Two days before Elder Moretti's birthday, Leo and Lily arrived at the Moretti family house in Los Angeles, California. The mansion was grand and imposing, with beautifully manicured lawns and a stunning view of the city which took them 2 hours from Malibu down to Beverly Hills
As they stepped out of the car, Lily couldn't help but feel a little intimidated. She had never been to a house like this before.
Leo took her hand, smiling reassuringly. "Don't worry, I'm here with you."
They were greeted at the door by Antonio, Leo's father, who was beaming with excitement.
"Leo, my son! It's great to see you!" Antonio exclaimed, embracing Leo warmly.
Leo introduced Lily to his father, who welcomed her with open arms.
"Everyone, I'd like you to meet Lily, my girlfriend," Leo said, smiling warmly.
Lily's eyes sparkled as she smiled and greeted the family. She played her part perfectly, charming everyone with her warmth and elegance.
Antonio's eyes widened in surprise, but he quickly recovered and welcomed Lily with open arms. "Ah, wonderful! We're so happy to meet you, Lily."
Clara, Leo's mother, was equally delighted. "We've heard so much about you, Lily. It's lovely to finally meet you."
Elder Moretti, Leo's grandfather, raised an eyebrow but smiled politely. "Welcome to the family, Lily."
As the family chatted and got to know Lily, she effortlessly charmed them with her wit and kindness. Leo watched with pride, feeling grateful to have her by his side.
The family dinner was a lively and warm affair, with everyone chatting and laughing together. Lily fit in seamlessly, charming Antonio and Clara with her stories and humor.
Just as they were finishing the main course, the door swung open and Zoey walked in with Mirabel, Leo and Marco's 17-year-old sister, in tow.
"Sorry we're late!" Rachel exclaimed, smiling apologetically. "Mirabel was being stubborn about getting dressed."
Mirabel, with her curly brown hair and mischievous grin, looked up at everyone with big, curious eyes. Leo and Marco immediately went into big-brother mode, teasing Mirabel and making her giggle.
Zoey, their childhood best friend, smiled warmly at Lily, and the two exchanged a friendly hug. Zoey had known Leo and Marco since they were kids, and she was practically part of the family.
As they finished dinner and moved on to dessert, the conversation turned to Elder Moretti's upcoming birthday party. Antonio mentioned that it was going to be a big celebration, with many important guests attending.
Lily's eyes met Leo's, and she could sense a hint of nervousness behind his smile. What was he worried about?
The day of the birthday party arrived, and the grand ballroom was filled with guests from all walks of life. The atmosphere was lively and festive, with music and laughter filling the air.
As the master of ceremonies took the stage, he welcomed everyone to the celebration and began to introduce the Moretti family members.
"Please put your hands together for Antonio Moretti, the patriarch of the Moretti family!" the MC announced.
Antonio smiled and waved, his eyes shining with pride.
Next, the MC introduced Clara, Leo's mother, who smiled graciously and thanked everyone for coming.
Marco, Leo's brother, was introduced next, and he gave a charming smile and a nod to the audience.
Finally, the MC announced, "And please welcome Leo Moretti and his lovely girlfriend, Lily!"
Leo and Lily walked onto the stage, hand in hand, and smiled at the audience. Lily looked stunning in a beautiful white gown, her hair styled perfectly.
As they took their seats, Elder Moretti stood up to give a speech.
"My dear friends and family," he began, his voice filled with warmth and gratitude. "I am so grateful to be surrounded by all of you on this special day. I am proud of the people my children have become, and I am grateful for the love and support of my family. Today, as I celebrate another year of life, I am reminded of the importance of family, love, and friendship. These are the things that truly matter in life."
"As I look around this room, I am filled with joy and gratitude. I see so many familiar faces, and I am reminded of the many happy memories we have shared together. I am also grateful for the new additions to our family, including Lily, who has brought so much joy and love into our lives."
Just as Elder Moretti was about to finish his speech, a commotion at the entrance caught everyone's attention.
Chloe, looking stunning in a red dress, walked into the ballroom, her eyes locked onto Leo.
"Leo," she said, her voice husky and seductive. "It's been a long time."
Leo's eyes narrowed, his expression guarded. "Chloe. What are you doing here?"
The room fell silent, with all eyes on Leo and Chloe. The guards stationed around the ballroom suddenly went on high alert, their eyes scanning the room for any signs of trouble.
Antonio's face darkened with concern, and he whispered something to one of the guards. Clara's eyes widened in surprise, and she glanced nervously at Leo.
Marco's eyes narrowed, his gaze fixed intently on Chloe. Zoey and Mirabel exchanged a worried glance, sensing the sudden tension in the air.
Lily's eyes met Leo's, and she could see the warning in his gaze. She instinctively moved closer to him, her hand brushing against his.
The air was thick with tension as everyone waited to see what would happen next.
Chloe's eyes never left Leo's face, and a sly smile spread across her lips. "I could ask you the same thing, Leo," she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "What's with the new girlfriend? I wasn't aware you were ready to settle down."
Leo's jaw clenched, and he took a step forward, his eyes blazing with anger. "Chloe, this isn't the time or the place," he warned, his voice low and menacing.
But Chloe just laughed, a cold, mirthless sound. "Oh, I think it's the perfect time and place," she said, her eyes glinting with malice. "Aww i just came in and now you want me out? no not at all" everyone present where looking at Chloe
The room fell silent, with all eyes on Chloe and Leo. Lily's heart was racing, and she felt a sense of unease wash over her. What is Chloe's going to do?
Antonio stepped forward, his face stern. "Chloe, I think it's time for you to leave," he said, his voice firm.
But Chloe just smiled, a defiant glint in her eye. "I'm not going anywhere," she said, her voice dripping with malice. "Not until I've said what I came here to say and ask."