Chapter 3 - The Moretti Estate
The Moretti estate was a fortress of wrought iron, limestone, and emerald gardens on the outskirts of Chicago. When Dante led Elena through the grand double doors, the household staff paused their duties, casting curious and skeptical glances at the new arrival. Head housekeeper Mrs. Gable stepped forward, her expression stiff. "Another girl from the agency, Mr. Moretti? Does she understand English instructions?"
Dante’s voice cut through the foyer like cold steel. "She understands everything she needs to, Mrs. Gable. Treat her with absolute respect." Elena met the housekeeper's gaze calmly, offering a polite nod that signaled she would not be pushed around. She was assigned a small, clean room in the staff wing—a stark contrast to the chaotic, reeking apartment she had shared with Carla.
For the first time in years, Elena felt the profound weight of safety settle over her shoulders. She spent the remainder of the evening organizing her few belongings, placing her father's necklace on the bedside table, and looking out the window at the sprawling grounds. She knew she was inside a lion's den, surrounded by dangerous men and hidden agendas, but for the first time, she felt equipped to survive.
