Approaching Danger

Approaching Danger

Leon knew what he was about to do would not please his family. He would face strong opposition, especially from Diane, who had always acted as an extension of her father to keep an eye on her sister-in-law.

As for Angela, his mother, Leon, wasn't too worried. His mother has always asked him to get married. His mother, of course, didn’t believe her son was gay, but she didn’t like the rumor that their relatives were talking about it and it reached her ears.

Previously, he wanted to introduce Nora as his fiancée to his family first. However, one of his contacts in Paris informed him that the Lombardi family had already finalized their move to America. Sophie was known to have bought a luxury house in the Upper East Side of Manhattan. The area was famous for its historic buildings, luxury boutiques and high-end restaurants, reflecting the glamorous lifestyle that suited Sophie’s personality. The informant told Leon that Sophie's House was on Madison Avenue. Leon was very familiar with the area as his family had lived there for some time.

“What about Nando Alberti?” Leon asked his contact.

“Fernando Alberti will be flying with Sophie. He’ll act as her bodyguard and confidant. He will also bring some of his subordinates on Mr. Lombardi’s orders.”

Leon groaned inwardly. If Primo Lombardi’s men were coming along, it could only mean one thing. Primo Understood the danger that might threaten his sole heir. He would not hesitate to have them clean up the mess if it came to that.

That’s why Leon wanted to marry Nora next week. He was the one who best understood the implications of their marriage. He was protecting Nora, and would protect her to the hilt.

There was one thing he needed to do before introducing Nora as his wife. He needed support from one of his brothers. Probably Diego, since Max had always kept his distance from him.

That’s why he was in the building where Diego’s office was located. Security who recognized him let him into the lobby and stepped into the elevator. When Leon entered Diego's Office, a secretary greeted him kindly.

She didn’t bother to ask Leom to wait while she told Diego, as Leon went straight into Diego’s office.

His younger brother looked up from the laptop on the desk. “Didn’t Mama ever teach you to knock before you come in?” he complained.

“No, she didn’t. Mama only taught me about the duty to help and assist our siblings.”

Diego raised one eyebrow. “You don’t look like someone who needs help.”

“I need your support, brother.”

Diego’s eyes looked at him suspiciously. “If you were wanted by the IRS for tax evasion, or wanted by the FBI for women trafficking, or wanted by the ATF for illegal firearms trafficking... Sorry, I can’t help you.”

“Don’t worry. I just want to marry a woman.”

“What?” Diego jumped up from the chair. “Repeat. I might have heard wrong.”

“You didn’t hear wrong. I’m getting married.”

“Who are you getting married to? As far as I know you don't have a girlfriend and have never dated a girl for long.”

“I don’t have a girlfriend. But I’ve found a woman I want to marry.”

“Oh my God!” Diego was dumbfounded. “I can’t believe it.” His mouth almost dropped open when he looked at his brother. “That’s great. Way to go, big bro! Congratulations! You’re going to make Mama dance with joy because she’s the one who’s been nagging you to get married.” Diego grimaced. “So, I take it you’ll be introducing your fiancée to us officially soon? Just tell me when, I’ll be there.”

“No.” Leon shook his head. “I’ll introduce her as my wife as soon as we get married in a few days.”

“Wow, you’re out of your mind, aren’t you?” He exclaimed. “Do you want to make Mama go crazy?”

“That’s what I need your support for, little brother.” His expensive smile flashed briefly across his face. “Later you'll have to help me defuse our parents’ anger.”

Diego scratched his head. “Hey, I’m not unhappy, Leon. Whatever you want. But why don’t you introduce her to us first, then let Mama and Diane organize a big wedding. They’ll be so happy to do it.”

“We don’t have time.”

Diego’s eyes widened. “You got her pregnant?” He raised his voice a little. “She’s going into labor soon?”

“Of course not,” Leon snapped. He had almost forgotten that his brother was sometimes too imaginative. “Anyway, you have to promise to be on my side, and keep this secret from anyone.” Leon moved, preparing to leave. “Well, I’ll call you later.”

“Hey! What’s her name?” His brother shouted one last time before he stepped out of the room.

“Nora,” Leon said without turning around.

Diego’s face was left in thought. Leon closed the door behind him.

*

They had dinner at a casual restaurant of Nora's choosing, which served Mexican cuisine. Nora didn't eat much, she seemed to be thinking a lot.

Leon finished his tacos and chicken quesadilla.

Leon had already explained his plans to Nora regarding the contract marriage. He told Nora that they will live in Washington D.C. for the duration of their marriage. However, he will allow Nora to go to NYC occasionally for work purposes.

"Is there anything you object to?" he asked, looking at Nora who was stirring the contents of her plate.

"No." Nora looked up.

"You look sad."

"Really?" Nora pressed her palms against her cheeks. Her face was red. "I just miss my sister. I've been dreaming about her a lot these days."

'Really? What kind of dreams?"

"I don't know. The dreams always change locations, but the ending is the same. Someone pushed me and beat me up." Nora shrugged and tried to smile. "Forget it. I don't want to burden you with my weird dreams. We're doing business."

"No," Leon said. "That's not how it works. Our marriage will be a business contract. But I want you to be open with me after you become my wife. You have to tell me all your difficulties, your worries and everything that bothers you. I will help you.”

"That's not in the agreement clause," Nora said.

"It's not. But that's how a husband should behave."

"Leon," said Nora. "I've always been a business professional. I really won't sleep with you. And don't try to touch me."

"I promise. I won't do anything unless you agree. And I don't think you'll ever agree, will you?"

A blush appeared on Nora's cheeks within seconds. "Yes. I won't agree."

"Alright." Leon nodded in agreement. "Well, are you going to tell your parents about our marriage?"

Nora shook her head. Leon guessed that Nora was thinking about her mother who lived alone in Bar Harbor. "They don't need to know. We'll be divorced next year, right?"

Leon nodded. "Of course."

----

Leon was getting ready for bed after being so tired of discussing all the aspects of marriage with Nora. They had already signed the contract at a notary office, and the marriage license had also been obtained.

Thanks to his family name anda distant relative at the County Clerk's Office, tomorrow he and Nora would get married at that office.

He had just taken his phone out of his coat pocket and was about to put it on the nightstand when it rang and the screen displayed a number. He accepted the call.

"My dear cousin. I heard you were in town. Me too. Let's Meet."

It was Sophie's voice.