Chapter 3: The Sanctuary of White Linens
Lorenzo carried Emilia back into the main house, shielding the child’s eyes from the afternoon glare with his large hand.
The grand foyer was already being attended to by Mrs. Rossi, the elderly head housekeeper who had served Lorenzo’s late parents for over forty years. When Mrs. Rossi saw the drenched, shivering Sofia and the terrified child in Lorenzo’s arms, her weathered face tightened in sorrow and indignation.
"Lorenzo, what has happened?" Mrs. Rossi asked, rushing forward with thick terrycloth towels.
"Bianca Valenti’s belongings are to be cleared from the guest suite immediately," Lorenzo instructed, his voice firm and unwavering. "Prepare the east master suite for Sofia and Emilia. Draw a warm bath with lavender oils, bring clean linens, and have Chef Antonio prepare warm chicken soup and fresh bread."
"Right away, sir," Mrs. Rossi nodded, taking Emilia gently by the hand. "Come, my sweet lamb. Let’s get you out of the cold."
Sofia hesitated at the foot of the sweeping grand staircase, clutching the edges of Lorenzo’s oversized suit jacket. Her dark hair was still damp, plastered against her neck, and her eyes were wide with apprehension.
"Mr. Moretti... the east master suite is for your family and dignitaries," Sofia murmured, her voice shaking. "I am just a maid. I cannot stay in those rooms. If the other staff see—"
"Sofia," Lorenzo interrupted softly, stepping in front of her. His piercing dark eyes held no judgment, only an immovable wall of respect. "In this house, no one who works under my roof will ever be treated as lesser. You endured cruelty today that should never have occurred on my land. Until you and your daughter are fully recovered, that room is your sanctuary."
Sofia looked up at the towering man before her. Behind his intimidating physique, the sharp tailored clothes, and the tattoos that whispered of a dangerous past, she saw a soul of profound, untarnished nobility.
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"Thank you, Mr. Moretti," she whispered.
"Call me Lorenzo," he replied gently. "Now go get warm. I will handle everything else."
