In His Grasp: A Mafia Romance

Chapter 147: Isabella Learns to Cook

"Are you sure about this? Isabella, your situation in Chicago is dangerous," Sophia expressed concern.

"It's my choice. As the Mafia Queen, I need to learn these skills," Isabella replied, Sophia relaxing 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 place."

Isabella knew some would choose differently, but she couldn't endure being away from Emanuele for long periods. Even though their relationship 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.

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

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

"Isabella, take care. Listen to Emanuele, and try not to go anywhere," Sophia advised before ending the call.

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

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

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

Great! She successfully completed the task. She cut a slice, tasted it, and was pleased with the rich cocoa and milky flavor. Her extra sugar made it particularly sweet.

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

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

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

"I made this cake, Tony. Is it good?" Isabella asked.

Tony nodded, "Never tasted anything so delicious."

Afterward, Isabella looked at Harry, who quickly understood and said, "Incredible, your cake is delightful. I'd like another piece."

Isabella 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.

Isabella 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, Isabella texted Emanuele, asking if he would come home for dinner. She planned to cook for him.

Feeling nervous while sending the message, Isabella 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."

Isabella 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, Isabella? I'll teach you anything I know."

"What does Emanuele like to eat?" Isabella asked, knowing Lilly had seen him grow up.

"Oh, dear, you've asked the right person," Lilly said, winking at Isabella, then proceeded to take large pieces of beef from the refrigerator.

Isabella nodded, ready to learn from Lilly.

Emanuele returned home around seven in the evening. As he entered the apartment, he heard laughter from the kitchen. Isabella 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," Isabella 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.

Isabella 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," Isabella teased.

Emanuele pulled Isabella's arm, resting his chin on her shoulder. "What are you planning to cook?"

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

"I'm just helping out, guiding her. Isabella's the one doing the cooking," Lilly explained.

Isabella glanced at Emanuele. "Don't you trust me?"

"I trust you, my dear," Emanuele kissed Isabella's cheek. "I'll be waiting outside. Excited to taste your cooking."

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