In His Grasp: A Mafia Romance novel Chapter 69

Chapter 69: His Unusual Cruelty

Emanuele, wearing a black overcoat, strode in through the door, his tall figure commanding attention. He exuded an icy aura, as if he could freeze anyone in their tracks with a mere look. However, when he approached, he greeted Sophia and Grazia with warm hugs.

"Oh, Emanuele, I thought you were too busy to make it today," Sophia said, pleasantly surprised.

"It's our weekly gathering. How could I miss it?" Emanuele replied.

After embracing his family, he approached Isabella.

Isabella nervously gazed at Emanuele, her throat dry. She wanted to ask him questions, but there were too many people around, and she had to hold her tongue.

Emanuele's demeanor remained composed, as though nothing had happened between them. He reached out and gave Isabella a brief hug before letting her go.

They started their dinner as usual, with Emanuele still seated next to Isabella.

"Yesterday was Isabella's graduation ceremony, and we couldn't attend. What a shame," Grazia sighed. The timing was indeed not ideal. Going to the graduation ceremony now could provoke their enemies to take desperate measures to destroy them.

They had to act separately to prevent any harm from reaching them.

"It's okay. I was able to attend my graduation ceremony on my own, so I have no regrets," Isabella replied with a cheerful smile. Though she felt the absence of her mother and Grazia was a letdown, she was content with being able to attend the ceremony herself.

Yet, deep down, Isabella still felt wronged. She had been forced into the world of the mafia and longed for a way out. But there was no turning back now, and she couldn't live like an ordinary person anymore. It was a heavy burden for her to carry, and it weighed on her heart.

As they enjoyed the meal and engaged in casual conversation, avoiding discussions about the current situation, Isabella kept a close eye on Emanuele. When he sat beside her in the past, he often teased her, but today he was unusually well-behaved. This heightened Isabella's anxiety.

What did Emanuele mean by this change? Did he lose interest in her after what happened between them last night?

Finally, the dinner came to an end, and Isabella turned to Emanuele. "I want to talk to you."

Emanuele nodded and announced to the group, "Isabella and I have something to discuss."

He led Isabella to his study and closed the door behind them. Isabella's eyes burned with intensity as she confronted him. Her gaze was as fiery as the sun, and Emanuele was momentarily taken aback.

"Tell me, what is our relationship now?" Isabella demanded.

Emanuele, after pausing briefly, replied calmly, "Aren't we still step-siblings?"

Those seemingly casual words from Emanuele plunged Isabella into an icy abyss. She felt a chill run through her body, and her breathing became labored.