Mafia's surrogate

he small bundle nestled against her chest. She smiled, looking down at her newborn daughter, Sofia, who was peacefully sleeping. The events of the previous days seemed almost surreal, but the w

he couldn't help but think about the future-about the life she wanted for Sofia, away from the dangers and violence of Alex's world. She knew it wouldn't be easy, but she was determined to find a way to create a safe and loving environment for her daughter. Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of footsteps on the gravel path. She looked up to see Marco approaching, his expression serious. "Elena," he said, his tone grave. "We need to talk." Elena's heart skipped a beat. "What's wrong?" Marco glanced around, ensuring they were alone. "There's been a development. One of Alex's rivals has been making moves. We've received threats. I think it's best if you and Sofia stay inside for the time being." Fear tightened her chest. "Are we in danger?" Marco's expression softened slightly. "We're taking every precaution to ensure your safety. Alex is handling it. But I wanted you to be aware. Please, stay close to the house and avoid unnecessary risks." Elena nodded, her mind racing. "Thank you for telling me, Marco." He gave her a reassuring nod. "We'll keep you safe, Elena. You and Sofia." As Marco left, Elena felt a cold knot of fear settle in her stomach. She looked down at Sofia, who was still peacefully sleeping, oblivious to the dangers that surrounded them. She tightened her hold on her daughter, vowing to protect her no matter what. The rest of the day passed in a haze of anxiety. Elena couldn't shake the feeling of being watched, of unseen threats lurking around every corner. She stayed inside as much as possible, keeping Sofia close. The mansion, once a place of refuge, now felt like a gilded cage. That evening, Alex returned, his expression grim. He found Elena in the nursery, rocking Sofia gently in her arms. "Elena," he said, his voice low. "We need to talk." She looked up, her heart pounding. "What's going on, Alex?" He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "There's been some trouble. One of my rivals has been making threats. We're taking every precaution, but I want you and Sofia to stay inside and avoid going out for a while." Elena nodded, her fear and anxiety bubbling to the surface. "Marco told me. I understand." Alex moved closer, his eyes filled with concern. "I promise you, Elena, I won't let anything happen to you or Sofia. We're going to get through this." She looked up at him, seeing the determination in his eyes. Despite her fears, she felt a flicker of hope. "I trust you, Alex," she said softly. "Just... be careful." He reached out, gently cupping her cheek. "I will. I swear it." In the days that followed, the tension in the mansion was palpable. Security was heightened, and Alex's men were on constant alert. Elena felt like a prisoner in her own home, but she knew it was necessary to keep Sofia safe. She spent her days in the nursery, trying to create a sense of normalcy for her daughter. One afternoon, as Elena w