THE WAY WE WERE BEFORE

ENZ

the dimly lit study, the contract laye

isp, every word carefully chosen. The ink was still fresh, but I cou

sitting here, learning about duty, power, and the ways of the world. This desk was where my destiny had been shaped. And now, a

Matteo stepped into the room, his usual carefree attitude replaced by

h with this?" he asked, lea

tteo, but unfortunately, I do not. My father says this union is necessary. The Russo family isn't just a power

am sure this is a lot for you to handle. This is archaic too! Marrying someone

ions. It wasn't about love either; it had never been. Now, this was about survival-

what's going on, it might seem quite odd to you, but yeah, it is what it is." I

I'm just saying, you've never been a fan of these arranged thing

iness for now, and besides, opinions and feelings do change" I faked a smile; i didn't mean a

o knew a little than anyone what it meant to be in my position, but i am sure

lighter. "Well, at least you'll be stuck wit

beneath that beauty, there was something about her that irritated me. She wasn't like the women I was used to. Quiet, obedient, eager to

ost women would have have tried to seduce and beg me, desperate for my attention. Bu

ll thing, bu

I've made my decision. The Russo family will

t in the mood for conversation. Instead, he cross

ught I'd see you get married before me. You remember when

ngs when we were young. Our fathers also had similar mindset w

derstood. We both knew the rules of this life. We both knew w

the lines as I read the terms one more time. I no

er. She would be expected to follow the customs and traditi

over the k

yal and supportive of every decision I make. Disobedi

reputation in the public eye, representing the

the family home. She must remain ignorant of the intricacies of

protection of our children, should we have any. She must be prepare

st attend all necessary events, gatherings, and so

of these rules would make her furious. But she had no

from my thoughts. I looked up to see my father

time." he said

last time. Feeling the weight of it all settle

hall. I couldn't shake the feeling that this marriage-this alliance-would change ev

ere was no