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00:04That woman! You're ugly! Go away!
00:07I was a little annoyed. Calm down. He was just a kid.
00:10I scanned the room and immediately spotted them.
00:12Action figures everywhere.
00:13Grabbing two action figures from the coffee table,
00:15I crouched beside the table and held up a spoon.
00:18Don't worry. I'm not feeding you. I'm feeding him.
00:21I pretended to scoop up a spoonful and held it to Little Hero's mouth.
00:24Come on. Open wide.
00:25You heroes skip dinner.
00:27Look at those skinny little arms and legs.
00:29You can't protect anybody like that.
00:31Oh, Little Hero wants veggies? Good choice.
00:35Spinach makes you strong.
00:36The boy swallowed hard. I pretended not to see him on the verge of tears.
00:40Wait, Little Hero. Can you share some with him?
00:43If he wants to grow big and strong, he has to eat too.
00:47I nodded Little Hero's head in agreement, then turned to the boy.
00:49You want to be strong, little man?
00:52He nodded eagerly.
00:53Just a tiny bite. Only a little.
00:56We don't want you to get stronger than Little Hero. He'd be sad.
00:59Before the spoon even reached him, he lunged, mouth wide open.
01:02Why can't I have veggies?
01:04Are you scared?
01:06I'm gonna be stronger than Little Hero. You mean it.
01:09I glanced at Luca Castellano.
01:11The corner of his mouth lifted into a genuine approving smile.
01:13I moved into the castle that same night.
01:15The butler led me to my room, then gave me one final warning.
01:18Do not go to the third floor.
01:20Ever.
01:21His voice dropped.
01:22The last woman who snuck up there and tried to get into Don Luca's bed, he threw her out of
01:26a second story window.
01:27I thought about the gun from an hour ago.
01:29I nodded hard.
01:30I promise.
01:31I slipped into the silk pajamas laid out in the closet.
01:34Damn it. I seriously need to lose weight.
01:39Come downstairs. We need to talk.
01:41Oh. Okay.
01:44Luca sat in the living room, legs crossed, swirling a glass of whiskey.
01:47I tugged awkwardly at my pajama hem, trying to hide my stomach.
01:51You're good with kids?
01:53Do you have any of your own?
01:55No.
01:56I helped raise my ex's nephew for two years.
01:59His family called me a glutton who made no money.
02:01They forced me to quit my job, fired the nanny, then dumped their kid on me.
02:05I wasn't their daughter-in-law.
02:07I was nothing but an unpaid babysitter.
02:10Your file says you're divorced.
02:14Yes.
02:15Why?
02:16He was ashamed of my body, and he looked down on my small-town roots.
02:22I guess only a coward would say something like that.
02:25You saw the ad.
02:26I'm looking for a mother for Leo, not a date for myself.
02:30My enemies terrified him when he was little.
02:33Ever since then, he's never felt safe, hates going outside, and has zero friends.
02:38I work long hours, so I need someone patient to stay with him.
02:43We'll sign a prenup.
02:44Everything stays separate, especially what happens in the bedroom.
02:48I looked into his eyes, and my heart skipped a beat.
02:50My ex and I signed a similar prenup over our background gap.
02:53When the love died, I left the house and a powerful mafia family like the Castellanos.
02:58They would be even more cautious.
03:00I understand.
03:02Honestly, if you just need someone around the house, we don't have to make it legal.
03:06I don't mind skipping all the paperwork.
03:08Luca shook his head.
03:09He leaned forward, lightly tapping his fingers against the table.
03:12The marriage is for Leo.
03:13He needs a mother's love.
03:15Something stable and lasting.
03:16And marriage is the strongest contract there is.
03:20Fine.
03:21We'll do it your way.
03:23Don't worry.
03:25You'll have a monthly allowance of $100,000.
03:28That was the part I actually cared about.
03:31If we ever get divorced, will the money you've given me still be mine?
03:34Of course.
03:35It's yours.
03:36Then okay.
03:37As for sex, I have no expectations of you.
03:39Just stay on the second floor.
03:40Of course.
03:42So, three days after I signed my divorce papers, I got married again.
03:45There was no ceremony.
03:46Just like my first wedding.
03:48But at dinner, Luca suddenly slid a ring across the table toward me.
03:51It was the Castellano family's signet ring.
03:54There's no need to do this.
03:56Sebastian had never even given me his family ring.
03:58This was all for Leo.
03:59Only later did I realize he needed the illusion of a home.
04:02I fell silent for a moment.
04:04Then I took the ring.
04:06I'll keep it safe.
04:08That night, I had just gotten into bed when my door creaked open.
04:11Barefoot with Wild Bedhead, Leo stood there, fidgeting with his dinosaur pajamas.
04:15What's wrong, little man?
04:17Nora, can you read me a bedtime story?
04:19I can ask dad to give you more money.
04:24Come here.
04:24I pulled back the covers to make room for him.
04:27He scrambled in beside me like he'd waited all day.
04:30Nora, it's so cramped.
04:32Oh, you little rascal.
04:35I was only halfway through the story when he fell fast asleep against my shoulder.
04:39The next morning at breakfast, the butler told Luca that Leo had slept in my bed.
04:43Luca froze.
04:44I'll add another $50,000 to your monthly allowance.
04:47Mr. Castellano, that's really too much.
04:49Not even close.
04:50I'd put far more into my last marriage than that.
04:53An eyesore.
04:54You do nothing but eat and sleep.
04:56Mr. Castellano, you're really too generous.
04:59I like Leo.
05:01He's a good kid.
05:02Reading him a story is no trouble at all.
05:04The moment I said that, Leo walked over, wrapping his tiny, warm hand around my finger.
05:08He looked up at me with big, dark eyes like two grapes.
05:11He was clearly touched.
05:12Another $50,000.
05:14You've earned it.
05:15It's not up for negotiation.
05:16I gave in and thanked him.
05:18From that day on, Leo became my little shadow.
05:20Luca was busy with deals, guns, and bloodshed.
05:23He didn't come home for an entire month.
05:25In that massive mansion, it was just Leo and me.
05:27I poured my heart into keeping him happy.
05:35Until my follow-up appointment, the butler had warned me that Leo could not leave the house.
05:39If he did, it could trigger a panic attack.
05:41I crouched down in front of him.
05:43Sweetheart, wait for me at home.
05:46I'll be back in an hour.
05:47He clutched my hand and refused to let go.
05:49He didn't say a word, only looked at me with those dark, sorrowful eyes.
05:52I'll be right back.
05:53I'm just going to see the doctor.
05:55Then I'll come straight here and play, okay?
05:57You stay here and play.
05:58Before I could finish speaking, he scrambled into the back seat.
06:01The butler fought to hide his rising hope.
06:03Do you want to go to the hospital with Nora?
06:09Thank God.
06:10He's finally willing to leave the house.
06:12Your depression is getting better.
06:14Here, just take it slow and try to relax.
06:16I picked up my prescription and medication, then left.
06:18Leo was waiting for me in the lobby with his little, little hero toy.
06:21Nia, are you sick?
06:23When I was teeny tiny, I didn't eat and got super sick.
06:27Promise you won't do that to yourself.
06:29Does it hurt?
06:30Here, you can have my candy.
06:33Dad says it makes the pain go away.
06:35Tears suddenly spilled down my cheeks.
06:38I have depression.
06:40Quit faking sick just for attention.
06:42The nephew I'd raised for two years stood beside his mother the day she came back.
06:45He called me fat and ugly.
06:47But this Ford Zanyardzan old mafia heir pressed his very last piece of candy into my hand.
06:51I'm going to eat all my meals so I can grow up and protect you.
06:55Then you'd better grow up fast, sweetheart.
06:58When we walked out of the hospital, a black Maybach was idling at the curb.
07:01Luca was leaning against it.
07:07He pulled Leo into his arms, but he noticed Leo was calm and composed.
07:11Dad, as long till I'm with Nora, you don't have to worry anymore.
07:16That night, Luca tried to give me another raise.
07:19This time, he even offered me a black card.
07:21I refused instantly, making him laugh.
07:27Nora, you must want something.
07:29Can you help me find a used car under five grand?
07:31That way I can take Leo out without relying on a driver.
07:34Take any car you want from the garage.
07:36Your cheapest car is a quarter million.
07:38I'm not driving that.
07:40Fine.
07:41The next morning, a beat-up sedan was parked beside Luca's black Bentley.
07:44He'd even brought in a psychiatrist from out of town for me.
07:47The diagnosis matched the hospital's.
07:48But this time, I was prescribed imported brand name meds I could never have afforded before.
07:54Your wife needs company.
07:55Keep her stress-free.
07:58I will.
07:59The next day, I took Leo out with me.
08:01He'd always been insecure and barely knew the world outside.
08:04Now, I wanted to show it to him.
08:06Our first stop was the amusement park.
08:08He grabbed my hand and pulled me over to take pictures.
08:10Then I took him to a farmer's market.
08:12He'd never been somewhere like that in his entire life.
08:14I don't want to carry this.
08:17Leo, my hands are full.
08:19It's only a few steps.
08:20Just this once, okay?
08:22And no more ordering lobster.
08:24Nora?
08:26It was Sebastian, my ex-husband.
08:29Nora.
08:30We're husband and wife.
08:33Stop thanking me.
08:34His voice came out low, soft around the edges.
08:36We're a paper husband and wife.
08:39You didn't have to.
08:40His arm lifted.
08:41Long fingers tilted my chin up.
08:43His thumb brushed slow against my jaw.
08:45Nora.
08:46What if I don't want a paper marriage anymore?
08:49My husband kicked me out because I ate too much.
08:52Signing the divorce papers that night, I left with nothing.
08:54With only a duffel bag and $36 in my pocket, I wandered the rainy streets alone.
08:59Then I spotted a flyer on a utility pole.
09:01Stepmother needed.
09:02Room and board included.
09:04That exact flyer changed my life.
09:06It turned me into a woman far beyond my ex-husband's reach.
09:09That night, I followed the address and entered the estate of Luca Castellano,
09:13the head of New York's oldest mafia family.
09:15Outside the mansion, the butler beside me oozed quiet arrogance.
09:20The Don needs a mother for his child, not a wife.
09:23Get that straight.
09:25The Don is highly attractive.
09:27Don't get any ideas.
09:28I lowered my head, secretly delighted.
09:30Honestly, this job was perfect for me.
09:32In short, they just needed an upscale nanny, and the last thing I wanted was another husband.
09:37Free mansion lodging.
09:38At this point, that felt like a miracle.
09:41Don't worry.
09:42I won't get any ideas.
09:44As we passed a room with its door ajar, a gunshot rang out,
09:47and a man crumpled to the floor instantly.
09:49Through the crack in the door, I recognized the face I'd seen in the New York Times.
09:53The Don is handling some business.
09:55Don't take it personally.
09:58After I changed into dry clothes, he led me to the dining room,
10:01at one end of a long wooden table.
10:03Father and son sat in a tent standoff.
10:05The man with the murderous glare was gone.
10:07In his place at the table sat an exhausted, helpless father.
10:12Just one bite.
10:13One tiny bite.
10:14Is that too much to ask?
10:15It was almost funny.
10:16He could deal with traitors and torture enemies.
10:18But now this little brat had him stumped.
10:20Feeding him was harder than running an empire.
10:22Don, the candidate is here.
10:24So this was no dream.
10:25No scam.
10:26New York's most feared man.
10:27A man like Luca Castellano had no reason to trick some homeless nobody.
10:31Name?
10:32Nora Bennett.
10:34Try.
10:35So this was my interview.
10:36If I failed, I'd be sleeping on a train tonight.
10:39Wearing my warmest smile, I stepped toward the boy.
10:41He dove under the table.
10:43Only his big, round, dark eyes peeked out, glaring furiously at me.
10:46Make her leave!
10:48They're all bad women!
10:50He'd already burned through countless stepmothers before me.
10:52Fat woman!
10:53You're ugly!
10:54Go away!
10:55I was a little annoyed.
10:56Calm down.
10:56He was just a kid.
10:57I scanned the room and immediately spotted them.
11:00Action figures everywhere.
11:01Grabbing two action figures from the coffee table.
11:03I crouched beside the table and held up a spoon.
11:05Don't worry.
11:06I'm not feeding you.
11:07I'm feeding him.
11:08I pretended to scoop up a spoonful and held it to Little Hero's mouth.
11:12Come on, open wide.
11:13You heroes skip dinner.
11:15Look at those skinny little arms and legs.
11:17You can't protect anybody like that.
11:19Oh, Little Hero wants veggies?
11:21Good choice.
11:23Spinach makes you strong.
11:24The boy swallowed hard.
11:25I pretended not to see him on the verge of tears.
11:28Wait, Little Hero.
11:29Can you share some with him?
11:30If he wants to grow big and strong, he has to eat too.
11:34I nodded Little Hero's head in agreement, then turned to the boy.
11:37You want to be strong, little man?
11:39He nodded eagerly.
11:40Just a tiny bite.
11:42Only a little.
11:43We don't want you to get stronger than Little Hero.
11:46He'd be sad.
11:47Before the spoon even reached him, he lunged, mouth wide open.
11:50Why can't I have veggies?
11:51Are you scared?
11:53I'm going to be stronger than Little Hero.
11:56You meanie!
11:56I glanced at Luca Castellano.
11:58The corner of his mouth lifted into a genuine, approving smile.
12:01I moved into the castle that same night.
12:03The butler led me to my room, then gave me one final warning.
12:06Do not go to the third floor.
12:08Ever.
12:09His voice dropped.
12:09The last woman who snuck up there and tried to get into Don Luca's bed,
12:13he threw her out of a second-story window.
12:15I thought about the gun from an hour ago.
12:17I nodded hard.
12:18I promise.
12:19I slipped into the silk pajamas laid out in the closet.
12:22Damn it.
12:23I seriously need to lose weight.
12:26Come downstairs.
12:27We need to talk.
12:29Oh.
12:29Okay.
12:31Luca sat in the living room, legs crossed, swirling a glass of whiskey.
12:35I tugged awkwardly at my pajama hem, trying to hide my stomach.
12:39You're good with kids?
12:41Do you have any of your own?
12:42No.
12:44I helped raise my ex's nephew for two years.
12:47His family called me a glutton who made no money.
12:49They forced me to quit my job, fired the nanny, then dumped their kid on me.
12:53I wasn't their daughter-in-law.
12:55I was nothing but an unpaid babysitter.
12:58Your file says you're divorced.
13:01Yes.
13:02Why?
13:04He was ashamed of my body.
13:06And he looked down on my small-town roots.
13:09I guess only a coward would say something like that.
13:12You saw the ad.
13:13I'm looking for a mother for Leo, not a date for myself.
13:18My enemies terrified him when he was little.
13:20Ever since then, he's never felt safe, hates going outside, and has zero friends.
13:25I work long hours, so I need someone patient to stay with him.
13:30We'll sign a prenup.
13:32Everything stays separate, especially what happens in the bedroom.
13:35I looked into his eyes, and my heart skipped a beat.
13:38My ex and I signed a similar prenup over our background gap.
13:41When the love died, I left the house and a powerful mafia family like the Castellanos.
13:46They would be even more cautious.
13:48I understand.
13:50Honestly, if you just need someone around the house, we don't have to make it legal.
13:54I don't mind skipping all the paperwork.
13:55Luca shook his head.
13:56He leaned forward, lightly tapping his fingers against the table.
14:00The marriage is for Leo.
14:01He needs a mother's love.
14:03Something stable and lasting.
14:04And marriage is the strongest contract there is.
14:08Fine.
14:09We'll do it your way.
14:10Don't worry.
14:13You'll have a monthly allowance of $100,000.
14:16That was the part I actually cared about.
14:19If we ever get divorced, will the money you've given me still be mine?
14:22Of course.
14:23It's yours.
14:23Then okay.
14:24As for sex, I have no expectations of you.
14:27Just stay on the second floor.
14:28Of course.
14:29So, three days after I signed my divorce papers, I got married again.
14:33There was no ceremony.
14:34Just like my first wedding.
14:35But at dinner, Luca suddenly slid a ring across the table toward me.
14:38It was the Castellano family's signet ring.
14:42There's no need to do this.
14:43Sebastian had never even given me his family ring.
14:46This was all for Leo.
14:47Only later did I realize he needed the illusion of a home.
14:50I fell silent for a moment.
14:51Then I took the ring.
14:54I'll keep it safe.
14:55That night, I had just gotten into bed when my door creaked open.
14:58Barefoot with wild bedhead.
15:00Leo stood there, fidgeting with his dinosaur pajamas.
15:03What's wrong, little man?
15:05Nora, can you read me a bedtime story?
15:07I can ask dad to give you more money.
15:11Come here.
15:12I pulled back the covers to make room for him.
15:14He scrambled in beside me like he'd waited all day.
15:18Nora, it's so cramped.
15:20Oh, you little rascal.
15:22I was only halfway through the story when he fell fast asleep against my shoulder.
15:26The next morning at breakfast, the butler told Luca that Leo had slept in my bed.
15:30Luca froze.
15:32I'll add another $50,000 to your monthly allowance.
15:34Mr. Castellano, that's really too much.
15:36Not even close.
15:37I'd put far more into my last marriage than that.
15:41An eyesore.
15:42You do nothing but eat and sleep.
15:44Mr. Castellano, you're really too generous.
15:47I like Leo.
15:48He's a good kid.
15:50Reading him a story is no trouble at all.
15:52The moment I said that, Leo walked over, wrapping his tiny, warm hand around my finger.
15:56He looked up at me with big, dark eyes like two grapes.
15:59He was clearly touched.
16:00Another $50,000.
16:02You've earned it.
16:02It's not up for negotiation.
16:04I gave in and thanked him.
16:06From that day on, Leo became my little shadow.
16:08Luca was busy with deals, guns, and bloodshed.
16:11He didn't come home for an entire month, in that massive mansion.
16:14It was just Leo and me.
16:15I poured my heart into keeping him happy.
16:23Until my follow-up appointment, the butler had warned me that Leo could not leave the house.
16:27If he did, it could trigger a panic attack.
16:29I crouched down in front of him.
16:31Sweetheart, wait for me at home.
16:33I'll be back in an hour.
16:34He clutched my hand and refused to let go.
16:37He didn't say a word, only looked at me with those dark, sorrowful eyes.
16:40I'll be right back.
16:41I'm just going to see the doctor.
16:43Then I'll come straight here and play, okay?
16:45You stay here and play.
16:46Before I could finish speaking, he scrambled into the back seat.
16:49The butler fought to hide his rising hope.
16:51Do you want to go to the hospital with Nora?
16:56Thank God.
16:58He's finally willing to leave the house.
17:00Your depression is getting better.
17:01Just take it slow and try to relax.
17:03I picked up my prescription and medication, then left.
17:06Leo was waiting for me in the lobby with his little, little hero toy.
17:09Nia, are you sick?
17:11When I was teeny tiny, I didn't eat and got super sick.
17:14Promise you won't do that to yourself.
17:16Does it hurt?
17:18Here, you can have my candy.
17:21Dad says it makes the pain go away.
17:23Tears suddenly spilled down my cheeks.
17:26I have depression.
17:28Quit faking sick just for attention.
17:30The nephew I'd raised for two years stood beside his mother the day she came back.
17:33He called me fat and ugly.
17:34But this Ford Zan Yerdzan old mafia heir pressed his very last piece of candy into my hand.
17:39I'm gonna eat all my meals so I can grow up and protect you.
17:43Then you'd better grow up fast, sweetheart.
17:45When we walked out of the hospital, a black Maybach was idling at the curb.
17:49Luca was leaning against it.
17:55He pulled Leo into his arms.
17:57But he noticed Leo was calm and composed.
17:59Dad, as long till I'm with Nora, you don't have to worry anymore.
18:04That night, Luca tried to give me another raise.
18:06This time, he even offered me a black card.
18:09I refused instantly, making him laugh.
18:14Nora, you must want something.
18:17Can you help me find a used car under five grand?
18:19That way I can take Leo out without relying on a driver.
18:22Take any car you want from the garage.
18:24Your cheapest car is a quarter million.
18:26I'm not driving that.
18:28Fine.
18:28The next morning, a beat-up sedan was parked beside Luca's black Bentley.
18:32He'd even brought in a psychiatrist from out of town for me.
18:34The diagnosis matched the hospital's.
18:36But this time, I was prescribed imported brand name meds I could never have afforded before.
18:41Your wife needs company.
18:43Keep her stress-free.
18:46I will.
18:47The next day, I took Leo out with me.
18:49He'd always been insecure and barely knew the world outside.
18:52Now, I wanted to show it to him.
18:53Our first stop was the amusement park.
18:55He grabbed my hand and pulled me over to take pictures.
18:58Then, I took him to a farmer's market.
19:00He'd never been somewhere like that in his entire life.
19:02I don't want to carry this.
19:04Leo, my hands are full.
19:06It's only a few steps.
19:08Just this once, okay?
19:09And no more ordering lobster.
19:12Nora?
19:14It was Sebastian, my ex-husband.
19:17Just one bite.
19:24Don, the candidate is here.
19:25So this was no dream.
19:26No scam.
19:27New York's most feared man.
19:28A man like Luca Castellano had no reason to trick some homeless nobody.
19:32Name?
19:33Nora Bennett.
19:35So this was my interview.
19:37If I failed, I'd be sleeping on a train tonight.
19:39Wearing my warmest smile, I stepped toward the boy.
19:41He dove under the table.
19:43Only his big, round, dark eyes peeked out, glaring furiously at me.
19:46Make her leave!
19:48They're all bad women!
19:50He'd already burned through countless stepmothers before me.
19:52Fat woman!
19:53You're ugly!
19:54Go away!
19:54I was a little annoyed.
19:55Calm down.
19:56He was just a kid.
19:57I scanned the room and immediately spotted them.
19:59Action figures everywhere.
20:00Grabbing two action figures from the coffee table.
20:02I crouched beside the table and held up a spoon.
20:05Don't worry.
20:06I'm not feeding you.
20:07I'm feeding him.
20:08I pretended to scoop up a spoonful and held it to Little Hero's mouth.
20:11Come on, open wide.
20:12You heroes skip dinner.
20:14Look at those skinny little arms and legs.
20:16You can't protect anybody like that.
20:18Oh, Little Hero wants veggies?
20:20Good choice.
20:21Spinach makes you strong.
20:23The boy swallowed hard.
20:24I pretended not to see him on the verge of tears.
20:26Wait, Little Hero.
20:27Can you share some with him?
20:29If he wants to grow big and strong, he has to eat too.
20:32I nodded Little Hero's head in agreement, then turned to the boy.
20:35You want to be strong, little man?
20:37He nodded eagerly.
20:38Just a tiny bite, only a little.
20:41We don't want you to get stronger than Little Hero.
20:43He'd be sad.
20:44Before the spoon even reached him, he lunged, mouth wide open.
20:47Why can't I have veggies?
20:49Are you scared?
20:51I'm going to be stronger than Little Hero.
20:53You meanie!
20:54I glanced at Luca Castellano.
20:55The corner of his mouth lifted into a genuine, approving smile.
20:58I moved into the castle that same night.
21:00The butler led me to my room, then gave me one final warning.
21:03Do not go to the third floor.
21:05Ever.
21:05His voice dropped.
21:06The last woman who snuck up there and tried to get into Don Luca's bed, he threw her out
21:10of a second-story window.
21:12I thought about the gun from an hour ago.
21:13I nodded hard.
21:14I promise.
21:15I slipped into the silk pajamas laid out in the closet.
21:18Damn it.
21:19I seriously need to lose weight.
21:23Come downstairs.
21:23We need to talk.
21:25Oh.
21:25Okay.
21:27Luca sat in the living room, legs crossed, swirling a glass of whiskey.
21:31I tugged awkwardly at my pajama hem, trying to hide my stomach.
21:35You're good with kids?
21:37Do you have any of your own?
21:38No.
21:39I helped raise my ex's nephew for two years.
21:42His family called me a glutton who made no money.
21:44They forced me to quit my job, fired the nanny, then dumped their kid on me.
21:48I wasn't their daughter-in-law.
21:50I was nothing but an unpaid babysitter.
21:53Your file says you're divorced.
21:56Yes.
21:57Why?
21:58He was ashamed of my body.
22:01And he looked down on my small-town roots.
22:04I guess only a coward would say something like that.
22:07You saw the ad.
22:08I'm looking for a mother for Leo, not a date for myself.
22:12My enemies terrified him when he was little.
22:14Ever since then, he's never felt safe, hates going outside, and has zero friends.
22:19I work long hours, so I need someone patient to stay with him.
22:24We'll sign a prenup.
22:25Everything stays separate, especially what happens in the bedroom.
22:29I looked into his eyes, and my heart skipped a beat.
22:31My ex and I signed a similar prenup over our background gap.
22:34When the love died, I left the house and a powerful mafia family like the Castellanos.
22:39They would be even more cautious.
22:41I understand.
22:43Honestly, if you just need someone around the house, we don't have to make it legal.
22:46I don't mind skipping all the paperwork.
22:48Luca shook his head.
22:49He leaned forward, lightly tapping his fingers against the table.
22:52The marriage is for Leo.
22:53He needs a mother's love.
22:55Something stable and lasting.
22:57And marriage is the strongest contract there is.
23:00Fine.
23:01We'll do it your way.
23:02Don't worry.
23:05You'll have a monthly allowance of $100,000.
23:08That was the part I actually cared about.
23:10If we ever get divorced, will the money you've given me still be mine?
23:13Of course.
23:14It's yours.
23:15Then okay.
23:16As for sex, I have no expectations of you.
23:18Just stay on the second floor.
23:20Of course.
23:21So, three days after I signed my divorce papers, I got married again.
23:24There was no ceremony.
23:25Just like my first wedding.
23:26But at dinner, Luca suddenly slid a ring across the table toward me.
23:29It was the Castellano family's signet ring.
23:33There's no need to do this.
23:34Sebastian had never even given me his family ring.
23:37This was all for Leo.
23:38Only later did I realize he needed the illusion of a home.
23:41I fell silent for a moment.
23:42Then I took the ring.
23:45I'll keep it safe.
23:46That night, I had just gotten into bed when my door creaked open.
23:49Barefoot with wild bedhead, Leo stood there.
23:51Fidgeting with his dinosaur pajamas.
23:53What's wrong, little man?
23:55Nora, can you read me a bedtime story?
23:57I can ask dad to give you more money.
24:01Come here.
24:02I pulled back the covers to make room for him.
24:04He scrambled in beside me like he'd waited all day.
24:07Nora, it's so cramped.
24:09Oh, you little rascal.
24:12I was only halfway through the story when he fell fast asleep against my shoulder.
24:16The next morning at breakfast, the butler told Luca that Leo had slept in my bed.
24:19Luca froze.
24:21I'll add another $50,000 to your monthly allowance.
24:23Mr. Castellano, that's really too much.
24:25Not even close.
24:26I'd put far more into my last marriage than that.
24:29An eyesore.
24:30You do nothing but eat and sleep.
24:33Mr. Castellano, you're really too generous.
24:35I like Leo.
24:37He's a good kid.
24:38Reading him a story is no trouble at all.
24:40The moment I said that, Leo walked over, wrapping his tiny, warm hand around my finger.
24:44He looked up at me with big, dark eyes like two grapes.
24:47He was clearly touched.
24:48Another $50,000.
24:49You've earned it.
24:50It's not up for negotiation.
24:52I gave in and thanked him.
24:53From that day on, Leo became my little shadow.
24:56Luca was busy with deals, guns, and bloodshed.
24:58He didn't come home for an entire month.
25:00In that massive mansion.
25:01It was just Leo and me.
25:02I poured my heart into keeping him happy.
25:10Until my follow-up appointment.
25:11The butler had warned me that Leo could not leave the house.
25:14If he did, it could trigger a panic attack.
25:16I crouched down in front of him.
25:18Sweetheart, wait for me at home.
25:20I'll be back in an hour.
25:21He clutched my hand and refused to let go.
25:23He didn't say a word, only looked at me with those dark, sorrowful eyes.
25:27I'll be right back.
25:28I'm just going to see the doctor.
25:29Then I'll come straight here and play, okay?
25:31You stay here and play.
25:32Before I could finish speaking, he scrambled into the back seat.
25:35The butler fought to hide his rising hope.
25:37Do you want to go to the hospital with Nora?
25:42Thank God.
25:43He's finally willing to leave the house.
25:46Your depression is getting better.
25:47Just take it slow and try to relax.
25:49I picked up my prescription and medication, then left.
25:51Leo was waiting for me in the lobby with his little, little hero toy.
25:54Nia, are you sick?
25:56When I was teeny tiny, I didn't eat and got super sick.
25:59Promise you won't do that to yourself.
26:01Does it hurt?
26:03Here, you can have my candy.
26:05Dad says it makes the pain go away.
26:08Tears suddenly spilled down my cheeks.
26:11I have depression.
26:12Quit faking sick just for attention.
26:14The nephew I'd raised for two years stood beside his mother the day she came back.
26:17He called me fat and ugly.
26:19But this Ford Zanyardzan old mafia heir pressed his very last piece of candy into my hand.
26:23I'm gonna eat all my meals so I can grow up and protect you.
26:27Then you'd better grow up fast, sweetheart.
26:29When we walked out of the hospital, a black Maybach was idling at the curb.
26:33Luca was leaning against it.
26:38He pulled Leo into his arms.
26:40But he noticed Leo was calm and composed.
26:42Dad, as long till I'm with Nora, you don't have to worry anymore.
26:47That night, Luca tried to give me another raise.
26:49This time, he even offered me a black card.
26:52I refused instantly, making him laugh.
26:57Nora, you must want something.
27:00Can you help me find a used car under five grand?
27:02That way I can take Leo out without relying on a driver.
27:04Take any car you want from the garage.
27:06Your cheapest car is a quarter million.
27:08I'm not driving that.
27:10Fine.
27:10The next morning, a beat-up sedan was parked beside Luca's black Bentley.
27:14He'd even brought in a psychiatrist from out of town for me.
27:16The diagnosis matched the hospital's.
27:18But this time, I was prescribed imported brand name meds I could never have afforded before.
27:23Your wife needs company.
27:25Keep her stress-free.
27:27I will.
27:28The next day, I took Leo out with me.
27:30He'd always been insecure and barely knew the world outside.
27:33Now, I wanted to show it to him.
27:35Our first stop was the amusement park.
27:36He grabbed my hand and pulled me over to take pictures.
27:39Then I took him to a farmer's market.
27:41He'd never been somewhere like that in his entire life.
27:43I don't want to carry this.
27:45Leo, my hands are full.
27:47It's only a few steps.
27:49Just this once, okay?
27:50And no more ordering lobster.
27:52Nora?
27:54It was Sebastian, my ex-husband.
27:58Nora, we're husband and wife.
28:01Stop thanking me.
28:02His voice came out low, soft around the edges.
28:04We're a paper husband and wife.
28:07You didn't have to.
28:08His arm lifted.
28:09Long fingers tilted my chin up.
28:11His thumb brushed slow against my jaw.
28:13Nora, what if I don't want a paper marriage anymore?
28:17My husband kicked me out because I ate too much.
28:20Signing the divorce papers that night, I left with nothing.
28:22With only a duffel bag and $36 in my pocket, I wandered the rainy streets alone.
28:27Then I spotted a flyer on a utility pole.
28:29Stepmother needed.
28:30Room and board included.
28:32That exact flyer changed my life.
28:34It turned me into a woman far beyond my ex-husband's reach.
28:37That night, I followed the address and entered the estate of Luca Castellano, the head of New York's oldest mafia
28:42family.
28:43Outside the mansion, the butler beside me oozed quiet arrogance.
28:48The Don needs a mother for his child, not a wife.
28:51Get that straight.
28:53The Don is highly attractive.
28:55Don't get any ideas.
28:56I lowered my head, secretly delighted.
28:58Honestly, this job was perfect for me.
29:00In short, they just needed an upscale nanny, and the last thing I wanted was another husband.
29:05Free mansion lodging.
29:06At this point, that felt like a miracle.
29:09Don't worry.
29:10I won't get any ideas.
29:12As we passed a room with its door ajar, a gunshot rang out,
29:14and a man crumpled to the floor instantly.
29:17Through the crack in the door, I recognized the face I'd seen in the New York Times.
29:21The Don is handling some business.
29:23Don't take it personally.
29:26After I changed into dry clothes, he led me to the dining room,
29:29at one end of a long wooden table.
29:31Father and son sat in a tent standoff.
29:33The man with the murderous glare was gone.
29:35In his place at the table sat an exhausted, helpless father.
29:40Just one bite.
29:41One tiny bite.
29:42Is that too much to ask?
29:43It was almost funny.
29:44He could deal with traitors and torture enemies.
29:46But now this little brat had him stumped.
29:48Feeding him was harder than running an empire.
29:50Don, the candidate is here.
29:52So this was no dream.
29:53No scam.
29:54New York's most feared man.
29:55A man like Luca Castellano had no reason to trick some homeless nobody.
29:59Name?
30:00Nora Bennett.
30:02Try.
30:02So this was my interview.
30:04If I failed, I'd be sleeping on a train tonight.
30:07Wearing my warmest smile, I stepped toward the boy.
30:09He dove under the table.
30:11Only his big, round, dark eyes peeked out, glaring furiously at me.
30:14Make her leave!
30:16They're all bad women!
30:18He'd already burned through countless stepmothers before me.
30:20Fat woman!
30:21You're ugly!
30:22Go away!
30:23I was a little annoyed.
30:24Calm down.
30:24He was just a kid.
30:25I scanned the room and immediately spotted them.
30:28Action figures everywhere.
30:29Grabbing two action figures from the coffee table.
30:31I crouched beside the table and held up a spoon.
30:33Don't worry.
30:34I'm not feeding you.
30:35I'm feeding him.
30:36I pretended to scoop up a spoonful and held it to Little Hero's mouth.
30:40Come on.
30:40Open wide.
30:41You heroes skip dinner.
30:43Look at those skinny little arms and legs.
30:45You can't protect anybody like that.
30:47Oh, Little Hero wants veggies?
30:49Good choice.
30:50Spinach makes you strong.
30:52The boy swallowed hard.
30:53I pretended not to see him on the verge of tears.
30:56Wait, Little Hero.
30:57Can you share some with him?
30:59If he wants to grow big and strong, he has to eat too.
31:02I nodded Little Hero's head in agreement, then turned to the boy.
31:05You want to be strong, little man?
31:07He nodded eagerly.
31:08Just a tiny bite.
31:10Only a little.
31:11We don't want you to get stronger than Little Hero.
31:14He'd be sad.
31:15Before the spoon even reached him, he lunged, mouth wide open.
31:18Why can't I have veggies?
31:19Are you scared?
31:21I'm going to be stronger than Little Hero.
31:24You meanie!
31:25I glanced at Luca Castellano.
31:26The corner of his mouth lifted into a genuine approving smile.
31:29I moved into the castle that same night.
31:31The butler led me to my room, then gave me one final warning.
31:34Do not go to the third floor.
31:36Ever.
31:37His voice dropped.
31:37The last woman who snuck up there and tried to get into Don Luca's bed,
31:41he threw her out of a second story window.
31:43I thought about the gun from an hour ago.
31:45I nodded hard.
31:46I promise.
31:47I slipped into the silk pajamas laid out in the closet.
31:50Damn it.
31:51I seriously need to lose weight.
31:54Come downstairs.
31:55We need to talk.
31:57Oh.
31:57Okay.
31:59Luca sat in the living room, legs crossed, swirling a glass of whiskey.
32:03I tugged awkwardly at my pajama hem, trying to hide my stomach.
32:07You're good with kids?
32:09Do you have any of your own?
32:10No.
32:12I helped raise my ex's nephew for two years.
32:15His family called me a glutton who made no money.
32:17They forced me to quit my job, fired the nanny, then dumped their kid on me.
32:21I wasn't their daughter-in-law.
32:23I was nothing but an unpaid babysitter.
32:26Your file says you're divorced.
32:29Yes.
32:30Why?
32:32He was ashamed of my body.
32:34And he looked down on my small town roots.
32:38I guess only a coward would say something like that.
32:41You saw the ad.
32:42I'm looking for a mother for Leo, not a date for myself.
32:46My enemies terrified him when he was little.
32:48Ever since then, he's never felt safe, hates going outside, and has zero friends.
32:53I work long hours, so I need someone patient to stay with him.
32:58We'll sign a prenup.
33:00Everything stays separate, especially what happens in the bedroom.
33:03I looked into his eyes and my heart skipped a beat.
33:06My ex and I signed a similar prenup over our background gap.
33:09When the love died, I left people's and a powerful mafia family like the Castellanos.
33:14They would be even more cautious.
33:16I understand.
33:18Honestly, if you just need someone around the house, we don't have to make it legal.
33:22I don't mind skipping all the paperwork.
33:24Luca shook his head.
33:25He leaned forward, lightly tapping his fingers against the table.
33:28The marriage is for Leo.
33:29He needs a mother's love.
33:31Something stable and lasting.
33:32And marriage is the strongest contract there is.
33:36Fine.
33:37We'll do it your way.
33:38Don't worry.
33:41You'll have a monthly allowance of $100,000.
33:44That was the part I actually cared about.
33:47If we ever get divorced, will the money you've given me still be mine?
33:50Of course.
33:51It's yours.
33:51Then okay.
33:52As for sex, I have no expectations of you.
33:55Just stay on the second floor.
33:56Of course.
33:57So, three days after I signed my divorce papers, I got married again.
34:01There was no ceremony.
34:02Just like my first wedding.
34:03But at dinner, Luca suddenly slid a ring across the table toward me.
34:06It was the Castellano family's signet ring.
34:10There's no need to do this.
34:11Sebastian had never even given me his family ring.
34:14This was all for Leo.
34:15Only later did I realize he needed the illusion of a home.
34:18I fell silent for a moment.
34:19Then I took the ring.
34:22I'll keep it safe.
34:23That night, I had just gotten into bed when my door creaked open, barefoot with Wild Bedhead.
34:28Leo stood there, fidgeting with his dinosaur pajamas.
34:31What's wrong, little man?
34:33Nora, can you read me a bedtime story?
34:35I can ask dad to give you more money.
34:39Come here.
34:40I pulled back the covers to make room for him.
34:42He scrambled in beside me like he'd waited all day.
34:46Nora, it's so cramped.
34:48Oh, you little rascal.
34:50I was only halfway through the story when he fell fast asleep against my shoulder.
34:54The next morning at breakfast, the butler told Luca that Leo had slept in my bed.
34:58Luca froze.
35:00I'll add another $50,000 to your monthly allowance.
35:02Mr. Castellano, that's really too much.
35:04Not even close.
35:05I'd put far more into my last marriage than that.
35:09An eyesore.
35:10You do nothing but eat and sleep.
35:12Mr. Castellano, you're really too generous.
35:15I like Leo.
35:16He's a good kid.
35:18Reading him a story is no trouble at all.
35:20The moment I said that, Leo walked over, wrapping his tiny, warm hand around my finger.
35:24He looked up at me with big, dark eyes like two grapes.
35:27He was clearly touched.
35:28Another $50,000.
35:30You've earned it.
35:30It's not up for negotiation.
35:32I gave in and thanked him.
35:34From that day on, Leo became my little shadow.
35:36Luca was busy with deals, guns, and bloodshed.
35:39He didn't come home for an entire month in that massive mansion.
35:42It was just Leo and me.
35:43I poured my heart into keeping him happy.
35:51Until my follow-up appointment, the butler had warned me that Leo could not leave the
35:55house.
35:55If he did, it could trigger a panic attack.
35:57I crouched down in front of him.
35:59Sweetheart, wait for me at home.
36:01I'll be back in an hour.
36:02He clutched my hand and refused to let go.
36:05He didn't say a word, only looked at me with those dark, sorrowful eyes.
36:08I'll be right back.
36:09I'm just going to see the doctor.
36:11Then I'll come straight here and play, okay?
36:13You stay here and play.
36:14Before I could finish speaking, he scrambled into the back seat.
36:17The butler fought to hide his rising hope.
36:19Leo, do you want to go to the hospital with Nora?
36:24Thank God.
36:26He's finally willing to leave the house.
36:28Your depression is getting better.
36:29Just take it slow and try to relax.
36:31I picked up my prescription and medication, then left.
36:34Leo was waiting for me in the lobby with his little, little hero toy.
36:37Nia, are you sick?
36:39When I was teeny tiny, I didn't eat and got super sick.
36:42Promise you won't do that to yourself.
36:44Does it hurt?
36:46Here, you can have my candy.
36:49Dad says it makes the pain go away.
36:51Tears suddenly spilled down my cheeks.
36:54I have depression.
36:56Quit faking sick just for attention.
36:58The nephew I'd raised for two years stood beside his mother the day she came back.
37:01He called me fat and ugly.
37:02But this Ford Zanyard Zan old mafia heir pressed his very last piece of candy into my head.
37:07I'm gonna eat all my meals so I can grow up and protect you.
37:11Then you'd better grow up fast, sweetheart.
37:14When we walked out of the hospital, a black Maybach was idling at the curb.
37:17Luca was leaning against it.
37:23He pulled Leo into his arms.
37:24But he noticed Leo was calm and composed.
37:27Dad, as long till I'm with Nora, you don't have to worry anymore.
37:32That night, Luca tried to give me another raise.
37:34This time, he even offered me a black card.
37:37I refused instantly, making him laugh.
37:42Nora, you must want something.
37:45Can you help me find a used car under five grand?
37:47That way I can take Leo out without relying on a driver.
37:50Take any car you want from the garage.
37:52Your cheapest car is a quarter million.
37:54I'm not driving that.
37:56Fine.
37:56The next morning, a beat-up sedan was parked beside Luca's black Bentley.
38:00He'd even brought in a psychiatrist from out of town for me.
38:02The diagnosis matched the hospital's.
38:04But this time, I was prescribed imported brand name meds I could never have afforded before.
38:09Your wife needs company.
38:11Keep her stress-free.
38:14I will.
38:15The next day, I took Leo out with me.
38:17He'd always been insecure and barely knew the world outside.
38:20Now, I wanted to show it to him.
38:21Our first stop was the amusement park.
38:23He grabbed my hand and pulled me over to take pictures.
38:26Then I took him to a farmer's market.
38:28He'd never been somewhere like that in his entire life.
38:30I don't want to carry this.
38:32Leo, my hands are full.
38:34It's only a few steps.
38:36Just this once, okay?
38:37And no more ordering lobster.
38:40Nora?
38:42It was Sebastian, my ex-husband.
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