Chapter 3 - The Tearful Truth
Elena stopped dead in her tracks, trembling violently. She clasped her hands together against her white apron, hot tears brimming in her eyes as she tried to stand her ground in front of the city's most feared man.
"Three months..." Elena whispered, her shaky, emotional voice barely echoing in the grand corridor. "Because childcare costs more than I earn."
Alessandro remained completely silent. He looked back down at the baby.
Mia giggled softly, completely unaware of the danger surrounding them. She reached out again with her tiny, chubby hand, wrapping her small fingers securely around Alessandro’s index finger. She smiled innocently up at the towering, dark-suited man.
A subtle, profound shift occurred in Alessandro’s sharp features. The cold, ruthless mask of the mafia boss cracked for a fraction of a second, revealing a deeply surprised, softening expression. He didn't pull his finger away. He let the baby hold his hand, the deep emotional tension in the room thickening.
"Where has she been staying?" Alessandro asked. His tone wasn't angry or threatening. It was quiet, gentle, and dangerously inquisitive.
Elena pointed a trembling finger toward the dark laundry room doorway. Through the crack, Alessandro could see the small blue baby travel bag, a tiny foam mat, and a pile of soft pillows hidden behind a row of massive washing machines.
"In the laundry room..." Elena replied, her voice dropping into a low, defeated whisper. She closed her eyes, preparing for the inevitable, brutal firing. "I’ll pack and leave today, Mr. Duca. I am so sorry."
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Alessandro slowly stood up, his tall, broad frame dominating the hallway. He looked at the makeshift nursery, then back at the terrified mother.
👉 Read Part 4 to witness Alessandro’s unexpected, shocking reaction.
