Chapter 5 - The Billionaire Mafia Boss Becomes a Three-Year-Old's Bodyguard
The next morning, the heavy rain had stopped, leaving the estate grounds washed in pale sunlight.
Inside the medical wing, Clara was trying to sit up, wincing as her bruised ribs protested.
The door clicked open.
Alessandro walked in, carrying a small tray.
On it was a cup of black coffee, a plate of toast, and a glass of warm milk.
Clara stared at him in disbelief.
The most feared man in the city was acting like a room service waiter.
"You shouldn't be moving," Alessandro said, setting the tray on the nightstand.
"I need to get back to work," Clara said stubbornly. "If I don't work, I don't get paid."
"You are on paid leave indefinitely."
"Mr. Viscari, I can't accept charity."
"It’s not charity. It’s hazard pay."
From beneath the blankets, a tiny head popped out.
Sophie rubbed her eyes, spotting the glass of milk.
"Is that for me?"
"If you want it," Alessandro said.
Sophie scrambled up, carefully taking the glass.
She looked at Alessandro, no longer terrified of the tall man who had carried her.
"You don't wear black today," she noted.
Alessandro looked down at his charcoal gray sweater.
"No. I suppose I don't."
Clara watched the interaction, her heart aching.
She had spent three years raising Sophie alone, hiding in the shadows, trying to remain invisible.
Yet this ruthless boss was treating them with more care than anyone ever had.
"Why are you doing this?" Clara asked quietly.
"I protect what is mine," Alessandro said simply.
"I am just an employee."
"You are under my roof. That makes you my responsibility."
He sat down in the leather chair again.
"And besides, your daughter interrupted my meeting. That takes courage."
Sophie finished her milk and giggled.
"Mr. Boss Man is funny."
Alessandro raised an eyebrow. "Mr. Boss Man?"
Clara blushed furiously.
"I’m sorry, she hears the other staff call you the boss, and she just added..."
"It’s fine," Alessandro interrupted, a rare, genuine smile touching the corners of his mouth.
For the first time in eight years, the cold fortress around his heart felt a small crack.
He found himself wanting to stay in this room.
Away from the betrayals, the blood, and the endless paranoia of his world.
He wanted to watch Clara’s gentle face and listen to Sophie’s innocent chatter.
But the reality of his life was waiting outside the door.
His phone buzzed in his pocket.
It was a text from his head of security.
“Damien just made a call from a burner phone in his bathroom.”
Alessandro’s eyes hardened.
The peaceful moment was over.
"I have to go," he said, standing up.
He looked at Clara, his tone turning completely serious.
"Do not open this door for anyone except me or Dr. Evans. Understood?"
Clara felt the sudden shift in the air.
The danger was still here.
"I understand," she whispered.
Alessandro walked to the door, glancing back one last time.
"I will keep you safe, Clara. I give you my word."
He stepped out, locking the heavy door behind him.
May you like
Damien had taken the bait.
Now it was time to let the trap snap shut.
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