Dangerous Secrets: My Mafia Stepbrother

When considering it carefully, Isabella’s choice seemed understandable. However, James believed Emanuele had a right to know. “If the boss loves his wife so much, and she loves him, why not discuss it with him properly? Leaving in this manner, the boss will be devastated when he finds out,” James pondered. He couldn’t understand why, if both parties liked each other, they couldn’t clarify things. The thought of the boss and Isabella’s anguish left him perplexed.

“I can’t tell Emanuele, James. I confided in you because you’re my boyfriend, and I trust you not to disclose this. But if you tell Emanuele, it will break my heart,” Evelyn pleaded. “You know they are deeply in love. If Emanuele finds out, he won’t let Isabella go so easily. But what will happen if Isabella can’t bear children and Emanuele needs an heir? Have you thought about that? Isabella doesn’t want to burden Emanuele, hence her decision. If you tell Emanuele, all her efforts will be in vain!”

James fell into deep thought upon hearing Evelyn’s words. He understood her point, but as Emanuele’s subordinate for many years, he was naturally inclined to support Emanuele. However, facing his girlfriend’s ultimatum, James felt a pang of injustice. “Evelyn, is this truly what you want? By doing this, you’re just watching them drift apart, and Isabella is suffering,” he expressed, his brow furrowed.

“This suffering will eventually fade, James. Regardless, you can’t tell Emanuele about this. If you do, Isabella won’t be my friend anymore. She will hate me,” Evelyn insisted, feigning tears to secure James’ promise.

Seeing Evelyn cry, James panicked and embraced her, reassuring her in haste, “Evelyn, please don’t cry. I promise not to tell Emanuele, okay?”

Comforted by James, Evelyn finally stopped crying. Yet, seeing James still troubled, Evelyn felt for him. She held him and said, “This is why I didn’t want to tell you in the first place. What good would it do for you to know the truth? Isabella has made her decision, and you know it’s best for her.”

Agreeing with Evelyn, James assured her, “I won’t tell Emanuele. As much as it pains me to see the boss and his wife separate, as outsiders, it’s best to act as though nothing has happened. It’s best not to meddle, or things will only get more complicated.”

Though he wished for reconciliation between Emanuele and Isabella, given their current state, there was nothing he could do. It felt regrettable. However, considering the future where Isabella might not bear children and Emanuele would need an heir, it seemed better to sever ties sooner rather than later. James, though simple-minded, understood this reasoning.

Relieved that James would keep quiet, Evelyn relaxed. Isabella, having drunk herself to sleep, lay in bed. Evelyn stayed by her side, watching over her until Isabella awoke. After the hangover subsided, Isabella felt a bit better emotionally. Exhaling the negative emotions through the release of alcohol had made her feel somewhat relieved.

She didn’t regret her decision, despite the current pain. She believed it would pass. Present pain was better than future pain. Upon waking, Evelyn brought her water and some food. Isabella drank the water but didn’t touch the food. Seeing Evelyn’s worried expression, Isabella felt a warm sensation in her heart.

With no parents and having lost Emanuele, Evelyn was now her sole confidant, her friend, and almost like family. “Evelyn, thank you. Without you, I don’t know how I’d cope alone,” Isabella expressed her gratitude.

“We’re best friends, Isabella. You don’t need to thank me. I ache for you too. Get well soon. After your divorce, shall we go abroad together? Sunbathe on the beach, stroll through the streets of Rome. I’ve been wanting to go to so many places. Take me with you,” Evelyn suggested, attempting to lighten the mood.

Listening to Evelyn, Isabella found herself feeling lighter. Yes, once she was divorced from Emanuele, she could visit many places and put some distance between them. This would stop her from thinking about him and from seeing him. He could marry someone else, start a family, and she would have no part in it. However, even thinking about this still caused Isabella pain. She held her heart, believing that time would eventually heal everything, including their once passionate love.

The next day, Emanuele sent Isabella the finalized divorce agreement prepared by his lawyer. Isabella marveled at Emanuele’s efficiency; he had produced it so quickly. Perhaps this quick resolution was for the best. She had grieved enough, and soon, she wouldn’t be as heartbroken. She didn’t know if Emanuele would be saddened, but she knew he was strong. Even if he was upset, he wouldn’t show it much and would likely move on quickly.

Isabella decided not to dwell on Emanuele’s thoughts. She resolved to focus on sorting out her own feelings and making plans for the future. Maybe she would travel abroad with Evelyn, or settle in the countryside. Many thoughts crossed her mind, but the one thing she didn’t consider was staying in Chicago. Everywhere in the city carried the essence of Emanuele, making her uncomfortable.

Soon, Emanuele inquired, “Have you finished reading it? If there are no issues, I can announce the divorce immediately.”

Although Isabella intended to push Emanuele away, his words still stung. Nevertheless, she replied indifferently, “I’ve read it. It’s fine.”