[Completed] After My Divorce, I Became the Godfather’s XXL Wife StellarMotion Full Short Drama English Sub 2026

Name: [Completed] After My Divorce, I Became the Godfather’s XXL Wife StellarMotion Full Short Drama English Sub 2026
Uploaded: 2026-09-04T20:55:11+00:00
Duration: 1 h 18 min 26 s
Channel: Reel Empire

Reel Empire

A powerful full drama movie filled with love, secrets, and unexpected twists.

Follow a powerful story where relationships are tested, hidden truths are revealed, and lives change forever. From romantic moments to shocking surprises, this drama keeps you engaged from beginning to end.

Featuring stories about CEO, billionaire lifestyles, family connections, and life-changing decisions, this movie delivers strong emotions and unforgettable scenes.

Watch the full movie and discover what happens in the end.

New full drama movies uploaded regularly. Stay tuned for more captivating and trending stories.

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00:01:18The man with the murderous glare was gone. In his place at the table sat an exhausted, helpless father.

00:01:25Just one bite. One tiny bite. Is that too much to ask?

00:01:27It was almost funny. He could deal with traitors and torture enemies. But now this little brat had

00:01:32him stumped. Feeding him was harder than running an empire. Don, the candidate is here.

00:01:36So this was no dream. No scam. New York's most feared man. A man like Luca Castellano had no

00:01:41reason to trick some homeless nobody. So this was my interview. If I failed,

00:01:50I'd be sleeping on a train tonight. Wearing my warmest smile, I stepped toward the boy.

00:01:54He dove under the table. Only his big, round, dark eyes peeked out, glaring furiously at me.

00:01:59Make her leave! They're all bad women! He'd already burned through countless stepmothers before me.

00:02:05Fat woman! You're ugly! Go away!

00:02:07I was a little annoyed. Calm down. He was just a kid. I scanned the room and immediately spotted them.

00:02:12Action figures everywhere. Grabbing two action figures from the coffee table,

00:02:16I crouched beside the table and held up a spoon. Don't worry. I'm not feeding you. I'm feeding him.

00:02:21I pretended to scoop up a spoonful and held it to Little Hero's mouth. Come on, open wide.

00:02:26You heroes skip dinner. Look at those skinny little arms and legs. You can't protect anybody like that.

00:02:32Oh, Little Hero wants veggies? Good choice. Spinach makes you strong. The boy swallowed hard.

00:02:38I pretended not to see him on the verge of tears. Wait, Little Hero. Can you share some with him?

00:02:43If he wants to grow big and strong, he has to eat too. I nodded Little Hero's head in agreement,

00:02:48then turned to the boy. You want to be strong, little man? He nodded eagerly. Just a tiny bite.

00:02:54Only a little. We don't want you to get stronger than Little Hero. He'd be sad.

00:02:59Before the spoon even reached him, he lunged, mouth wide open. Why can't I have veggies? Are you scared?

00:03:06I'm gonna be stronger than Little Hero. You meanie! I glanced at Luca Castellano. The corner of his

00:03:11mouth lifted into a genuine approving smile. I moved into the castle that same night. The butler led me to

00:03:16my room, then gave me one final warning. Do not go to the third floor. Ever. His voice dropped.

00:03:22The last woman who snuck up there and tried to get into Don Luca's bed, he threw her out of

00:03:26a

00:03:27second story window. I thought about the gun from an hour ago. I nodded hard. I promise. I slipped

00:03:32into the silk pajamas laid out in the closet. Damn it. I seriously need to lose weight.

00:03:39Come downstairs. We need to talk. Oh. Okay. Luca sat in the living room, legs crossed, swirling a glass

00:03:47of whiskey. I tugged awkwardly at my pajama hem, trying to hide my stomach. You're good with kids?

00:03:54Do you have any of your own? No. I helped raise my ex's nephew for two years. His family called

00:04:00me a

00:04:00glutton who made no money. They forced me to quit my job, fired the nanny, then dumped their kid on

00:04:05me.

00:04:05I wasn't their daughter-in-law. I was nothing but an unpaid babysitter.

00:04:11Your file says you're divorced. Yes. Why? He was ashamed of my body,

00:04:19and he looked down on my small town roots. I guess only a coward would say something like that.

00:04:25You saw the ad. I'm looking for a mother for Leo, not a date for myself. My enemies terrified him

00:04:32when

00:04:32he was little. Ever since then, he's never felt safe, hates going outside, and has zero friends.

00:04:38I work long hours, so I need someone patient to stay with him. We'll sign a prenup. Everything

00:04:45stays separate, especially what happens in the bedroom. I looked into his eyes, and my heart

00:04:49skipped a beat. My ex and I signed a similar prenup over our background gap. When the love died,

00:04:54I left the house, and a powerful mafia family like the Castellanos. They would be even more cautious.

00:05:00I understand. Honestly, if you just need someone around the house, we don't have to make it legal.

00:05:06I don't mind skipping all the paperwork. Luca shook his head. He leaned forward,

00:05:10lightly tapping his fingers against the table. The marriage is for Leo. He needs a mother's love,

00:05:15something stable and lasting. And marriage is the strongest contract there is.

00:05:20Fine. We'll do it your way. Don't worry. You'll have a monthly allowance of $100,000.

00:05:28That was the part I actually cared about. If we ever get divorced, will the money you've given me

00:05:34still be mine? Of course. It's yours. Then okay. As for sex, I have no expectations of you. Just stay

00:05:40on the second floor. Of course. So, three days after I signed my divorce papers, I got married again.

00:05:45There was no ceremony. Just like my first wedding. But at dinner, Luca suddenly slid a ring across

00:05:50the table toward me. It was the Castellano family's signet ring.

00:05:54There's no need to do this. Sebastian had never even given me his family ring. This was all for Leo.

00:06:00Only later did I realize he needed the illusion of a home. I fell silent for a moment. Then I

00:06:04took the

00:06:04ring. I'll keep it safe. That night, I had just gotten into bed when my door creaked open. Barefoot

00:06:11with Wild Bedhead. Leo stood there, fidgeting with his dinosaur pajamas.

00:06:16What's wrong, little man?

00:06:17Nora, can you read me a bedtime story? I can ask dad to give you more money.

00:06:24Come here.

00:06:25I pulled back the covers to make room for him. He scrambled in beside me like he'd waited all day.

00:06:31Nora, it's so cramped.

00:06:33Oh, you little rascal.

00:06:35I was only halfway through the story when he fell fast asleep against my shoulder.

00:06:39The next morning at breakfast, the butler told Luca that Leo had slept in my bed. Luca froze.

00:06:44I'll add another $50,000 to your monthly allowance.

00:06:47Mr. Castellano, that's really too much. Not even close. I'd put far more into my last marriage than

00:06:52that. An eyesore. You do nothing but eat and sleep. Mr. Castellano, you're really too generous.

00:07:00I like Leo. He's a good kid. Reading him a story is no trouble at all.

00:07:04The moment I said that, Leo walked over, wrapping his tiny, warm hand around my finger. He looked up

00:07:09at me with big, dark eyes like two grapes. He was clearly touched.

00:07:13Another $50,000. You've earned it. It's not up for negotiation.

00:07:17I gave in and thanked him. From that day on, Leo became my little shadow. Luca was busy with deals,

00:07:22guns, and bloodshed. He didn't come home for an entire month in that massive mansion. It was just

00:07:27Leo and me. I poured my heart into keeping him happy. Until my follow-up appointment. The butler

00:07:38had warned me that Leo could not leave the house. If he did, it could trigger a panic attack. I

00:07:42crouched down in front of him. Sweetheart, wait for me at home. I'll be back in an hour. He

00:07:47clutched my hand and refused to let go. He didn't say a word, only looked at me with those dark,

00:07:52sorrowful eyes. I'll be right back. I'm just going to see the doctor. Then I'll come straight here

00:07:57and play, okay? You stay here and play. Before I could finish speaking, he scrambled into the back

00:08:01seat. The butler fought to hide his rising hope. Leo, do you want to go to the hospital with Nora?

00:08:09Thank God. He's finally willing to leave the house. Your depression is getting better. Just take

00:08:15it slow and try to relax. I picked up my prescription and medication, then left. Leo was waiting for me

00:08:20in

00:08:20the lobby with his little, little hero toy. Nia, are you sick? When I was teeny tiny, I didn't eat

00:08:25and got super sick. Promise you won't do that to yourself. Does it hurt? Here, you can have my candy.

00:08:33Dad says it makes the pain go away. Tears suddenly spilled down my cheeks. I have depression. Quit

00:08:41faking sick just for attention. The nephew I'd raised for two years stood beside his mother the day she

00:08:45came back. He called me fat and ugly. But this Ford Zanyardzan old mafia air pressed his very last

00:08:50piece of candy into my hand. I'm gonna eat all my meals so I can grow up and protect you.

00:08:56Then you'd

00:08:56better grow up fast, sweetheart. When we walked out of the hospital, a black Maybach was idling

00:09:01at the curb. Luca was leaning against it. He pulled Leo into his arms, but he noticed Leo was calm

00:09:11and

00:09:11composed. Dad, as long till I'm with Nora, you don't have to worry anymore. That night, Luca tried to

00:09:18give me another raise. This time, he even offered me a black card. I refused instantly, making him laugh.

00:09:27Nora, you must want something. Can you help me find a used car under five grand? That way I can

00:09:32take

00:09:32Leo out without relying on a driver. Take any car you want from the garage. Your cheapest car is a

00:09:38quarter million. I'm not driving that. Fine. The next morning, a beat-up sedan was parked beside

00:09:43Luca's black Bentley. He'd even brought in a psychiatrist from out of town for me. The diagnosis

00:09:48matched the hospital's, but this time, I was prescribed imported brand name meds I could never

00:09:52have afforded before. Your wife needs company. Keep her stress-free. I will. The next day, I took Leo

00:10:01out with me. He'd always been insecure and barely knew the world outside. Now, I wanted to show it to

00:10:06him.

00:10:06Our first stop was the amusement park. He grabbed my hand and pulled me over to take pictures.

00:10:11Then, I took him to a farmer's market. He'd never been somewhere like that in his entire life.

00:10:15I don't want to carry this. Leo, my hands are full. It's only a few steps. Just this once,

00:10:22okay? And no more ordering lobster. Nora?

00:10:27It was Sebastian, my ex-husband. He was in a crisp suit, hair perfect, looking like he'd stepped out of

00:10:33a magazine cover. It had been five weeks since the divorce. My stomach nodded on contact Sebastian,

00:10:38and I had met in college. He came from one of those Wall Street elite families, the golden boy

00:10:42of high finance. He'd ignored every objection from his family to put a ring on me at our wedding.

00:10:46He'd promised to protect me for life. Then, he took over Crane Capital. He started finding fault

00:10:50with everything he wanted me to quit my job, taking care of his parents, take care of his sister's kid,

00:10:55cook laundry cleaning. I did all of it because I loved him. Because I'd never been loved by my own

00:10:59family and didn't know any better until one day I caught him in a private club with a girl in

00:11:03his

00:11:03lap. My whole world shattered. I cried. I screamed. I begged him to swear it would stop. The whole Crane

00:11:07family said I was overreacting. What successful man doesn't have side action? Sebastian said I'd

00:11:12been spoiled rotten. He blocked my number, stopped coming home. My depression cratered. I filed for

00:11:16divorce. He thought it was a bluff. His family told him. Don't let her win. He had his lawyer draft

00:11:21papers. I walked out with nothing, signed them in seven seconds. Four years of dating, three years of marriage

00:11:26done. Noah Ivy. League degree and here you are playing nanny. What were you thinking? Not your

00:11:31business. Nora, try to understand the day you married into the Crane family. You represent the

00:11:38Crane name. Sebastian, we're divorced. I have nothing to do with your family anymore. Even divorced,

00:11:43you're my ex-wife. People still bring me up when they talk about you. Stop embarrassing. Use your head

00:11:46for one. Stop being emotional all the time. Nora, a few weeks out here, bet you miss being Mrs. Crane,

00:11:51don't you? Admit you were wrong. I'll think about taking you back. The girls outside the marriage,

00:11:56those were nothing. I haven't replaced you. The position's still open. Just swallow your pride,

00:12:01apologize to my mother and my sister. Don't bother holding it. Give the seat to someone else,

00:12:05Sebastian. I'm not interested. On the drive home, a new number called Connor, the nephew I'd raised for

00:12:10two years. I'd blocked the rest of the Crane's, not him. Kids didn't pick their parents. Hey, Con.

00:12:15Nora, you divorced loser. My mom wants to talk to you. My throat closed up. Then Cassandra Crane took the

00:12:22phone. Noah, Sebastian tells me you're working as a nanny. Have you ever thought about anyone but

00:12:27yourself? You're slapping Sebastian's face. You're slapping the Crane name. What does that look like

00:12:32to people? Nora, I always said it. You'll never rise above your roots. Trash dressed in silk. I hung

00:12:38up, blocked her, pulled over. I crashed onto the steering wheel and bawled. I cried until I couldn't

00:12:43breathe. I cried until I was so empty. I felt nothing. Then I sat up, wiped my face, felt the

00:12:50exhaustion

00:12:50settle bone deep. Nora, here tissue. I'd forgotten Leo was in the back seat. He was holding a tissue

00:12:55out from his car seat. Big, sad eyes glued to me. I'm sorry, sweetheart. Did I scare you? I'm not

00:13:00scared. You can cry as long as you want. I'll wait. Adults crying isn't shameful. I won't laugh.

00:13:06Thanks, my little gentleman. Auntie's done. No more crying from now on. Let's go home. I went to bed

00:13:11early that night. Didn't feel up to dinner. Then a knock. Nora, can I come in? Robe tied carefully.

00:13:20I made sure nothing was showing. Come in. He was wearing a shirt, making the snake tattoo stand

00:13:26out even more. Dark hair falling loose over his forehead, whiskey in his hand, looser than I'd

00:13:30ever seen him. He sat in the chair by my bed, his gaze flicked to my wet collarbone, then immediately

00:13:36to the wall like he'd been caught. The clothes in your closet, you never wear any of them.

00:13:44They're too nice. I'm not used to it. I'd learned one thing from the crane marriage. Don't force

00:13:49yourself into a world that isn't yours. The fall is uglier when they shove you out.

00:13:53Are they not your style? I'll have the designer come fit you for new ones.

00:13:57No, no, Mr. Castellano. I'm in the house all day with Leo. There's nowhere to wear that

00:14:02kind of thing, truly. I heard you saw your ex today. His name's Crane, the stupid Crane

00:14:08Capital. I froze. Leo had snitched. Yes, that Crane old news.

00:14:13Nora, since you came, Leo's been a different child.

00:14:15Thank you. His eyes were dark and serious on mine. I shifted uncomfortable. You pay

00:14:20me very well. It's what I'm here for.

00:14:22Nora, ask me for anything. I can probably make it happen.

00:14:25Mr. Castellano, I don't need anything. He was quiet a long moment. His fingers tightened

00:14:30on his knee, then released. He stood up.

00:14:35I'll say this again. I'm the Don of the Castillo family. If you want, if you want, I can make

00:14:39sure he never speaks anymore more by tomorrow.

00:14:41I took a step back, still not used to him being this close. Without warning, he tucked

00:14:45a strand of hair behind my ear.

00:14:47Did I scare you?

00:14:48I said nothing. His hand slid down from my cheek. He gave a faint smile, then walked out.

00:14:52For the next two weeks, Luca started coming home early. Dinner with Leo and me. Sometimes

00:14:57board games after, sometimes a movie. A man who ran half of New York's underworld didn't

00:15:00change his schedule for no reason. I was starting to worry. Was the family in trouble? Not that

00:15:04I cared about him. I just really cared about my 150 grand a month.

00:15:08Mr. Castellano, you don't have to keep coming home this early.

00:15:11Leo has me. If you've got business, take it. Luca picked up a red Lego brick voice, perfectly

00:15:16neutral. The psychiatrist said, you need family. Leo and I are your family now. We have

00:15:21responsibilities. Since when are we family? I wanted to say, I didn't. Honestly, Leo's

00:15:26enough. The doctor said my improvement is mostly thanks to him. He stroked his chin, avoiding

00:15:31eye contact. I grabbed Leo's hand and stood. Come on, buddy. Story time. Daddy still has

00:15:36work. Leo and I walked out, Luca's voice stopping me at the doorway. Yes, his ears were faintly

00:15:41pink. He cleared his throat. Tomorrow night there's an event, plus suns required. Would

00:15:46you come with me? Me? You. I don't have time to find someone

00:15:50else. I'll pay you an appearance fee. A man with his face couldn't find a date in

00:15:5624 hours. I didn't think too much. There was money on the table, sure. I don't know the

00:16:02social rules in your world, though. I don't want to embarrass you. The Cranes were a moneyed

00:16:07family, too. But Sebastian had never taken me to anything, because his mother... She

00:16:13doesn't know how to act in public. Don't let her embarrass us. Stand next to me. That's

00:16:19all. Luca's brow eased. If you want, I can make the gossipers shut up for good. The butler

00:16:24chimed in. Miss Bennett, you don't need to know the rules. The dawn is the rules. Hard to argue

00:16:32with that. The next afternoon, a design team showed up at the mansion. Five people, most

00:16:36of them, flown in from Paris, hair, makeup, dress, jewelry. They huddled and debated each

00:16:41detail for 20 minutes at a stretch. By the time Luca came home, I was starting to feel sick

00:16:47about how much was on me. He walked in, saw me, his eyes did something. A brief flash,

00:16:52almost stunned before he caught himself.

00:16:54Daddy, look how pretty Nora is. Call her mom. Leo turned his head and her rump wouldn't say

00:17:00it. I patted his hair. It's okay. I like Nora makes me feel young.

00:17:06The event was Charity Gala at the Plaza. Every major name in New York was there. Old money,

00:17:11bigger money, political faces. A few faces I recognized from the papers and a few I knew

00:17:16not to recognize at all. They orbited Luca immediately. Conversations started landing on

00:17:20me. Mr. Castellino, who's the beautiful lady? I jumped in to save him. I'm a friend of Mr.

00:17:27Castellino's. My wife Nora. The room shifted. A chorus of polite gasps. Compliments raining down.

00:17:35My face went hot to my collarbone. Luca squeezed my hand, leaned in. Nora is being my wife really that

00:17:41embarrassing? You couldn't say it? Bourbon and cedar on his breath. No, I just, I didn't want to

00:17:47embarrass you. His eyes darkened. He looked at me like he was lighting something on fire.

00:17:52Only a weak man is embarrassed by his wife. I had to look away. I'll grab a drink. I bolted.

00:17:58I'd been hiding by the champagne tower for about 90 seconds when. There was no date,

00:18:03just him had it. Luca said plus ones required. Sebastian's face was pure stunned. It is you.

00:18:08I almost didn't recognize you. I've never seen you look like this. I stepped back.

00:18:12stay away from me. Nina, about my sister's call, that wasn't me. I'd never authorized that. Truth

00:18:18is, I only agreed to the divorce to teach you a lesson. Braddy wife needed reminding. I never

00:18:22actually planned to let you go. Apologize to my mom. And my sister will remarry. I'll forget the rest.

00:18:30Crane Capital is bleeding right now. I'm slumped. Stop making things hard for me. He reached for my

00:18:35hand. The Sebastian special one slap. One kiss he'd run me on that loop for three years. I am not

00:18:40the

00:18:40Nora he married anymore. I yanked back. Sebastian divorced means divorced. I'd rather sleep under

00:18:46the Brooklyn peerage than wear your last name again. Find someone else for that throne. Still

00:18:51stubborn. You haven't suffered enough. Crawl find me when you've actually been broken. That is when

00:18:56Luca started walking toward us. Sebastian's whole posture changed. Nora, we'll talk later. There's a

00:19:01heavyweight I need to corner. Don't get in the way. Plastered on his best smile and intercepted Luca

00:19:06with a business card already out. My Don. I'm Sebastian Crane. Crane Capital. I'd like to talk

00:19:11about the mandate you pulled. Five years. Crane Capital ran the books on every fund Castellano

00:19:16Holdings put on the street. Then you cut us out overnight. If we fell short, tell me where.

00:19:21Whatever you need. I'll make it right. Sebastian half bowed. Luca's eyes went past him straight to

00:19:26me. Nora, what do you think? Should I give him a second chance? Sebastian's smile froze. Nora.

00:19:33What does she have to do with? Mr. Castellini, you should know. Nora is my ex-wife. I don't know

00:19:39how she got in here tonight. Probably trying to ambush me into reckoning. Illusion. She's just a

00:19:42housewife. Pay her no mind. Luca didn't even glance at him. Nora, your call. I'll follow your lead.

00:19:48I kept my voice flat. Mr. Crane just asked me not to interfere in his business conversation. I'd hate to

00:19:53interfere. Sebastian flared. A man's business is none of your concern. Of course, small town

00:20:00instincts. Luca's voice came in cold and final. Then I'd assume my wife doesn't approve of Crane

00:20:05Capital. We'll have to pass. His arms slid around my shoulders. He turned us toward the bar.

00:20:10Sebastian was still standing there, brain catching up. Then a man in a tuxedo brushed past him.

00:20:16Crane, you insulted Don's wife. You stepped on a live mine. That's the only woman who's ever been

00:20:20on his arm in 20 years. Castellano's wife? Impossible. The woman's a nanny in the Castellano

00:20:26house.

00:20:27Sebastian had seen Nora at the farmer's market driving the cheap car. Carrying a lobster for

00:20:31the brat, he knew what he saw. A fancy dress didn't make a duchess. The man shook his head

00:20:35and walked off. Some idiots won't listen. Let them die. That night, Luca bit on a Picasso study

00:20:39and three pieces of war-era jewelry. 180 million in collectibles donated to the children's hospital

00:20:45under my name. After that, the gala turned into a receiving line.

00:20:48Mrs. Castellano, there's a small tea at my place next week. Would you grace us?

00:20:51Mrs. Castellano, my husband is bidding on a Castellano project. Just a quiet word to the Don.

00:20:55I'd never been on this side of a room. I drank three glasses to keep my hands steady.

00:20:59On the fourth, Luca intercepted.

00:21:00Apologies, everyone. My wife isn't a drinker. I'll take hers.

00:21:06Then he drank for me three more times. By the time we slid into his Rolls Royce, we were both

00:21:10lit.

00:21:11I glanced out the window. Sebastian was on the curb watching us, mouth curled in that ugly

00:21:15little smirk, like I was the punchline. I closed the curtain, turned to Luca.

00:21:19Mr. Castellano, thank you for tonight, for what you did with Sebastian.

00:21:23Nora, we're husband and wife. Stop thanking me.

00:21:28His voice came out low, soft around the edges.

00:21:31We're a paper husband and wife. You didn't have to.

00:21:35His arm lifted. Long fingers tilted my chin up. His thumb brushed slow against my jaw.

00:21:39Nora, what if I don't want a paper marriage anymore?

00:21:43He was too close. His face was carved out of something dangerous, eyes blown black.

00:21:48Heat from his breath landed on my throat. He smelled like bourbon and that cedar cologne

00:21:51and something underneath that was just him. The most controlled man in New York was looking

00:21:55at my mouth like he wanted it.

00:21:57Mr. Castellano, you've had too much.

00:22:04You're right. I'm sorry.

00:22:08The rest of the ride was silence. A heavy humming silence with my pulse loud in my ears.

00:22:12Leo saved me. He sprinted at the front door with his picture book. I scooped him up and

00:22:16ran upstairs before I had to look Luca in the face again. I tucked Leo in, then opened my laptop

00:22:21and

00:22:21started scrolling job boards. Sebastian was right about one thing. My Ivy League degree shouldn't

00:22:25be wasted by eating in a mansion playing house. I'd done that marriage already. Stayed home. Made

00:22:30myself small. The minute he didn't need me, he tossed me into the street with nothing. I'd be damned if

00:22:34I let that happen twice. While Leo needed me, I had a place here. The day he didn't. What was

00:22:39I?

00:22:39Though I am not ready to go back to work yet physically or mentally. But knowing the market,

00:22:43updating a resume that couldn't hurt. Then my phone lit up a text from Luca. The butler did the coffee

00:22:48always. And the first rule of this house was don't go to the third floor. I ground a fresh espresso

00:22:52anyway. Then I stood at the bottom of the staircase, hesitated. Was this a test? Did the last

00:22:57applicant get launched out a window after being summoned upstairs? Was this revenge? The car I

00:23:01called him? Mr. Castellina, coffee's here. Come down for it. Bring it up. I hit the record button

00:23:08on my phone. Caught it if he tried anything sketchy. I had proof. I climbed the stairs. Knocked.

00:23:17Come in. I pushed the door open and forgot how to breathe. He'd just gotten out of the shower.

00:23:22Black silk robe loosely tied at the waist. A drop slid from his jaw down his throat into the open

00:23:27road.

00:23:27Bath house art. Renaissance painting. Holy hell. He took the coffee. His fingertips dragged across

00:23:32mine on purpose. That scared of me. Nora? Am I a monster, Nora? From now on, you can come into

00:23:40my room whenever you want. My face still burned. The rules of this house and the rules of my heart

00:23:46were both breaking. I woke up the next morning with a sore throat. Sneezing, of course. Wet hair. Late

00:23:51night fancy dress. Too much champagne. I trudged downstairs, fully expecting the sprawling living room to be

00:23:56empty. Instead, Lupo was sitting on the couch, and he set down the newspaper he'd been holding.

00:24:00You're sick. A little the back of his hand landed on my forehead. Calm practice like he did it every

00:24:05morning. I went stiff as a board. Not bad. I'll grab some therapy. You'll be fine.

00:24:11He guided me to the couch like I was made of glass. Walked to the kitchen. A six. Put something

00:24:16mafia don, stirring a packet of cold medicine into a mug. Usually a don would poison the drink instead.

00:24:21I caught myself wondering what kind of woman Leo's mother had been to deserve a man like

00:24:26this. I drank the Theraflu and slunk back to bed. I didn't want to be in his way. So

00:24:31I just dozed off when an unknown number rang.

00:24:35Nora. It's me, Sebastian. Dona am parked outside the Castellini gate. Come out or I'll be at

00:24:41the front door. Up to you.

00:24:43Sebastian intercepted me on the sidewalk.

00:24:45Nora, how long is this stunt going on for Mrs. Kerr working as a nanny? You don't feel humiliated,

00:24:49but I do. I'm not doing anything to you, Sebastian.

00:24:53Stop the act. You dressed up last night to make me jealous. Fine. I'll admit it. After

00:24:58you left, I missed you a little. Here's the deal. Apologize to my mom and my sister. We

00:25:04remarry. You can stop scrubbing floors for strangers.

00:25:09Sebastian, I didn't do anything wrong. What am I apologizing for?

00:25:14You still don't see the problem. You haven't been beaten down enough.

00:25:18I was about to fire back when a small round cannonball blew past me.

00:25:22Leo, when he saw a strange man hassling me, he did not hesitate.

00:25:25My mom didn't do anything wrong. My mom is the best mom in the whole world.

00:25:30He glared up at him like a furious cherub protecting me. Something cracked open in my

00:25:34chest. I pulled him in tight.

00:25:37Kid, what did you just call her? Isn't she your nanny?

00:25:40You're a nanny? Your whole family is a nanny. Nora is my mom. My best mom.

00:25:46He pulled back anxious. I nodded. My eyes were wet again.

00:25:51Nora, you'll be my mom, right? I'll be so good. I promise.

00:25:55Leo, I am your mom, sweetheart.

00:25:58He squeezed me tighter and refused to let go. Sebastian's face twisted into a slow,

00:26:02ugly smile.

00:26:03Oh, I see it now. Nora, you're putting a child up to it. You're playing the long game on Castatoni.

00:26:09He grabbed my arm.

00:26:12Listen, Castorano isn't a man you scam. He's known for ice in his veins. He finds out you're using

00:26:18his son to angle for him. He'll bury you in the East River.

00:26:21A warm hand landed on my waist. I hadn't heard him come outside, Luca. He pulled me into him.

00:26:27Mr. Crane, the last time we spoke, you insulted my wife. That's why I pulled the mandate. I was

00:26:31planning to tell the other firms on the street that this was personal. They could keep doing

00:26:34business with Crane Capital after today. I don't think I need a Castellino.

00:26:37What wife? Who's your wife? Mr. Crane, are you really still confused? Or are you only capable

00:26:42of believing what you want to believe? Nora's my wife, the mother of my son. Send him off.

00:26:47Luca turned to the butler at the door. If anyone like this bothers Mrs. Castellino again,

00:26:51have my men throw him. Out he took Leo with one arm wrapped the other. Around me walked us inside.

00:26:57The second the door closed, I peeled out of Luca's arm awkward as hell. I took Leo upstairs to my

00:27:01room.

00:27:02Leo, where were you all morning? I didn't see you all day.

00:27:04Don't even ask. Dad sent me to preschool. What you-

00:27:07Prescore? He said he didn't want you working too hard. He said he need alone time with you.

00:27:11Why does he need alone time with me? Dad said he had to make you fall in love with him.

00:27:15Otherwise you might leave us. Leo was four sentences into his report when Luca

00:27:19appeared in the doorway. Leo, downstairs. Dinner. Stop bothering your mother.

00:27:23My whole face hot. Mom, I'll be back to keep you company in a bit.

00:27:26He scampered out. Luca didn't leave. He walked in.

00:27:31Feeling better?

00:27:32I looked sideways. Mr. Castellino, thank you for what you did. Please don't ruin a business

00:27:35decision for me. I'm really not worth it. Not worth what? What you did out there.

00:27:39Nora, I told you you're my wife. Protecting you is my job, but stop calling this a paper marriage.

00:27:44Nora, I want a real one. I had not expected him to swing this hard,

00:27:47this fast. My face went up in flames. I'll give you time. Take whatever you need. But right now,

00:27:53I want to collect just a little husband privilege. Before I could form a coherent thought,

00:27:58he leaned in. A long warm hand cradled my cheek. Can I? I didn't say a word. I'll take this

00:28:03as

00:28:04consent. Then his lips crashed against mine hard and ruthless. His tongue swept into my mouth,

00:28:09stealing the air from my lungs. Right. This was how a mafia boss kissed. Cold merciless taking

00:28:13whatever he wanted. The kiss lasted so long. My mind went blank. By the time he finally pulled away,

00:28:18he rubbed his thumb over my swollen lips. My little princess, that's enough for today. Next time,

00:28:24I won't let you off so easily. Leo got hauled to preschool again the next morning under protest.

00:28:31My cold was almost gone. If I wanted to see a movie after everything that had happened. I thought

00:28:36about it. We were married on paper. If something real was going to grow there, that wasn't the

00:28:40worst outcome. He had a private media room on the third floor. It was my first time entering other

00:28:45room and third floor before that. He showed me his collection room. An entire wall was covered in

00:28:49cold weapons, daggers, knives, blades of every kind. Honestly, it was breathtaking. I was still

00:28:54standing there staring at the wall when. He stepped up behind me and fastened a necklace around my neck.

00:28:58Another snake, exactly like the tattoo on his body. A little gift. Don't reject it.

00:29:03Then he took my hand and led me into the media room. He put on a French romance film,

00:29:07slow, elegant kisses on the screen, mixed with far less elegant sounds in the background.

00:29:11Luca leaned closer, his voice brushing against my ear. His body covered mine as his mouth came down,

00:29:18online soft at first. Careful one hand slid gently around my throat. Then the kiss deepened,

00:29:23rougher, heavier. The kind that stole every thought from my head. He slid a glossy stack

00:29:27of brochures into my hand.

00:29:28Nora, pick a wedding planner. I owe you a real wedding. Dawn's wife should carry that honor forever.

00:29:34I want every person in this city to know, Nora Bennett is my wife, and I'm her husband.

00:29:39I only regret I didn't put it all at your feet the night you walked through that door.

00:29:43The night I walked through that door? We didn't even know each other. How are we supposed to?

00:29:47Nira, the night I saw you in that doorway, I already wanted you.

00:29:52Our wedding was bigger than anything New York had hosted in a decade. Old families,

00:29:56new money, senators, a cardinal, the mayor. We were on the front page for three days running.

00:30:00I scolded Luke of the butler beamed.

00:30:02Mrs. Castellano, the dawn has been quiet his entire life. This is the first time he's ever been loud.

00:30:09I let it go the night of the wedding. A strange number called me. Luca's long arm reached over

00:30:13and killed the call. His fingers tightened on my waist. After he was winding a strand of my hair

00:30:18around his finger, he cleared his throat a little awkward.

00:30:20Nora, I want to tell you a secret.

00:30:23I made a small, sleepy sound. He spoke quietly in pieces.

00:30:27Leo isn't my son, he's my sister's.

00:30:29His parents had died when he was 13. He and his elder sister went through a dark period in the

00:30:33empire,

00:30:34until one day she married head Leo, but happiness suddenly ended when she and her husband were

00:30:38killed in a shooting three years ago. Luca wiped out that whole family. Then he put Leo on his own

00:30:42birth certificate. Quietly, so nobody could ever take him.

00:30:45I thought it would be Leo and me forever. Then you walked in and nothing was the same.

00:30:49He kissed me again. A few months later, I walked out of the hospital alongside Leo.

00:30:53Mom, dad said you weren't sick anymore. Why'd we go to the hospital?

00:30:58Because mom has a baby in her tummy.

00:31:00Yes, I finally get a sister!

00:31:02What if it's a brother?

00:31:03If it's a brother, we throw him in the trash. If it's a sister, she plays with me.

00:31:08Out of the mouths of babes, I was laughing when a figure stepped in front of me.

00:31:11A man wild hair, filthy coat, hunched shoulders. I almost dug for a few bucks.

00:31:15Sebastian Crane.

00:31:16Nora.

00:31:17Leo planted himself in front of me on instinct. I pulled him to my side and squeezed his shoulder.

00:31:31Then I remembered what Luca had mentioned weeks back. First, the Castellano family cut all ties

00:31:36with Crane Capital. Then the rest of New York followed. Nobody wanted to risk losing Castellano

00:31:41favor. Within weeks, Sebastian's company collapsed. His sister Cassandra, the person he trusted most,

00:31:47had been stealing client money for years. The moment everything fell apart,

00:31:50she fled to the south of France with her family. She left Sebastian alone to take the blame.

00:31:55Crane Capital went bankrupt overnight. Now Sebastian stood in front of me, sobbing, begging.

00:32:00I didn't feel anything for him.

00:32:02Sebastian, people are equal. Your fault, your mess, you pay for it.

00:32:09No one can help you behind me.

00:32:10The lobby door is open. Luca had just finished with my OB. He walked toward us.

00:32:16Nora, let's go home.

00:32:18We walked past Sebastian Crane like he wasn't there, because he wasn't not in our life,

00:32:22not anymore. Through my whole pregnancy, Luca was far more anxious than I was. He doubled

00:32:27the security on the entire estate. I never went anywhere without an escort. He had every

00:32:31sharp corner in the house padded, fit carpet laid across every floor. Sometimes I'd only

00:32:36shift in bed, and he would ask worriedly,

00:32:38does something hurt? He'd stroke my belly, pressing his ear against it.

00:32:43I think I just heard the baby calling for me. Leo asked wide-eyed. Why isn't the baby calling for

00:32:48me?

00:32:49One night after Leo fell asleep, I found him alone out on the balcony. I walked over and wrapped my

00:32:54arms

00:32:55around him from behind. You don't have to worry. The baby will be born safe. He kissed my forehead.

00:33:01I keep wondering if who I am has put you and the kids in too much danger. My sister died

00:33:05because of

00:33:06the family name, and before you came, Leo wasn't happy, neither was I. Before you came, we just

00:33:10complete each other. I pressed closer to his chest. I made my peace with it a long time ago. Being

00:33:15the

00:33:15Don's wife can't be harder than being the Crane's maid. My brave girl.

00:33:19At nearly 10 months, my water broke at 2 a.m. A team of doctors and nurses rushed me into

00:33:25delivery.

00:33:25Luca waited outside. The contractions came like waves, trying to break me in half. A nurse held

00:33:30my hand. Her grip was wrong. Too strong, too steady. I looked up at her face. Sharp, calm,

00:33:37a small scar through one eyebrow. You're not a nurse? No. There's a debt your husband never

00:33:43finished paying. The family he buried three years ago still has a few teeth left. We came to collect

00:33:49tonight. My breathing went ragged. The other nurses in the room started screaming, but I knew he was

00:33:54standing right outside, so I didn't panic. I gripped the sheet. Go ahead and try. Right then, the delivery

00:34:00room door opened. A rat that should have died years ago. I've been waiting for you too long. Luca and

00:34:05his

00:34:05men had the woman pinned in seconds. He held my hand, and the coldest mafia boss in New York let

00:34:11a single

00:34:11tear fall. My baby girl was born at 442 a.m. 7 pounds, furious lungs. Luca took her like she

00:34:18was made of glass. Sophia, after my sister. Leo barged in at dawn, peered into the blanket,

00:34:26and gasped. It's a girl. I'll be her hero from now on. She'll be the princess. I laughed until I

00:34:32cried.

00:34:33The four of us finally impossibly whole. I learned the rest later. The fake nurse was a remnant of the

00:34:37family that murdered Luca's sister three years ago. Sebastian had fled to Europe in Sicily. He found

00:34:43what was left of them clinging to life. Hatred drove him to something insane. They thought the

00:34:47dawn would be too busy with a wife in labor to notice that night while the hospital stood locked

00:34:51down. Several of the docks were hit at the same time. But Luca built this empire out of blood and

00:34:56bone at 16. Turning back an attack like that was as easy as breathing for him. Blood. Gunfire. I didn't

00:35:02see most of it. My life stayed bright. House filled with laughter because of Sophia's coming one night.

00:35:07Luca asked if I wanted to see Sebastian just once. He keeps begging to see you. I was busy making

00:35:12faces

00:35:13at Sophia with Leo. No need. Do whatever you want with him. That man has nothing to do with me

00:35:17now.

00:35:17I only care about my new family. Leo loves his sister and he takes his new job seriously.

00:35:23By the second week, he had appointed himself Sophia's full-time bodyguard. No bad guys get past me,

00:35:28dad said. Sophia blinked at him, then sneezed. Mom, she did a magic spell. He was convinced he was

00:35:35Sophia's personal interpreter too. Every cry held a meaning only he could understand. She wants the

00:35:39blue blanket, not the yellow one, obviously. Three years later, accompanied by our little man Leo,

00:35:45our daughter Sophia grew up and I decided to return to work. He handed me the company he valued most,

00:35:51Meridian. They once offered me a position on their securities desk. I leaped into his arms.

00:35:55Luca, your wife is going back to work. You should have told me sooner. I fund half the

00:36:00businesses in Jersey City. But I must prove it myself as Nora Benin. A woman who can take on a

00:36:05new day can take on anything. I'll arrange an apartment closest to the office. I have a villa

00:36:10on Caven Point Peninsula. Once I settle things here, I'll bring the kids to you. Mama, I want to go

00:36:15with you. Sweetheart, it's only a week. I'll have someone pick you up. The plane touched down in

00:36:20Jersey City, dragging my carry-on out of arrivals. I spotted a woman holding up a sign. It clearly

00:36:26read my name, Nora Bennett. She wore a tailored skirt suit, flanked by two or three employees.

00:36:32With flawless makeup, she oozed arrogance. As I approached, she scanned me head to toe,

00:36:38raised a brow, and laughed. So it really is you, Nora? She folded her arms, her voice dripping with

00:36:43contempt. I thought headquarters sent a big shot, but it's just you. I recognized her, Vanessa Thorne.

00:36:48She'd been my college classmate for four years, and she bullied me the entire time.

00:36:52Now, she was an executive at Meridian Jersey City Branch, the exact person Luca sent to pick me up.

00:36:58She clearly didn't link me to the special rep from headquarters. To her, I was just a newbie

00:37:03who lucked into Meridian. Her employees snickered, eyeing my simple, casual outfit.

00:37:07Years after graduation, and you're still this broke? Thought you'd actually make something of

00:37:11yourself after disappearing all these years. Guess you're just scraping by in Jersey.

00:37:14Then again, in college, you were too poor to even afford club dudes. Yet now you're at Meridian?

00:37:18Did you sleep your way in?

00:37:25Oh, and I almost forgot. She deliberately raised her voice, letting everyone hear.

00:37:31I'm close with the owner, Mr. Luca Castellano. You'd better watch yourself around here.

00:37:37One word from me, and you'll be clearing out your desk.

00:37:40I watched her show in silence. Luca had told me Vanessa would be meeting me.

00:37:44I just didn't expect her. I planned to go undercover, earn my place on my own.

00:37:48Mistaking my silence for fear, Vanessa grew even smugger.

00:37:51She waved me off like a beggar.

00:37:52Forget it. I was going to drive you. But look at you. You'll dirty my car.

00:37:57Take a cab. Report to the office by nine tomorrow. If you're late, don't even bother coming.

00:38:03Her employees snickered silently, but no one dared say a word.

00:38:06I didn't argue. I turned and wheeled my suitcase away.

00:38:10Outside the airport, I called my driver. Luca had already arranged my private car in

00:38:14Cavan Point Estate. I just didn't want to show them off yet.

00:38:17Rain poured harder against the car window. Touching the starlight sapphire bracelet around

00:38:21my wrist, I traced the engraved L&N inside. Luca had said that once he wrapped things up in

00:38:26New York a week later, he would bring Leo and Sophia to be with me. I drew in a slow

00:38:30breath.

00:38:31Jersey City Meridian. I was back. This time, I'd stand on my own, two feet.

00:38:36Next morning, I showed up at the Jersey City office right on time. Vanessa froze, seeing

00:38:40me, her lips curling into a smirk. Heels clicking. She strode over, slamming a thick stack of

00:38:45files onto my desk. So you actually dared to show up. She folded her arms and looked down

00:38:49at me. Newbies, start with the basics. Organize these files by the end of the day. Not one

00:38:54page missing. Whispers moved through the office around me. My co-workers eyed me curiously,

00:38:59sucking up to Vanessa. I heard someone whisper, Vanessa, what's the new girl's story?

00:39:04What's her story? Vanessa laughed, not loudly, but enough for half the floor to hear.

00:39:08An old college class raid. Dirt poor back then. Lord knows how she lucked into Meridian.

00:39:13Watch yourselves. Don't associate with rip rag. It makes you look cheap.

00:39:17No one spoke after that. Everyone knew Vanessa had influence at the company. Rumor said she

00:39:22was tight with HQ's big boss. Nobody dared cross her. Over the next few days, Vanessa targeted

00:39:27me constantly. She threw my proposals back publicly, calling them complete garbage.

00:39:32In meetings, she grilled me with trick questions, waiting for a stumble. She even mocked my homemade

00:39:37lunch. Poor people really know how to pinch pennies. Too cheap for takeout? I never defended

00:39:42myself, just working in silence. Then, on Friday afternoon, Vanessa stepped to the center of

00:39:47the office, clapping. Listen up, everyone. She smiled with satisfaction. Our team building

00:39:53is next Monday at a private estate on Caven Point Peninsula. The office erupted at once.

00:39:59Caven Point? Isn't that Mr. Castellano's private estate?

00:40:03Vanessa actually got us in there? That's insane! I always heard she and Mr. Luca Castellano

00:40:09were close. Guess the rumors are true. Soaking up the praise, Vanessa glared at me with undisguised

00:40:15defiance. Some people will never set foot in a place like that. She drawled. This team building

00:40:20is for everyone. Even our newest hire, Nora. Consider it a chance to see real high society.

00:40:26Stop living under a bach. I looked up at her with a faint smile. The estate on Caven Point

00:40:31Peninsula. The very place Luca gave me the keys to last week. Before I could pull out my access card

00:40:36and expose her, she delivered herself to me. Fine. Let's watch her play mistress in my own home.

00:40:41Sure. I'm in. I sat down my pen and met her gaze calmly. Let's see just how impressive it is.

00:40:49Vanessa sneered, walking away. She probably thought I was just saving face. She was waiting

00:40:54to see me embarrass myself there. Zoe, the colleague beside me, quietly tugged my sleeve.

00:40:59She whispered, Don't take Vanessa to heart. She's just like that. But Caven Point is hard to get

00:41:05into. Watch what you say there. I smiled at her without explaining. Seven days flew by.

00:41:11Monday morning, the company bus drove everyone to Caven Point Peninsula. Vanessa sat in front,

00:41:17talking about her history with Luca the entire ride. She claimed Luca valued her, and she could

00:41:23visit any time. I leaned against the window, quietly amused. The bus stopped at the estate's wrought

00:41:29iron gate. Piling off, everyone stared at the sprawling coastal estate in awe. The heavy,

00:41:35elaborately carved gates were closed. Beside them, the access panel gleamed in the cold light.

00:41:40Vanessa, open the gate already. We're dying to see inside. Nodding calmly, Vanessa reached into

00:41:47her bag. She rummaged through her bag, her face turning pale. I stood behind the group with my arms

00:41:52folded and spoke up slowly. What's wrong? No access card? Every eye turned toward me. Vanessa's face flushed

00:41:58crimson. She jerked her head up and glared at me. Nonsense. I'm the lady of this house. Why wouldn't I

00:42:03have an access card? It's just buried deep in my bag. Her voice stayed firm, but her hands kept

00:42:08digging. She nearly emptied her bag, but still no card. The whispers around her grew louder. A thin

00:42:13sheen of sweat formed on her forehead. My hand had already found the black access card Luca had

00:42:17given me in my pocket. Just as I touched it, a side gate cracked open. A middle-aged housekeeper

00:42:21hurried out, unnoticed. She slipped something to Vanessa and vanished back inside. It was Margaret,

00:42:26the head housekeeper of the estate. And Vanessa's mother. I raised an eyebrow and took my hand out of my

00:42:31pocket. Interesting. So that was their plan. The next second, Vanessa straightened up and

00:42:35triumphantly waved a white access card in front of me. She lifted her chin high. See? It's right

00:42:40here. I was only teasing you, seeing how worked up you'd get. Some people will never so much as

00:42:45touch an access card like this in their entire lives. All they can do is stand on the sidelines

00:42:49and make bitter little comments. She turned and tapped the access card against the reader.

00:42:52A beep sounded. The heavy gate slowly opened. Vanessa, you're amazing. She really got us in.

00:42:59I guess Vanessa really is the lady of the house.

00:43:01The praise kept coming. Vanessa soaked it up like a peacock showing off. She strutted through the

00:43:06gates first, then shot me a vicious glare over her shoulder. I followed at the back of the group,

00:43:10taking my time. Margaret stood in the shadows of the entry hall. When she saw me, her brow furrowed

00:43:15almost imperceptibly. But a second later, her face was back to its usual professional blankness.

00:43:21She clearly hadn't recognized me. To her, I was just another employee tagging along. The estate was

00:43:26lavish inside. Crystal chandeliers hung overhead, marble floors stretched beneath our feet,

00:43:31and artwork filled every room. My co-workers stared around in amazement. Vanessa led everyone

00:43:35through the rooms like she owned the place. Luca had this done especially for me. I picked that

00:43:40piece myself. She made it all sound so convincing, as if the estate really belonged to her. I walked to

00:43:45the floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room and looked out over the private beach. Sunlight caught

00:43:50the starlight sapphire bracelet at my wrist, scattering tiny flashes of blue. Vanessa turned

00:43:55at that exact moment and saw it. Her eyes lit up, and she came straight toward me.

00:43:59What are you wearing? Vanessa grabbed my wrist and raised my hand.

00:44:02My co-workers crowded around at once, staring at the sapphire bracelet around my wrist.

00:44:07Isn't that the starlight sapphire bracelet Mr. Castellano bought at last year's charity gala?

00:44:12I heard it was worth 30 million dollars. Mr. Castellano gave it to his wife. Her? Vanessa laughed

00:44:19and tightened her grip on my wrist. As if she could afford the real thing. It's obviously some

00:44:25cheap knockoff. The design is close, but it feels weightless. As she spoke, she pulled harder at the

00:44:31bracelet. I tried to pull my hand free, but her grip was too tight. Others around us joined in,

00:44:36laughing and jostling. Then I heard a sharp snap. The bracelet broke. The sapphire beads hit the

00:44:42marble floor and rolled in every direction. Someone shoved me hard. I lost my balance and hit the

00:44:47floor. My palms scraped the marble, and blood immediately welled along the broken skin.

00:44:53Oh, I'm sorry. She deliberately ground her heel over the scattered sapphire beads.

00:44:58But you shouldn't have worn a fake around trying to show off. Maybe it's better that it broke.

00:45:02At least you won't embarrass yourself wearing it in public.

00:45:05Exactly. It's only a knockoff, so what if it broke?

00:45:08Vanessa's the one who should be wearing the real thing. Nora's is obviously fake.

00:45:11She must be desperate, buying a fake just to look rich, and at the Castellano estate of all places.

00:45:15Their mockery came at me from every side. Vanessa stood over me with a triumphant smile.

00:45:20She bent down, picked up a sapphire bead, and waited in her palm disdainfully.

00:45:26The workmanship isn't terrible. It might fool someone who doesn't know any better.

00:45:30Then she lifted her hand, about to throw the sapphire through the window.

00:45:34Trash like this doesn't belong at the Castellano estate.

00:45:37I sat on the floor and watched her gloat. I slowly curled my hand into a fist.

00:45:42I never wanted things to come to a head this soon.

00:45:45I only wanted to settle into my new job quietly, and prove myself through my work.

00:45:49But she kept pushing me, again and again.

00:45:52Just as Vanessa raised her hand, the quick tap of little dress shoes came from the entryway.

00:45:57A young boy's bright, excited voice rang out.

00:46:02Everyone instinctively turned toward the sound.

00:46:04Leo came running in with a small backpack on his shoulders, his eyes shining with excitement.

00:46:09Then he saw me sitting on the floor.

00:46:11His smile froze, and his little face crumpled.

00:46:13He stood there for two seconds, then ran toward me as fast as his little legs could carry him.

00:46:19He threw himself into my arms and frantically reached for my bleeding palm.

00:46:23His voice was thick with tears.

00:46:26Mommy, what happened? Why are you bleeding?

00:46:29The room fell silent for a beat.

00:46:31Vanessa blinked, then seemed to realize something.

00:46:34She crossed her arms and let out a scornful laugh.

00:46:36So that's it. You brought your little tag along here to Freetload too.

00:46:40She gave Leo a sideways look, her voice sharp with contempt.

00:46:43A single mom bringing her bastard kid into a place like this?

00:46:46Aren't you worried he'll dirty the Castellani's estate?

00:46:49Shut up.

00:46:49My expression went cold as I pushed myself to my feet.

00:46:53Vanessa, take it out on me if you want, but don't talk about my son.

00:46:56What? Did I say something wrong?

00:46:59Vanessa sneered and slapped me hard across the face.

00:47:01A sharp slap rang out. My head snapped to the side.

00:47:04Unsteady on my feet, I fell heavily to the floor again.

00:47:07You think you get to make demands of me?

00:47:08She looked down at me with contempt.

00:47:11A woman nobody wants?

00:47:13Dragging around a bastard kid thinks she can act all high and mighty around me?

00:47:17You're bad! Don't hit my mommy!

00:47:20Leo's eyes reddened.

00:47:21He clenched his tiny fists and punched Vanessa's leg as hard as he could, his little body shaking with rage.

00:47:26He looked up at her and shouted every word as loudly as he could.

00:47:30Don't hurt my mommy!

00:47:32My daddy! My daddy is Luca Castaimo!

00:47:35The words exploded through the living room.

00:47:37Everyone froze and looked at one another in shock.

00:47:39Vanessa froze for a moment.

00:47:41Then she doubled over laughing, as if she'd heard the funniest thing in the world.

00:47:44She laughed until tears nearly came to her eyes.

00:47:47Luca Castellano?

00:47:49Then she grabbed Leo by the ear and twisted it hard.

00:47:52You little bastard.

00:47:53Couldn't you come up with a more believable lie?

00:47:55Your mother looks like she can barely afford to feed herself and you expect anyone to believe she knows Mr.

00:48:00Castellano?

00:48:01You're just like her.

00:48:03Nobody wants you and all you do is lie.

00:48:06Leo's eyes reddened with pain, but he clenched his teeth and refused to cry.

00:48:10He only glared at her.

00:48:11Then the entire living room went dead silent.

00:48:13The people who had been whispering moments ago went quiet, hardly daring to breathe.

00:48:17Vanessa didn't notice.

00:48:19She was still twisting Leo's ear, that mocking smile still on her face.

00:48:22At the entryway stood a tall figure, silent and still.

00:48:26Luca wore a custom black suit, with our precious little Sophia in his arms.

00:48:30His expression was icy, his dark eyes fixed on Vanessa's hand, still tugging Leo's ear.

00:48:34The head housekeeper, Margaret, went pale.

00:48:37She hurried over with her head bowed, her voice shaking.

00:48:39Mr. Castellano, why are you here?

00:48:42Luca didn't look at her.

00:48:43He didn't give her so much as a glance.

00:48:45He bent down and carefully set Sophia on the floor.

00:48:48In a white tulle dress, she toddled through the crowd on unsteady little legs.

00:48:52Luca followed behind her as they came toward us.

00:48:55Sophia's round eyes stayed on me as I sat on the floor.

00:48:59Mommy?

00:49:03How did this happen?

00:49:05I'm fine.

00:49:06I just fell.

00:49:08That's not true!

00:49:09She pushed Mommy!

00:49:10And she broke the bracelet Dad gave Mommy!

00:49:12Luca's gaze snapped to Vanessa.

00:49:14His eyes were cold.

00:49:16Mr. Castellano, why are you here?

00:49:18If I hadn't come, how would I have seen someone mistreating my wife under my own roof?

00:49:26The crowd erupted.

00:49:28His wife?

00:49:29Nora is Mr. Castellano's wife?

00:49:31Oh my god.

00:49:31The starlight sapphire bracelet was real?

00:49:34We were just mocking her with Vanessa.

00:49:36Vanessa said she was the lady of this house.

00:49:37What is going on?

00:49:38As whispers broke out around us, Vanessa went pale, then flushed, then went pale again.

00:49:43She forced a smile, though her voice trembled.

00:49:46Mr. Castellano, you have to be kidding.

00:49:48She's just some broke new hire.

00:49:49How could she possibly be your wife?

00:49:51She must have fooled you.

00:49:52Back in college, she-

00:49:53Shut up!

00:49:54Vanessa fell silent at once, trembling where she stood.

00:49:57Then Margaret rushed forward from the back of the crowd.

00:49:59She dropped to her knees with her head bowed.

00:50:01Mr. Castellano, this is my fault.

00:50:03I made a mistake.

00:50:05I made a mistake!

00:50:06I secretly gave Vanessa the access card.

00:50:09I never thought she would-

00:50:11So that was it.

00:50:12My co-workers understood at once.

00:50:14Vanessa wasn't the lady of the house, and she didn't have any special relationship with Luca.

00:50:19It had all been a lie.

00:50:21She was only the head housekeeper's daughter.

00:50:23Using her mother's position, she had slipped into the estate and pretended to be the lady of the house to

00:50:28put on a show.

00:50:30All the color drained from Vanessa's face.

00:50:32She looked from her mother on the floor to Luca.

00:50:34His face was dark with anger.

00:50:36Her legs gave out, and she nearly collapsed.

00:50:39Luca ignored both of them.

00:50:41He called the family doctor and told him to come immediately.

00:50:44The doctor arrived quickly and crouched beside me to treat the scrape on my palm.

00:50:48When the antiseptic touched the wound, I winced slightly.

00:50:52Luca's face darkened.

00:50:53Leo and Sophia stood on either side of me, glaring at the doctor.

00:50:57They looked just like Luca when he was angry.

00:51:01Be gentle!

00:51:02Leo called out.

00:51:03You're hurting my mommy!

00:51:04The doctor's hand jerked.

00:51:06He immediately softened his touch.

00:51:07When he finished treating my hand, he stood and addressed Luca respectfully.

00:51:13Mr. Castellino, Mrs. Castellino has only superficial injuries.

00:51:16She and the baby are both fine.

00:51:18No one but Luca knew I was eight weeks pregnant.

00:51:21At the word baby, Vanessa swayed.

00:51:24Her face went white as a sheet.

00:51:26Only then did Luca turn to Margaret and Vanessa, still on their knees.

00:51:31Margaret, he said calmly, his authority unmistakable.

00:51:35You've been the head housekeeper in my home for ten years.

00:51:38I've been good to you.

00:51:39And this is how you repay me?

00:51:41By letting your daughter use my estate without permission, pass herself off as one of my family

00:51:46and mistreat my wife?

00:51:48Margaret stayed on her knees, apologizing again and again.

00:51:52Mr. Castellino, I was wrong.

00:51:54I wasn't thinking.

00:51:55Please, give me one more chance.

00:51:57Another chance?

00:51:58Luca gave a cold laugh.

00:52:00As of today, you're fired.

00:52:02You are never to set foot in any Castellino property or business.

00:52:05Your daughter used a private estate without permission, damaged valuable property, and

00:52:09assaulted my wife.

00:52:10We'll handle this through the proper legal channels.

00:52:12She'll be held responsible for every dollar in damages.

00:52:14He paused and looked at Vanessa.

00:52:16You won't be returning to Meridian, Jersey City branch.

00:52:19You're permanently blacklisted.

00:52:21No one in this industry will hire you again.

00:52:23Vanessa crumpled to the floor.

00:52:25Permanently blacklisted, it meant she would never work in this industry again.

00:52:30Luca looked over the other employees in the room.

00:52:32Everyone who had joined in the taunting and mocked me lowered their heads.

00:52:36No one dared make a sound.

00:52:38Everyone here today, Luca said slowly,

00:52:40who mocked or shoved my wife will report to human resources and pick up their termination papers.

00:52:47Those who stood by and watched will be moved down one pay grade and receive a formal warning.

00:52:53No one dared object.

00:52:54Security soon entered and escorted Margaret and Vanessa away.

00:52:58Before Vanessa was taken out, she looked back at me.

00:53:00Her face was full of hatred and resentment, but there was nothing she could do.

00:53:04She could only let them lead her away.

00:53:06My co-workers followed them out in silence.

00:53:08The estate, so loud only minutes before, suddenly fell quiet.

00:53:12Once everyone was gone, Luca sat beside me and gently pulled me into his arms.

00:53:17I'm sorry.

00:53:18His voice full of guilt.

00:53:19I should have handled this better.

00:53:20I never expected her to be someone you knew in college, and I never thought she'd go this far.

00:53:26If I'd known, I never would have let you come here alone.

00:53:29I leaned against his shoulder and smiled.

00:53:31This isn't your fault.

00:53:33I was the one who wanted to keep my identity hidden.

00:53:35I wanted to try on my own.

00:53:37But you were hurt.

00:53:38He cupped my face, his fingertips brushing my cheek.

00:53:41I told you no one was allowed to touch you.

00:53:43I failed to protect you.

00:53:45Leo and Sophia came over and leaned against my legs, one on each side.

00:53:49I'll protect you from now on, Mommy.

00:53:51Leo clenched his little fists, his face serious.

00:53:54If anyone picks on you again, I'll beat them up.

00:53:58Sophia protect Mommy, too.

00:54:01My heart warmed as I reached out and ruffled their hair.

00:54:03Honestly, I hadn't let Vanessa's petty jabs get to me.

00:54:07Compared to the bullying I'd endured in college, her taunts were nothing.

00:54:10I just hadn't expected my identity to be exposed this way.

00:54:13Oh, right.

00:54:15I looked up at Luca.

00:54:15Why are you here early?

00:54:16I missed you.

00:54:17He bent down and kissed my forehead.

00:54:20The kids immediately started giggling.

00:54:22And I was worried you might not be settling in here on your own.

00:54:26I wanted to surprise you, but I didn't expect.

00:54:29The surprise had turned into a scare instead.

00:54:32I couldn't help smiling as I wrapped my arms around his waist.

00:54:35Maybe this was for the best.

00:54:36I was done hiding who I was.

00:54:38From now on, I could openly take charge of operations at the Jersey City branch as Nora Bennett.

00:54:43Not as Mrs. Castellano, but on my own merit.

00:54:45Luca seemed to know what I was thinking.

00:54:47He gave my hand a gentle squeeze.

00:54:49Do what you want to do.

00:54:51I'll always have your back.

00:54:52No matter what happens, I'll handle it.

00:54:54At some point, the rain outside had stopped.

00:54:56Sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows, and the sapphires scattered across

00:55:00the floor glimmered softly.

00:55:02I leaned into Luca's arms, listening to his steady heartbeat while our two little ones

00:55:06chattered beside us.

00:55:07My story in Jersey City was only just beginning, and this time, I had the man I loved to back

00:55:13me up, and the confidence to move forward on my own.

00:55:16Three weeks after joining the branch, I landed the Hartwell account.

00:55:19The project was a complete disaster.

00:55:21No one else wanted to touch it.

00:55:22I spent nine straight days cleaning up the mess.

00:55:25At Monday's partner's meeting, Nora Bennett, a newcomer with no connections, snagged the

00:55:29quarter's biggest account.

00:55:31Afternoon light slanted through the floor.

00:55:33Two-ceiling windows.

00:55:33I closed the last contract vial and tapped my fingers against the desk.

00:55:37Victoria strolled past, coffee in hand.

00:55:39Glaring at the contracts on my desk, she curled her lip.

00:55:41Then she headed into the manager's office.

00:55:43Her voice was just loud enough for me to hear.

00:55:46Mr. Davis, I've been working on that client for a long time.

00:55:49I never expected a newbie to snatch them.

00:55:53God knows what trick she used.

00:55:55Hearing her, I merely raised an eyebrow, letting it go.

00:55:58In the last two weeks alone, she had tried to steal credit for my work three times.

00:56:01I picked up my water bottle, just as I reached the break room.

00:56:05My phone rang.

00:56:07Are you Leo's parent?

00:56:08Your son got into a fight and hurt another kid.

00:56:10You need to come here right now.

00:56:11My heart tightened.

00:56:12Grabbing my bag, I rushed out.

00:56:14Leo was stubborn, but he never started trouble.

00:56:16Dread filled me.

00:56:17I quickened my pace.

00:56:18Driving my ordinary car, I reached St. Mary's Elementary in 15 minutes.

00:56:22I rushed into the school.

00:56:23As I rounded the corner, I saw a small figure at the end of the hall.

00:56:26Leo.

00:56:26My little boy stood there with his backpack on.

00:56:29Crumpled tissues plugged his nostrils.

00:56:30Blood slowly seeping through.

00:56:32His uniform collar was dusty.

00:56:33He stood rigidly in the corner.

00:56:35His small fists clenched.

00:56:36Red-eyed, he fought back tears.

00:56:38Leo.

00:56:38I rushed over and crouched in front of him, holding his shoulders.

00:56:41What happened?

00:56:42Why is your nose bleeding?

00:56:44Does it hurt?

00:56:45His lower lip trembled.

00:56:46He shook his head.

00:56:47Mom, it doesn't hurt.

00:56:49He called me names first, so I hit him.

00:56:53What did he call you?

00:56:54He called me a fatherless bastard.

00:56:57He said nobody wants you.

00:56:58I won't let him talk bad about you.

00:57:00I felt both hurt and angry.

00:57:02Come on, let's go talk to them.

00:57:06Your teacher said you hurt another student.

00:57:08I'd like to see exactly how badly he's hurt.

00:57:10The moment I pushed open the office door, my face darkened.

00:57:13The heat was on, and the office was warm.

00:57:15On the sofa, a chubby boy devoured chocolate ice cream, face smeared.

00:57:18Cookies and juice sat beside him.

00:57:20He sat there like a little prince.

00:57:21The teacher sat behind her desk, fawning over the woman beside her.

00:57:24They were deep in conversation, and didn't even notice Leo and me at the door.

00:57:28The woman sat angled toward the teacher.

00:57:30In her designer suit, she giggled.

00:57:31My son is just a little mischievous.

00:57:33Please go easy on him, Miss Carter.

00:57:35His dad will donate new computers to the school soon.

00:57:37Not at all.

00:57:39Jacob's such a sweet boy.

00:57:41You've raised him so well.

00:57:43But that other kid?

00:57:44No home training.

00:57:45He just lashed out.

00:57:46Such terrible manners.

00:57:47I swallowed my anger and led Leo into the office.

00:57:50Miss Carter.

00:57:50My voice calm, but cold.

00:57:52You called and said my son hurt his classmate.

00:57:53Where exactly is he hurt?

00:57:55Why is he eating ice cream while my son stands outside bleeding?

00:57:58They both turned toward me.

00:58:00The woman across from me froze when she saw my face.

00:58:02She gave a short laugh, folded her arms, and got to her feet.

00:58:05Well, look who it is.

00:58:07Nora?

00:58:07Victoria smirked.

00:58:09So this rude little bastard is your son?

00:58:11I never expected to run into Victoria here.

00:58:13For the past two weeks, she'd been stealing my proposals and taking my client files.

00:58:17She'd also been spreading rumors that I only got the job because of my connections.

00:58:20I couldn't be bothered to engage with her.

00:58:22But of all places, we had to run into each other at school.

00:58:25So it's you.

00:58:26My gaze turned cold.

00:58:27Meaning this loudmouth kid is yours?

00:58:31What if he is?

00:58:32Victoria lifted her chin, looking as arrogant as ever.

00:58:35Was my son lying?

00:58:37You're a single mom flirting around, stealing everyone's credit?

00:58:41No wonder your kid only knows how to throw punches.

00:58:44Did you even ask your son why Leo hit him?

00:58:46He called Leo a bastard and insulted me too.

00:58:48Shouldn't he be taught a lesson?

00:58:49I pointed at Jacob.

00:58:51Victoria laughed like I had said something ridiculous.

00:58:53Teach him a lesson?

00:58:55Who do you think you are?

00:58:56My son even speaking to you is more than you deserve.

00:58:59Mark my words, we're not done.

00:59:00Miss Carter immediately chimed in.

00:59:02Mrs. Bennett, it's crystal clear.

00:59:04Your son hit Jacob first and that is a serious issue.

00:59:07You need to apologize to Jacob and Mrs. Rosso, cover Jacob's medical expenses and submit a written apology.

00:59:13Why?

00:59:13He insulted us first.

00:59:15I didn't do anything wrong.

00:59:17Leo shot back.

00:59:19You're still talking back?

00:59:21No father, no manners.

00:59:23Typical.

00:59:24My face went completely cold, Miss Carter.

00:59:26Speak with actual proof.

00:59:27Miss Carter, speak with actual proof.

00:59:30Two kids fight and you don't even ask why?

00:59:32You punish only my son and insult him personally?

00:59:35Is this your standard as a teacher?

00:59:37My voice was quiet but firm.

00:59:40Standards?

00:59:41Victoria sneered.

00:59:42You don't get to talk about standards.

00:59:43With her arms crossed, she walked over and looked down at me.

00:59:46I suggest you be smart about this.

00:59:48Get on your knees, apologize to my son and pay $100,000 for emotional distress.

00:59:52Then we can put this behind us.

00:59:53Otherwise, don't blame me for being ruthless.

00:59:56I almost laughed.

00:59:58Get on my knees?

01:00:00Keep dreaming.

01:00:01Victoria raised a brow and pulled out her phone, waving it in front of me.

01:00:04Dreaming?

01:00:05Do you know who my husband is?

01:00:07He's the underboss of the Rizzo family, the biggest mafia outfit in Jersey City.

01:00:11He calls all the shots in the city's underground business.

01:00:13One call from me and you won't be able to stay in Jersey City.

01:00:16You'll even lose your pathetic job.

01:00:18That's right, Leo's mother.

01:00:19Mrs. Rizzo's husband is a very powerful man.

01:00:21You can't afford to offend him.

01:00:22Just apologize, get on your knees and make this go away.

01:00:24Otherwise, you and your son will pay the price.

01:00:26The Rizzo family?

01:00:27Just a fringe branch under Luca's thumb.

01:00:29Even the head of the Rizzo family would have to bow his head to Luca.

01:00:32I almost laughed to myself.

01:00:33Before I could say anything, Jacob suddenly rushed at Leo and shoved him hard.

01:00:37Thud, caught off guard.

01:00:38Leo stumbled.

01:00:39His back slammed hard into the doorframe.

01:00:41Jacob planted his hands on his hips and yelled smugly.

01:00:44Bastard!

01:00:45My dad is the boss.

01:00:46Hit me again and my dad will feed you and your mom to the fishes.

01:00:50I immediately pulled Leo behind me and shielded him with my body.

01:00:53Jacob, don't you dare raise your voice at my son.

01:00:55Victoria stepped in front of Jacob and swung at my face.

01:00:58You think you can yell at my son, you bitch?

01:01:00You must have a death wish.

01:01:02I caught her wrist before her hand could land.

01:01:04You want to hit me?

01:01:05You're trying to assault someone in a school office, Victoria?

01:01:08You've got some nerve.

01:01:10So what if I hit you?

01:01:11Victoria tried to yank her hand free, but she couldn't.

01:01:13I won't just hit you.

01:01:14I'll run you out of Jersey City!

01:01:16Miss Carter, you saw that, right?

01:01:18This crazy woman taught her son violence and now she's assaulting me!

01:01:21Call the police!

01:01:22Get her arrested!

01:01:23Miss Bennett, you've gone too far.

01:01:25Let go of Mrs. Rizzo right now.

01:01:28I'm warning you.

01:01:29If you keep causing trouble, I'll expel your son this minute.

01:01:32He'll be banned from every school in Jersey City!

01:01:35I almost laughed from sheer disbelief.

01:01:36I'm causing trouble?

01:01:38You didn't see her son shove Leo?

01:01:40You didn't see her try to slap me so everything is suddenly our fault?

01:01:42With Victoria backing her up, Miss Carter puffed out her chest.

01:01:45It is your fault.

01:01:46Get on your knees and apologize now, or neither of you is leaving this room.

01:01:50Good.

01:01:51Very good.

01:01:52I let go of her wrist and slowly rubbed the spot she had gripped.

01:01:55My eyes went cold.

01:01:56Victoria rubbed her wrist and glared at me viciously.

01:01:58So you really don't know when to quit?

01:02:00Fine.

01:02:01I'm calling my husband right now.

01:02:02Let's see how long you can keep acting tough.

01:02:04She dialed his number, instantly switching to a sweet voice.

01:02:07Babe, get to the school right now.

01:02:09Someone bullied our son.

01:02:10That woman hit me too!

01:02:12Yeah, just some single mom.

01:02:13She's incredibly arrogant.

01:02:15Claim she's not afraid of you.

01:02:16Hurry over, babe.

01:02:17I'm totally humiliated.

01:02:19After hanging up, Victoria looked at me smugly.

01:02:21Just wait.

01:02:22My husband will be here in ten minutes.

01:02:24Then I'll make you beg me on your knees.

01:02:26Miss Carter immediately fawned over her.

01:02:28Mrs. Russo, we're honored your busy husband is coming.

01:02:31Once he's here, we'll make her apologize properly.

01:02:33Then she turned on Leo again.

01:02:35And you!

01:02:36Just wait until Jacob's father gets here.

01:02:38Let's see you talk tough then.

01:02:40Oh wait, you don't even have a father.

01:02:42How pathetic.

01:02:43Leo's little face turned red with anger.

01:02:45He balled his fists and started forward.

01:02:47But I caught him right away.

01:02:48Don't.

01:02:48I lowered my voice for Leo.

01:02:50Mommy's here.

01:02:50I had been holding my anger in for too long.

01:02:52I hadn't wanted to reveal who I was.

01:02:54I just wanted to reason with them.

01:02:56But Victoria and her son had gone too far.

01:02:58They wouldn't even spare a child.

01:03:00Ten minutes later, the office door was kicked open.

01:03:02A burly, floral-shirted thug strode in with two henchmen.

01:03:05He looked like trouble.

01:03:06Who the hell messed with my wife and son?

01:03:09The man's voice boomed through the room.

01:03:11The moment he walked in, he swept the office with a furious glare.

01:03:14Victoria rushed over and clung to his arm.

01:03:16Her tears came instantly.

01:03:17Honey, you're here.

01:03:18It was her.

01:03:19Her son hit Jacob, and then she hit me too.

01:03:23You have to stand up for us.

01:03:24This was Tony Rizzo, the underboss of the Rizzo family.

01:03:27He controlled most of Jersey City's underground casinos and entertainment venues.

01:03:31Around here, he was considered someone important.

01:03:34He followed Victoria's pointing finger to me.

01:03:36He looked me over from head to toe.

01:03:38I was dressed in an ordinary business suit, with only a child at my side.

01:03:42Contempt filled his face.

01:03:43Just you?

01:03:44Tony sneered, strutting over, arms crossed.

01:03:47A woman and her kid.

01:03:49You think you can mess with Tony Rizzo's wife and son?

01:03:51You got a death wish?

01:03:53You should ask your son what he said first.

01:03:55I met his gaze calmly.

01:03:57Your son was the one who got physical.

01:03:59He started this.

01:04:00Everything my son says is right!

01:04:03Tony was utterly overbearing.

01:04:04I don't care why it happened.

01:04:06You hit my son, pay the price.

01:04:09He pointed at the floor.

01:04:10Get on your knees and apologize to my wife and son.

01:04:13Beg them to forgive you, then pay $500,000 for emotional distress, and we'll call it even.

01:04:20Otherwise, you'll lose your job, and you won't be able to stay in Jersey City.

01:04:24Miss Carter quickly chimed in.

01:04:26Exactly!

01:04:27Mr. Rizzo has spoken.

01:04:29Apologize now.

01:04:30Don't push your luck.

01:04:31I didn't budge.

01:04:32You want me to kneel?

01:04:33I looked at him, a trace of mockery in my eyes.

01:04:36You sure?

01:04:38What?

01:04:38Still refusing?

01:04:39Tony's face darkened.

01:04:41He gave the men behind him a look.

01:04:43They immediately stepped forward, glaring at me with threatening expressions.

01:04:47Listen carefully.

01:04:49In Jersey City, no one dares disrespect Tony Rizzo.

01:04:53Tony gave a cold smile.

01:04:54You won't kneel?

01:04:56Fine.

01:04:57He suddenly reached out, grabbed Leo by the arm, and yanked him to his side.

01:05:02Mommy!

01:05:03Leo flinched and struggled.

01:05:06Leo!

01:05:06My face changed instantly.

01:05:09Let him go.

01:05:10Let him go?

01:05:12Tony gripped Leo's arm, looking pleased with himself.

01:05:16Are you going to kneel or not?

01:05:18If you don't, I won't be so nice to your son.

01:05:20Kids are fragile.

01:05:22It would be a shame if he fell and broke an arm or a leg.

01:05:25Don't you dare!

01:05:26My voice went cold.

01:05:27Tony tightened his grip.

01:05:28You think I won't?

01:05:29Leo's small face went pale with pain, but he clenched his teeth and refused to cry.

01:05:34Honey, stop wasting time on her.

01:05:37She's so protective of her son, isn't she?

01:05:40Let's see if she'll kneel.

01:05:41If she won't, break that little bastard's leg.

01:05:45Miss Carter stood off to the side.

01:05:47Her head lowered as she pretended not to see a thing.

01:05:49She didn't dare stop them or say a word.

01:05:52My chest tightened as I watched Leo's face go pale with pain.

01:05:55I didn't fear Tony, only that Leo would get hurt.

01:05:58Fine.

01:05:59I'll kneel.

01:06:00Mommy, don't!

01:06:01I don't want you to kneel!

01:06:02Leo cried anxiously.

01:06:04I'm not afraid of him!

01:06:05It's okay, sweetheart.

01:06:07I looked at my son apologetically, slowly.

01:06:09I bent my knees, getting closer and closer to the floor.

01:06:12Tony and Victoria exchanged a smug look.

01:06:14Victoria lifted her chin.

01:06:15See?

01:06:16Should have done this from the start.

01:06:19Always have to learn the hard way.

01:06:21I straightened back up.

01:06:22I knelt.

01:06:24Give me back my son.

01:06:25But they had no intention of keeping their word.

01:06:28You knelt.

01:06:29What about your son?

01:06:32You've gone too far.

01:06:33I pulled my phone from my pocket.

01:06:35Tony frowned.

01:06:36What are you doing?

01:06:36Trying to pull something?

01:06:38Pull something?

01:06:39You want to play games?

01:06:40I gave a cold laugh and tapped the call button.

01:06:43Fine.

01:06:43I'll see this through.

01:06:45Let's see who ends up paying for this today.

01:06:48The call went through.

01:06:49It rang only once before someone answered, though a trace of hurt slipped through.

01:06:54Luca.

01:06:54My voice was calm.

01:06:56Someone forced me to kneel.

01:06:57They're trying to expel Leo, too.

01:06:59Wait for me.

01:07:00The call ended, and the office fell silent for a few seconds.

01:07:04Tony paused for a moment, then threw his head back and laughed.

01:07:07He pointed at me.

01:07:08Who you scaring?

01:07:10Think name dropping scares me?

01:07:11Listen, in Jersey, I, Tony Rizzo, am the law.

01:07:15Victoria started laughing, too, covering her mouth mockingly.

01:07:18Luca?

01:07:19You don't mean the legendary CEO of our company, Luca Castellano, do you?

01:07:24That's right.

01:07:28Nora, who are you kidding?

01:07:30You?

01:07:31No Mr. Castellano?

01:07:32Miss Carter visibly relaxed and joined in.

01:07:35I thought you'd called someone important.

01:07:38So this was all just an act.

01:07:41Do you have any idea who Mr. Clastellino is?

01:07:45How could he possibly be your husband?

01:07:49This is ridiculous.

01:07:51The three of them piled on, laughing without restraint.

01:07:53To them, I was just an ordinary single mother.

01:07:56Maybe I had been clever enough to get into Meridian,

01:07:58but there was no way I could be connected to the all-powerful Castellano family.

01:08:02Hearing them laugh at his dad, Leo puffed out his little chest and shouted,

01:08:06Don't laugh!

01:08:07Luca's my dad.

01:08:08He's really powerful.

01:08:09You'll be sorry when he gets here.

01:08:12Oh, the little bastard can lie, too.

01:08:15If your dad is Luca Castellini, then my husband is the president.

01:08:18You're just like your mother.

01:08:20Nothing but lies.

01:08:22Don't touch me!

01:08:24Enough.

01:08:25Stop wasting time.

01:08:26Since no one's coming, stay on your knees.

01:08:28Nobody leaves until I'm satisfied.

01:08:29I'll give you one last chance.

01:08:32Kneel.

01:08:32Or don't.

01:08:33Your choice.

01:08:34I stared at him coldly and said nothing.

01:08:36I knew how fast Luca could get here.

01:08:38From Cavan Point Peninsula, it would take him no more than 15 minutes to reach the school.

01:08:42I just had to hold out until he arrived.

01:08:44But Tony clearly had no patience left.

01:08:46Fine.

01:08:47When he saw I wouldn't give in, he finally snapped.

01:08:50You won't kneel?

01:08:52Go get me a pair of scissors.

01:08:53The man immediately left the office.

01:08:57Less than 30 seconds later, he came back from the administration office with a sharp pair

01:09:01of craft scissors.

01:09:03Tony took them and snipped them twice in the air.

01:09:05The blades flashed coldly.

01:09:07You don't want to kneel?

01:09:08Fine.

01:09:09Tony walked over to Leo and used the scissors to lift a lock of his hair.

01:09:12Kid's got nice hair.

01:09:15Don't kneel?

01:09:17I'll snip him completely bald for school.

01:09:20Think the other kids will laugh at him?

01:09:23You wouldn't dare.

01:09:24I rushed to pull Leo away, but two of Tony's men blocked me.

01:09:27Mommy!

01:09:28Leo was scared, but he clenched his teeth and refused to cry.

01:09:31He lifted his chin and glared at Tony.

01:09:33Go ahead.

01:09:34I'm not scared of you.

01:09:38Oh, you're a tough little kid.

01:09:41Let's see how long you can keep talking tough.

01:09:44Or if my scissors change your mind.

01:09:47Honey, stop wasting time on her.

01:09:49If she won't kneel, cut it.

01:09:51Let's see if she still acts tough.

01:09:53Miss Carter stood trembling in the corner.

01:09:55She didn't dare say a word.

01:09:56As the scissors drew closer to Leo, my heart leaped into my throat.

01:10:00Stop!

01:10:01I'll kneel.

01:10:02I'll apologize.

01:10:03Let my son go.

01:10:04My voice shook with rage, fists clenching white.

01:10:07See?

01:10:08You could have saved yourself the trouble.

01:10:10Kneeling isn't enough.

01:10:12Tony smiled smugly and lowered the scissors.

01:10:14You upset my wife earlier.

01:10:16So here's the deal.

01:10:17Crawl over here, lick my shoes clean, then beggar to forgive you.

01:10:20Then I'll let your son go.

01:10:21Don't push this too far!

01:10:23Too far?

01:10:24I can take it a lot further.

01:10:26You choose.

01:10:27Lick my shoes or watch your son go bald.

01:10:29He raised the scissors again, poised to snip.

01:10:32Mommy, don't!

01:10:33Leo stood straight.

01:10:35Let him cut it all off!

01:10:36It'll grow back!

01:10:38Mommy, you can't bow to him!

01:10:40Never!

01:10:41Leo's voice wasn't loud, but every word was clear.

01:10:44I looked at Leo's determined face, my heart aching and warming at once.

01:10:47My little man already knew how to protect his mommy, but I couldn't let Leo suffer this

01:10:51kind of humiliation.

01:10:52I took a deep breath and slowly bent down.

01:10:55My gaze fell on Tony's polished leather shoes and my stomach churned.

01:10:58A tide of humiliation washed over me, nearly drowning me.

01:11:01My face was only inches from one of his shoes.

01:11:05The office door was kicked open from the outside.

01:11:08You're begging for death.

01:11:11Boss.

01:11:14Everyone spun around, several bodyguards in black suits stood at the door, their presence

01:11:18imposing.

01:11:18At their center stood a man in a tailored black coat.

01:11:21His face was cold and stern.

01:11:22Terrifying rage swirled in his eyes.

01:11:24Just standing there, he made the room feel suffocating.

01:11:26It was Luca.

01:11:27He had arrived faster than I expected.

01:11:29A team of security personnel stood behind him.

01:11:31He looked like he'd stepped out of the cold itself.

01:11:33Tony's smile froze.

01:11:35He stared at the man in the doorway, his eyes widening as the color slowly drained from his

01:11:38face.

01:11:39His arrogance gave way to disbelief, then sheer terror.

01:11:42Boss.

01:11:42Tony's voice trembled.

01:11:44His legs gave out and he dropped to his knees with a thud.

01:11:46The scissors slipped from his hand and clattered onto the floor.

01:11:49The entire office went silent.

01:11:51Victoria's sneer froze as her fearless.

01:11:53Husband dropped to his knees, stammering, boss.

01:11:55Her mind went blank.

01:11:56Miss Carter froze in place.

01:11:58The pen slipped from her hand and fell to the floor.

01:12:00Luca didn't look at Tony kneeling on the ground.

01:12:02His eyes swept across the room before finally landing on me.

01:12:05When he saw my red-rimmed eyes and the tissue in Leo's nose, the air around him seemed to

01:12:09turn even colder.

01:12:10He strode over, helped me to my feet, then pulled Leo to his side and shielded him behind

01:12:15him.

01:12:15Luca's voice softened, a stark contrast to his earlier icy tone.

01:12:19It's okay now.

01:12:20Leaning into Luca, my forced composure finally shattered.

01:12:23My nose stung.

01:12:24Leo immediately wrapped his arms around Luca's leg.

01:12:27Daddy.

01:12:28It's okay, Leo.

01:12:29Daddy's here.

01:12:30Luca stroked Leo's head, but his eyes grew colder.

01:12:32Then he looked up at Tony, who was trembling on his knees.

01:12:35His voice was ice cold.

01:12:37Tony Rizzo.

01:12:38Forcing my wife to kneel on my turf?

01:12:40Touching my son?

01:12:42Boss, I'm sorry.

01:12:43I didn't know they were your family.

01:12:44I was blind.

01:12:46I'm an idiot.

01:12:47Please, give me one more chance.

01:12:49Tony was terrified.

01:12:50He kept groveling at Luca's feet.

01:12:52I was blind.

01:12:53He was truly scared.

01:12:54Who was Luca Castellano?

01:12:55The don of the New York mafia.

01:12:57The king of the entire East Coast underworld.

01:12:59Tony was only the underboss of a peripheral branch.

01:13:02To Luca, Tony was nothing.

01:13:03Victoria stood nearby, trembling all over.

01:13:06She stared at the scene before her, stunned.

01:13:08The quiet, simply dressed new hire at the company, the one whose credit Victoria had stolen

01:13:13several times, was really the legendary Mrs. Castellano.

01:13:17At the thought of what she'd done to me at work, and what she'd just said, Victoria's

01:13:20legs went weak.

01:13:21She nearly sank to her knees, too.

01:13:23No.

01:13:24That's impossible.

01:13:25Victoria muttered under her breath.

01:13:27How could she be Mrs. Castellano?

01:13:29She drives such an ordinary car.

01:13:32She takes the subway to work every day.

01:13:34Luca gave her a cold look, sharp as a knife.

01:13:36She fell silent at once.

01:13:38Ignoring the terrified couple, Luca looked down, his voice softening.

01:13:42Tell me what happened.

01:13:43I took a deep breath and told him everything from the beginning.

01:13:46Jacob called Leo a bastard.

01:13:48The boys got into a fight.

01:13:50Without first finding out what happened, Miss Carter made Leo stand in the corner.

01:13:54Victoria twisted the truth.

01:13:56Then Tony came in.

01:13:57He used Leo to threaten me, forced me to kneel, and threatened to cut his hair with scissors.

01:14:02I spoke calmly, but Luca's expression darkened with every word.

01:14:06Daddy, he called mommy a woman no one wants.

01:14:10Leo added, that's why I pushed him.

01:14:13Luca was silent for a few seconds after hearing that.

01:14:16Then he reached out and gently wiped the blood from beside Leo's nose.

01:14:20His fingers were cold.

01:14:22Good boy.

01:14:23Luca looked at his son, his voice steady.

01:14:26Someone insults mom, you teach them a lesson.

01:14:29I told you a man protects his mother.

01:14:31You did.

01:14:32Leo's eyes lit up, and he nodded hard.

01:14:35Luca stood and turned to Miss Carter.

01:14:37She had already gone pale, huddled in the corner, and shaking.

01:14:40You're his teacher.

01:14:42Two kids get into a fight, and you don't even ask what happened.

01:14:46Instead, you punish only my son and insult him, too.

01:14:50Who gave you the nerve?

01:14:52I-I-Victaria said-

01:14:55She said her husband was a big shot.

01:14:57I-

01:14:57So you decided to suck up to her and twist the facts?

01:15:00Luca let out a cold laugh and pulled out his phone.

01:15:03Principle here.

01:15:05Now.

01:15:06Immediately.

01:15:07Call ended.

01:15:08Tony kept groveling on the floor.

01:15:10Boss, I know I was wrong!

01:15:11I'll never do it again!

01:15:14Please, give me one more chance!

01:15:16Tony was sobbing so hard he could barely get the words out.

01:15:19Please, boss.

01:15:20I have a family to take care of.

01:15:23Please, have mercy.

01:15:25Mercy?

01:15:26Luca looked down at him without a trace of warmth in his eyes.

01:15:28When holding scissors to my son, did you think of mercy?

01:15:33When forcing my wife to lick your shoes, did you think of today?

01:15:36He tipped his chin toward the bodyguards behind him.

01:15:38Two bodyguards immediately stepped forward and hauled Tony up.

01:15:41Freeze all of the Ricco family's assets.

01:15:43Luca's tone was flat.

01:15:45Tony overstepped.

01:15:46Break one of his hands.

01:15:48Throw him out of Jersey City.

01:15:49He is never to set foot on Castellano territory again.

01:15:52No, boss!

01:15:53Please!

01:15:53Average!

01:15:54Tony was terrified.

01:15:56He struggled desperately, but the bodyguards held him down.

01:15:59Victoria screamed.

01:16:00Let go of my husband!

01:16:02She tried to rush toward him, but a bodyguard shoved her aside.

01:16:05She hit the floor hard.

01:16:07Luca looked at her coldly.

01:16:08Don't worry.

01:16:10You're next.

01:16:11Tony was dragged out, his screams slowly fading down the hall.

01:16:14The office was dead silent.

01:16:16You could hear every breath.

01:16:18Victoria slumped on the floor, her face drained of all color.

01:16:21She knew she was finished.

01:16:22I stood beside Luca and watched it all without feeling anything.

01:16:25They had brought this on themselves.

01:16:26If they'd been reasonable, they wouldn't end up here.

01:16:29I just hadn't expected Luca to arrive so fast, shielding us so fiercely.

01:16:33After dealing with Tony, Luca turned his attention to Victoria.

01:16:37You work for the Meridian Jersey City branch.

01:16:39Luca's tone was calm, but it sounded like a death sentence.

01:16:43You repeatedly passed off your co-workers' work as your own.

01:16:47You spread rumors and stirred up trouble.

01:16:50You let your son bully others.

01:16:52And you conspired with others to harm my family.

01:16:55Victoria trembled from head to toe.

01:16:57She looked at me with tears in her eyes.

01:17:00Nora!

01:17:01No, Mrs. Castellano!

01:17:03I'm sorry!

01:17:04I know I was wrong!

01:17:05I shouldn't have stolen your proposal!

01:17:07I shouldn't have bad-mouthed you at work!

01:17:09And I never should have targeted you and Leo at school!

01:17:13Please forgive me this one time!

01:17:15I'll never do it again!

01:17:17I looked at her calmly.

01:17:18I gave you a chance at work.

01:17:19You chose not to stop.

01:17:21Starting today, you're fired from Meridian Group for good.

01:17:25You're blacklisted from this industry for life.

01:17:27No company in Jersey City is to hire you.

01:17:29Take your son and get out of Jersey City.

01:17:31Never come back!

01:17:32No! No!

01:17:34Victoria completely broke down.

01:17:36A lifetime blacklist and exile from Jersey City

01:17:39would destroy her career and every connection she had.

01:17:41Everything she had been so proud of was gone in an instant.

01:17:45No! No! No!

01:17:46No!

01:17:48But the bodyguards grabbed her and pulled her up.

01:17:51No! No!

01:17:51Jacob burst into tears beside her,

01:17:53crying for his mother.

01:17:55No!

01:17:55No one paid him any attention.

01:17:57Victoria and Jacob were dragged out together,

01:17:59their cries fading into the distance.

01:18:02At last, the office was quiet.

01:18:04Cowering in the corner,

01:18:06Miss Carter shook like a leaf.

01:18:07It was clear she had backed the wrong side.

01:18:09She had thought Victoria's husband was a big shot,

01:18:12but she never imagined my husband was the one ruling supreme.

[Completed] After My Divorce, I Became the Godfather’s XXL Wife StellarMotion Full Short Drama English Sub 2026

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