Mafia Boss of My Heart

P R O L O G U E

"CANCER!, ADVANCED!.. wh-what does t-this mean for me ?" My voice trembled

Doctor Martins heaved a sigh "prognosis will be challenging based on the current stage Cecile. To be honest with you..." he paused for a moment unsure of how to proceed. "You just have few months--"

My name is Cécile Garnier, and I've just been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. I just turned 25 two months ago and my life is supposed to be just beginning.

Doctor Martins had said the cancer is advanced and it's likely that I will have a few months.his words the day he broke that sad news to me still echo in my mind like a death sentence.

I remember the day at his office like it was yesterday. The look on his face, usually calm and welcoming, was lined with concern as he delivered the diagnosis and His gentle tone couldn't mask the gravity of the news.

My mind raced with questions, but my voice was frozen with the sound of my heartbeat echoing in my ears. As Silence enveloped the room, the ticking of the clock became deafening.

I never realized my body was trying to tell me something throughout those times I felt very tired and exhausted. But I kept brushing it off as stress from work.

If only I had listened, I would have asked for help sooner Because I have a lot to live for; my parents, my brother Leo, My job and my friend chloe.

But It's too late now. My mom's gentle tone and assuring voice echoed in my mind, I could still vividly remember her words to me " Don't be angry with life, Cecile, use that energy to live each day to the fullest. Don't let the diagnosis or nothing take that away from you."

I sobbed in my small apartment, the place that was once my sanctuary now felt like a prison, confining me to a life I never wanted. I didn't want to keep beating myself up .so I took mom's advice. That was when I made up my mind to go to Monaco.

I've always wanted to visit the city. Besides I've been drawn to Monaco for reasons I don't even fully understand, mom told me that was where I was born.

It's only fair if I give myself a one time treat and I long to leave a mark, a memory in the place where my life began.

C H A P T E R O N E

the Art of Beginning Again

C É C I L E G A R N I E R

"Bonjour, Madame I would like the most expensive suite, please". I said the moment I approached the reception desk.

She has been warm with her smile exchanging pleasantries with guest before me while typing away on her computer.

The gentle murmur of staff and guests filled the atmosphere.

The receptionist looks up at me, her eyes widened slightly in surprise before she smiles graciously before responding to my greetings in perfect French.

Hotel Hermitage, one of Monaco's finest.The luxury and lavishness of the decoration took my breath away the moment I steeped into the grand lobby I felt like a small fish in a big pond, but in a good way.

I couldn't have afforded a place like that if I hadn't been working tirelessly and saving every penny for all these years denying myself so much.

"Of course madame, our most expensive suite is the imperial suite, with a stunning view of the Mediterranean. Shall I prepare the keys for you? She asked

I nod, feeling excited. " I'll take it" She smiles back and begins typing away in her computer while I looked around to adore what is before me.

And boy! I'm glad I made this decision, where do I even begin, the ceilings were so high like they aimed for the sky, the chandelier danged effortlessly with its sparkling crystal drops.

I couldn't tell if the sofa's were taupe or charcoal gray but they definitely looked soft and silky and the way they were arranged in cozy circles made me want to sink in and just stay there for a while.

Very tempting but I had to make my reservations.

without lifting her face she said " the cost is...... But I quickly interrupt her "I don't care.... just show me how I can make the payment"

"Very well then madame"She nods back.

"And How long do you plan to stay?"

I breathe in deeply inhaling the subtle scent of fresh flowers that filled the air, my mind was completely erased of every worry. I just couldn't wait to feed my eyes with what's left of this place.

"Uhm, maybe a week" I replied somewhat convinced "it'd be enough to tour this wonderful town" I chuckled

"Indeed, May I have your card?" She asked with her hands outstretched waiting for my credit card. I reached into my handbag and hands it over to her.

"You'll be assisted with your luggages" she added. After the payment was made, she handed the key over to me, welcoming me and wishing me a great stay.

I felt like royalty while I made my way to the elevator which glided smoothly upwards. The moment I stepped inside my suite, I Knew I made the right choice.

"This is the second best thing taking my breath away today." I thought to myself It was even more breathtaking than I had imagined! The luxury is unmatched.

The Mediterranean view was right there in front of me! Fluffy carpet ,elegant furniture and paintings. The living area was cozy and the bedroom magnificent.

I throw myself on the huge king-size bed. Basking myself in its softness and scent . I was starting to get relaxed and I could swore I dozed off a bit .

When Suddenly, the Telephone rings. I startling me for a moment.

I picked it up. "yes?"

The person on the phone sounded apologetic "this is the hotel management, I apologize for the disturbing ma'am, a very important guest has arrived, demanding for the most expensive suite...apologies again for the inconvenience ... he stuttered "But.. we can't refuse him... we will have to move you to another suite... and we'll compensate you.."

"isn't it a bit too early for another bad news" I thought to myself still trying to wrap my head around what the supposed hotel manager was trying to say.

"Wait, just hold on let me get this straight" I shunned him cutting his statement short "What the In the Hell Is this supposed to mean? And what the do you mean 'An important guest' Is this how the management here operates? I am an important guest just like who ever he is too" I said in a high assertive tone

"I'm sorry for the inconvenience, I agree it's the managements fault as the receptionist would have informed you that the suite was already reserved " he pleads

"I paid for this suite in full and I will not be moved. Tell him to find another suite,the management should sort it out with him. no one is ruining my vacation

" I said firmly and placed the phone back,feeling triumphant . He must be one of these spoiled rich folks that think they can get whatever they want.

But over my dead body was he going to get my suit, the one thing that ever went right in my life and is still keeping that smile on my face. The phone rings again interrupting my thought and I let out a frustrating sigh as I picked it up.

"What part of I'm not giving my suit up you don't understand?" am I being intimidated because I am a lady" I blurted out sharply But the manager maintained a calm but shaky voice, I could sense the nervousness in his tone " I'm so sorry ma'am, but the gentleman is taking no for an answer,... he is demanding to speak with you." The manager's voice cracked

"And why is that?" My eyes narrowed. " Tell him am not interested"

" Ma'am, for your own sake, I'd advise you should just come, he is not a man you would want to disrespect " The manager's voice was barely above a whisper this time, he sounded very scared.

But I didn't care. I hung up still and also became curious Who was this "important " guest and why he is so determined to get my suite,why can't he just go for another one" I thought to myself.

Now there was a heavy bang at my Door! I was initially hesitant to open up. but when I did, a tall, powerful figure strutted In with his head held high, he gazed at me, and gave me a very intimidating stare, there is something about that stare that made my skin prickle.

unlike anything I've experienced before, except from my boss at work. but I refused to back down. "Was he the important guest that wanted to speak with me?" I thought to myself

"Who are you" I asked firmly.

L U C A C R O V E T T O

I Stood outside the door of the imperial suite with three of my men, my fist still clenched from the force of my knock, the manager's nervous whisper still lingered in my ears.

"she said she's not interested, please forgive her"

He knew better, he had to plead on her behalf But I wasn't there to make a scene , I was here to get what I want. And what I wanted was that suite. Just a little escape from " a human tragedy" the daughter of a rival mafia family

"The Barralis"

Our families had a long standing agreement. I was betrothed to her from birth, it was an arrangement that would strengthen our alliance and secure our families power ending the Turf war between the both families.

if I refuse to carry on with the marriage, I definitely facing the wrath of my family and the Barralis.

my father would be furious and I might be cut-off from the family business or even be exiled. Her Father Don Amario Barralis, is one of the few men that I fear.

He treated me like a son and has been my families close ally since I can remember he had aided and supported us during the turf war between the both families and now he believes I owe him a special kind of favor and he expects me to honor our agreement, so i can't refuse.

it would be betrayal of my family to refuse Don Amario's request that was the price I had to pay. Nothing is free, everything is transactional. I needed to do what I had to do to protect my empire and secure my place.

Hence the "Human tragedy" as I call her. She was beautiful, yes. But her beauty was only skin deep.

I've met her on a few occasions and if I were to describe her, I would say, beauty with a truck load of arrogance,entitlement and she was starting to get clingy a lot.

I just hate the fact that I'm being forced into this marriage and I feel trapped by it. I had built this empire through blood,sweat and tears and I just didn't want to be tied down by a marriage that would only serve to strengthen my alliance. Thoughts of it alone infuriates me.

I had reserved my favorite suite just to have a lone time because that 'human tragedy' wouldn't leave me.

She always followed me like a puppy, like she wouldn't breathe if I wasn't near. I needed to think , to come on with ideas and business strategies before I figured what to do with her. And now, I've been angered and it intensifies as I think of the woman who dared to defy me.

"Cécile", a name that is as insignificant as the woman herself.

The door threw open and I walked into the suite "Who are you?" The woman asked in a firm tone

" I am Luca and I will get what I want!"

I replied back even more firmer, my deep voice has always commanded attention and I was certain it sent shivers down her spine. It would even to anybody.

My eyes locked onto hers with such intensity that usually made people tremble and intimidated.

But not this petite woman standing in front of me She looks back, her grey eyes bore into mine with a bold stare.

"Well Mr Luca, you can't have my suite, I paid for it "in fullllll" she stretched

"And I'm not leaving"

At this point, Etto my man launch towards her but I signal him to stay put.

" oh really" I asked raising my eyebrow taking a step closer towards her, my face inches from hers without shifting my gaze.

"Let me properly introduce myself to you, I am Lucas Crovetto, Lord of the Crovetto empire, everybody knows what I'm capable of, by now you should consider yourself a dead meat, but I'm in a good mood, otherwise, things should be getting a little unpleasant by now"

But this woman, scoffs "Name doesn't ring a bell and yes am already an accident waiting to happen what would be worse than that. Just find another suite Mr Crovetto" she said reluctantly still not budging.

Etto cleared his throat, breaking the tension. "On your order Boss...."

I raise my hand again, silencing him "Not now Etto" my eyes never left her face. Her words were supposed to get me angry. But it didn't, rather I was amused by her audacity.

I saw myself actively observing and staring at this petite woman taking note for the first time the shape of her face, oval with high cheek bone, small pointed nose and her thin delicate pink lips all perfectly fitted onto her face.

She was pretty but she wasn't my type of woman but I was impressed by her confidence.

" You see, I'm not used to people defying me .But you .. I pointed at her " are very audacious you realize that?"

Not really expecting to hear an answer from her I continued this time leaning very close to her with menace in my tone "But don't think for a moment that I won't get what I want. I always do"

She clenches her jaw. "I am not afraid of you"

I stared at her for a moment with an unnerving intensity, my eyes lingering on hers as I ponder the various ways I can make her.... Compliant.

The possibilities dance in my mind and my dark thoughts tempted me. Considering which one to indulge First, a slow, sly smile spread across my face.

I could sense a little bit of fear behind her eyes even as she said that. She was trying so hard not to show it. I love the way they look at me when they're scared.

Suddenly, I chuckle taking a step back to break the gaze.

"very well then, enjoy your stay, I think we would get along fine" I flashed a quick smile and darted out with my men.

I could hear Etto's heavy breathing, a dead giveaway that he had something he wanted to say.

"Speak up Etto" I prompted, my eyes still fixed on the elevator as it slid shut.

He fumbled, his voice low and gravelly.

"Instructions Boss. what do you want to be done with her"

I smiled not particularly adjusting to face him or look at him

"you think she's trouble?"

"I'll spare her.... For now, let's just say I'm feeling merciful today. look around, the human tragedy isn't here. So, let's allow the poor girl enjoy her time. My mood is more important than teaching her a lesson. I'll take the pent house suite" I said patting his back.

Etto scowl deepened, but he nods.

"got it boss" I heard him say.

Etto has been my personal bodyguard since I was little.

He followed me everywhere and anywhere and unlike other guards he was the only one allowed to speak. Others just follow instructions and speak when I want them to.

He understands the need for my solo getaway from the empire and The Human tragedy I was going to spend the rest of my life with.

C É C I L E G A R N I E R.

What the hell just happened!

Did I just stir up trouble with a high-Roller. This doesn't look Good!

To myself I wondered "Should I apologize or should I leave"

fear begins to creep in on me

"No" I said, shrugging it off.

"that rich asshole,He started it first. just because he's somehow influential, he just wanted to show it off on me"

but again my cell phone rings this time, it was Chloe. grateful for that distraction.

I smile picking the phone up and placing it on my ear

"Hey Chloe," I answered, trying to sound casual.

"What's good" "Cécile, are you alright?, you sound upset?" Chloe asked

For the records, Chloe knows me well enough to know when I'm desperately trying so hard to sound Nonchalant while internally, I'm freaking out and loosing my mind!

"I just had a run in with a rich dude, says his name is Luca Crovetto" I said trying to mimic the Luca voice.

" said he is Lord of Crovetto Empire and I may have challenged him, I mean, who the hell comes out to publicly declare themselves as a lord just to walk over some people" I huff

"NO WAY!"

Chloe let out a deafening scream that made me quickly pull the phone far from my ear.

" YOU MET LUCA CROVETTO!"

"That's what he said" I replied surprisingly rubbing my chin.

"Since when did you know about Mr crovetto?"

"I've read about him in the news, I know he is a big player in the global market, always making power moves, there were allegations against him one time that he might be involved in some sort of mafia activities !"

"Oh wow" I remarked softly.

"Cecèlie you know better than to mess around with people like that, he is a walking danger!" Chloe screams again.

" I know right" I said , scratching my head in regret.

"It's stupid but he was being a jerk and I lost my cool. Well let's just say his not used to hearing no from women, and I was happy to disappoint him" I smirk.

" oh my God , are you okay? you know he could do anything to you, he could send his men to shoot you or decapitate your head or even lace your drink with poison or......"

"Chloe? You are not really helping!" I shouted not letting her finish what she wanted to say.

But she continued anyway her voice shifted from being worried to very concerned

"I'm sorry- I'm just-All I'm saying is to be careful and stay away from trouble, I mean it"

"Yes grandmaaa" I roll my eyes and smiled. "Thank you"

"I can't believe you met Luca Crovetto!" her shock was even evident over the phone. But I gave a slight shrug, thinking about it.

It wasn't like I met a celebrity or something. I'm sure he is more impressed by me than I am with him.

"So tell me" she continues excitedly.

"Is he cute?"

"who? No!,nothing cute about his privileged attitude" I replied blushing a bit.

I knew he was cute but I didn't want to admit it.

"Oh come on" Chloe said, letting out a disappointing sign.

"I didn't get to see if he was cute or not Chloe, I was too busy being angry at him.

Besides, not all wealthy men are good looking. Some of them are just.... Um....interesting-looking" I said, running my fingers through the painting on the wall trying to sound nonchalant but my voice betrayed me.

"interesting-looking?, that's a nice way of putting it" She chuckled.

"And, you haven't met one before now, so I guess they are all charming in a 'I'm going to kill you if you cross me' type of way."

" I'm sure they are" I replied dryly

"You know, I just want to have a good time while I still can"

"well, speaking of which, your mum is worried that you haven't spoken to her, you should take her calls" chloe said

I inhaled sharply " you know mom always has a way of getting me emotional, just let her know that I am alright and this place is very lovely." "And Chloe" I called out

"don't tell her about this" I winced, my face contorting in a pleading expression. I know how chloe can get sometimes and excitement isn't always good for her.

"Tell her I love her and I'll call her as soon as I can." I added.

"Mhmmm" I heard her agree at the other end of the line. "Just stay safe and out of trouble you hear me"

"I will, I promise. i have so much to do , I wish you were here, you could have helped me unpacked you know, you are really good with these things,now i don't what to do without you" i teased her

" Well I don't have that kind of money,so you'll learn the hard way!" she replied, snorting in between laughter.

"I better let you go now, have fun Cécile"

"Yeah" I replied before hanging up.

After hanging up with Chloe, I buried my face in my palm and let out a deep sign, its been a long day so I decided to take a long,warm shower to wash away the tension instead of soaking myself in the bathtub.

Under the gentle flow of water down my skin, I couldn't help but think about what Chloe had just said about what he could do to me for standing up against him.

Wasn't it an easy way out of my situation? I mean if I was to be poisoned. I would just go to bed and sleep peacefully.

"Cecile" I called myself back, my intrusive thoughts had started to creep in. I shut my eyes tightly, shrugging the thought off trying to distract myself by listening to the sound of the water pattering against the tiles.

I pictured my family, hoping they were alright and weren't sad about what had happened to me. My mom had been very supportive but wasn't particularly in favor of my trip to Monaco even after I explained to her why I wanted to, well, my dad, he hasn't been always there for us, so I can't say what he thinks while my mom thinks it best to travel overseas and she was adamant about her reasons.

I just guessed maybe she had a bad experience in the city during her stay running her foodtruck business. But she didn't want to talk about it.

Then I remembered a conversation that stood out, my mom, I and my little brother were sitting in our living room one evening having a normal family chitchat.

The day she mentioned about a special trip they had taken there and how it had changed their life forever and one of the good things was giving birth to me.

But I've always wondered if it had something to do with why we moved around a lot especially Dad maybe he just liked exploring new places.

I was trying so hard to distract myself by thinking about home but my mind kept wandering back to the conversation with chloe. I opened my eyes and looked around the shower , I was starting to feel a bit trapped. I needed to get out of there and clear my head. I turned off the water and stepped out, wrapping myself in a soft white towel. I walked over to my unzipped luggage and scanned for what I could just easily throw on. "Aha!" I muttered, picking up a flowy,light coral dress that had white paisley design and an asymmetrical hem. I slipped in it and paired it with a nude sandals and a wide straw hat. I grabbed my phone and my hand bag and took a short glance at my own Mediterranean view before heading out. I had no idea where I was headed but I'd rather go for a walk than stay and continue to over think. I wasn't here to visit any popular landmark I made my way out of the hotel and into the city,the warm Mediterranean sunlight kissed my skin, the streets were very clean and shiny, the only litter I spotted were half smoked cigars in public Ashtrays.the narrow street had plenty walkways but had connection to each building, lots of multi colored buildings with apartments stacked over each other, beautiful architecture. As I wandered through the city,I stumbled upon a street vendor selling unique souvenirs, so I decided to check it out. One item in particular got my attention as I drew closer, a beautiful handmade neck piece.i reached out to touch it the vendor, an elderly man smiled and said something to me in monegasque. I hesitated unsure of what he meant " pardon sir" I replied hoping he would repeat himself in English or french "necklace.. very goodluck..." he gestured I smiled back still paying attention to the details of the neckpiece" how much ...does it ...cost?" I gestured with my hands He tried again with hand gesture to explain the price while repeating " euros, euros" i nodded, relieved and reached out to get some money To my wildest shock! My bag was empty! Everything was gone, my phone, my keys, my wallet, everything! I had felt a slight bump earlier at first and I thought nothing of it ,assuming it was just a careless pedestrian. " I've been robbed!" I exclaimed frantically searching my empty purse in disbelief. I couldn't believe this was happening to me alone, in a foreign city with no way to communicate and protect myself.I had no idea how I would get back to my hotel. I started to panic. I needed to get to the police station but the elderly man kept saying things in monegasque that I felt frustrated and lost,unsure of what he was trying to tell me. I pointed to myself "police?''hoping he would understand. He nodded enthusiastically and replied again in monegasque. I was helpless , I felt like I was In a nightmare and I couldn't wake up. I couldn't help but wonder if I was just having a bad day or if I was just unlucky in this life. I asked for directions but they all seemed to give me a puzzled look and pointed me in the wrong direction. The streets seemed to twist and turn in every direction. I walked for what seemed like an hour,but every sign and landmark looked unfamiliar. I had tried to hail a taxi but none seemed willing to stop for me. The sun started to set, casting its reddish glow over the streets. Before I knew it , I found myself in a neighborhood slightly off,the streets were lined in neon lights and the air thick with smoke . The buildings seemed older and it was as if I had entered a different world.I noticed a change in the crowd, more men lingered in the street and some eyed me with interest. I tried to quicken my pace but a deep familiar baritone voice made me flinch "look who we have here,didn't know you frequented this establishment" When I turned it was him,luca crovetto! Seeing him alone brought back flashes from the conversation I had with chloe His implying tone made me wonder what he meant "What establishment?Was he following me? of all people, why did it have to be him again?" Why is he even looking at me like that,with that smug on his face?" All these thoughts filled my mind as I gaped at him.