In His Grasp: A Mafia Romance novel Chapter 82

Chapter 82: He Won't Let Her Know His Feelings

Isabella gazed fixedly at Emanuele. For some reason, she felt that when Emanuele said those words, he was sincere, as if he genuinely wanted her to be his queen. But when she remembered the mocking words he used earlier, such as not having enough fun with her yet, so he couldn't let her run away, Isabella became uncertain. She wondered if Emanuele was acting at this moment, perhaps putting on a show for everyone present.

She decided to assume he was acting, putting on a performance for the audience. With a furrowed brow, Isabella responded, "Rest assured, we're married, and in front of everyone, I'll cooperate with you. As for the things you said, I'm not that naive to believe a flip-flopping liar like you."

Emanuele watched her lips as they moved, and he couldn't help but think about how much he wanted to kiss her, to silence her with his lips. How could she be so eloquent, saying things that hurt him?

Isabella, in a moment of bravery, took on a resolute attitude. This pleased Emanuele, yet it also stirred a faint pain within him. He quickly locked away all those emotions deep inside, reaching out to hold Isabella around her waist. Her waist was soft, and he had full control with just one hand, effortlessly keeping her close.

Isabella, in turn, leaned against his chest. To the onlookers, they appeared like the perfect and harmonious couple. However, only they knew their true thoughts.

Emanuele resolved that he would never reveal his feelings for Isabella unless he was certain she loved him. Otherwise, this woman might use it against him and pose a serious threat to his life.

Soon, the speeches began. Emanuele's father was the first to speak, followed by his friends who shared blessings, advice, and a few well-timed jokes to liven up the atmosphere. Smiles adorned everyone's faces, and it was a rare moment of tranquility.

"Isabella, I never thought you would marry Emanuele," Grazia said, approaching Isabella with her husband, Andrew. They greeted her with congratulations.

Indeed, the turn of events was astounding. They had come to celebrate Isabella's wedding to Clark, but at the last minute, Emanuele somehow replaced him. Grazia finally learned that Emanuele had long been infatuated with Isabella. While their relationship as step-siblings may not conform to conventional ethics, Grazia reasoned that she couldn't oppose Emanuele, who was the head of a mafia family, even if her father was on his side. She also believed that Isabella hadn't been coerced into this marriage. To her, it was cool for them to be together.

"Indeed, it's unexpected," Isabella replied, hugging Grazia.

"That's great; this way, we're more like a family now," Grazia said, planting a kiss on Isabella's cheek.

Soon, the dance floor came to life. Music filled the air, and Emanuele led Isabella into the middle of the dance floor. As the center of attention, everyone danced around them.

Isabella looked at Emanuele's handsome face. "It's clear that you're very happy today," she said, her tone tinged with irony.

Emanuele furrowed his brows briefly, but he quickly regained his composure. He didn't want Isabella to discern his true feelings. He extended his hand, framing Isabella's face, and bent down to do what he had wanted to do all along, sealing her lips with a kiss. This was a way to silence her from saying things that angered him.

Isabella didn't resist Emanuele's kiss; instead, she leaned into it. Her body was soft, and she carried a sweet fragrance.

This sensation fascinated Emanuele, left him addicted, but also made him realize that Isabella held his heart tightly. It was dangerous for him because Isabella's rebellious nature would surely seize upon this vulnerability to provoke him. He hoped she would never discover his true feelings, or else, he might suffer because of her.

After ending the kiss, Emanuele's gaze was locked onto Isabella's face. His fingers lightly caressed the red lips he had just kissed. Despite Isabella appearing a bit disheveled, her eyes shone as brightly as the sun, indicating she was now completely aware of her surroundings.