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The car slowed to a stop in front of wrought iron gates that swung open silently. We rolled up a curved driveway to a sprawling mansion – not as grand as Nathaniel’s, but impressive nonetheless.
Two men in dark suits materialized from the shadows, opening our doors. Leo stepped out first, extending his hand to help me. The cool night air cleared my head as I took in my surroundings.
Under the mansion’s bright exterior lights, I finally got a good look at my mysterious rescuer. Leonardo Rossi – the name clicked into place. I’d seen him at charity galas and business functions, always hovering on the periphery while Nathaniel commanded the spotlight. Just another mid–tier CEO trying to make his mark in our city’s competitive tech sector.
His Italian features were handsome enough – strong jaw, dark eyes, well–groomed black hair starting to gray at the temples. But he lacked Nathaniel’s commanding presence, that magnetic charisma that drew all eyes in a room. Leo was simply one of dozens of millionaire executives who operated in Nathaniel’s shadow, or so I thought.
I felt a flicker of disappointment. I’d built up this shadowy savior in my mind during our drive, but in the harsh light, he was just… ordinary. Another businessman playing at power games. What protection could he really offer against someone like Nathaniel?
“This way, Mrs. Lane.” Leo gestured toward the front doors, which opened at our approach. I clutched my suitcase tighter, suddenly unsure if I’d made the right choice. But when Leo turned to check on me, something in his eyes – a depth of understanding, of quiet strength – made me pause. Maybe there was more to Leonardo Rossi than met the eye.
Leo caught my appraising look and a knowing smirk spread across his face. “Ah, so you do know me. And right now you’re wondering how someone like me could possibly keep you safe from Nathaniel Steele.”
His laugh echoed through the marble foyer. He clapped his hands twice, the sharp sound reverberating off the walls.
The response was immediate and overwhelming. Maids in crisp uniforms emerged from doorways. Men in tactical gear materialized from hidden alcoves, weapons held at ready positions. They lined the grand staircase and balcony above, a small army appearing from nowhere.
My jaw dropped. This wasn’t the security detail of a mid–level tech CEO. This was something else entirely.
Leo’s demeanor shifted. Gone was the understated businessman. His eyes turned sharp, commanding. He swept his gaze across his assembled forces.
“Listen carefully. From this moment forward, Victoria Lane’s safety is your absolute top priority.” His voice carried steel beneath its smooth surface. “Nothing – and no one – gets near
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Marry My Ex husband’s Aival
her without my explicit approval. Is that understood?”
The synchronized “Yes, sir” that echoed through the foyer sent chills down my spine.
I stared at Leo with new eyes. Who exactly had I gotten into that car with?
Leo turned to me, his hand warm and steady as it enveloped mine. The gesture felt protective rather than possessive a distinction I’d forgotten existed after years with Nathaniel.
“Come.” He guided me through the grand entrance, past the assembled security force that melted back into the shadows as swiftly as they’d appeared. “Maria, Elena – please see to Mrs. Lane’s comfort. Whatever she needs.”
Two maids stepped forward with gentle smiles. They looked more like kind aunts than servants, their eyes radiating genuine warmth.
Leo’s gaze met mine, concern etched in the lines around his eyes. “You need rest, Victoria. A chance to breathe, to process. Let them take care of you.” His hand moved slightly, hovering near but not quite touching my stomach. “Both of you need care right now. I’ll be right here if you need anything day or night.”
–
My throat tightened. Such simple words, such basic consideration – yet they hit me like a physical blow. When was the last time someone had truly looked after my wellbeing? Nathaniel’s idea of care had always come with conditions, strings, expectations. But Leo’s offer felt pure, uncomplicated.
Tears pricked at my eyes. I blinked them back, but Leo noticed. His expression softened further.
“It’s okay to let others help sometimes,” he murmured. “You don’t have to be strong every moment.”
That quiet understanding so different from Nathaniel’s demands for constant perfection – broke something loose inside me. This stranger was showing me more genuine care than my husband had in years.
The maids led me to a luxurious suite where a steaming bath awaited. Elena helped wash my hair while Maria laid out fresh clothes. Their gentle attention brought fresh tears to my eyes, but I pushed them back.
After soaking away the tension, I wrapped myself in a plush robe and explored the walk–in closet. My jaw dropped. Racks of designer clothes in exactly my size filled the space
everything from casual wear to evening gowns.
“How did he…” I ran my fingers over a silk blouse.
“Mr. Rossi is very thorough,” Elena said with a knowing smile.
I chose a simple sweater and slacks, letting Maria blow–dry my hair. The woman in the mirror looked more put–together than I felt, but it was a start.
Following Elena’s directions, I made my way down to the dining room. Leo sat at the head of a massive table, plates of food arranged before him. Steam still rose from the dishes – he hadn’t
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a massive table, plates of food arranged before him. Steam still rose from the dishes he hadn’t
touched anything yet.
“I hope you don’t mind, but I waited.” He stood as I entered. “I prefer not to eat alone.”
The simple courtesy caught me off guard. Nathaniel had always eaten when it suited him,
whether I was present or not.
“You didn’t have to wait,” I said, taking the seat he pulled out for me.
“I wanted to.” He smiled, unfolding his napkin. “Please, eat. Chef Marcus makes an excellent risotto.”
The food was indeed amazing, but I could barely taste it. Questions buzzed through my mind until I couldn’t hold them back anymore.
I set down my fork. “Why are you helping me? You barely know me. And all of this…” I gestured at the room, the clothes, the security. “This is far beyond simple kindness to a stranger.”
