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00:30You can't protect anybody like that
00:31Oh, Little Hero wants veggies?
00:34Good choice
00:35Spinach makes you strong
00:36The boy swallowed hard
00:38I pretended not to see him on the verge of tears
00:40Wait, Little Hero
00:41Can you share some with him?
00:43If he wants to grow big and strong
00:45He has to eat too
00:47I nodded Little Hero's head in agreement
00:49Then turned to the boy
00:50You wanna be strong, little man?
00:52He nodded eagerly
00:53Just a tiny bite
00:54Only a little
00:55We don't want you to get stronger than Little Hero
00:58He'd be sad
00:59Before the spoon even reached him
01:01He lunged, mouth wide open
01:02Why can't I have veggies?
01:04Are you scared?
01:06I'm gonna be stronger than Little Hero
01:08You mean it
01:09I glanced at Luca Castellano
01:11The corner of his mouth
01:12Lifted into a genuine approving smile
01:14I moved into the castle that same night
01:16The butler led me to my room
01:17Then gave me one final warning
01:18Do not go to the third floor
01:21Ever
01:21His voice dropped
01:22The last woman who snuck up there
01:23And tried to get into Don Luca's bed
01:26He threw her out of a second story window
01:28I 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
01:35I seriously need to lose weight
01:39Come downstairs
01:40We need to talk
01:41Oh
01:42Okay
01:44Luca sat in the living room
01:45Legs crossed
01:46Swirling a glass of whiskey
01:48I tugged awkwardly at my pajama hem
01:50Trying to hide my stomach
01:52You're good with kids?
01:54Do 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
02:03Fired the nanny
02:04Then dumped their kid on me
02:05I wasn't their daughter-in-law
02:08I was nothing but an unpaid babysitter
02:11Your file says you're divorced
02:14Yes
02:15Why?
02:16He was ashamed of my body
02:19And 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
02:28Not a date for myself
02:30My enemies terrified him when he was little
02:33Ever since then he's never felt safe
02:35Hates going outside
02:36And has zero friends
02:38I work long hours
02:40So I need someone patient to stay with him
02:42We'll sign a prenup
02:44Everything stays separate
02:46Especially 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
02:54When the love died
02:54I left
02:55And a powerful mafia family like the Castellanos
02:58They would be even more cautious
03:00I understand
03:03Honestly if you just need someone around the house
03:04We 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
03:10Lightly tapping his fingers against the table
03:12The marriage is for Leo
03:14He needs a mother's love
03:15Something stable and lasting
03:17And marriage is the strongest contract there is
03:20Fine
03:21We'll do it your way
03:22Don'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
03:32Will the money you've given me still be mine?
03:35Of course
03:35It's yours
03:36Then okay
03:36As for sex
03:38I have no expectations of you
03:39Just stay on the second floor
03:40Of course
03:41So
03:42Three days after I signed my divorce papers
03:44I got married again
03:45There was no ceremony
03:46Just like my first wedding
03:48But at dinner
03:48Luca 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
04:01He needed the illusion of a home
04:02I fell silent for a moment
04:04Then I took the ring
04:07I'll keep it safe
04:08That night
04:08I had just gotten into bed
04:10When my door creaked open
04:11Barefoot with wild bedhead
04:12Leo stood there
04:13Fidgeting with his dinosaur pajamas
04:16What's wrong little man?
04:17Nora
04:18Can you read me a bedtime story?
04:20I can ask dad to give you more money
04:24Come here
04:25I pulled back the covers to make room for him
04:27He scrambled in beside me like he'd waited all day
04:30Nora
04:31It's so cramped
04:32Oh you little rascal
04:35I was only halfway through the story
04:37When he fell fast asleep against my shoulder
04:39The next morning at breakfast
04:40The butler told Luca that Leo had slept in my bed
04:43Luca froze
04:44I'll add another 50,000 to your monthly allowance
04:46Mr. Castellano
04:48That's really too much
04:49Not even close
04:50I'd put far more into my last marriage than that
04:53An eyesor
04:54You do nothing but eat and sleep
04:56Mr. Castellano
04:58You'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
05:05Leo walked over
05:06Wrapping his tiny warm hand around my finger
05:09He looked up at me with big dark eyes
05:11Like two grapes
05:11He was clearly touched
05:13Another 50,000
05:14You've earned it
05:15It's not up for negotiation
05:17I gave in and thanked him
05:18From that day on
05:19Leo became my little shadow
05:20Luca was busy with deals
05:22Guns and bloodshed
05:23He didn't come home for an entire month
05:25In that massive mansion
05:26It was just Leo and me
05:28I poured my heart into keeping him happy
05:34Great!
05:35Until my follow-up appointment
05:37The butler had warned me that Leo could not leave the house
05:39If he did, it could trigger a panic attack
05:42I crouched down in front of him
05:43Sweetheart, wait for me at home
05:45I'll be back in an hour
05:47He clutched my hand and refused to let go
05:49He didn't say a word
05:50Only looked at me with those dark, sorrowful eyes
05:52I'll be right back
05:54I'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
05:59He scrambled into the back seat
06:01The butler fought to hide his rising hope
06:03Leo, do 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
06:14Just 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?
06:31Here, you can have my candy
06:33Dad says it makes the pain go away
06:35Tears suddenly spilled down my cheeks
06:39I 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
06:52I'm gonna 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
07:02Luca was leaning against it
07:07He pulled Leo into his arms
07:09But he noticed Leo was calm and composed
07:11Dad, as long till I'm with Nora, you don't have to worry anymore
07:17That 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
07:30Can 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 hospitals
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
07:59I 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
08:16Leo, 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
08:30Nora, we're husband and wife
08:33Stop thanking me
08:34His voice came out low
08:35Soft 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
08:47What 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
08:54I left with nothing
08:55With only a duffel bag and $36 in my pocket
08:57I 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
09:11And entered the estate of Luca Castellano
09:13The head of New York's oldest mafia family
09:15Outside the mansion
09:16The 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
09:35And 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
09:46A gunshot rang out
09:47And a man crumpled to the floor instantly
09:49Through the crack in the door
09:50I 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
10:00He 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, one 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
10:29Had no reason to trick some homeless nobody
10:31Name?
10:32Nora Bennett
10:34Try
10:35So this was my interview
10:37If I failed, I'd be sleeping on a train tonight
10:39Wearing my warmest smile
10:40I stepped toward the boy
10:41He dove under the table
10:43Only his big, round, dark eyes peeked out
10:45Glaring furiously at me
10:47Make her leave
10:48They're all bad women
10:50He'd already burned through countless stepmothers before me
10:53Fat woman, you're ugly, go away
10:55I was a little annoyed
10:56Calm down
10:57He was just a kid
10:58I 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
11:06Don't worry
11:06I'm not feeding you
11:08I'm feeding him
11:09I pretended to scoop up a spoonful
11:10And 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?
11:22Good choice
11:22Spinach 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?
11:31If he wants to grow big and strong
11:33He has to eat too
11:34I nodded little hero's head in agreement
11:36Then turned to the boy
11:37You want to be strong, little man?
11:40He 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
11:48He lunged, mouth wide open
11:50Why can't I have veggies?
11:52Are you scared?
11:54I'm gonna be stronger than little hero
11:56You meanie!
11:57I 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
12:05Then gave me one final warning
12:06Do not go to the third floor
12:08Ever
12:09His voice dropped
12:10The 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
12:27Come downstairs
12:28We need to talk
12:29Oh
12:29Okay
12:32Luca sat in the living room
12:33Legs crossed
12:34Swirling a glass of whiskey
12:35I tugged awkwardly at my pajama hem
12:38Trying to hide my stomach
12:39You're good with kids?
12:41Do you have any of your own?
12:43No
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
12:51Fired the nanny
12:52Then 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
13:02Yes
13:03Why?
13:04He was ashamed of my body
13:07And he looked down on my small town roots
13:10I guess only a coward would say something like that
13:12You saw the ad
13:14I'm looking for a mother for Leo
13:16Not a date for myself
13:18My enemies terrified him when he was little
13:21Ever since then he's never felt safe
13:23Hates going outside
13:24And has zero friends
13:26I work long hours
13:28So I need someone patient to stay with him
13:30We'll sign a prenup
13:32Everything stays separate
13:34Especially what happens in the bedroom
13:36I looked into his eyes
13:37And my heart skipped a beat
13:38My ex and I signed a similar prenup over our background gap
13:41When the love died
13:42I left
13:43And 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
13:52We don't have to make it legal
13:54I don't mind skipping all the paperwork
13:56Luca shook his head
13:57He leaned forward
13:58Lightly 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
14:20Will the money you've given me still be mine?
14:22Of course, it's yours
14:23Then okay
14:24As for sex
14:25I 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
14:32I got married again
14:33There was no ceremony
14:34Just like my first wedding
14:35But at dinner
14:36Luca suddenly slid a ring across the table toward me
14:39It was the Castellano family's signet ring
14:42There's no need to do this
14:44Sebastian 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
14:57When my door creaked open
14:59Barefoot with Wild Bedhead
15:00Leo stood there
15:01Fidgeting 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
15:12Come here
15:12I pulled back the covers to make room for him
15:14He scrambled in beside me
15:16Like he'd waited all day
15:18Nora, it's so cramped
15:20Oh, you little rascal
15:23I was only halfway through the story
15:24When he fell fast asleep against my shoulder
15:26The next morning at breakfast
15:28The 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
15:38I'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
15:53Leo walked over
15:54Wrapping his tiny, warm hand around my finger
15:56He looked up at me with big, dark eyes
15:58Like two grapes
15:59He was clearly touched
16:00Another $50,000
16:01You've earned it
16:03It's not up for negotiation
16:04I gave in and thanked him
16:06From that day on
16:07Leo became my little shadow
16:08Luca was busy with deals, guns, and bloodshed
16:11He didn't come home for an entire month
16:13In 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
16:25The 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
16:32Sweetheart, wait for me at home
16:33I'll be back in an hour
16:35He clutched my hand and refused to let go
16:37He didn't say a word
16:38Only 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
16:47He scrambled into the back seat
16:49The butler fought to hide his rising hope
16:51Leo, do 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
17:02Just take it slow and try to relax
17:04I picked up my prescription and medication then left
17:06Leo was waiting for me in the lobby
17:08With his little, little hero toy
17:09Nia, are you sick?
17:11When I was teeny tiny, I didn't eat and got super sick
17:15Promise you won't do that to yourself
17:17Does it hurt?
17:18Here, you can have my candy
17:20Dad says it makes the pain go away
17:23Tears suddenly spilled down my cheeks
17:26I have depression
17:27Quit faking sick just for attention
17:30The nephew I'd raised for two years
17:31Stood beside his mother the day she came back
17:33He called me fat and ugly
17:35But this Ford Zanyardzan old mafia heir
17:37Pressed his very last piece of candy into my hand
17:39I'm gonna eat all my meals
17:41So I can grow up and protect you
17:43Then you'd better grow up fast, sweetheart
17:45When we walked out of the hospital
17:47A 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
18:01You 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
18:15Nora, 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
18:23Your 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
18:39I could never have afforded before
18:42Your 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
18:54Our first stop was the amusement park
18:56He 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
19:05Leo, my hands are full
19:07It's only a few steps
19:08Just this once, okay?
19:10And no more ordering lobster
19:12Nora?
19:14It was Sebastian, my ex-husband
19:17Just one bite
19:24Don, the candidate is here
19:26So this was no dream
19:27No scam
19:27New York's most feared man
19:29A man like Luca Castellano
19:30Had no reason to trick some homeless nobody
19:32Name?
19:34Nora Bennett
19:36So 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
19:45Glaring furiously at me
19:47Make 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!
19:55I was a little annoyed
19:56Calm 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
20:03I 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
20:09and 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
20:31He has to eat too
20:33I nodded Little Hero's head in agreement
20:34then turned to the boy
20:35You want to be strong, little man?
20:38He nodded eagerly
20:38Just a tiny bite
20:40Only 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
20:46he lunged, mouth wide open
20:47Why can't I have veggies?
20:49Are you scared?
20:51I'm gonna be stronger than Little Hero
20:53You meanie!
20:54I glanced at Luca Castellano
20:56The 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
21:02then gave me one final warning
21:03Do not go to the third floor
21:05Ever
21:06His voice dropped
21:06The last woman who snuck up there
21:08and tried to get into Don Luca's bed
21:10he threw her out of 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
21:24We need to talk
21:25Oh
21:26Okay
21:28Luca sat in the living room
21:29legs crossed
21:30swirling a glass of whiskey
21:31I tugged awkwardly at my pajama hem
21:33trying to hide my stomach
21:35You're good with kids?
21:37Do you have any of your own?
21:38No
21:40I 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
21:46fired the nanny
21:47then 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?
21:59He 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
22:10not a date for myself
22:12My enemies terrified him when he was little
22:15Ever since then he's never felt safe
22:17hates going outside
22:18and has zero friends
22:20I work long hours
22:22So I need someone patient to stay with him
22:24We'll sign a prenup
22:25Everything stays separate
22:28Especially 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
22:35I left
22:36And 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
22:45we 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
22:50Lightly tapping his fingers against the table
22:53The marriage is for Leo
22:54He 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
23:11If we ever get divorced
23:12Will the money you've given me still be mine?
23:14Of course, it's yours
23:15Then okay
23:16As for sex
23:17I have no expectations of you
23:18Just stay on the second floor
23:19Of course
23:21So, three days after I signed my divorce papers
23:23I got married again
23:24There was no ceremony
23:25Just like my first wedding
23:27But at dinner
23:27Luca suddenly slid a ring across the table toward me
23:30It 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
23:50Leo 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
24:08Nora, it's so cramped
24:10Oh, you little rascal
24:12I was only halfway through the story
24:14When he fell fast asleep against my shoulder
24:16The next morning at breakfast
24:17The butler told Luca that Leo had slept in my bed
24:20Luca 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
24:36I like Leo
24:37He's a good kid
24:38Reading him a story is no trouble at all
24:40The moment I said that
24:41Leo walked over
24:42Wrapping his tiny, warm hand around my finger
24:44He looked up at me with big, dark eyes
24:46Like 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
24:54Leo 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
25:03I 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
25:26I'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
25:33He scrambled into the back seat
25:35The butler fought to hide his rising hope
25:37Leo, do you want to go to the hospital with Nora?
25:42Thank God
25:44He'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
26:00Promise you won't do that to yourself
26:02Does 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, but 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
26:50This 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 hospitals
27:18But this time, I was prescribed imported brand name meds
27:21I could never have afforded before
27:23Your wife needs company
27:25Keep her stress-free
27:28I 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
27:37He 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
28:15What 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
28:22I left with nothing
28:23With only a duffel bag and $36 in my pocket
28:25I 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
28:39And entered the estate of Luca Castellano
28:41The head of New York's oldest mafia family
28:43Outside the mansion
28:44The 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
29:03And 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
29:14A gunshot rang out
29:15And a man crumpled to the floor instantly
29:17Through the crack in the door
29:18I 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
29:28He 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
29:57Had no reason to trick some homeless nobody
29:59Name?
30:00Nora Bennett
30:02Try
30:03So 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
30:13Glaring furiously at me
30:15Make her leave
30:16They're all bad women
30:18He'd already burned through countless stepmothers before me
30:21Fat woman
30:21You're ugly
30:22Go away
30:23I was a little annoyed
30:24Calm down
30:25He was just a kid
30:26I 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
30:34Don't worry
30:34I'm not feeding you
30:36I'm feeding him
30:37I pretended to scoop up a spoonful
30:38And held it to Little Hero's mouth
30:40Come on, open 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?
30:50Good 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
31:01He has to eat too
31:02I nodded Little Hero's head in agreement
31:04Then turned to the boy
31:05You want to be strong, little man?
31:08He 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
31:16He lunged, mouth wide open
31:18Why can't I have veggies?
31:20Are you scared?
31:21I'm gonna 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
31:33Then gave me one final warning
31:34Do not go to the third floor
31:36Ever
31:37His voice dropped
31:38The 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
31:55Come downstairs
31:56We need to talk
31:57Oh
31:58Okay
32:00Luca sat in the living room
32:01Legs crossed
32:02Swirling a glass of whiskey
32:03I tugged awkwardly at my pajama hem
32:06Trying to hide my stomach
32:07You're good with kids?
32:09Do you have any of your own?
32:11No
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
32:19Fired the nanny
32:20Then 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
32:30Yes
32:31Why?
32:32He was ashamed of my body
32:35And he looked down on my small town roots
32:38I guess only a coward would say something like that
32:40You saw the ad
32:42I'm looking for a mother for Leo
32:44Not a date for myself
32:46My enemies terrified him when he was little
32:49Ever since then he's never felt safe
32:51Hates going outside
32:52And has zero friends
32:54I work long hours
32:56So I need someone patient to stay with him
32:58We'll sign a prenup
33:00Everything stays separate
33:02Especially what happens in the bedroom
33:04I looked into his eyes
33:05And my heart skipped a beat
33:06My ex and I signed a similar prenup
33:08Over our background gap
33:09When the love died
33:10I left
33:11And 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
33:20We 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
33:26Lightly 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
33:48Will the money you've given me still be mine?
33:50Of course
33:51It's yours
33:51Then okay
33:52As for sex
33:53I have no expectations of you
33:55Just stay on the second floor
33:56Of course
33:57So
33:58Three days after I signed my divorce papers
34:00I got married again
34:01There was no ceremony
34:02Just like my first wedding
34:03But at dinner
34:04Luca suddenly slid a ring across the table toward me
34:07It was the Castellano family's signet ring
34:10There's no need to do this
34:12Sebastian 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
34:24I had just gotten into bed
34:25When my door creaked open
34:27Barefoot with Wild Bedhead
34:28Leo stood there
34:29Fidgeting with his dinosaur pajamas
34:31What's wrong little man?
34:33Nora
34:33Can you read me a bedtime story?
34:35I can ask dad to give you more money
34:40Come here
34:40I pulled back the covers to make room for him
34:42He scrambled in beside me
34:44Like he'd waited all day
34:46Nora
34:46It's so cramped
34:48Oh you little rascal
34:51I was only halfway through the story
34:52When he fell fast asleep against my shoulder
34:54The next morning at breakfast
34:56The butler told Luca that Leo had slept in my bed
34:58Luca froze
34:59I'll add another 50,000 to your monthly allowance
35:02Mr. Castellano, that's really too much
35:04Not even close
35:06I'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
35:17He's a good kid
35:18Reading him a story is no trouble at all
35:20The moment I said that
35:21Leo walked over
35:22Wrapping his tiny, warm hand around my finger
35:24He looked up at me with big, dark eyes
35:26Like two grapes
35:27He was clearly touched
35:28Another 50,000
35:30You've earned it
35:31It's not up for negotiation
35:32I gave in and thanked him
35:34From that day on
35:35Leo became my little shadow
35:36Luca was busy with deals, guns, and bloodshed
35:39He didn't come home for an entire month
35:41In that massive mansion
35:42It was just Leo and me
35:43I poured my heart into keeping him happy
35:49Great!
35:51Until my follow-up appointment
35:53The butler had warned me that Leo could not leave the house
35:55If he did, it could trigger a panic attack
35:57I crouched down in front of him
36:00Sweetheart, wait for me at home
36:01I'll be back in an hour
36:03He clutched my hand and refused to let go
36:05He didn't say a word
36:06Only 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 and play, okay?
36:13You stay here and play
36:14Before I could finish speaking
36:15He 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
36:30Just take it slow and try to relax
36:32I picked up my prescription and medication then left
36:34Leo was waiting for me in the lobby
36:36With his little, little hero toy
36:37Nia, are you sick?
36:39When I was teeny tiny
36:40I didn't eat and got super sick
36:43Promise you won't do that to yourself
36:44Does it hurt?
36:46Here, you can have my candy
36:48Dad says it makes the pain go away
36:51Tears suddenly spilled down my cheeks
36:54I have depression
36:55Quit faking sick just for attention
36:58The nephew I'd raised for two years
36:59Stood beside his mother the day she came back
37:01He called me fat and ugly
37:03But this Ford Zanyardzan old mafia heir
37:05Pressed his very last piece of candy into my hand
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
37:13When 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
37:25But 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
37:43Nora, 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
37:51Your 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
38:07I could never have afforded before
38:10Your 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
38:22Our first stop was the amusement park
38:24He 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
38:33Leo, my hands are full
38:34It's only a few steps
38:36Just this once, okay?
38:38And no more ordering lobster
38:39Nora?
38:42It was Sebastian, my ex-husband
38:44But it didn't take my arms
38:44On the way, the earth
38:45It's almost impossible
38:45To get you
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