SOPHIE & THE DUKE 🔞

Chapter 13

SOPHIE

We arrived at the breathtaking modern-day villa nestled in the enchanting countryside of Italy, graciously owned by Gio. The moment my eyes fell upon the property, I was instantly captivated by its grandeur and refined architectural design. The villa, an elegant masterpiece, boasted sleek lines and expansive glass facades that seamlessly merged with the lush surrounding landscape.

As I was led inside by Alfonso, I was greeted by an ambiance of sophistication and opulence. The interior exuded an exquisite blend of contemporary aesthetics and classic Italian charm. The spacious foyer showcased a sweeping staircase adorned with ornate wrought iron railings, leading me to the upper levels where Gio's private quarters awaited.

"The Duke will be arriving soon, Rosa will show you your room." Alfonso said, informing me before leaving and leaving me alone in the foyer.

Rubbing my palms together, I felt a trickle of sweat down my neck. The heat was getting to me, and my aching back added to my discomfort. All I wanted was a good night's sleep, uninterrupted by the worries of the day.

Just as I shrugged, a feminine voice greeted me with a cheerful "Ciao." I turned around, my curiosity piqued, and my gaze met the eyes of a woman who appeared to be in her mid-fifties or sixties. There was something familiar about her, a resemblance that tugged at my heartstrings. It was as if she reminded me of someone dear, though it seemed impossible. I stared back at her, captivated by her gaze, and it almost seemed as if tears welled up in her eyes.

"Lina? Lina? sei tu?" Is it you?she asked, confusion evident in my own eyes.

"I'm sorry, I'm not Lina. I'm Sophie. It's a pleasure to meet you. You must be Rosa," I responded, trying to ease the misunderstanding.

Her eyes closed briefly, then opened again. With a gentle smile, she said, "I apologize, my dear. I must have mistaken you for someone else. Please forgive an old woman."

I watched as her gaze scanned my body, eventually settling on my swollen belly. A look of shock spread across her face.

"Come here, you shouldn't be standing for too long. Let me take you to your room and draw a bath for you," she said sweetly, guiding me up the stairs as we ascended together.

***

I opened my eyes, greeted by the gentle rays of sunlight streaming into the bedroom. Stretching and adjusting my nightgown, I marveled at the luxury of the surroundings. Rosa, had already shown me the wardrobe filled with expensive, brand-new clothes that seemed tailored to my size. I couldn't help but wonder how they knew my measurements, but I suppose it was a predictable gesture. The exhaustion from our arrival had overwhelmed me, leading me to collapse onto the bed after a refreshing shower, succumbing to a deep sleep.

Curiosity nudged me to check the time on my phone, and to my dismay, it was already ten in the morning. I, Sophie, who never slept past six, had surely overdone it this time. As I attempted to get up, I noticed that the silk robe I had worn to bed was neatly folded at the end of the bed, no longer adorning my body. I wondered who had kindly removed it while I slept, considering I had been sweaty. Grateful for their thoughtfulness, I thanked them silently before proceeding to the bathroom for a quick shower.

As I emerged from the bathroom, a faint knock resonated at my door. "Yes, who's there?" I called out, slightly puzzled.
"It's Rosa," came the reply.
"Ah, please come in," I responded warmly.

Rosa entered the room, her presence exuding a comforting aura. She placed a cup of something that resembled tea on the table before me. With a smile, she said, "You look rather pale, morning sickness, I presume?" Her caring eyes met mine, filled with genuine concern.
"Yes,but not as frequently as before," I said.
"I prepared a herbal lemon balm tea. It's good for you and the baby, and it will help you stay strong," she added, emphasizing her desire to assist.

"Thank you, ma'am. I truly appreciate it," I replied, a grateful smile illuminating my face. Walking over to the table, I took a sip from the cup, relishing the soothing warmth.

There was something about Rosa that drew me in, creating an inexplicable sense of comfort and ease in her presence. It could be attributed to my own "mummy issues," as they say, leading me to find maternal comfort and solace in the company of Rosa.

Rosa continued, "When you feel hungry, please come downstairs. His Grace asked me to inform you that you both have a scheduled visit to the hospital this morning."
"Thank you for letting me know. I'll join him shortly," I replied politely as Rosa left the room. Deep down, I knew Gio probably wanted the DNA test after all, despite my naive belief that he had started trusting me.

Preparing for the day ahead, I chose a sleeveless sundress and slipped into my sneakers, considering the scorching Italian sun. Memories from my childhood flooded back—I had always yearned to visit Italy. The pictures Papa Harry shared with me had ignited my imagination and fueled my desire to explore this captivating place.

However, I wished the circumstances were different. I longed to be here under better circumstances, not as a pregnant woman despised by the man who brought me here against my will. It had been a week since I last spoke to Fabiola, and I made a mental note to reach out to her tomorrow. Shrugging off those troubled thoughts, I grabbed my phone and made my way to the dining area, eager to have breakfast and face the day ahead.