A powerful full drama movie filled with love, secrets, and unexpected twists.
Follow a powerful story where relationships are tested, hidden truths are revealed, and lives change forever. From romantic moments to shocking surprises, this drama keeps you engaged from beginning to end.
Featuring stories about CEO, billionaire lifestyles, family connections, and life-changing decisions, this movie delivers strong emotions and unforgettable scenes.
Watch the full movie and discover what happens in the end.
New full drama movies uploaded regularly. Stay tuned for more captivating and trending stories.
#drama #fullmovie #lovestory #dramatic #billionaire #ceo #family #relationships #movie #story
Follow a powerful story where relationships are tested, hidden truths are revealed, and lives change forever. From romantic moments to shocking surprises, this drama keeps you engaged from beginning to end.
Featuring stories about CEO, billionaire lifestyles, family connections, and life-changing decisions, this movie delivers strong emotions and unforgettable scenes.
Watch the full movie and discover what happens in the end.
New full drama movies uploaded regularly. Stay tuned for more captivating and trending stories.
#drama #fullmovie #lovestory #dramatic #billionaire #ceo #family #relationships #movie #story
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AmusantTranscription
00:00The night I signed the divorce paper and walked away with nothing,
00:03I wandered the rainy streets alone, with a single duffel bag and only $36.
00:09That was when I spotted a flyer taped to a roadside pole.
00:12Stepmom wanted for child. Room and board, that's what got me.
00:16That same night, I showed up at the address.
00:18I walked straight into the mansion of Luca Castellano,
00:21the don of New York's oldest mafia family.
00:24Later, my ex-husband looked down at me with that same arrogance.
00:27Nora, do you finally realize you were wrong?
00:30Before I could answer, the four-year-old little tyrant exploded.
00:34Wrong about what? My mom is the best.
00:37The don slipped an arm around my shoulders, kicking him aside.
00:40My wife could never be wrong, and even if she was, she'd still be right.
00:44I never expected the people posting flyers on poles to be New York's most powerful mafia family.
00:49Now I stood outside their mansion.
00:51Beside me, the butler carried himself with quiet arrogance.
00:55The don is looking for a mother for his child.
00:57Not a wife for himself.
00:59I need you to be very clear on that.
01:00Don is a very desirable man.
01:02Do not get any ideas you shouldn't.
01:04I kept my eyes lowered.
01:05Honestly, this job was perfect for me.
01:08To put it simply, they just needed a high-end nanny.
01:11Eight hours ago, I'd signed the divorce papers and been kicked out of my ex's house.
01:15The last thing I wanted was another husband.
01:17But a roof? Three meals? A place to disappear?
01:20That was a miracle.
01:21I understand. I won't get any ideas.
01:24The butler led me down a dim, vaulted corridor.
01:27Then I heard something that sounded like a gunshot.
01:29I stumbled, slammed straight into a hot, hard chest.
01:33The smell hit me first.
01:35Blood.
01:35Gunpowder.
01:36Then the barrel of a pistol tipped my chin up.
01:38A man in a suit with his hair slicked back.
01:40Blood streaked across his jaw.
01:42A snake tattoo coiling out of his collar onto his throat.
01:45My chest rose and fell rapidly with fear.
01:48His gun slid down from my chin and stopped between my soaked breasts.
01:52He studied me for a long beat.
01:54Finally, walked off without a word.
01:56I'd seen that face before.
01:58Page 6.
01:58New York Times.
01:59The Castellano Don.
02:01Sebastian had once spent a month studying his photos, trying to get in with the old mafia
02:06family behind him.
02:07The butler finally spoke.
02:09The Don is handling some business.
02:11Please don't mind.
02:12I nodded quietly.
02:13Then he took me to change into something dry and led me into the dining room.
02:17A long wooden table sat beneath a crystal chandelier.
02:20And at one end, a father and son were locked in a standoff.
02:23The man with murder in his eyes was gone.
02:25In his place, at the table, sat a man in a white dress shirt holding a spoon.
02:30His face was tired.
02:31The boy pressed his lips shut and glared up at his father like a tiny soldier holding
02:36the line.
02:36Neither moved.
02:37Finally, the man exhaled and set the spoon down.
02:40Long fingers pinched the bridge of his nose.
02:43His voice dropped, low and rough.
02:45One bite.
02:46One small bite.
02:47Is that really too much?
02:49The butler stepped forward.
02:50Don, the applicant is here.
02:52The man turned.
02:53His shirt was unbuttoned low.
02:55I could see most of the snake tattoo now.
02:57The lines of his muscles pressed faintly through the white linen.
03:00The most feared man in New York inherited the family glory at 16.
03:05Built it bigger, darker, quieter than his father had.
03:08Money, power, blood on his hands.
03:10So this wasn't some dream or scam.
03:13A man like Luca Castellano had no reason to scam a broke divorcee off the street.
03:18His eyes moved over me, distant and tired.
03:20Name?
03:21I figured he'd come straight from his so-called business.
03:24Handling traitors, torturing some enemies, and now got defeated by a toddler.
03:28Feeding the kid was probably harder than running his empire.
03:31Nora Bennett.
03:32I said, a barely there nod.
03:34He held out the plate.
03:35Try.
03:36So, this was my interview.
03:37If I didn't pass, I was sleeping on the F train.
03:40I smiled my warmest, gentlest smile and walked toward the boy.
03:44I didn't make it two steps.
03:45Whoosh.
03:46He bolted under the table.
03:47Only his eyes peeked out.
03:49Dark, round, furious.
03:51I don't want her.
03:52Send her away.
03:53She's a bad lady.
03:54They're all bad ladies.
03:56So, before me, this kid had already been through who knows how many stepmoms.
04:00Fine.
04:01I needed to do my best.
04:02I scanned the room and clocked it instantly.
04:04Action figures everywhere.
04:06That man, Spider-Man, a whole shelf of Avengers.
04:09I grabbed two figures off the coffee table and crouched down by the table leg.
04:14I sat Batman and Spider-Man right next to the kid.
04:17Then I picked up the spoon.
04:18Don't worry.
04:18I'm not feeding you.
04:20I'm feeding Batman.
04:21I mimed a spoonful into Batman's face.
04:23Open up, bats.
04:24Heroes who skip dinner?
04:25Skinny arms, skinny legs.
04:27Can't protect anyone like that.
04:29Oh, Batman wants vegetables?
04:31Good call.
04:33Spinach makes you strong.
04:34The boy watched, half-hidden, lips parting, smacking his mouth a little.
04:38I pretended not to see.
04:40His nose started turning pink, like he was about to cry.
04:43Right on cue, I gasped.
04:45Wait, is that a baby Batman over there?
04:47Bats, can you share with him?
04:49He has to eat too if he's gonna grow up strong.
04:52I tilted Batman.
04:53Bats says yes.
04:54I turned to the boy.
04:56Batman improved, kiddo.
04:57You get a little, but just a little.
04:59We don't want you outgrowing him.
05:01He'd be sad.
05:02The boy nodded furiously.
05:04I didn't even get the spoon to his mouth before he grabbed it with his lips.
05:07A big bite.
05:08Why won't you give me vegetables?
05:10You scared I'll get stronger than Batman?
05:12Bad lady.
05:13I glanced at the couch.
05:15Luca Castellano's mouth curved.
05:17A small, real smile.
05:19Approving.
05:19I moved into the castle that night.
05:21There were three floors.
05:22I got the second floor with Leo.
05:24Luca had the entire third floor to himself.
05:26The butler walked me to my room and gave me one last warning.
05:30You do not go up to the third floor.
05:31Ever.
05:32His voice dropped.
05:33The last woman who snuck up there to climb into the Don's bed got thrown out of his window.
05:37Two story drive.
05:38I thought of the gun from an hour ago.
05:40I nodded so hard I almost gave myself whiplash.
05:43Won't happen.
05:44You have my word.
05:45Castellano men breed serious.
05:47Leo was only four and slept in his own bed without a fuss.
05:50And that made my job easier.
05:52I'd just changed into the silk pajamas from the closet.
05:55The knock made me jump.
05:56Don Luca's voice was low behind the door.
05:58Come down.
05:59Let's talk.
06:00Luca was on the couch in the great room, long legs crossed, whiskey in his hand.
06:04I sat across from him on the opposite couch, hands in my lap, knees together, like a job interview.
06:09You're good with kids.
06:10You have one of your own?
06:11No.
06:12I helped raise my ex's nephew for two years.
06:14Back the...
06:15The crane said I didn't make enough money and ordered me to quit.
06:18Called it generosity.
06:19Then, after I did, they claimed I was lazy and had nothing to do.
06:23So they fired the nanny and dumped the kid on me.
06:26More free maid than wife.
06:27File says you're divorced.
06:29Yes.
06:29Reason?
06:29Some small town girl cannot stain a noble family name, I guess.
06:34Only a coward would say that.
06:35You saw the ad.
06:37I'm hiring a mother for Leo, not a date for me.
06:39My rival's family terrified him when he was little.
06:41He's always been insecure, hates leaving the house, and has never had a single friend.
06:45I work long hours.
06:47I need someone with patience.
06:49Someone who'll stay.
06:50There will be a prenum.
06:52Everything stays separate, especially in bed.
06:54My heart shuddered as I looked deep into his eyes.
06:57Marriage in rich people's world was a contract before it was anything else.
07:01My marriage with Sebastian was for love.
07:03But because the gaps between our family, I'd signed one with him too.
07:07When the love ran out, I'd walked away with nothing.
07:10Not even my wedding ring.
07:11Let alone a powerful mafia family like the Castellanos.
07:15They would only be more careful.
07:17I understand.
07:18Honestly, if you just need someone in the house, we don't have to make it legal.
07:22I'm fine without the paperwork.
07:23Luca shook his head.
07:26He leaned forward, tapping his fingers on the table.
07:29Marriage is for Leo.
07:30He needs the most stable mother I can give him.
07:32And marriage is the strongest contract there is.
07:35All right.
07:36We'll do it your way.
07:40Don't worry.
07:41You'll get $100,000 a month for expenses.
07:43This was the part I cared about.
07:44I've been burned before.
07:46Mr. Castellano, if we divorce someday, can I keep the money you've given me?
07:50Of course.
07:51It's yours.
07:52All right, then.
07:54As for sex, I don't need anything from you in that area.
07:59You stay on the second floor.
08:00Right.
08:01The sex.
08:02That's fine.
08:03Neither do I.
08:05So, three days after I signed divorce papers, I got married again.
08:09No ceremony, no guests.
08:11Same as my first wedding.
08:13The butler added an extra dish to dinner.
08:15I thought that was the celebration.
08:17But suddenly, Luca slid a signet ring across the table.
08:20A Castellano family ring.
08:25That's not necessary.
08:28Sebastian never even gave me his family ring.
08:31For Leo's sake.
08:32Then I got it.
08:33The child needed a family illusion.
08:35I fell into silence and finally took it.
08:38I'll keep it safe.
08:39That night, I'd just gotten into bed when the door creaked open.
08:42Leo stood in the doorway.
08:44Bare feet, hair sticking up, fidgeting with his dinosaur pajamas.
08:48What's up, kiddo?
08:50Nora, can you read me a bedtime story?
08:53What?
08:54You want me to read you a bedtime story?
08:56I'll get my dad to pay you extra.
08:58If you don't want to, forget it.
09:00Come here.
09:01I held the covers open.
09:02He scrambled in like he'd been waiting for that all day.
09:05Halfway through the story, he was out cold against my shoulder.
09:10Next morning at breakfast, Luca's eyes widened when the butler told him Leo had slept in my bed.
09:15Nora, that was above and beyond.
09:18I'll add another $50,000 a month.
09:20Mr. Castiano, that's way too much.
09:23It was, by a lot.
09:25I'd given far more than this in my last marriage and walked away with literally nothing.
09:30During the day, I babysat his nephew.
09:33At night, I cooked for my husband.
09:35After satisfying his needs in bed, I still had to get up at five to clean the house and make
09:40breakfast.
09:41His mother judged.
09:42We could hire someone, but Nora's just sitting around all day wouldn't be fair.
09:46Despite all these, the day of the divorce, his sister told the lawyer I'd been living off them for three
09:52years.
09:53Mr. Castiano, it's really too much.
09:55I like Leo.
09:56He's a sweet kid.
09:57Reading him a book is nothing.
09:59As I said it, Leo came over and grabbed my fingers with his small, warm hand.
10:04He was looking up at me with those big, dark grape eyes.
10:07He was actually moved.
10:08You don't know.
10:09The women before you only cared about impressing me.
10:13They ignored him.
10:1650,000.
10:17That's the new number.
10:19Not negotiable.
10:20I gave up and thanked him.
10:22From that day on, Leo was my shadow.
10:25Luca was busy with all the transactions, the guns, and the bloods.
10:28The huge mansion was usually just the two of us.
10:31I tried my best to play with him and made him happy every day, until the day I had a
10:36hospital
10:36appointment for a follow-up.
10:38The butler had warned me.
10:40Leo couldn't leave the house.
10:41Outside triggered panic attacks.
10:43I crouched down.
10:44Hey, babe.
10:46Wait for me at home.
10:47I'll be back in an hour.
10:49He grabbed my hand and wouldn't let go.
10:51Didn't say anything.
10:53Just looked at me with those dark, sad eyes.
10:57He's scared you're not coming back.
11:00His mother left him exactly like that.
11:02I'm coming back.
11:03I'll see the doctor and come right home.
11:05You play here, okay?
11:06I was still mid-sentence when he climbed into the backseat of the car.
11:09The butler tried not to hope.
11:11Master Leo, you're going to the hospital with Miss Bennett?
11:14Leo nodded.
11:16Thank God.
11:17He's finally willing to leave the house.
11:19Your depression's getting better.
11:21Just keep it slow.
11:22Relax.
11:22I took the script and the meds and left.
11:25Leo was waiting in the lobby with his small batman.
11:29Nora.
11:31Are you sick?
11:33A little, kiddo.
11:34I used to skip meals a lot, so I got sick.
11:37Promise me you'll never let yourself get like that.
11:40Does it hurt?
11:42If it hurts, I can give you candy.
11:44Daddy told me candy makes you forget.
11:47My tears fell without warning.
11:49In the crane house, I'd cry and they'd call it dramatic.
11:53Small town girl.
11:55Can't handle the lifestyle.
11:59I had depression.
12:01Stop faking it to get attention!
12:04The nephew I'd raised for two years stood next to his mother on divorce day and called me ugly.
12:09And here was this four-year-old mafia heir handing me his last piece of candy.
12:13Nora, I'm going to eat every meal so I can grow up and protect you.
12:25You better grow fast, babe.
12:26When we walked out of the hospital, there was a black Maybach idling at the curb.
12:30Luca was leaning against it.
12:32Mr. Castellano, why are you here?
12:34He scooped his son into his arm.
12:36Seeing how calm and composed the boy was, his eyes suddenly reddened.
12:40The butler called, said Leo went out with you.
12:42I had to see it.
12:43Dad, as long as I'm with Nora, you can stop worrying.
12:47I know.
12:49That night, he tried to raise my pay again.
12:52This time, a black card.
12:54I refused so hard, he laughed.
12:58Noia, there must be something you want.
13:00Could you help me find a used car, 5,000 or below, so I can take Leo out without depending
13:06on the driver?
13:09Pick anything from the garage.
13:12The cheapest car in your garage is a quarter million.
13:14I wouldn't dare drive it.
13:17Fine.
13:19Next morning, an old, beat-up sedan was parked next to his black Bentley.
13:24He also flew in a psychiatrist, same diagnosis as the hospital.
13:28But this time, my meds were upgraded to the brand I'd never been able to afford.
13:33Your wife needs company.
13:35Family.
13:35Don't push her too hard.
13:36I'll remember that.
13:38The next day, I drove Leo out with me.
13:40He'd always been insecure, had barely seen the outside world.
13:44Now, I wanted to show it to him.
13:46First, the amusement park.
13:47He grabbed my hand and dragged me over to take pictures.
13:50Then I took him to the farmer's market.
13:52He'd never been to a farmer's market in his life.
13:54Nora!
13:54I don't want to hold this!
13:56My hands are full, Leo.
13:58Just a few steps.
13:59Fine!
14:00One time only!
14:01And no more lobster!
14:03No!
14:04Nora?
14:05It was Sebastian, my ex-husband.
14:08He was in a crisp gray suit, hair perfect, looking like he'd stepped out of a magazine cover.
14:14It had been five weeks since the divorce.
14:16My stomach knotted on contact.
14:18Sebastian and I had met in college.
14:19He came from one of those Wall Street elite families, the golden boy of high finance.
14:24He'd ignored every objection from his family to put a ring on me.
14:28At our wedding, he'd promised to protect me for life.
14:31Then he took over Crane Capital and he started finding fault with everything.
14:35He wanted me to quit my job, take care of his parents, take care of his sister's kid.
14:40Cook, laundry, cleaning.
14:41I did all of it because I loved him.
14:44Because I'd never been loved by my own family and didn't know any better.
14:48Until one day, I caught him in a private club with a girl in his lap.
14:52My whole world shattered.
14:53I cried.
14:54I screamed.
14:56I begged him to swear it would stop.
14:58The whole Crane family said I was overreacting.
15:01What successful man doesn't have side action?
15:04Sebastian said I'd been spoiled rotten.
15:07He blocked my number.
15:08Stopped coming home.
15:09My depression cratered.
15:11I filed for divorce.
15:13He thought it was a bluff.
15:14His family told him,
15:15Don't let her win.
15:16He had his lawyer draft papers.
15:18I walked out with nothing.
15:20Signed them in seven seconds.
15:21Four years of dating.
15:23Three years of marriage.
15:24Done.
15:25Noah, Ivy League degree.
15:27And here you are playing nanny?
15:30What were you thinking?
15:32Not your business.
15:34Nora, try to understand.
15:36The day you married into the Crane family, you represent the Crane name.
15:41Sebastian, we're divorced.
15:43I have nothing to do with your family anymore.
15:47Even divorced, you're my ex-wife.
15:49People still bring me up when they talk about you.
15:51Stop embarrassing me.
15:53Use your head for once.
15:54Stop being emotional all the time.
15:57Nora, a few weeks out here.
15:59Bet you miss being Mrs. Crane, don't you?
16:01Admit you were wrong.
16:02I'll think about taking you back.
16:03The girls outside the marriage, those were nothing.
16:05I haven't replaced you.
16:06The position's still open.
16:08Just swallow your pride.
16:09Apologize to my mother and my sister.
16:11Don't bother holding it.
16:12Give the seat to someone else, Sebastian.
16:14I'm not interested.
16:15On the drive home, a new number called.
16:17Connor, the nephew I'd raised for two years.
16:20I'd block the rest of the Cranes.
16:22Not him.
16:23Kids didn't pick their parents.
16:24Hey, Con.
16:25Nora, you divorced loser.
16:28My mom wants to talk to you.
16:30My throat closed up.
16:31Then Cassandra Crane took the phone.
16:33Nora, Sebastian tells me you're working as a nanny.
16:36Have you ever thought about anyone but yourself?
16:38You're slapping Sebastian's face.
16:40You're slapping the Crane name.
16:41What does that look like to people?
16:43Nora, I always said it.
16:45You'll never rise above your roots.
16:47Trash dressed in silk.
16:48I hung up, blocked her, pulled over.
16:51I crashed onto the steering wheel and bawled.
16:53I cried until I couldn't breathe.
16:54I cried until I was so empty I felt nothing.
16:57Then I sat up, wiped my face, felt the exhaustion settle bone deep.
17:01Nora, here, tissue.
17:03I'd forgotten Leo was in the back seat.
17:05He was holding a tissue out from his car seat.
17:07Big, sad eyes glued to me.
17:09I'm sorry, sweetheart.
17:10Did I scare you?
17:11Nora, I'm not scared.
17:13You can cry as long as you want.
17:15I'll wait.
17:16Adults crying isn't shameful.
17:17I won't laugh.
17:19Thanks, my little gentleman.
17:21Auntie's done.
17:22No more crying from now on.
17:23Let's go home.
17:24I went to bed early that night.
17:25Didn't feel up to dinner.
17:27Then a knock.
17:27Nora, can I come in?
17:30Luca.
17:30I was fresh out of the shower.
17:32Hair wet, robe tied carefully.
17:34I made sure nothing was showing.
17:36Come in.
17:37He was in a tight white tank top, making the snake tattoo stand out even more.
17:42Dark hair falling loose over his forehead.
17:44Whiskey in his hand.
17:45Looser than I'd ever seen him.
17:47He sat in the chair by my bed.
17:48His gaze flicked to my wet collarbone.
17:50Then immediately to the wall, like he'd been caught.
17:53The clothes in your closet.
17:54You never wear any of them.
17:56They're too nice.
17:58I'm not used to it.
17:59I'd learned one thing from the crane marriage.
18:01Don't force yourself into a world that isn't yours.
18:03The fall is uglier when they shove you out.
18:06Are they not your style?
18:07I'll have the designer come fit you for new ones.
18:10No, no, Mr. Castellano.
18:11I'm in the house all day with Leo.
18:13There's nowhere to wear that kind of thing, truly.
18:16I heard you saw your ex today.
18:18His name's Crane?
18:19The stupid Crane Capital?
18:21I froze.
18:22Leo had snitched.
18:23Yes.
18:24That Crane.
18:25Old news.
18:26Nora.
18:27Since you came, Leo's been a different child.
18:30Thank you.
18:31His eyes were dark and serious on mine.
18:33I shifted.
18:34Uncomfortable.
18:34You pay me very well.
18:36It's what I'm here for.
18:37Nora.
18:38Nora.
18:39Ask me for anything.
18:40I can probably make it happen.
18:42Mr. Castellano.
18:43I don't need anything.
18:44He was quiet a long moment.
18:46His fingers tightened on his knee, then released.
18:49He stood up.
18:50I'll say this again.
18:52I'm the Don of the Costetto family.
18:54If you want, I can make sure he never speaks again more by tomorrow.
18:59I took a step back, still not used to him being this close.
19:02Without warning, he tucked a strand of hair behind my ear.
19:05Did I scare you?
19:06I said nothing.
19:07His hand slid down from my cheek.
19:09He gave a faint smile, then walked out.
19:12For the next two weeks, Luca started coming home early.
19:15Dinner with Leo and me.
19:17Sometimes board games after.
19:19Sometimes a movie.
19:20A man who ran half of New York's underworld didn't change his schedule for no reason.
19:24I was starting to worry.
19:26Was the family in trouble?
19:27Not that I cared about him.
19:28I just really cared about my $150,000 a month.
19:31Mr. Castellano, you don't have to keep coming home this early.
19:35Leo has me.
19:36If you've got business, take it.
19:38Luca picked up a red Lego brick.
19:40Voice perfectly neutral.
19:41The psychiatrist said you need family.
19:43Leo and I are your family now.
19:45We have responsibilities.
19:47Since when are we family, I wanted to say.
19:49I didn't.
19:50Honestly, Leo's enough.
19:52The doctor said my improvement is mostly thanks to him.
19:55He stroked his chin, avoiding eye contact.
19:58I grabbed Leo's hand and stood.
20:00Come on, buddy.
20:01Story time.
20:02Daddy still has work.
20:03Leo and I walked out.
20:05Nora.
20:05Luca's voice, stopping me at the doorway.
20:08Yes?
20:09His ears were faintly pink.
20:11He cleared his throat.
20:12Tomorrow night, there's an event.
20:15Plus sun's required.
20:17Would you come with me?
20:19Me?
20:25You.
20:26I don't have time to find someone else.
20:28I'll pay you an appearance fee.
20:30A man with his face couldn't find a date in 24 hours?
20:33I didn't think too much.
20:34There was money on the table.
20:36Sure.
20:37I don't know the social rules in your world, though.
20:40I don't want to embarrass you.
20:42The Cranes were a moneyed family, too.
20:44But Sebastian had never taken me to anything because his mother said.
20:48She doesn't know how to act in public.
20:49Don't let her embarrass us.
20:51Stand next to me.
20:53That's all.
20:54Luca's brow eased.
20:55If you want, I can make the gossipers shut up for good.
20:58The butler chimed in, beaming.
21:00Miss Bennett, you don't need to know the rules.
21:04The don is the rules.
21:06Hard to argue with that.
21:07The next afternoon, a design team showed up at the mansion.
21:10Five people.
21:12Most of them flown in from Paris.
21:14Hair, makeup, dress, jewelry.
21:16They huddled and debated each detail for 20 minutes at a stretch.
21:21By the time Luca came home, I was starting to feel sick about how much was on me.
21:25He walked in, saw me.
21:27His eyes did something.
21:29A brief flash.
21:30Almost stunned.
21:32Before he caught himself.
21:33Daddy.
21:34Look how pretty Nora is.
21:37Call her mom.
21:38Leo turned his head and harumphed.
21:40Wouldn't say it.
21:41I patted his hair.
21:43It's okay.
21:44I like Nora.
21:46Makes me feel young.
21:47The event was a charity gala at the plaza.
21:50Every major name in New York was there.
21:52Old money.
21:53Bigger money.
21:54Political faces.
21:55A few faces I recognized from the papers.
21:57And a few I knew not to recognize at all.
22:00They orbited Luca immediately.
22:02Conversations started landing on me.
22:04Mr. Castellino.
22:06Who's the beautiful lady?
22:07I jumped in to save him.
22:10I'm a friend of Mr. Castellino's.
22:13My wife.
22:15Nora.
22:16The room shifted.
22:17A chorus of polite gasps.
22:19Compliments raining down.
22:21My face went hot to my collarbone.
22:24Luca squeezed my hand.
22:25Leaned in.
22:26Nora.
22:27Is being my wife really that embarrassing?
22:30You couldn't say it?
22:31Bourbon and cedar on his breath.
22:34No.
22:34No.
22:35I just...
22:36I didn't want to embarrass you.
22:38His eyes darkened.
22:39Nora.
22:40He looked at me like he was lighting something on fire.
22:42Only a weak man is embarrassed by his wife.
22:44I had to look away.
22:45I'll grab a drink.
22:46I bolted.
22:48I'd been hiding by the champagne tower for about 90 seconds when...
22:52Nora?
22:56There was no date.
22:57Just him.
22:58Had it Luca said plus ones required?
23:01Sebastian's face was pure stunned.
23:02It is you.
23:05I almost didn't recognize you.
23:12I've never seen you look like this.
23:15I stepped back.
23:16Stay away from me.
23:17Nora.
23:18About my sister's call.
23:20That wasn't me.
23:21I'd never authorize that.
23:22Truth is, I only agreed to the divorce to teach you a lesson.
23:25Bratty wife.
23:26Needed reminding.
23:27I never actually planned to let you go.
23:29Apologize to my mom and my sister.
23:33We'll remarry.
23:35I'll forget the rest.
23:40Crane, capital is bleeding right now.
23:42I'm slammed.
23:43Stop making things hard for me.
23:45He reached for my hand.
23:46The Sebastian special.
23:48One slap, one kiss.
23:50He'd run me on that loop for three years.
23:52I'm not the Nora he married anymore.
23:55I yanked back.
23:56Sebastian.
23:57Divorced means divorced.
23:59I'd rather sleep under the Brooklyn Pleerage than wear your last name again.
24:02Find someone else for that throne.
24:03Still stubborn.
24:05You haven't suffered enough.
24:07Crawl find me when you've actually been broken.
24:11That's when Luca started walking toward us.
24:13Sebastian's whole posture changed.
24:17Nora.
24:17We'll talk later.
24:19There's a heavyweight I need to corner.
24:20Don't get in the way.
24:22Plastered on his best smile.
24:24And intercepted Luca with a business card already out.
24:27My Don.
24:28I'm Sebastian Crane.
24:29Crane, capital.
24:31I'd like to talk about the mandate you pulled.
24:35Five years.
24:36Crane, a capital ran the books on every fund Castellino Holdings put on the street.
24:40Then you cut us out overnight.
24:43If we fell short, tell me where.
24:46Whatever you need, I'll make it right.
24:48Sebastian, half bowed.
24:50Luca's eyes went past him, straight to me.
24:53Nora.
24:53What do you think?
24:55Should I give him a second chance?
24:57Sebastian's smile froze.
25:00Nora?
25:01What does she have to do with...
25:02Mr. Castelloni.
25:04You should know.
25:05Nora is my ex-wife.
25:07I don't know how she got in here tonight.
25:08Probably trying to ambush me into wrecking elitiation.
25:11She's just a housewife.
25:12Pay her no mind.
25:13Luca didn't even glance at him.
25:16Nora.
25:17Your call.
25:18I'll follow your lead.
25:22I kept my voice flat.
25:23Mr. Crane just asked me not to interfere in his business conversation.
25:27I'd hate to interfere.
25:29Sebastian flared.
25:31A man's business is none of your concern.
25:33Of course.
25:34Small town instincts.
25:35Luca's voice came in cold and final.
25:37Then I'd assume my wife doesn't approve of Crane Capital.
25:40Mr. Crane.
25:42We'll have to pass.
25:43His arm slid around my shoulders.
25:45He turned us toward the bar.
25:47Sebastian was still standing there, brain catching up.
25:50Then a man in a tuxedo brushed past him.
25:52Crane.
25:54You insulted Don's wife.
25:56You stepped on a live mine.
25:58That's the only woman who's ever been on his arm in 20 years.
26:02Castellano's wife?
26:04Impossible.
26:05The woman's a nanny in the Castellano house.
26:07Sebastian had seen Nora at the farmer's market.
26:10Driving the cheap car, carrying a lobster for the brat.
26:13He knew what he saw.
26:14A fancy dress didn't make a duchess.
26:16The man shook his head and walked off.
26:19Some idiots won't listen.
26:21Let them die.
26:23That night, Luca bid on a Picasso study.
26:26And three pieces of war era jewelry.
26:28180 million in collectibles.
26:31Donated to the children's hospital under my name.
26:34After that, the gala turned into a receiving line.
26:36Mrs. Castellano, there's a small tea at my place next week.
26:40Would you grace us?
26:42Mrs. Castellano, my husband is bidding on a Castellano project.
26:46Just a quiet word to the Don.
26:48I'd never been on this side of a room.
26:49I drank three glasses to keep my hands steady.
26:52Luca intercepted on the fourth.
26:54Apologies, everyone.
26:54My wife isn't a drinker.
26:57I'll take hers.
26:58He drank.
26:59Then he drank for me three more times.
27:01By the time we slid into his Rolls Royce, we were both lit.
27:06I glanced out the window.
27:07Sebastian was on the curb, watching us.
27:10Mouth curled in that ugly little smirk, like I was the punchline.
27:14I closed the curtain.
27:15Turned to Luca.
27:16Mr. Castellano, thank you.
27:18For tonight.
27:19For what you did with Sebastian.
27:23His voice came out low, soft around the edges.
27:28Nora, we're husband and wife.
27:30Stop thanking me.
27:32We're a paper husband and wife.
27:35You didn't have to.
27:36His arm lifted.
27:37Long fingers tilted my chin up.
27:39His thumb brushed slow against my jaw.
27:42Nora, what if I don't want a paper marriage anymore?
27:46He was too close.
27:48His face was carved out of something dangerous.
27:50Eyes blown black.
27:52Heat from his breath landed on my throat.
27:54He smelled like bourbon and that cedar cologne.
27:57And something underneath that was just him.
28:00The most controlled man in New York was looking at my mouth like he wanted it.
28:06Mr. Castellano, you've had too much.
28:13You're right, I'm sorry.
28:14I had too much.
28:15The rest of the ride was silence.
28:17A heavy, humming silence with my pulse loud in my ears.
28:25Leo saved me.
28:27He sprinted at the front door with his picture book.
28:31I scooped him up and ran upstairs before I had to look Luca in the face again.
28:37I tucked Leo in, then opened my laptop and started scrolling job boards.
28:41Sebastian was right about one thing.
28:43My Ivy League degree shouldn't be wasted by eating in a mansion playing house.
28:47I'd done that marriage already, stayed home, made myself small.
28:52The minute he didn't need me, he tossed me into the street with nothing.
28:56I'd be damned if I let that happen twice.
28:58While Leo needed me, I had a place here.
29:01The day he didn't, what was I?
29:03Though I'm not ready to go back to work yet, physically or mentally.
29:07But knowing the market, updating a resume, that couldn't hurt.
29:11Then my phone lit up.
29:13A text.
29:14From Luca.
29:17The butler did the coffee.
29:19Always.
29:20And the first rule of this house was don't go to the third floor.
29:23I ground a fresh espresso anyway.
29:25Then I stood at the bottom of the staircase.
29:28Hesitated.
29:29Was this a test?
29:30Did the last applicant get launched out a window after being summoned upstairs?
29:34Was this revenge for the car?
29:36I called him.
29:39Mr. Castellana.
29:40Coffee's here.
29:41Come down for it.
29:43Bring it up.
29:44I hit the record button on my phone.
29:46Caught it.
29:47If he tried anything sketchy, I had proof.
29:51I climbed the stairs.
29:52Knocked.
29:54Come in.
29:55I pushed the door open.
29:57And forgot how to breathe.
30:00He'd just gotten out of the shower.
30:02Black silk robe, loosely tied at the waist.
30:05A drop slid from his jaw, down his throat, into the open robe.
30:10Bathhouse art.
30:11Renaissance painting.
30:13Holy hell.
30:14He took the coffee.
30:16His fingertips dragged across mine on purpose.
30:19That scared of me?
30:21Nora, am I a monster?
30:25Nora.
30:29From now on, you can come into my room whenever you want.
30:32My face still burned.
30:34The rules of this house and the rules of my heart were both breaking.
30:38I woke up the next morning with a sore throat.
30:41Sneezing.
30:42Of course.
30:43Wet hair.
30:43Late night.
30:44Fancy dress.
30:45Too much champagne.
30:47I shuffled downstairs in sweats, expecting the empty great room.
30:51Lupa was on the couch.
30:52Black turtleneck.
30:53Wire frame glasses.
30:54The combination should be illegal.
30:57Morning.
30:59He set the paper down.
31:00You're sick.
31:02A little.
31:03The back of his hand landed on my forehead.
31:05Calm.
31:06Practiced.
31:06Like he did it every morning.
31:08I went stiff as a board.
31:10Not bad.
31:11I'll grab some Therafex.
31:13You'll be fine.
31:14He guided me to the couch like I was made of glass.
31:16Walked to the kitchen.
31:17A six-foot-something Mafia Don, stirring a packet of cold medicine into a mug.
31:23Usually, a Don would poison the drink instead.
31:26I caught myself wondering what kind of woman Leo's mother had been to deserve a man like this.
31:40I drank the Theraflu and slunk back to bed.
31:42I didn't want to be in his way, so I just dozed off when an unknown number rang.
31:51Nora.
31:52It's me.
31:53Sebastian.
31:53I started to hang up.
31:55Don't.
31:56I'm parked outside the Castellani gate.
31:58Come out or I'll be at the front door.
32:00Up to you.
32:00I did not want him at the door.
32:02I did not want my pass laid out on Luca's marble entryway like roadkill.
32:06Sebastian intercepted me on the sidewalk.
32:09Nora.
32:10How long is this stunt going on for?
32:12Mrs. Crane working as a nanny?
32:15You don't feel humiliated, but I do.
32:18I'm not doing anything to you, Sebastian.
32:20Stop the act.
32:21You dressed up last night to make me jealous.
32:24Fine.
32:25I'll admit it.
32:26After you left, I missed you a little.
32:29Here's the deal.
32:30Apologize to my mom and my sister.
32:32We remarry.
32:33You can stop scrubbing floors for strangers.
32:37Sebastian.
32:39I didn't do anything wrong.
32:40What am I apologizing for?
32:43You still don't see the problem?
32:47You haven't been beaten down enough.
32:49I was about to fire back when a small, round cannonball blew past me.
32:52Leo.
32:53When he saw a strange man hassling me, he did not hesitate.
32:56My mom didn't do anything wrong.
32:58My mom is the best mom in the whole world.
33:01He glared up at him like a furious cherub.
33:04Protecting me.
33:05Something cracked open in my chest.
33:07I pulled him in tight.
33:08Kid, what did you just call her?
33:11Isn't she your nanny?
33:13You're a nanny.
33:14Your whole family is a nanny.
33:17Nora is my mom.
33:18My best mom.
33:20He pulled back, anxious.
33:22I nodded.
33:23My eyes were wet again.
33:25Nora.
33:26You'll be my mom, right?
33:28I'll be so good.
33:29I promise.
33:32Leo.
33:33I am your mom, sweetheart.
33:35He squeezed me tighter and refused to let go.
33:38Sebastian's face twisted into a slow, ugly smile.
33:41Oh.
33:42Oh, I see it now.
33:45Nora.
33:46You're putting a child up to it.
33:48You're playing the long game on Castelloni.
33:51He grabbed my arm.
33:52Listen.
33:54Castorano isn't a man you scam.
33:56He's known for ice in his veins.
33:58He finds out you're using his son to angle for him.
34:01He'll bury you in the East River.
34:03A warm hand landed on my waist.
34:05I hadn't heard him come outside.
34:07Luca.
34:08He pulled me into him.
34:10Mr. Crane.
34:12The last time we spoke, you insulted my wife.
34:15That's why I pulled the mandate.
34:17I was planning to tell the other firms on the street that this was personal.
34:20They could keep doing business with Crane of Papadal.
34:23After today, I don't think I need to.
34:26Castellano.
34:27What, you wife?
34:28Who's your wife?
34:30Mr. Crane.
34:32Are you really still confused?
34:34Or are you only capable of believing what you want to believe?
34:37Nora is my wife.
34:39The mother of my son.
34:42Send him off.
34:43Luca turned to the butler at the door.
34:46If anyone like this bothers Mrs. Castellini again, have my men throw him out.
34:50He took Leo with one arm, wrapped the other around me, walked us inside.
34:54The second the door closed, I peeled out of Luca's arm.
34:58Awkward as hell.
34:59I took Leo upstairs to my room.
35:03Leo, where were you all morning?
35:06I didn't see you all day.
35:08Don't even ask.
35:09Dad sent me to preschool.
35:11What?
35:12You preschool?
35:14He said he didn't want you working too hard.
35:19He said he needed alone time with you.
35:24Why does he need alone time with me?
35:26Dad said he had to make you fall in love with him.
35:30Otherwise, you might leave us.
35:32Leo was four sentences into his report when Luca appeared in the doorway.
35:36Leo.
35:38Downstairs.
35:39Dinner.
35:39Stop bothering your mother.
35:41My whole face hot.
35:43Mom.
35:43I'll be back to keep you company in a bit.
35:46He scampered out.
35:48Luca didn't leave.
35:49He walked in.
35:51Feeling better?
35:52I looked sideways.
35:54Mr. Castellano.
35:56Thank you for what you did.
35:58Please don't ruin a business decision for me.
36:02I'm really not worth it.
36:04Not worth what?
36:07What you did out there.
36:10Nora.
36:11I told you.
36:12You're my wife.
36:14Protecting you is my job.
36:16But-
36:17Stop calling this a paper marriage.
36:20Nora.
36:21I want a real one.
36:23I had not expected him to swing this hard, this fast.
36:26My face went up in flames.
36:29I'll give you time.
36:30Take whatever you need.
36:32But right now I want to collect just a little husband privilege.
36:36Before I could form a coherent thought, he leaned in.
36:38A long, warm hand cradled my cheek.
36:41Can I?
36:42I didn't say a word.
36:44I'll take this as consent.
36:46Then his lips crashed against mine.
36:49Hard and ruthless.
36:50His tongue swept into my mouth, stealing the air from my lungs.
36:54Right.
36:54This was how a mafia boss kissed.
36:57Cold.
36:58Merciless.
36:58Taking whatever he wanted.
37:00The kiss lasted so long my mind went blank by the time he finally pulled away.
37:04He rubbed his thumb over my swollen lips.
37:07My little princess, that's enough for today.
37:15Next time, I won't let you off so easily.
37:18Leo got hauled to preschool again the next morning, under protest.
37:22My cold was almost gone.
37:24Luca asked if I wanted to see a movie.
37:26After everything that had happened, I thought about it.
37:29We were married on paper.
37:30However, if something real was going to grow there, that wasn't the worst outcome.
37:34He had a private media room on the third floor.
37:37It was my first time entering other room in third floor.
37:40Before that, he showed me his collection room.
37:43One entire wall was covered in cold weapons.
37:46Daggers, knives, blades of every kind.
37:49Honestly, it was breathtaking.
37:51I was still standing there staring at the wall when he stepped up behind me and fastened
37:56a necklace around my neck, another snake, exactly like the tattoo on his body.
38:01A little gift.
38:03Don't reject it.
38:04Then he took my hand and led me into the media room.
38:07He put on a French romance film.
38:09Slow, elegant kisses on the screen, mixed with far less elegant sounds in the background.
38:15Luca leaned closer, his voice brushing against my ear.
38:19Nora.
38:21Yes?
38:22I closed my eyes, my fingers tightening around the snake pendant like a girl being offered
38:28up as a sacrifice.
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