's marriage was also arranged. Over time, we grew to love each other. Trust that love can be built daily, and Laura will make an excellent wife and Mrs. Menecucci."

"I respect your concerns, Father. But my voice matters in this. I can't marry someone who doesn't spark any interest in me."

"Mauricio, take your time to think it over. You're young, but remember, the future of our family, our responsibilities to the council, and your blood oath cannot be taken lightly," Vicenzo pressed solemnly.

"I'll consider it, I promise. But it's important that I find some genuine connection with the person I will share my life with," Dom Mauricio assured, his tone serious.

"We make the necessary decisions as mafiosos, without sentiment. You've always understood that. I'll ask Lorenzo to hold off on the marriage preparations. Just know that saying 'NO' to the Cursino family isn't an option."

"Understood, Don Vicenzo. Your point is clear. Now, excuse me, I must prepare for a dinner with investors and business leaders of our casinos," Dom Mauricio said, eager to move on from the burdensome conversation.

"Of course, I won't take more of your time, Don Mauricio. I'll be on my way," Vicenzo conceded, finishing his whiskey.

"Until next time," Dom Mauricio said, bidding him farewell.

"Arrivederci," Vicenzo returned and left Dom Mauricio's office, leaving him to ponder the discussion with his father. He knew he had to address this decision soon and figure out a resolution.