Exposed to the CEO Behind the Mafia Mask (by Silver Spoon) novel Chapter 279

Chapter 279: Chapter 63 Roses and Tears

Gemma’s POV

Dominic guided me through the entrance, and I stopped dead in my tracks. The spacious interior took my breath away—not from any lavish furnishings, but because the entire house had been transformed into something from a dream. Countless red roses filled every corner, soft candlelight cast warm shadows across the walls, and heart-shaped balloons drifted along the ceiling like silent sentinels.

The living room’s center showcased plush cream carpets surrounded by vibrant cushions of every size. A small table held fresh strawberries, imported chocolates, and champagne cooling in a silver bucket. Dominic was recreating one of our most treasured nights together, but he’d elevated it to something magnificent.

"Whose safe house is this?" I asked, still absorbing the breathtaking scene around me.

"Ours," Dominic replied, moving closer with that predatory grace typical of Thorne family enforcers.

"I don’t understand," I said, my mind struggling to process his meaning.

Dominic’s expression softened as he explained, "Gemma, I purchased this property several years ago, before Caleb lost his parents to that rival family hit. My crew was stationed here temporarily, and I was considering relocating my operations closer. But I never actually moved in because something crucial was missing."

"Obviously—furniture and proper security systems!" I quipped, crossing my arms defensively.

He chuckled at my deflection. "You know resources have never been an issue for someone in my position." After a pause, his voice grew more serious, "What was missing was the woman I love, someone who could make this place feel like home instead of just another safe house."

"But you already had that snake Beatrix in your life!" The words escaped before I could stop them.

"She was never the woman I truly loved," he said, his eyes holding mine with the same intensity he reserved for family business.

"What exactly do you want from me, Dominic?" I asked, anxiety creeping up my spine like ice.

"I want you back—for good. I want us to share this house, raise our children here, build something real together. I want to prove to you every single day how deeply I regret my mistakes and swear on my honor never to betray you again." His arms encircled me with surprising gentleness for hands that had spilled blood.

"Dominic..." I began, but he silenced me with a tender kiss that ended far too soon.

"I love you, Gemma. Please give me another chance to earn your trust." His voice carried a vulnerability that the brutal Capo never showed to anyone else.

"I don’t know if I can," I admitted, looking away from those emerald eyes.

"You’ll never know unless you try," he said, hope flickering across his dangerous features.

"Can I see the rest of the house?" I offered a tentative smile, which he returned with genuine warmth.

"It’s all yours, beautiful." Dominic took my hand as we began exploring.

The house was stunning—modern architecture with bulletproof windows and rich hardwood floors throughout. Every room had been meticulously decorated with roses, balloons, and candles. The effort must have been enormous considering the property’s size, not to mention coordinating his crew to set this up without compromising security. We spent a considerable time exploring each room, discussing possibilities of starting fresh away from the constant violence.

When we returned to the living room, Dominic helped me settle onto the cushions, poured champagne for both of us, and sat beside me, gently running his fingers through my hair.

"Why did you set this up in the living room instead of the master bedroom?" I asked curiously.

"Because I need you to understand that I want more than just physical intimacy. Had I chosen the bedroom, you might have thought I only wanted your body. But I want all of you in my life." Dominic smiled as he raised his glass. "Besides, the sunrise view from here is incredible."

"Strategic thinking," I said, narrowing my eyes. "But who said I’m staying until sunrise?"

"Hope dies last, Gemma," he replied with that subtle smirk that made him so dangerous in negotiations.

"What exactly do you want from me, Dominic?"

"I told you—a fresh start. I want you in my life every day from now on. I want you to bear my children. I want to be the man you can depend on through both the easy times and when rival families come for us. I want your love and trust. I want to be the love of your life, because you’re already mine." His words nearly knocked the breath from my lungs.

"Remember to breathe, Gemma," he added softly.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify