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Transcript

00:07:27et me. Je pourrais mon cœur dans le cœur de keeping

00:07:29il happy.

00:07:34Great!

00:07:36...Until mon follow-up appointment.

00:07:37Le butler a warned me que Leo ne pouvait pas

00:07:39leave the house.

00:07:40If he did, it could trigger a panic attack.

00:07:42...I crouched down in front of him.

00:07:44Sweetheart, wait for me at home.

00:07:46I'll be back in an hour.

00:07:47He clutched my hand and refused to let go.

00:07:49He didn't say a word, only looked at me

00:07:51with those dark, sorrowful eyes.

00:07:53I'll be right back. I'm just going to see the doctor.

00:07:55Then I'll come straight here and play, okay?

00:07:57You stay here and play.

00:07:58Before I could finish speaking, he scrambled into the back seat.

00:08:01The butler fought to hide his rising hope.

00:08:03Leo, do you want to go to the hospital with Nora?

00:08:09Thank God.

00:08:10He's finally willing to leave the house.

00:08:13Your depression is getting better.

00:08:14Just take it slow and try to relax.

00:08:16I picked up my prescription and medication, then left.

00:08:19Leo was waiting for me in the lobby with his little, little hero toy.

00:08:22Nia, are you sick?

00:08:23When I was teeny tiny,

00:08:25I didn't eat and got super sick.

00:08:27Promise you won't do that to yourself.

00:08:29Does it hurt?

00:08:31Here, you can have my candy.

00:08:33Dad says it makes the pain go away.

00:08:36Tears suddenly spilled down my cheeks.

00:08:39I have depression.

00:08:40Quit faking sick just for attention.

00:08:42The nephew I'd raised for two years stood beside his mother the day she came back.

00:08:46He called me fat and ugly.

00:08:47But this Ford Zanyardzan old mafia heir pressed his very last piece of candy into my hand.

00:08:52I'm gonna eat all my meals so I can grow up and protect you.

00:08:56Then you'd better grow up fast, sweetheart.

00:08:58When we walked out of the hospital, a black Maybach was idling at the curb.

00:09:02Luca was leaning against it.

00:09:08He pulled Leo into his arms, but he noticed Leo was calm and composed.

00:09:12Dad, as long till I'm with Nora, you don't have to worry anymore.

00:09:17That night, Luca tried to give me another raise.

00:09:19This time, he even offered me a black card.

00:09:22I refused instantly, making him laugh.

00:09:27Nora, you must want something.

00:09:30Can you help me find a used car under five grand?

00:09:32That way I can take Leo out without relying on a driver.

00:09:35Take any car you want from the garage.

00:09:36Your cheapest car is a quarter million.

00:09:39I'm not driving that.

00:09:40Fine.

00:09:41The next morning, a beat-up sedan was parked beside Luca's black Bentley.

00:09:45He'd even brought in a psychiatrist from out of town for me.

00:09:47The diagnosis matched the hospital's.

00:09:49But this time, I was prescribed imported brand name meds I could never have afforded before.

00:09:54Your wife needs company.

00:09:56Keep her stress-free.

00:09:59I will.

00:10:00The next day, I took Leo out with me.

00:10:02He'd always been insecure and barely knew the world outside.

00:10:04Now, I wanted to show it to him.

00:10:06Our first stop was the amusement park.

00:10:08He grabbed my hand and pulled me over to take pictures.

00:10:11Then, I took him to a farmer's market.

00:10:12He'd never been somewhere like that in his entire life.

00:10:15I don't want to carry this.

00:10:17Leo, my hands are full.

00:10:19It's only a few steps.

00:10:21Just this once, okay?

00:10:22And no more ordering lobster.

00:10:24Nora?

00:10:27It was Sebastian, my ex-husband.

00:10:30He was in a crisp suit, hair perfect, looking like he'd stepped out of a magazine cover.

00:10:34It had been five weeks since the divorce.

00:10:36My stomach nodded on contact Sebastian.

00:10:38And I had met in college.

00:10:39He came from one of those Wall Street elite families.

00:10:41The golden boy of high finance.

00:10:43He'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.

00:10:48Then, he took over Crane Capital.

00:10:50He started finding fault with everything he wanted me to quit my job, taking care of his

00:10:53parents, take care of his sister's kid, cook laundry cleaning.

00:10:56I did all of it because I loved him.

00:10:57Because I'd never been loved by my own family and didn't know any better until one day I caught

00:11:01him in a private club with a girl in his lap.

00:11:03My whole world shattered.

00:11:04I cried, I screamed, I begged him to swear it would stop.

00:11:07The whole Crane family said I was overreacting.

00:11:09What successful man doesn't have side action?

00:11:11Sebastian said I'd been spoiled rotten.

00:11:13He blocked my number, stopped coming home.

00:11:15My depression cratered.

00:11:16I filed for divorce.

00:11:17He thought it was a bluff.

00:11:18His family told him.

00:11:19Don't let her win.

00:11:20He had his lawyer draft papers.

00:11:22I walked out with nothing, signed them in seven seconds.

00:11:24Four years of dating, three years of marriage done.

00:11:27Noah Ivey, league degree and here you are playing nanny.

00:11:30What were you thinking?

00:11:31Not your business.

00:11:33Nora, try to understand the day you married into the Crane family.

00:11:37You represent the Crane name.

00:11:39Sebastian, we're divorced.

00:11:40I have nothing to do with your family anymore.

00:11:42Even divorced, you're my ex-wife.

00:11:43People still bring me up when they talk about you.

00:11:45Stop embarrassing me.

00:11:46Use your head for one.

00:11:47Stop being emotional all the time.

00:11:48Nora, a few weeks out here, bet you miss being Mrs. Crane, don't you?

00:11:52Admit you were wrong.

00:11:53I'll think about taking you back.

00:11:55The girls outside the marriage, those were nothing.

00:11:57I haven't replaced you.

00:11:58The position's still open.

00:12:00Just swallow your pride.

00:12:01Apologize to my mother and my sister.

00:12:03Don't bother holding it.

00:12:04Give the seat to someone else, Sebastian.

00:12:06I'm not interested.

00:12:07On the drive home, a new number called Connor, the nephew I'd raised for two years.

00:12:11I'd blocked the rest of the Cranes, not him.

00:12:13Kids didn't pick their parents.

00:12:15Hey, Con.

00:12:15Nora, you divorced loser.

00:12:17My mom wants to talk to you.

00:12:19My throat closed up.

00:12:20Then Cassandra Crane took the phone.

00:12:22Noah, Sebastian tells me you're working as a nanny.

00:12:25Have you ever thought about anyone but yourself?

00:12:28You're slapping Sebastian's face.

00:12:30You're slapping the Crane name.

00:12:31What does that look like to people?

00:12:33Nora, I always said it.

00:12:35You'll never rise above your roots.

00:12:36Trash dressed in silk.

00:12:38I hung up.

00:12:39Blocked her.

00:12:39Pulled over.

00:12:40I crashed onto the steering wheel and bawled.

00:12:42I cried until I couldn't breathe.

00:12:44I cried until I was so empty.

00:12:46I felt nothing.

00:12:47Then I sat up.

00:12:48Wiped my face.

00:12:49Felt the exhaustion settle bone deep.

00:12:51Nora, hear tissue.

00:12:52I'd forgotten Leo was in the back seat.

00:12:54He was holding a tissue out from his car seat.

00:12:56Big sad eyes glued to me.

00:12:58I'm sorry, sweetheart.

00:12:59Did I scare you?

00:13:00I'm not scared.

00:13:01You can cry as long as you want.

00:13:02I'll wait.

00:13:03Adults crying isn't shameful.

00:13:04I won't laugh.

00:13:06Thanks, my little gentleman.

00:13:08Auntie's done.

00:13:08No more crying from now on.

00:13:10Let's go home.

00:13:10I went to bed early that night.

00:13:12Didn't feel up to dinner.

00:13:14Then a knock.

00:13:17Nora, can I come in?

00:13:19Robe tied carefully.

00:13:20I made sure nothing was showing.

00:13:22Come in.

00:13:23He was wearing a shirt, making the snake tattoo stand out even more.

00:13:27Dark hair falling loose over his forehead.

00:13:29Whiskey in his hand, looser than I'd ever seen him.

00:13:31He sat in the chair by my bed.

00:13:33His gaze flicked to my wet collarbone.

00:13:35Then immediately to the wall like he'd been caught.

00:13:39The clothes in your closet, you never wear any of them.

00:13:44They're too nice.

00:13:45I'm not used to it.

00:13:47I'd learned one thing from the Crane marriage.

00:13:48Don't force yourself into a world that isn't yours.

00:13:51The fall is uglier when they shove you out.

00:13:53Are they not your style?

00:13:54I'll have the designer come fit you for new ones.

00:13:58No, no.

00:13:58Mr. Castellano, I'm in the house all day with Leo.

00:14:01There's nowhere to wear that kind of thing.

00:14:02Truly.

00:14:05I heard you saw your ex today.

00:14:06His name's Crane, the stupid Crane capital.

00:14:09I froze.

00:14:10Leo had snitched.

00:14:11Yes, that Crane old news.

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

00:14:16Thank you.

00:14:16His eyes were dark and serious on mine.

00:14:18I shifted uncomfortable.

00:14:19You pay me very well.

00:14:21It's what I'm here for.

00:14:22Nora, ask me for anything.

00:14:24I can probably make it happen.

00:14:25Mr. Castellano, I don't need anything.

00:14:27He was quiet a long moment.

00:14:29His fingers tightened on his knee, then released.

00:14:31He stood up.

00:14:35I'll say this again.

00:14:36I'm the Don of the Castillo family.

00:14:38If you want, if you want, I can make sure he never speaks anymore more by tomorrow.

00:14:41I took a step back, still not used to him being this close.

00:14:44Without warning, he tucked a strand of hair behind my ear.

00:14:47Did I scare you?

00:14:48I said nothing.

00:14:49His hand slid down from my cheek.

00:14:51He gave a faint smile, then walked out.

00:14:52For the next two weeks, Luca started coming home early.

00:14:55Dinner with Leo and me.

00:14:56Sometimes board games after, sometimes a movie.

00:14:58A man who ran half of New York's underworld didn't change his schedule for no reason.

00:15:02I was starting to worry.

00:15:03Was the family in trouble?

00:15:04Not that I cared about him.

00:15:05I just really cared about my $150,000 a month.

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

00:15:11Leo has me.

00:15:13If you've got business, take it.

00:15:14Luca picked up a red Lego brick voice, perfectly neutral.

00:15:17The psychiatrist said, you need family.

00:15:19Leo and I are your family now.

00:15:21We have responsibilities.

00:15:22Since when are we family?

00:15:24I wanted to say.

00:15:25I didn't.

00:15:25Honestly, Leo's enough.

00:15:27The doctor said my improvement is mostly thanks to him.

00:15:29He stroked his chin, avoiding eye contact.

00:15:32I grabbed Leo's hand and stood.

00:15:33Come on, buddy.

00:15:35Story time.

00:15:35Daddy still has work.

00:15:37Leo and I walked out, Luca's voice stopping me at the doorway.

00:15:39Yes, his ears were faintly pink.

00:15:41He cleared his throat.

00:15:43Tomorrow night there's an event, plus sun's required.

00:15:46Would you come with me?

00:15:47Me?

00:15:48You.

00:15:49I don't have time to find someone else.

00:15:53I'll pay you an appearance fee.

00:15:54A man with his face couldn't find a date in 24 hours.

00:15:57I didn't think too much.

00:15:59There was money on the table, sure.

00:16:01I don't know the social rules in your world, though.

00:16:04I don't want to embarrass you.

00:16:06The Cranes were a moneyed family, too.

00:16:08But Sebastian had never taken me to anything, because his mother.

00:16:12She doesn't know how to act in public.

00:16:14Don't let her embarrass us.

00:16:17Stand next to me.

00:16:19That's all.

00:16:19Luca's brow eased.

00:16:21If you want, I can make the gossipers shut up for good.

00:16:24The butler chimed in.

00:16:25Miss Bennett, you don't need to know the rules.

00:16:29The dawn is the rules.

00:16:31Hard to argue with that.

00:16:32The next afternoon, a design team showed up at the mansion.

00:16:35Five people, most of them.

00:16:37Flown in from Paris.

00:16:38Hair, makeup, dress, jewelry.

00:16:40They huddled and debated each detail for 20 minutes at a stretch.

00:16:44By the time Luca came home, I was starting to feel sick about how much was on me.

00:16:48He walked in.

00:16:49Saw me.

00:16:50His eyes did something.

00:16:51A brief flash, almost stunned before he caught himself.

00:16:54Daddy, look how pretty Nora is.

00:16:57Call her mom.

00:16:58Leo turned his head and her rump wouldn't say it.

00:17:00I patted his hair.

00:17:02It's okay.

00:17:03I like Nora makes me feel young.

00:17:06The event was charity gala at the plaza.

00:17:08Every major name in New York was there.

00:17:10Old money.

00:17:11Bigger money.

00:17:12Political faces.

00:17:13A few faces I recognized from the papers and a few I knew not to recognize at all.

00:17:17They orbited Luca immediately.

00:17:19Conversations started landing on me.

00:17:21Mr. Castellino, who's the beautiful lady?

00:17:24I jumped in to save him.

00:17:25I'm a friend of Mr. Castellino's.

00:17:30My wife Nora.

00:17:31The room shifted.

00:17:32A chorus of polite gasps.

00:17:34Compliments raining down.

00:17:35My face went hot to my collarbone.

00:17:37Luca squeezed my hand.

00:17:38Leaned in.

00:17:39Nora is being my wife really that embarrassing?

00:17:42You couldn't say it?

00:17:43Bourbon and cedar on his breath.

00:17:45No, I just, I didn't want to embarrass you.

00:17:48His eyes darkened.

00:17:49He looked at me like he was lighting something on fire.

00:17:52Only a weak man is embarrassed by his wife.

00:17:55I had to look away.

00:17:56I'll grab a drink.

00:17:57I bolted.

00:17:58I'd been hiding by the champagne tower for about 90 seconds when.

00:18:02There was no date.

00:18:03Just him had it.

00:18:04Luca said plus ones required.

00:18:05Sebastian's face was pure stunned.

00:18:07It is you.

00:18:08I almost didn't recognize you.

00:18:09I've never seen you look like this.

00:18:11I stepped back.

00:18:12Stay away from me.

00:18:13Nina, about my sister's call.

00:18:15That wasn't me.

00:18:16I'd never authorized that.

00:18:17Truth is, I only agreed to the divorce to teach you a lesson.

00:18:21Bratty wife needed reminding.

00:18:22I never actually planned to let you go.

00:18:25Apologize to my mom.

00:18:26And my sister will remarry.

00:18:28I'll forget the rest.

00:18:30Crane Capital is bleeding right now.

00:18:32I'm slumped.

00:18:33Stop making things hard for me.

00:18:34He reached for my hand.

00:18:36The Sebastian special one slap.

00:18:37One kiss he'd run me on that loop for three years.

00:18:39I am not the Nora he married anymore.

00:18:41I yanked back.

00:18:42Sebastian divorced means divorced.

00:18:45I'd rather sleep under the Brooklyn peerage than wear your last name again.

00:18:49Find someone else for that throne.

00:18:51Still stubborn.

00:18:52You haven't suffered enough.

00:18:53Crawl find me when you've actually been broken.

00:18:55That is when Luca started walking toward us.

00:18:58Sebastian's whole posture changed.

00:19:00Nora, we'll talk later.

00:19:01There's a heavyweight I need to corner.

00:19:02Don't get in the way.

00:19:03Plastered on his best smile and intercepted Luca with a business card already out.

00:19:08My Don.

00:19:08I'm Sebastian Crane.

00:19:10Crane Capital.

00:19:11I'd like to talk about the mandate you pulled.

00:19:13Five years.

00:19:14Crane Capital ran the books on every fund Castellano Holdings put on the street.

00:19:17Then you cut us out overnight.

00:19:19If we fell short, tell me where.

00:19:21Whatever you need.

00:19:22I'll make it right.

00:19:23Sebastian half bowed.

00:19:24Luca's eyes went past him straight to me.

00:19:26Nora, what do you think?

00:19:28Should I give him a second chance?

00:19:30Sebastian's smile froze.

00:19:33Nora, what does she have to do with?

00:19:35Mr. Castellini, you should know Nora is my ex-wife.

00:19:38I don't know how she got in here tonight, probably trying to ambush me into reckoning.

00:19:41Illusion, she's just a housewife.

00:19:43Pay her no mind.

00:19:44Luca didn't even glance at him.

00:19:45Nora, your call.

00:19:47I'll follow your lead.

00:19:49I kept my voice flat.

00:19:50Mr. Crane just asked me not to interfere in his business conversation.

00:19:53I'd hate to interfere.

00:19:54Sebastian flared.

00:19:55A man's business is none of your concern.

00:19:59Of course, small town instincts.

00:20:01Luca's voice came in cold and final.

00:20:03Then I'd assume my wife doesn't approve of Crane Capital.

00:20:06We'll have to pass.

00:20:07His arm slid around my shoulders.

00:20:09He turned us toward the bar.

00:20:10Sebastian was still standing there, brain catching up.

00:20:13Then a man in a tuxedo brushed past him.

00:20:16Crane, you insulted Don's wife.

00:20:18You stepped on a live mine.

00:20:19That's the only woman who's ever been on his arm in 20 years.

00:20:22Castellano's wife?

00:20:24Impossible.

00:20:24The woman's a nanny in the Castellano house.

00:20:26Sebastian had seen Nora at the farmer's market driving the cheap car.

00:20:30Carrying a lobster for the brat, he knew what he saw.

00:20:32A fancy dress didn't make a duchess.

00:20:34The man shook his head and walked off.

00:20:35Some idiots won't listen.

00:20:37Let them die.

00:20:37That night, Luca bit on a Picasso study and three pieces of war-era jewelry.

00:20:42180 million in collectibles donated to the children's hospital under my name.

00:20:46After that, the gala turned into a receiving line.

00:20:48Mrs. Castellano, there's a small tea at my place next week.

00:20:50Would you grace us?

00:20:51Mrs. Castellano, my husband is bidding on a Castellano project.

00:20:54Just a quiet word to the Don.

00:20:55I'd never been on this side of a room.

00:20:57I drank three glasses to keep my hands steady.

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

00:21:00Apologies, everyone.

00:21:03My wife isn't a drinker.

00:21:05I'll take hers.

00:21:06Then he drank for me three more times.

00:21:08By the time we slid into his Rolls Royce, we were both lit.

00:21:11I glanced out the window.

00:21:12Sebastian was on the curb watching us, mouth curled in that ugly little smirk, like I was the punchline.

00:21:16I closed the curtain, turned to Luca.

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

00:21:24Nora, we're husband and wife.

00:21:27Stop thanking me.

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

00:21:31We're a paper husband and wife.

00:21:33You didn't have to.

00:21:35His arm lifted.

00:21:36Long fingers tilted my chin up.

00:21:37His 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.

00:21:45His face was carved out of something dangerous, eyes blown black.

00:21:48Heat from his breath landed on my throat.

00:21:50He smelled like bourbon and that cedar cologne and something underneath that was just him.

00:21:53The most controlled man in New York was looking at my mouth like he wanted it.

00:21:58Mr. Castellano, you've had too much.

00:22:04You're right.

00:22:05I'm sorry.

00:22:07I had too much.

00:22:08The rest of the ride was silence.

00:22:10A heavy humming silence with my pulse loud in my ears.

00:22:12Leo saved me.

00:22:13He sprinted at the front door with his picture book.

00:22:15I scooped him up and ran upstairs before I had to look Luca in the face again.

00:22:19I tucked Leo in, then opened my laptop and started scrolling job boards.

00:22:23Sebastian was right about one thing.

00:22:24My Ivy League degree shouldn't be wasted by eating in a mansion playing house.

00:22:28I'd done that marriage already.

00:22:29Stayed home.

00:22:30Made myself small.

00:22:31The minute he didn't need me, he tossed me into the street with nothing.

00:22:33I'd be damned if I let that happen twice.

00:22:35While Leo needed me, I had a place here.

00:22:37The day he didn't.

00:22:38What was I?

00:22:39Though I am not ready to go back to work yet physically or mentally.

00:22:42But knowing the market, updating a resume that couldn't hurt.

00:22:45Then my phone lit up a text from Luca.

00:22:47The butler did the coffee always.

00:22:48And the first rule of this house was don't go to the third floor.

00:22:51I ground a fresh espresso anyway.

00:22:53Then I stood at the bottom of the staircase, hesitated.

00:22:55Was this a test?

00:22:56Did the last applicant get launched out a window after being summoned upstairs?

00:23:00Was this revenge?

00:23:01The car I called him?

00:23:03Mr. Castellano, coffee's here.

00:23:05Come down for it.

00:23:06Bring it up.

00:23:06I hit the record button on my phone.

00:23:08Caught it if he tried anything sketchy.

00:23:10I had proof.

00:23:11I climbed the stairs.

00:23:14Knocked.

00:23:17Come in.

00:23:18I pushed the door open and forgot how to breathe.

00:23:20He'd just gotten out of the shower.

00:23:22Black silk robe loosely tied at the waist.

00:23:24A drop slid from his jaw down his throat into the open robe.

00:23:27Bathhouse art.

00:23:28Renaissance painting.

00:23:29Holy hell.

00:23:30He took the coffee.

00:23:31His fingertips dragged across mine on purpose.

00:23:33That scared of me.

00:23:34Nora?

00:23:36Am I a monster, Nora?

00:23:38From now on, you can come into my room whenever you want.

00:23:41My face still burned.

00:23:43The rules of this house and the rules of my heart were both breaking.

00:23:47I woke up the next morning with a sore throat.

00:23:49Sneezing, of course.

00:23:50Wet hair.

00:23:51Late night fancy dress.

00:23:52Too much champagne.

00:23:53I trudged downstairs, fully expecting the sprawling living room to be empty.

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

00:24:00You're sick.

00:24:01A little the back of his hand landed on my forehead.

00:24:03Calm practice like he did it every morning.

00:24:05I went stiff as a board.

00:24:07Not bad.

00:24:07I'll grab some therapy.

00:24:10You'll be fine.

00:24:11He guided me to the couch like I was made of glass.

00:24:13Walked to the kitchen.

00:24:15A six.

00:24:16Foot something Mafia Don, stirring a packet of cold medicine into a mug.

00:24:20Usually a Don would poison the drink instead.

00:24:22I caught myself wondering what kind of woman Leo's mother had been to deserve a man like this.

00:24:26I drank the Theraflu and slunk back to bed.

00:24:29I didn't want to be in his way.

00:24:30So I just dozed off when an unknown number rang.

00:24:35Nora, it's me, Sebastian.

00:24:37Don, I am parked outside the Castellini gate.

00:24:40Come out or I'll be at the front door.

00:24:42Up 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?

00:24:48You don't feel humiliated, but I do.

00:24:51I'm not doing anything to you, Sebastian.

00:24:54Stop the act!

00:24:55You dressed up last night to make me jealous.

00:24:57Fine, I'll admit it.

00:24:58After you left, I missed you a little.

00:25:01Here's the deal.

00:25:02Apologize to my mom and my sister.

00:25:04We remarry.

00:25:05You can stop scrubbing floors for strangers.

00:25:09Sebastian, I didn't do anything wrong.

00:25:11What am I apologizing for?

00:25:14You still don't see the problem.

00:25:16You 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.

00:25:28My mom is the best mom in the whole world.

00:25:31He glared up at him like a furious cherub protecting me.

00:25:33Something cracked open in my chest.

00:25:35I pulled him in tight.

00:25:37Kid, what did you just call her?

00:25:39Isn't she your nanny?

00:25:40You're a nanny?

00:25:41Your whole family is a nanny.

00:25:44Nora is my mom.

00:25:45My best mom.

00:25:46He pulled back, anxious.

00:25:48I nodded.

00:25:49My eyes were wet again.

00:25:51Nora, you'll be my mom, right?

00:25:52I'll be so good.

00:25:54I promise.

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

00:25:58He squeezed me tighter and refused to let go.

00:26:00Sebastian's face twisted into a slow, ugly smile.

00:26:03Oh, I see it now.

00:26:05Nora, you're putting a child up to it.

00:26:07You're playing the long game on Castatoni.

00:26:09He grabbed my arm.

00:26:12Listen, Castorano isn't a man you scam.

00:26:14He's known for ice in his veins.

00:26:17He finds out you're using his son to angle for him.

00:26:20He'll bury you in the East River.

00:26:21A warm hand landed on my waist.

00:26:23I hadn't heard him come outside, Luca.

00:26:25He pulled me into him.

00:26:27Mr. Crane, the last time we spoke, you insulted my wife.

00:26:29That's why I pulled the mandate.

00:26:31I was planning to tell the other firms on the street that this was personal.

00:26:33They could keep doing business with Crane Capital after today.

00:26:35I don't think I need a Castellino.

00:26:37What wife?

00:26:38Who's your wife?

00:26:39Mr. Crane, are you really still confused?

00:26:41Or are you only capable of believing what you want to believe?

00:26:44Nora's my wife, the mother of my son.

00:26:47Send him off.

00:26:47Luca turned to the butler at the door.

00:26:49If anyone like this bothers Mrs. Castellino again, have my men throw him.

00:26:53Out he took Leo with one arm wrapped the other.

00:26:55Around me walked us inside.

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

00:27:00I took Leo upstairs to my room.

00:27:02Leo, where were you all morning?

00:27:03I didn't see you all day.

00:27:04Don't even ask.

00:27:05Dad sent me to preschool.

00:27:06What you?

00:27:07Prescore?

00:27:07He said he didn't want you working too hard.

00:27:10He said he need alone time with you.

00:27:11Why does he need alone time with me?

00:27:13Dad said he had to make you fall in love with him.

00:27:15Otherwise, you might leave us.

00:27:17Leo was four sentences into his report when Luca appeared in the doorway.

00:27:20Leo, downstairs.

00:27:21Dinner.

00:27:22Stop bothering your mother.

00:27:23My whole face hot.

00:27:24Mom, I'll be back to keep you company in a bit.

00:27:26He scampered out.

00:27:27Luca didn't leave.

00:27:28He walked in.

00:27:31Feeling better?

00:27:32I looked sideways.

00:27:33Mr. Castellino, thank you for what you did.

00:27:35Please don't ruin a business decision for me.

00:27:36I'm really not worth it.

00:27:37Not worth what?

00:27:38What you did out there.

00:27:39Nora, I told you you're my wife.

00:27:41Protecting you is my job.

00:27:42But stop calling this a paper marriage.

00:27:44Nora, I want a real one.

00:27:45I had not expected him to swing this hard, this fast.

00:27:48My face went up in flames.

00:27:49I'll give you time.

00:27:51Take whatever you need.

00:27:52But right now, I want to collect just a little husband privilege.

00:27:56Before I could form a coherent thought, he leaned in.

00:27:59A long, warm hand cradled my cheek.

00:28:01Can I?

00:28:02I didn't say a word.

00:28:03I'll take this as consent.

00:28:04Then his lips crashed against mine hard and ruthless.

00:28:07His tongue swept into my mouth, stealing the air from my lungs.

00:28:10Right.

00:28:11This was how a mafia boss kissed.

00:28:12Cold merciless taking whatever he wanted.

00:28:14The kiss lasted so long.

00:28:16My mind went blank.

00:28:17By the time he finally pulled away, he rubbed his thumb over my swollen lips.

00:28:21My little princess, that's enough for today.

00:28:23Next time, I won't let you off so easily.

00:28:27Leo got hauled to preschool again the next morning under protest.

00:28:31My cold was almost gone.

00:28:33If I wanted to see a movie, after everything that had happened...

00:28:36I thought about it.

00:28:37We were married on paper.

00:28:38If something real was going to grow there, that wasn't the worst outcome.

00:28:41He had a private media room on the third floor.

00:28:43It was my first time entering other room and third floor before that.

00:28:46He showed me his collection room.

00:28:48An entire wall was covered in cold weapons, daggers, knives, blades of every kind.

00:28:52Honestly, it was breathtaking.

00:28:53I was still standing there staring at the wall when...

00:28:56He stepped up behind me and fastened a necklace around my neck.

00:28:58Another snake, exactly like the tattoo on his body.

00:29:01A little gift.

00:29:02Don't reject it.

00:29:03Then he took my hand and led me into the media room.

00:29:05He put on a French romance film, slow, elegant kisses on the screen, mixed with far less elegant

00:29:10sounds in the background.

00:29:11Luca leaned closer, his voice brushing against my ear.

00:29:14Nora, yes.

00:29:15His body covered mine as his mouth came down, online soft at first.

00:29:19Careful one hand slid gently around my throat.

00:29:22Then the kiss deepened, rougher, heavier, the kind that stole every thought from my head.

00:29:26He slid a glossy stack of brochures into my hand.

00:29:28Nora, pick a wedding planner.

00:29:31I owe you a real wedding.

00:29:32Dawn'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.

00:29:40I 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?

00:29:44We didn't even know each other.

00:29:46How are we supposed to?

00:29:47Neera, 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.

00:29:55Old families, new money, senators, a cardinal, the mayor.

00:29:58We 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.

00:30:06This is the first time he's ever been loud.

00:30:08Indulge him this once.

00:30:10I let it go the night of the wedding.

00:30:11A strange number called me.

00:30:12Luca's long arm reached over and killed the call.

00:30:14His fingers tightened on my waist.

00:30:16After he was winding a strand of my hair around his finger, he cleared his throat a little

00:30:20awkward.

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

00:30:23I made a small, sleepy sound.

00:30:25He 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.

00:30:31He and his elder sister went through a dark period in the empire, until one day she married

00:30:35head Leo, but happiness suddenly ended when she and her husband were killed in a shooting

00:30:39three years ago.

00:30:40Luca wiped out that whole family.

00:30:41Then he put Leo on his own birth certificate.

00:30:43Quietly, so nobody could ever take him.

00:30:45I thought it would be Leo and me forever.

00:30:47Then you walked in and nothing was the same.

00:30:49He kissed me again.

00:30:50A few months later, I walked out of the hospital alongside Leo.

00:30:53Mom, Dad said you weren't sick anymore.

00:30:56Why'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.

00:31:06If 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.

00:31:14I almost dug for a few bucks.

00:31:15Sebastian Crane.

00:31:16Nora?

00:31:17Leo planted himself in front of me on instinct.

00:31:19I pulled him to my side and squeezed his shoulder.

00:31:22Sebastian, what happened to you?

00:31:23Nora, help me.

00:31:25You're the only one who can.

00:31:27All of New York knows Castellani loves you.

00:31:29He'll listen to you, please.

00:31:31Then I remembered what Luca had mentioned weeks back.

00:31:33First, the Castellano family cut all ties with Crane Capital.

00:31:37Then the rest of New York followed.

00:31:39Nobody wanted to risk losing Castellano favor.

00:31:41Within weeks, Sebastian's company collapsed.

00:31:44His sister, Cassandra, the person he trusted most, had been stealing client money for years.

00:31:49The moment everything fell apart, she fled to the south of France with her family.

00:31:53She left Sebastian alone to take the blame.

00:31:55Crane Capital went bankrupt overnight.

00:31:57Now Sebastian stood in front of me, sobbing, begging.

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

00:32:02Sebastian, people are equal.

00:32:05Your fault, your mess, you pay for it.

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

00:32:10The lobby door is open.

00:32:12Luca had just finished with my OB.

00:32:14He 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.

00:32:23Through my whole pregnancy, Luca was far more anxious than I was.

00:32:26He doubled the security on the entire estate.

00:32:28I never went anywhere without an escort.

00:32:31He had every sharp corner in the house padded, fit carpet laid across every floor.

00:32:35Sometimes I'd only shift in bed, and he would ask worriedly,

00:32:38Does something hurt?

00:32:39He'd stroke my belly, pressing his ear against it.

00:32:43I think I just heard the baby calling for me.

00:32:45Leo asked wide-eyed.

00:32:46Why isn't the baby calling for me?

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

00:32:53I walked over, and wrapped my arms around him from behind.

00:32:56You don't have to worry.

00:32:57The baby will be born safe.

00:32:59He kissed my forehead.

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

00:33:04My sister died because of the family name, and before you came, Leo wasn't happy, neither

00:33:08was I.

00:33:09Before you came, we just complete each other.

00:33:11I pressed closer to his chest.

00:33:13I made my peace with it a long time ago.

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

00:33:18My brave girl.

00:33:19At nearly 10 months, my water broke at 2 a.m.

00:33:22A team of doctors and nurses rushed me into delivery.

00:33:25Luca waited outside.

00:33:27The contractions came like waves, trying to break me in half.

00:33:30A nurse held my hand.

00:33:31Her grip was wrong.

00:33:33Too strong, too steady.

00:33:34I looked up at her face, sharp, calm, a small scar through one eyebrow.

00:33:38You're not a nurse?

00:33:41No.

00:33:42There's a debt your husband never finished paying.

00:33:44The family he buried three years ago still has a few teeth left.

00:33:48We came to collect tonight.

00:33:49My breathing went ragged.

00:33:51The other nurses in the room started screaming, but I knew he was standing right outside, so

00:33:55I didn't panic.

00:33:56I gripped the sheet.

00:33:57Go ahead and try.

00:33:58Right then, the delivery room door opened.

00:34:01A rat that should have died years ago.

00:34:03I've been waiting for you too long.

00:34:05Luca and his men had the woman pinned in seconds.

00:34:07He held my hand, and the coldest mafia boss in New York let a single tear fall.

00:34:12My baby girl was born at 4.42 a.m.

00:34:147 pounds, furious lungs.

00:34:17Luca took her like she was made of glass.

00:34:21Sophia.

00:34:22After my sister.

00:34:24Leo barged in at dawn, peered into the blanket, and gasped.

00:34:27It's a girl.

00:34:28I'll be her hero from now on.

00:34:30She'll be the princess.

00:34:31I laughed until I cried.

00:34:32The four of us finally impossibly whole.

00:34:35I learned the rest later.

00:34:36The fake nurse was a remnant of the family that murdered Luca's sister three years ago.

00:34:40Sebastian had fled to Europe in Sicily.

00:34:42He found what was left of them clinging to life.

00:34:44Hatred drove him to something insane.

00:34:47They thought the Don would be too busy with a wife in labor to notice that night while the

00:34:50hospital stood locked down.

00:34:52Several of the docks were hit at the same time.

00:34:54But Luca built this empire out of blood and bone at 16.

00:34:57Turning back an attack like that was as easy as breathing for him.

00:35:00Blood, gunfire.

00:35:02I didn't see most of it.

00:35:03My life stayed bright.

00:35:04House filled with laughter because of Sophia's coming one night.

00:35:07Luca asked if I wanted to see Sebastian just once.

00:35:10He keeps begging to see you.

00:35:12I was busy making faces at Sophia with Leo.

00:35:14No need.

00:35:15Do whatever you want with him.

00:35:16That man has nothing to do with me now.

00:35:17I only care about my new family.

00:35:19Leo loves his sister.

00:35:21And he takes his new job seriously.

00:35:22By the second week, he had appointed himself Sophia's full-time bodyguard.

00:35:27No bad guys get past me, dad said.

00:35:29Sophia blinked at him, then sneezed.

00:35:31Mom, she did a magic spell!

00:35:34He was convinced he was Sophia's personal interpreter too.

00:35:37Every cry held a meaning only he could understand.

00:35:39She wants the blue blanket, not the yellow one.

00:35:41Obviously.

00:35:42Three years later, accompanied by our little man Leo, our daughter Sophia grew up.

00:35:47And I decided to return to work.

00:35:49He handed me the company he valued most, Meridian.

00:35:52They once offered me a position on their securities desk.

00:35:54I leaped into his arms.

00:35:55Luca, your wife is going back to work.

00:35:58You should have told me sooner.

00:35:59I fund half the businesses in Jersey City.

00:36:01But I must prove it myself, as Nora Benin.

00:36:04A woman who can take on a new day can take on anything.

00:36:07I'll arrange an apartment closest to the office.

00:36:09I have a villa on Caven Point Peninsula.

00:36:11Once I settle things here, I'll bring the kids to you.

00:36:13Mama, I want to go with you.

00:36:16Sweetheart, it's only a week.

00:36:18I'll have someone pick you up.

00:36:19The plane touched down in Jersey City, dragging my carry-on out of arrivals.

00:36:23I spotted a woman holding up a sign.

00:36:26It clearly read my name, Nora Bennett.

00:36:29She wore a tailored skirt suit, flanked by two or three employees.

00:36:33With flawless makeup, she oozed arrogance.

00:36:35As I approached, she scanned me head to toe, raised a brow, and laughed.

00:36:39So it really is you, Nora?

00:36:41She folded her arms, her voice dripping with contempt.

00:36:43I thought headquarters sent a big shot, but it's just you.

00:36:46I recognized her, Vanessa Thorne.

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

00:36:53Now, she was an executive at Meridian Jersey City Branch, the exact person Luca sent to pick

00:36:58me up.

00:36:58She clearly didn't link me to the special rep from headquarters.

00:37:01To her, I was just a newbie who lucked into Meridian.

00:37:04Her employees snickered, eyeing my simple, casual outfit.

00:37:07Years after graduation, and you're still this broke?

00:37:10Thought you'd actually make something of yourself after disappearing all these years.

00:37:13Guess you're just scraping by in Jersey.

00:37:14Then again, in college, you were too poor to even afford club dudes.

00:37:17Yet now you're at Meridian?

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

00:37:25Oh, and I almost forgot.

00:37:27She deliberately raised her voice, letting everyone hear.

00:37:31I'm close with the owner, Mr. Luca Castellano.

00:37:35You'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.

00:37:42Luca had told me Vanessa would be meeting me.

00:37:44I just didn't expect her.

00:37:45I 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.

00:37:53I was going to drive you.

00:37:55But look at you.

00:37:56You'll dirty my car.

00:37:57Take a cab.

00:37:59Report to the office by nine tomorrow.

00:38:01If 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.

00:38:07I turned and wheeled my suitcase away.

00:38:10Outside the airport, I called my driver.

00:38:12Luca had already arranged my private car in Cabin Point Estate.

00:38:15I just didn't want to show them off yet.

00:38:17Rain poured harder against the car window.

00:38:19Touching the starlight sapphire bracelet around my wrist, I traced the engraved L&N inside.

00:38:24Luca had said that once he wrapped things up in New York a week later, he would bring Leo and

00:38:28Sophia to be with me.

00:38:30I drew in a slow breath.

00:38:31Jersey City Meridian.

00:38:32I was back.

00:38:33This time, I'd stand on my own two feet.

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

00:38:39Vanessa froze, seeing me, her lips curling into a smirk.

00:38:42Heels clicking.

00:38:43She strode over, slamming a thick stack of files onto my desk.

00:38:46So you actually dared to show up.

00:38:48She folded her arms and looked down at me.

00:38:50Newbies, start with the basics.

00:38:52Organize these files by the end of the day.

00:38:54Not one page missing.

00:38:55Whispers moved through the office around me.

00:38:57My co-workers eyed me curiously, sucking up to Vanessa.

00:39:00I heard someone whisper.

00:39:01Vanessa, what's the new girl's story?

00:39:04What's her story?

00:39:05Vanessa laughed, not loudly, but enough for half the floor to hear.

00:39:08An old college class raid.

00:39:10Dirt poor back then.

00:39:11Lord knows how she lucked into Meridian.

00:39:13Watch yourselves.

00:39:14Don't associate with rip rag.

00:39:16It makes you look cheap.

00:39:17No one spoke after that.

00:39:19Everyone knew Vanessa had influence at the company.

00:39:21Rumor said she was tight with HQ's big boss.

00:39:24Nobody dared cross her.

00:39:25Over the next few days, Vanessa targeted me constantly.

00:39:28She threw my proposals back publicly, calling them complete garbage.

00:39:32In meetings, she grilled me with trick questions, waiting for a stumble.

00:39:36She even mocked my homemade lunch.

00:39:38Poor people really know how to pinch pennies.

00:39:40Too cheap for takeout?

00:39:41I never defended myself, just working in silence.

00:39:44Then, on Friday afternoon, Vanessa stepped to the center of the office, clapping.

00:39:49Listen up, everyone!

00:39:51She smiled with satisfaction.

00:39:52Our team building is next Monday, at a private estate on Cave-in-Point Peninsula.

00:39:57The office erupted at once.

00:39:59Cave-in-Point?

00:40:00Isn't that Mr. Castellano's private estate?

00:40:03Vanessa actually got us in there?

00:40:06That's insane!

00:40:07I always heard she and Mr. Luca Castellano were close.

00:40:10Guess the rumors are true!

00:40:12Soaking up the praise, Vanessa glared at me with undisguised defiance.

00:40:16Some people will never set foot in a place like that.

00:40:18She drawled.

00:40:20This team building is for everyone.

00:40:21Even our newest hire, Nora.

00:40:24Consider it a chance to see real high society.

00:40:26Stop living under a Bach.

00:40:27I looked up at her with a faint smile.

00:40:30The estate on Cave-in-Point Peninsula.

00:40:32The very place Luca gave me the keys to last week.

00:40:34Before I could pull out my access card and expose her, she delivered herself to me.

00:40:39Fine.

00:40:39Let's watch her play mistress in my own home.

00:40:42Sure.

00:40:43I'm in.

00:40:44I set down my pen and met her gaze calmly.

00:40:47Let's see just how impressive it is.

00:40:49Vanessa sneered, walking away.

00:40:51She probably thought I was just saving face.

00:40:53She was waiting to see me embarrass myself there.

00:40:55Zoe, the colleague beside me, quietly tugged my sleeve.

00:40:59She whispered,

00:41:00Don't take Vanessa to heart.

00:41:02She's just like that.

00:41:03But Cave-in-Point is hard to get into.

00:41:06Watch what you say there.

00:41:07I smiled at her without explaining.

00:41:10Seven days flew by.

00:41:11Monday morning, the company bus drove everyone to Cave-in-Point Peninsula.

00:41:16Vanessa sat in front, talking about her history with Luca the entire ride.

00:41:20She claimed Luca valued her, and she could visit any time.

00:41:24I leaned against the window, quietly amused.

00:41:27The bus stopped at the estate's wrought iron gates.

00:41:30Piling off, everyone stared at the sprawling coastal estate in awe.

00:41:34The heavy, elaborately carved gates were closed.

00:41:37Beside them, the access panel gleamed in the cold light.

00:41:40Vanessa, open the gate already!

00:41:43We're dying to see inside!

00:41:45Nodding calmly, Vanessa reached into her bag.

00:41:47She rummaged through her bag, her face turning pale.

00:41:50I stood behind the group with my arms folded and spoke up slowly.

00:41:54What's wrong?

00:41:55No access card?

00:41:56Every eye turned toward me.

00:41:57Vanessa's face flushed crimson.

00:41:59She jerked her head up and glared at me.

00:42:01Nonsense!

00:42:02I'm the lady of this house.

00:42:03Why wouldn't I have an access card?

00:42:04It's just buried deep in my bag.

00:42:06Her voice stayed firm, but her hands kept digging.

00:42:09She nearly emptied her bag, but still no card.

00:42:11The whispers around her grew louder.

00:42:13A thin sheen of sweat formed on her forehead.

00:42:15My hand had already found the black access card Luca had given me in my pocket.

00:42:18Just as I touched it, a side gate cracked open.

00:42:20A middle-aged housekeeper hurried out.

00:42:23Unnoticed, she slipped something to Vanessa and vanished back inside.

00:42:26It was Margaret, the head housekeeper of the estate.

00:42:28And Vanessa's mother.

00:42:29I raised an eyebrow and took my hand out of my pocket.

00:42:31Interesting.

00:42:32So that was their plan.

00:42:33The next second, Vanessa straightened up and triumphantly waved a white access card in front

00:42:37of me.

00:42:38She lifted her chin high.

00:42:39See?

00:42:40It's right here.

00:42:40I was only teasing you, seeing how worked up you'd get.

00:42:44Some people will never so much as touch an access card like this in their entire lives.

00:42:47All they can do is stand on the sidelines and make bitter little comments.

00:42:50She turned and tapped the access card against the reader.

00:42:52A beep sounded.

00:42:53The heavy gate slowly opened.

00:42:56Vanessa, you're amazing!

00:42:58She really got us in!

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

00:43:01The praise kept coming.

00:43:03Vanessa soaked it up like a peacock showing off.

00:43:05She strutted through the gates first, then shot me a vicious glare over her shoulder.

00:43:09I followed at the back of the group, taking my time.

00:43:11Margaret stood in the shadows of the entry hall.

00:43:14When she saw me, her brow furrowed almost imperceptibly.

00:43:17But a second later, her face was back to its usual professional blankness.

00:43:21She clearly hadn't recognized me.

00:43:22To her, I was just another employee tagging along.

00:43:25The estate was lavish inside.

00:43:27Crystal chandeliers hung overhead.

00:43:29Marble floors stretched beneath our feet.

00:43:30And artwork filled every room.

00:43:32My co-workers stared around in amazement.

00:43:34Vanessa led everyone through the rooms like she owned the place.

00:43:37Luca had this done especially for me.

00:43:39I picked that piece myself.

00:43:41She made it all sound so convincing, as if the estate really belonged to her.

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

00:43:49Sunlight caught the starlight sapphire bracelet at my wrist, scattering tiny flashes of blue.

00:43:54Vanessa turned at that exact moment and saw it.

00:43:57Her eyes lit up and she came straight toward me.

00:43:59What are you wearing?

00:44:01Vanessa 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.

00:44:15Mr. Castellano gave it to his wife.

00:44:18Her?

00:44:18Vanessa laughed and tightened her grip on my wrist.

00:44:21As if she could afford the real thing.

00:44:24It's obviously some cheap knockoff.

00:44:26The design is close, but it feels weightless.

00:44:29As she spoke, she pulled harder at the bracelet.

00:44:32I tried to pull my hand free, but her grip was too tight.

00:44:35Others around us joined in, laughing and jostling.

00:44:38Then I heard a sharp snap.

00:44:39The bracelet broke.

00:44:41The sapphire beads hit the marble floor and rolled in every direction.

00:44:44Someone shoved me hard.

00:44:46I lost my balance and hit the floor.

00:44:48My palms scraped the marble, and blood immediately welled along the broken skin.

00:44:53Oh, I'm sorry.

00:44:54She deliberately ground her heel over the scattered sapphire beads.

00:44:58But you shouldn't have worn a fake around trying to show off.

00:45:01Maybe it's better that it broke.

00:45:03At least you won't embarrass yourself wearing it in public.

00:45:05Exactly.

00:45:06It's only a knockoff, so what if it broke?

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

00:45:10Nora'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.

00:45:18Vanessa 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.

00:45:28It 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.

00:45:40I 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.

00:46:00Mommy!

00:46:00I was looking for you!

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.

00:46:18Mom!

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?

00:46:28Why 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.

00:46:37You 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?

00:46:47Aren't you worried he'll dirty the Castelloni's estate?

00:46:49Shut up!

00:46:50My expression went cold as I pushed myself to my feet.

00:46:53Vanessa, take it out on me if you want.

00:46:55But don't talk about my son.

00:46:56What?

00:46:57Did I say something wrong?

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

00:47:02A sharp slap rang out.

00:47:03My 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!

00:47:19Don'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,

00:47:25his little body shaking with rage.

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

00:47:31Don't hurt my mommy!

00:47:32My 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 Castaimo?

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?

00:47:56Your mother looks like she can barely afford to feed herself,

00:47:58and you expect anyone to believe she knows Mr. Castaimo?

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. Castaimo, 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.

00:49:03How 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!

00:49:13Luca's gaze snapped to Vanessa.

00:49:14His eyes were cold.

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

00:49:19If I hadn't come, how would I have seen someone mistreating my wife under my own roof?

00:49:27The crowd erupted.

00:49:28His wife?

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

00:49:31Oh my God.

00:49:32The 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!

00:49:53Vanessa 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.

00:50:29All 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.

00:51:08When 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.

00:51:32He 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,

00:51:44pass herself off as one of my family, and mistreat my wife?

00:51:47Margaret 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,

00:52:08damaged valuable property, and assaulted 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.

00:52:27It 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.

00:54:14Oh, 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.

00:54:31I 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

00:55:01the 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.

00:55:08My story in Jersey City was only just beginning.

00:55:10And this time, I had the man I loved to back me up.

00:55:13And 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.

00:55:34I closed the last contract file 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.

00:55:42Then 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.

00:56:02I 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.

00:56:13Grabbing 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.

00:57:54Where 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.

00:57:59The 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.

00:58:21I 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?

00:58:50I 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,

00:59:09cover Jacob's medical expenses, and submit a written apology.

00:59:12Why?

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?

00:59:40Victoria 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,

00:59:49and 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,

01:00:03waving 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,

01:00:09the 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,

01:00:14and 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,

01:00:34Jacob 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,

01:00:47and 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, I'll run you out of Jersey City!

01:01:16Miss Carter, you saw that, right?

01:01:18This crazy woman taught her son violence,

01:01:20and now she's assaulting me!

01:01:21Call the police! Get 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,

01:01:30I'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.

01:01:37I'm causing trouble?

01:01:38You didn't see her son shove Leo?

01:01:40You didn't see her try to slap me,

01:01:41so everything is suddenly our fault?

01:01:42With Victoria backing her up,

01:01:44Miss Carter puffed out her chest.

01:01:45It is your fault.

01:01:46Get on your knees and apologize now,

01:01:48or neither of you is leaving this room.

01:01:50Good. Very good.

01:01:52I let go of her wrist

01:01:53and slowly rubbed the spot she had gripped.

01:01:55My eyes went cold.

01:01:56Victoria rubbed her wrist

01:01:57and 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,

01:02:05instantly 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,

01:02:20Victoria 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,

01:02:29we're honored your busy husband is coming.

01:02:31Once he's here,

01:02:31we'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,

01:02:40you 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,

01:03:01the office door was kicked open.

01:03:02A burly,

01:03:03floral-shirted thug

01:03:04strode 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,

01:03:12he 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,

01:03:26the underboss of the Rizzo family.

01:03:27He controlled most of Jersey City's underground casinos

01:03:30and entertainment venues.

01:03:31Around here,

01:03:32he 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,

01:03:40with only a child at my side.

01:03:42Contempt filled his face.

01:03:44Just you?

01:03:44Tony sneered,

01:03:45strutting over,

01:03:46arms 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.

01:04:01Everything 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,

01:04:08pay the price.

01:04:09He pointed at the floor.

01:04:10Get on your knees

01:04:11and apologize to my wife and son.

01:04:14Beg them to forgive you.

01:04:15Then pay $500,000 for emotional distress

01:04:18and we'll call it even.

01:04:20Otherwise,

01:04:21you'll lose your job

01:04:22and 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,

01:04:35a trace of mockery in my eyes.

01:04:36You sure?

01:04:38What?

01:04:39Still refusing?

01:04:40Tony's face darkened.

01:04:41He gave the men behind him a look.

01:04:43They immediately stepped forward,

01:04:45glaring at me with threatening expressions.

01:04:47Listen carefully.

01:04:49In Jersey City,

01:04:50no 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,

01:04:58grabbed Leo by the arm

01:04:59and yanked him to his side.

01:05:02Mommy!

01:05:04Leo flinched and struggled.

01:05:06Leo!

01:05:07My face changed instantly.

01:05:09Let him go.

01:05:10Let him go?

01:05:12Tony gripped Leo's arm,

01:05:13looking pleased with himself.

01:05:16Are you going to kneel or not?

01:05:18If you don't,

01:05:18I won't be so nice to your son.

01:05:20Kids are fragile.

01:05:22It would be a shame

01:05:23if 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,

01:05:31but he clenched his teeth

01:05:33and refused to cry.

01:05:34Honey,

01:05:35stop wasting time on her.

01:05:37She's so protective of her son,

01:05:39isn't she?

01:05:40Let's see if she'll kneel.

01:05:41If she won't,

01:05:43break that little bastard's leg.

01:05:45Miss Carter stood off to the side,

01:05:47her head lowered

01:05:47as she pretended not to see a thing.

01:05:49She didn't dare stop them

01:05:51or say a word.

01:05:52My chest tightened

01:05:52as I watched Leo's face

01:05:54go pale with pain.

01:05:55I didn't fear Tony,

01:05:56only 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!

01:06:03Leo cried anxiously.

01:06:04I'm not afraid of him!

01:06:05It's okay, sweetheart.

01:06:07I looked at my son apologetically.

01:06:08Slowly,

01:06:09I bent my knees,

01:06:10getting closer and closer

01:06:11to the floor.

01:06:12Tony and Victoria

01:06:13exchanged a smug look.

01:06:14Victoria lifted her chin.

01:06:16See?

01:06:16Should have done this

01:06:17from the start.

01:06:19Always have to learn

01:06:20the hard way.

01:06:20I straightened back up.

01:06:22I knelt.

01:06:24Give me back my son.

01:06:25But they had no intention

01:06:26of 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

01:06:34from 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

01:06:41and tapped the call button.

01:06:43Fine.

01:06:43I'll see this through.

01:06:45Let's see who ends up

01:06:47paying for this today.

01:06:48The call went through.

01:06:49It rang only once

01:06:50before someone answered,

01:06:52though a trace of hurt

01:06:52slipped 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

01:07:01and the office fell silent

01:07:02for a few seconds.

01:07:04Tony paused for a moment,

01:07:05then threw his head back

01:07:06and laughed.

01:07:07He pointed at me.

01:07:08Who you scaring?

01:07:10Think name dropping scares me?

01:07:11Listen, in Jersey,

01:07:13I, Tony Rizzo,

01:07:14am the law.

01:07:15Victoria started laughing too,

01:07:17covering her mouth mockingly.

01:07:18Luca?

01:07:19You don't mean

01:07:20the legendary CEO

01:07:21of our company,

01:07:23Luca Castellano, do you?

01:07:24That's right.

01:07:28Nora, who are you kidding?

01:07:30You?

01:07:31No Mr. Castellano?

01:07:33Miss Carter visibly relaxed

01:07:34and joined in.

01:07:35I thought you'd called

01:07:36someone important.

01:07:38So this was all just an act.

01:07:41Do you have any idea

01:07:43who 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,

01:07:52laughing without restraint.

01:07:53To them,

01:07:54I was just an ordinary single mother.

01:07:56Maybe I had been clever enough

01:07:57to get into Meridian,

01:07:58but there was no way

01:08:00I could be connected

01:08:00to the all-powerful

01:08:01Castellano family.

01:08:03Hearing them laugh at his dad,

01:08:04Leo puffed out his little chest

01:08:05and 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,

01:08:13the little bastard can lie too.

01:08:15If your dad is Luca Castellini,

01:08:17then 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,

01:08:27stay on your knees.

01:08:28Nobody leaves until I'm satisfied.

01:08:30I'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

01:08:35and said nothing.

01:08:36I knew how fast Luca could get here,

01:08:38from Cavan Point Peninsula.

01:08:40It would take him

01:08:40no more than 15 minutes

01:08:41to reach the school.

01:08:42I just had to hold out

01:08:43until he arrived,

01:08:44but Tony clearly had

01:08:45no patience left.

01:08:46Fine.

01:08:47When he saw I wouldn't give in,

01:08:48he 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,

01:08:59he came back from

01:08:59the administration office

01:09:00with a sharp pair of craft scissors.

01:09:03Tony took them

01:09:04and snipped them

01:09:04twice 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

01:09:10and used the scissors

01:09:11to lift a lock of his hair.

01:09:12Kid's got nice hair.

01:09:15Don't kneel?

01:09:17I'll snip him

01:09:18completely bald for school.

01:09:20Think the other kids

01:09:21will laugh at him?

01:09:23You wouldn't dare.

01:09:24I rushed to pull Leo away,

01:09:25but two of Tony's men

01:09:26blocked me.

01:09:27Mommy!

01:09:28Leo was scared,

01:09:29but he clenched his teeth

01:09:30and refused to cry.

01:09:31He lifted his chin

01:09:32and 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

01:09:42you can keep talking tough

01:09:44or if my scissors

01:09:45change your mind.

01:09:47Honey, stop wasting time on her.

01:09:49If she won't kneel,

01:09:50cut it.

01:09:51Let's see if she still acts tough.

01:09:53Miss Carter stood trembling

01:09:54in the corner.

01:09:55She didn't dare say a word

01:09:56as the scissors drew closer

01:09:58to Leo.

01:09:58My 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,

01:10:05fists clenching white.

01:10:07See?

01:10:08Could have saved yourself

01:10:09the trouble.

01:10:10Kneeling isn't enough.

01:10:12Tony smiled smugly

01:10:13and lowered the scissors.

01:10:14You upset my wife earlier,

01:10:16so here's the deal.

01:10:17Crawl over here,

01:10:18lick my shoes clean,

01:10:19then beg her 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

01:10:28or watch your son go bald.

01:10:29He raised the scissors again,

01:10:31poised 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,

01:10:43but every word was clear.

01:10:44I looked at Leo's determined face,

01:10:46my heart aching

01:10:46and warming at once.

01:10:47My little man already knew

01:10:49how to protect his mommy,

01:10:50but I couldn't let Leo

01:10:51suffer this kind of humiliation.

01:10:52I took a deep breath

01:10:53and slowly bent down.

01:10:55My gaze fell on Tony's

01:10:56polished leather shoes

01:10:57and my stomach churned.

01:10:58A tide of humiliation

01:10:59washed over me,

01:11:00nearly drowning me.

01:11:01My face was only inches

01:11:02from one of his shoes.

01:11:05The office door

01:11:06was kicked open

01:11:07from the outside.

01:11:08You're begging for death.

01:11:11Boss!

01:11:14Everyone spun around,

01:11:15several bodyguards

01:11:16in black suits

01:11:16stood at the door,

01:11:17their presence imposing.

01:11:18At their center

01:11:19stood a man

01:11:19in a tailored black coat.

01:11:21His face was cold and stern.

01:11:22Terrifying rage swirled

01:11:23in his eyes.

01:11:24Just standing there,

01:11:25he made the room

01:11:25feel suffocating.

01:11:26It was Luca.

01:11:27He had arrived faster

01:11:28than I expected.

01:11:29A team of security personnel

01:11:30stood behind him.

01:11:31He looked like he'd stepped

01:11:32out of the cold itself.

01:11:33Tony's smile froze.

01:11:35He stared at the man

01:11:35in the doorway,

01:11:36his eyes widening

01:11:37as the color slowly

01:11:38drained from his face.

01:11:39His arrogance gave way

01:11:40to disbelief,

01:11:41then sheer terror.

01:11:42Boss!

01:11:43Tony's voice trembled.

01:11:44His legs gave out

01:11:45and he dropped to his knees

01:11:46with a thud.

01:11:46The scissors slipped

01:11:47from his hand

01:11:48and clattered onto the floor.

01:11:49The entire office went silent.

01:11:51Victoria's sneer froze

01:11:52as her fearless.

01:11:53Husband dropped to his knees,

01:11:54stammering,

01:11:55Boss!

01:11:55Her mind went blank.

01:11:56Miss Carter froze in place.

01:11:58The pen slipped from her hand

01:11:59and fell to the floor.

01:12:00Luca didn't look at

01:12:01Tony kneeling on the ground.

01:12:02His eyes swept across the room

01:12:04before finally landing on me.

01:12:05When he saw my red-rimmed eyes

01:12:07and the tissue in Leo's nose,

01:12:08the air around him

01:12:09seemed to turn even colder.

01:12:11He strode over,

01:12:11helped me to my feet,

01:12:13then pulled Leo to his side

01:12:14and shielded him behind him.

01:12:15Luca's voice softened,

01:12:16a stark contrast

01:12:17to his earlier icy tone.

01:12:19It's okay now.

01:12:20Leaning into Luca,

01:12:21my forced composure

01:12:22finally shattered.

01:12:23My nose stung.

01:12:24Leo immediately wrapped

01:12:25his 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,

01:12:31but his eyes grew colder.

01:12:33Then he looked up at Tony,

01:12:34who was trembling on his knees.

01:12:35His voice was ice cold.

01:12:37Tony Rizzo.

01:12:38Forcing my wife

01:12:39to kneel on my turf?

01:12:40Touching my son?

01:12:42Boss, I'm sorry.

01:12:43I didn't know

01:12:43they were your family.

01:12:44I was blind.

01:12:46I'm an idiot.

01:12:47Please,

01:12:48give 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

01:12:58East Coast underworld.

01:12:59Tony was only the underboss

01:13:00of a peripheral branch.

01:13:02To Luca,

01:13:03Tony was nothing.

01:13:03Victoria stood nearby,

01:13:05trembling all over.

01:13:06She stared at the scene

01:13:07before her,

01:13:07stunned.

01:13:08The quiet,

01:13:09simply-dressed new hire

01:13:10at the company,

01:13:11the one whose credit

01:13:12Victoria had stolen several times

01:13:13was really

01:13:14the legendary

01:13:15Mrs. Castellano.

01:13:17At the thought

01:13:17of what she'd done to me

01:13:18at work

01:13:19and what she'd just said,

01:13:20Victoria's legs went weak.

01:13:21She nearly sank

01:13:22to her knees, too.

01:13:24No.

01:13:24That's impossible.

01:13:25Victoria muttered

01:13:26under her breath.

01:13:27How could she be

01:13:27Mrs. Castellano?

01:13:29She drives such

01:13:30an ordinary car.

01:13:32She takes the subway

01:13:33to work every day.

01:13:34Luca gave her

01:13:34a cold look,

01:13:35sharp as a knife.

01:13:36She fell silent at once.

01:13:38Ignoring the terrified couple,

01:13:40Luca looked down,

01:13:40his voice softening.

01:13:42Tell me what happened.

01:13:43I took a deep breath

01:13:44and told him everything

01:13:45from the beginning.

01:13:46Jacob called Leo a bastard.

01:13:48The boys got into a fight.

01:13:50Without first finding out

01:13:51what happened,

01:13:52Miss Carter made Leo

01:13:53stand in the corner.

01:13:54Victoria twisted the truth.

01:13:56Then Tony came in.

01:13:57He used Leo to threaten me,

01:13:59forced me to kneel,

01:14:00and threatened to cut

01:14:01his hair with scissors.

01:14:02I spoke calmly,

01:14:04but Luca's expression

01:14:05darkened with every word.

01:14:06Daddy,

01:14:07he called Mommy

01:14:08a woman no one wants.

01:14:10Leo added,

01:14:11That's why I pushed him.

01:14:13Luca was silent

01:14:14for a few seconds

01:14:15after hearing that.

01:14:16Then he reached out

01:14:17and gently wiped the blood

01:14:18from beside Leo's nose.

01:14:20His fingers were cold.

01:14:22Good boy.

01:14:23Luca looked at his son,

01:14:24his voice steady.

01:14:26Someone insults Mom,

01:14:27you teach them a lesson.

01:14:29I told you a man

01:14:30protects his mother.

01:14:31You did.

01:14:32Leo's eyes lit up

01:14:33and he nodded hard.

01:14:35Luca stood

01:14:36and turned to Miss Carter.

01:14:37She had already gone pale,

01:14:38huddled in the corner,

01:14:39and shaking.

01:14:40You're his teacher.

01:14:42Two kids get into a fight

01:14:44and you don't even ask

01:14:45what happened.

01:14:46Instead,

01:14:47you punish only my son

01:14:48and insult him too.

01:14:50Who gave you the nerve?

01:14:52I,

01:14:53I,

01:14:54Victoria said,

01:14:55she said her husband

01:14:56was a big shot.

01:14:57I,

01:14:57So you decided to suck up

01:14:59to her and twist the facts?

01:15:00Luca let out a cold laugh

01:15:01and pulled out his phone.

01:15:03Principal here.

01:15:05Now.

01:15:06Immediately.

01:15:07Call ended.

01:15:08Tony kept groveling on the floor.

01:15:10Boss,

01:15:10I know I was wrong.

01:15:11I'll never do it again.

01:15:14Please,

01:15:15give me one more chance.

01:15:16Tony was sobbing so hard

01:15:17he could barely get the words out.

01:15:19Please, boss.

01:15:20I have a family to take care of.

01:15:23Please,

01:15:23have mercy.

01:15:25Mercy?

01:15:26Luca looked down at him

01:15:27without a trace of warmth

01:15:28in his eyes.

01:15:29When holding scissors to my son,

01:15:31did you think of mercy?

01:15:33When forcing my wife

01:15:34to lick your shoes,

01:15:35did you think of today?

01:15:36He tipped his chin

01:15:37toward the bodyguards behind him.

01:15:38Two bodyguards immediately

01:15:40stepped forward

01:15:40and 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

01:15:50on Castellano territory again.

01:15:52No, boss!

01:15:53Please!

01:15:53Average!

01:15:54Tony was terrified.

01:15:56He struggled desperately,

01:15:57but the bodyguards held him down.

01:15:59Victoria screamed.

01:16:00Let go of my husband!

01:16:02She tried to rush toward him,

01:16:03but 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,

01:16:12his screams slowly fading down the hall.

01:16:15The office was dead silent.

01:16:16You could hear every breath.

01:16:18Victoria slumped on the floor,

01:16:19her face drained of all color.

01:16:21She knew she was finished.

01:16:22I stood beside Luca

01:16:23and watched it all

01:16:24without feeling anything.

01:16:25They had brought this on themselves.

01:16:27If they'd been reasonable,

01:16:28they wouldn't end up here.

01:16:29I just hadn't expected Luca

01:16:30to arrive so fast,

01:16:32shielding us so fiercely.

01:16:33After dealing with Tony,

01:16:35Luca turned his attention to Victoria.

01:16:37You work for the Meridian Jersey City branch.

01:16:39Luca's tone was calm,

01:16:41but it sounded like a death sentence.

01:16:43You repeatedly passed off

01:16:45your co-workers' work as your own.

01:16:47You spread rumors

01:16:48and stirred up trouble.

01:16:50You let your son bully others.

01:16:52And you conspired with others

01:16:54to harm my family.

01:16:55Victoria trembled from head to toe.

01:16:57She looked at me

01:16:58with 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!

01:17:10And I never should have targeted

01:17:11you 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,

01:17:22you're fired from Meridian Group for good.

01:17:25You're blacklisted

01:17:25from this industry for life.

01:17:27No company in Jersey City

01:17:28is to hire you.

01:17:29Take your son

01:17:29and get out of Jersey City.

01:17:31Never come back.

01:17:32No!

01:17:33No!

01:17:34Victoria completely broke down.

01:17:36A lifetime blacklist

01:17:37and exile from Jersey City

01:17:39would destroy her career

01:17:40and every connection she had.

01:17:42Everything she had been so proud of

01:17:43was gone in an instant.

01:17:45No!

01:17:45She tried to beg again.

01:17:46No!

01:17:47No!

01:17:48No!

01:17:49No!

01:17:50No!

01:17:51No!

01:17:53No!

01:17:55No!

01:17:55No one paid him any attention.

01:17:57Victoria and Jacob

01:17:58were dragged out together,

01:18:00their cries fading into the distance.

01:18:02At last,

01:18:03the 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

01:18:09to the wrong side.

01:18:10She had thought

01:18:10Victoria's husband was a big shot,

01:18:12but she never imagined

01:18:13my husband was the one ruling supreme.

01:18:15and the

01:18:15even

01:18:15same.

01:18:16So

01:18:17I

The Mafia Don Hired Me as His Wife - Full EP | Mafia Romance

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