---- "Isabella, no matter what happens, I will always protect you," he stroked my face. "You're my wife. No one can hurt you." Except you, I thought, a silent, bitter laugh catching in my throat. I fought back the bile and let him have his way with me one last time. The next day was Don Antonio's 8oth birthday party at the family estate. All the core members of the family were there. I wore the gown Vincent had chosen and played the part of the dutiful wife on his arm. "Tsabella, you look stunning," the old Don said, kissing my hand. "Vincent is a lucky man." "Thank you, Godfather." Halfway through the party, I excused myself. As I passed the study, I heard Vincent's voice. ---- "Godfather, how is Sophia?" "She's four months along, the baby is healthy,"" Don Antonio replied. "When are you planning to deal with the Isabella situation?" My heart stopped. "T'll make Isabella disappear after Sophia gives birth, "Vincent said, his voice quiet but laced with deadly resolve. "Then I'll make Sophia the true Mrs. Torrino. " "And the other child?" "Sophia's child will be my heir," Vincent said without a flicker of hesitation. ''As for Isabella... she's served her purpose." I bit my lip so hard I tasted blood. This cold, ruthless man was the same one who had whispered lies of love to me just last night. So that's all I was. A placeholder. ---- A tool to be discarded. And Sophia... pregnant with his child. He didn't know my own plan was already in motion. Just two more days, I thought, a sliver of ice forming around my heart. Just two more days.