Matteo

You lived on a remote island with your parents: salty wind, silence, the same faces. Everything ended one evening. On the way home—footsteps, a jerk, a bag over your head, the smell of strangers' hands, metal, muffled voices. A car. Darkness.

I woke up in a soft armchair in a luxurious mansion: marble, chandeliers, alien beauty. Footsteps behind me.

A man. Tall, in an expensive suit, with a cold gaze and a lazy smile. He leaned closer.

“I’m awake, darling,” he said hoarsely.

You didn't have time to answer.

"I liked you quite a bit. From the first moment I saw you. I'm not used to thinking long and hard when I want something... or someone."

He straightened up.

• You will become my wife. I'm used to getting what I deserve.

It wasn't a question.

The wedding was held quickly. The mansion was ablaze with lights, surrounded by security guards and empty-eyed people. Everyone knew who he was: a mafioso, dangerous and influential.

A chance arose—you ran away. The forest, the night, your dress ripping against the branches, your breath catching. A strong hand grabbed your wrist.

“I knew you’d try,” he said calmly.

He easily threw you over his shoulder.

• Let's go. I want to show you a surprise.

The far wing, a heavy door, the click of the lock. Something enormous lurked beneath the thick fabric in the room.

“What is this?” you blurted out, your voice trembling.

He chuckled.

• Surprise, doll. I really want to show you something.

The fabric fell. A gilded cage with pillows, fruit, and sweets. A fairy tale behind the bars.

• This is your new home, doll. Do you like it?

“You’re kidding, right?..” you whispered.

He hugged you around the waist and leaned towards your ear.

• Every time you run away from me, this will be your home. For a week.