Author POV

They returned the next day as soon as Leonardo informed them and with no question asked they obliged.

At 6 in the evening they reached by car but the guys did not go with them, only the ladies and Michelle's father returned.

Noor was in deep thoughts of her own thinking how her life had changed to a complete 360.

She was leading a peaceful yet lonely life not long ago and now it was full of unpredictable accidents and dangers.

She wasn't sure why she got involved in all these mess and what's her role in this place.

What was God planning for her after all?

Was she going to live as a debtor all her life if her debts are not paid?

Will she even get to live in all these dangers that come like surprises?.

Ya Allah, protect and help me in all these situations that you have put me in and provide me strength to be patient in every situation.

Her trace of thoughts were broken when Fiona called her out " Ah Noor! I was looking for you".

She looked at her with curiosity and a small smile. " Did you need something?"

" I was wondering if you could make that delicious tea of yours for my husband. It seemed he is going to pull an all-nighter tonight" she said and Noor nodded with acceptance " Ok".

Noor thought her relation with Fiona will never be great since Fiona had a really bad first impression on Noor even though she didn't want to be on anyone's bad side.

But she doesn't blame her either because Fiona was just being cautious for her family.

Knowing that they are Mafia and had a lot of enemies,Noor understood where she was coming from.

Anyone would act the same if they were in her shoes.

A complete stranger taking care of the family member, who wouldn't be suspicious first?

Perfect sweetness.

Noor placed the Chai on the tray and went to the living room where Fiona was with her husband.

She has not once spoken with Michelle's father because she felt intimidated with all the men in this family.

Due to their big body and cold nature, Noor can't help but think they are scary and violent.

As she placed the tray on the table, Noor could feel the sharp gaze on her from beside Fiona as she became conscious " What's your name girl"

Her body abruptly halted hearing the cold voice as her palm sweated in nervousness.

" Ah honey this is Noor the one I talked to you about" Fiona reminded her husband while his gaze was still on the anxious maiden.

" Noor this is my husband Derek" Fiona introduced and Noor just bowed slightly in acknowledgement, her eyes on the floor.

" Ah- so this is she" Derek exclaimed knowingly and Noor was hell confused on what he was talking about.

Even more so, what did Fiona talk to her husband about her and why?

She was just a mere debtor and she can't see what Fiona could be telling her husband about.

" Yeah and you have to try her tea. It's the most delicious I have drank!" Fiona exclaimed with excitement as Derek looked at her wife lovingly
" if you say so"

Derek tried the Chai and like everyone he instantly liked how warmful and delicious the taste was.

Derek knew how Noor ended up in this mess but he can't do anything either as he knows Leo very well.

He doesn't want to be involved in his business knowing his nephew is hellbend in every decision he makes.

Derek asked a few questions to Noor and she replied with her stuttering voice still unable to look him in the eyes.

Seeing Noor's anxious form, a picture of a trembling rabbit came in his mind resembling the young girl.

Rabbit and Lion. What an odd match.

Derek chuckled at his own thoughts as he remembered his wife's words about Leo liking her.

Can she handle him?

"Where to boss?" Alec asked starting the car as Leonardo sighed tiredly while losing his tie " home"

Not sooner his phone began ringing and it was Andrew calling him
" What is it"

" How did the meeting go?" He was curious about the outcome.

Leonardo was in the meeting with Gwen to renew their contract.

Usually their contract lasts for 5 years but this time he decreased it for 3 years which made them extend their meeting for a long time.

" Shitty" he replied and sensing his annoyed tone Andrew could imagine what type of face he was having as he chuckled.

" Why did you call?" he demanded, tired of talking bullshits and just wants to rest.

" Oh right. Jack found out Richard guy's address and some of our guys are now keeping an eye on him." He informed his tone now.

" He barely comes out from his home and we got an info that he is leaving town in 3 days" he added as their suspensions on Richard grew.

" Ok. Keep watching his every move and follow where he is going. Call me when you got anything" Leo concluded before hanging up the call.

It was already 8 in the night as Leonardo looked out of the window watching the animated city before his eyes.

His mind was busy thinking of solving the puzzle that had suddenly appeared, challenging him in every way.

He did not understand some things. Who was this person and what did he want from him?

Leonardo was sure maybe he did something to him that he began attacking him now?

But he also wasn't the type to forget the people he brought to their misery.

Maybe it was someone from when his dad was the leader?

Cobra.....

I have to ask Derek about it.

With the next day emerging, Leonardo came down after having a shower after exercising at the gym.

He was in comfy clothing since it's the weekends and he doesn't go to his office unless an emergency breaks out.

He went to the kitchen hearing the noises coming from there.

Strangely, the kitchen has become quite noisy in a good way ever since Noor came.

No- scratch that. Everything has changed ever since she came.

The deserted cold four walls that barely call home were now filled with humans.

Their diets are really messed up and only contain take out and snacks but now they would eat home cooked meals three times a day with some snack time.

All these happened right after Noor entered their lives.

He doesn't know if this was a blessing or a curse for him. But he is one to believe there is no God.

And he would rather believe its a curse since he got himself trapped in the spell of Love.

To think it would happen when I least expected it.

Noor was feeling a bit edgy since morning, not sure why and her cramps were poking at her like a sharp knife, not helping her mood.

" Good morning Leo" Fiona greeted but it sounded sarcastic when she said it and not getting her reply back.

" It's courtesy you reply back Lili" Fiona narrowed her eyes looking at her nephew who was drinking his protein drink from the fridge as he choked hearing the name and a smirk stretched on her face.

A minute of pin drop silence before Michelle and Andrew burst out laughing while Maya and Jack were trying their best to hide their smile.

" Fiona" Leo grumbled hearing the nickname her aunt has given him ever since childhood which he hated the most.

" Aww what happened Lili? Didn't you love to be called by it?" She teased as everyone burst into laughter.

" Damn I forgot that nickname" Andrew commented while snickering at his cousin who was clenching his drink trying to hide his embarrassment.

Hearing the name, Noor too couldn't help but chuckle but she was more amused of the nickname Leonardo has.

Lili? That's cute.

" I still remember how you were so stubborn to call you Lili instead of your name when you were 5" Fiona chuckled at the replayed memory in her mind missing those moments.

" Seriously? Hahaha you could've named him better" Michelle laughed, still not getting used to the nickname.

" Stop it!" He tried to shut everyone but none was listening to him and continued to comment on his nickname.

He couldn't stand the embarrassment and walked away grumbling.

Of Course he remembered that nickname very well because he had the most precious memories with it.

The happiest of all.

But that didn't mean he wanted to be called by the name again.

He was only 6 when he found out the name was actually for girls from some other kids his age and he was bullied because of it.

But after all he was just an innocent child at the time.

Before he could walk away any further a voice called out to him and he stopped in his tracks " Wait!"

Leonardo irritatedly turned around, not in the mood to listen to another of their comments and was glad it wasn't any of his crazy family.

He waited for her to speak up as she was still trying to hide her smile and become serious " Ahem... I wanted to apologize."

Hearing her he looked at her confused as she took a deep breath " I am really sorry for acting rude when you were just trying to help me but you shouldn't have also done it when I was unconscious because I thought you took advantage of me and I was scared! But..."

She trailed off as she peeked at Leonardo who was looking at her with an eyebrow raised waiting for her to continue " But I was wrong and I am sorry"

She said it in one breath as if she was rapping but Leonardo understood every word she said " And thank you for treating and taking care of my wounds.... And me" she whispered the last part.

Well it wasn't her fault either that she acted like that.

Anyone would've think they were taken advantage of when they were unconscious beside someone.

It was her reflex thoughts .

Noor was anxiously waiting for him to say something but he was silent. Dead silent.

"How will that make up your false accusation you did on me" he said and Noor went still.

She expected him to either walk away or mock her . She did not expect him to demand something.

" What do you mean?" She asked confused at his words.

Leaning himself inches near her face, Noor jerked herself surprised by the sudden action " I am a businessman fiore. Words alone aren't efficient "

Noor halted hearing his heavy accent. It wasn't the usual intonation he used. And she felt shiver in her nerves..... in a good way.

It sounded... Italian? But it was sexy to the ears.

Astagfirullah Noor! She scolded her thoughts of it's dirty opinion on his voice.

It was the first time he used his Italian accent and now she was curious whether he was an Italian?

Fiore? Is that his business name?

" W-what do you want?" She asked with curiosity of his demand even though she has nothing with her to give him.

Leonardo was looking at her trembling orbs. Curiosity and confusion was held as a tiny smirk was lifted from the corner of his lips.

" A kiss" he said and Noor's eyes widened at that.

Seeing her reaction Leonardo knew she believed him even so he was just teasing her .

However he wouldn't mind it either if she kisses him which is a zero possibility it will happen.

He could've force a kiss with her like how he does but for some reason he didn't want to.

His mind mocked him for not doing what he wants. He is a Mafia for crying out loud he doesn't need to hesitate or ask any permission if he wants something.

At the same time his heart was convincing him not to do anything to her which he will regret later on.

Leonardo was in a swift conflict to which should he choose.

He never listened to his heart because he believes it always gave him stupid advices and he listens only to reasons and logic.

Will it be alright if he listened to it from here forth? He doesn't want to make a fool of himself anymore like in the past.

But then again its with two complete different person.

" Relax I don't want it.... now fiore" he smirked as Noor shifts uncomfortably.

" But I would want my breakfast to be made from here on and for you to bring it to my room" he stipulated while watching Noor for any kind of reaction

"Understood?" He pressured as Noor fiddled with her fingers as she sighed " Y-yes"

She can't back away now and she has to apologize for her behavior too so she agreed helplessly.

Its just making him breakfast and bringing it to his room, what's the worst that can happen?

" What are you waiting then? Go and bring me my breakfast" He said and Noor wanted to roll her eyes at his attitude.

" You could've say it nicely grumpy man" she mumbled under her breath as Leo heard her " Did you say something?"

"H-huh? no! I will make your breakfast!" she said before sprinting away.

He won't lie. He heard what she said but can't help but chuckle when she pouted. 

Isn't she becoming fearless.

Knock.
Knock.

The door of his study room was knocked and Leo permitted the knocker to enter " Come in."

Jack appeared entering the study but Leonardo was still focus on his laptop.

" Boss" Jack voiced and Leo hummed in response " I want to clear all of Noor's debt."

Leonardo's eyes shot up from his laptop screen to Jack as the words were sinking in him.

" What" he inquired asking the reason of his decision.

Jack knows if he wants to start a new life together with Noor he have to tell everything to Leonardo before hand.

" Boss, after we catch this guy I want to leave the Mafia" he announced which surprised Leonardo by raising his eyebrow.

" I am going to propose Noor and start a new life with her" he added and hearing it, Leonardo halted in his seat.

Right. How could he forget?! Jack already proposed her! He was too late recognizing his feelings.

He was too late to make her his.

She was already taken.

" I don't want her to continue living here because it's too dangerous for her. She is not used to live in these dangers" Jack interpreted and Leonardo knows he was right.

She will be safe and unscratched if she was far from their dirty messed world.

He too doesn't want her to be harmed, but will he allow her to leave?

" I just wanted to tell you in advance about me stepping down from my position" he said but Leonardo was lost in his thoughts.

"Woops- did I interrupt something?" Fiona peeked through the open door as she helped herself in.

Jack's phone rang and he excused himself as Fiona went to Leonardo.

Fiona heard everything what Jack said and she was surprised to hear he was going to propose her with the intention of marriage.

Silence.

" She is better off with him." Leonardo whispered as he thought of what Jack said.

" And why is that? Do you like to see her together with someone else? Don't you love her?"

" I DO DAMN IT! I FUCKING LOVE HER!AND I DON'T WANT ANY BASTARDS TO BE NEAR HER!" he banged on his table as he sprouted from his seat, finally bursting out his feelings.

Anger and frustration was pumping in his body as he clenched his hands. Fiona was finally content to hear those words from him.

A smile danced on her delighted face.

" So why aren't you doing anything?" She asked strangely curious .

Fiona knows how her nephew very well. If he has set his eye on something he is determined to get it no matter what.

Even after realizing his feelings, Fiona thought he will start claiming her but to her utter confound he has not done anything.

" She doesn't love me. She is not stupid ." he spat the bitter truth which he was not ready to accept.

Leonardo knows there are many reasons for Noor to not love him.

They are thousands kilometer different from each other.

Neitherless he loves her knowing their differences.

" How could you know when you did not even try to make her love you?" Fiona questioned at his nonsense conclusion.

She knew this will happen. He tends to overthink things when it comes to the matter of simple things.

" You think she is safe with Jack? Are you saying you can't protect her Leo?" She pressured challenging his vigour.

" Don't you dare Fiona" he warned her to complete the sentence as she smirked ignoring his warning.

He hates it when someone insults his masculinity. His ego won't let that person be breathing the next second.

" I can protect her . I am a fucking Mafia! Fiona. I will burn the world down if it meant for her to be safe!"

Fiona smiled at his remark " Leo, you have to understand one thing. Love doesn't make you weak. It turns you into someone stronger."

" Listen to your heart one last time and do what you think is right" she added before leaving the room.

Leonardo stared blankly in the air as her aunt's words replayed in his mind.

Just then his study room got knocked again and Leo was not in the mood to talk with anyone for now but netheirless he allowed them to enter
" Come in"

Taking a deep breath, Noor opened the door while holding a tray of breakfast on her as she peeked before entering. 

" Y-your breakfast?" she inquired nervously standing under his gaze .

Listen to your heart one last time and do what you think is right.

Heart.....

"Keep it on the table" he slightly jerked his head pointing at the table beside the couches .

She obliged and was bout to leave but was stopped in her tracks " I didn't tell you to leave though"

Ya Allah now what does he want.

Leonardo stood from his place and walked around the table as he sat on the couch " sit"

Noor wasn't sure what he wants but did as he told and made sure to sit far from him. 

She thought they are going to have a serious conversation but she was dumbfounded when Leonardo was only eating breakfast.

??? Did he made me sit to make me accompany him while he is eating?

Noor was sitting comfortably bored as her curious orbs scanned around the place.

This is the second time she entered here maybe but she never looked around.

Now that she sees the room with lights on , excietment danced in her round orbs taking in the design.

The room gave off a really strong authoritative dominance just like it's owner.

But why is it so dull.

The room was painted black with no other color present except for suburban colors.

" I didn't think the room is more attractive than me" Noor heard him and she can feel a cocky grin stretched across his face.

" Don't flatter yourself" she said her thoughts accidentally out loud as Leonardo raised an eyerbow
" Excuse me?"

Her body went stiff as her gaze slowly peeked at the person beside her " N-nothing! Oh you have finsihed your breakfast. I will take'em away later!"

"Wha-" before Leonardo could complete his sentence, Noor escaped from the room, saving herself from his dangerous remarks.

An uncontrolable laugh erupted from within him vibrating his body as it travelled out from his lips.

Her action was hilarious and he can't help but let out the laugh . She sure knows how to bring out his unwanted feelings.

"Cosa dovrei fare con te mio fiore."
[ What should I do with you my flower]

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No more words :)

Happy reading?😅