“Are you sure about this? Isabe, your situation in Chicago is dangerous,” Sophia expressed concern.


    “It’s my choice. As the Mafia Queen, I need to learn these skills,” Isabe replied, Sophia rxing a bit.


    Still worried, Sophia suggested, “Staying here might expose you to risks. Why not join us on our travels?”


    “I’m married to Emanuele now. We face challenges together; I can’t let him handle danger alone while I enjoy a carefree life in another ce.”


    Isabe knew some would choose differently, but she couldn’t endure being away from Emanuele for long periods. Even though their rtionship was a game, Emanuele enjoyed her relentless nature.


    However, she was in too deep. Her love for Emanuele prevented her from leaving. She had already surrendered to her feelings, a fact she hated. Her prideful nature made expressing her emotions to Emanuele challenging.


    Isabe couldn’t outright admit defeat to Emanuele; it would be too vulnerable. She feared he’d lose interest if she did.


    Sophia, surprised by Isabe’s depth of emotion, decided not to interfere. Love was rare; she wouldn’t stop Isabe from pursuing it.


    “Isabe, take care. Listen to Emanuele, and try not to go anywhere,” Sophia advised before ending the call.


    With nowhere to go, Isabe prepared for bed. Alone in her apartment, she decided to learn and try new things.


    The next day, Isabe joined Lilly in making Tiramisu cake. Despite its apparent simplicity, the process proved challenging.


    Lilly guided Isabe, controlling ingredient proportions and exining each step. When the cake was done, Isabe breathed a sigh of relief.


    Great! She sessfullypleted the task. She cut a slice, tasted it, and was pleased with the rich cocoa and milky vor. Her extra sugar made it particrly sweet.


    Because she loved sweets, Isabe enjoyed her creation, appreciating it through a self-applied filter. However, as she indulged, a sense of sadness crept in.


    Grazia, like Isabe, loved sweets and enjoyed Lilly’s cakes. In Italy, who would make cakes for her now? Isabe felt a twinge of regret.


    The cake, a six-inch creation, was too much for her alone. Isabe cut pieces for Lilly, Tony, Harry, and the other bodyguards.


    “I made this cake, Tony. Is it good?” Isabe asked.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Tony nodded, “Never tasted anything so delicious.”


    Afterward, Isabe looked at Harry, who quickly understood and said, “Incredible, your cake is delightful. I’d like another piece.”


    Isabe was delighted and shared more cake with them. Since staying in the apartment was getting dull, she decided to find more activities to make life interesting.


    Isabe always managed to find something interesting even in extreme situations, avoiding falling into low spirits. Besides Emanuele, who could affect her deeply, others couldn’t.


    In the evening, Isabe texted Emanuele, asking if he woulde home for dinner. She nned to cook for him.


    Feeling nervous while sending the message, Isabe wondered if Emanuele would agree. Given his busy schedule, she wanted him to rest properly.


    To her relief, Emanuele quickly replied with a simple “Okay.”


    Isabe sighed in relief and called out, “Lilly, I want to learn how to cook dinner. No more sticking to one or two dishes!”


    “Sure, sure!” Lilly responded. “What do you want to make, Isabe? I’ll teach you anything I know.”


    “What does Emanuele like to eat?” Isabe asked, knowing Lilly had seen him grow up.


    “Oh, dear, you’ve asked the right person,” Lilly said, winking at Isabe, then proceeded to takerge pieces of beef from the refrigerator.


    Isabe nodded, ready to learn from Lilly.


    Emanuele returned home around seven in the evening. As he entered the apartment, he heardughter from the kitchen. Isabe and Lilly were discussing cooking.


    He observed them making beef, his favorite.


    “Emanuele likes beef stew. I’ve noticed it at dinner parties before,” Lilly remarked.


    “Yes, and he also enjoys pan-seared steaks,” Isabe added.


    Though their voices were not loud, the quietness of the apartment made Emanuele hear everything. The aroma of beef filled the kitchen, making him hungry.


    He truly loved eating beef. The texture, the taste, everything about it appealed to him. More importantly, it provided him with quick energy, making his body stronger and more energetic.


    Isabe was discussing beef recipes with Lilly when she suddenly heard footsteps behind her. Turning around, she was surprised to find Emanuele silently standing behind her.


    His tall figure crowded the not-so-narrow kitchen as he approached her.


    “You’re back? How did you manage to sneak in so quietly? You scared me,” Isabe teased.


    Emanuele pulled Isabe’s arm, resting his chin on her shoulder. “What are you nning to cook?”


    Knowing Isabe could cook but usually stuck to simple dishes, Emanuele looked at Lilly.


    “I’m just helping out, guiding her. Isabe’s the one doing the cooking,” Lilly exined.


    Isabe nced at Emanuele. “Don’t you trust me?”


    “I trust you, my dear,” Emanuele kissed Isabe’s cheek. “I’ll be waiting outside. Excited to taste your cooking.”


    He felt a hint of anticipation. He had never tried Isabe’s cooking before and was curious about the taste.