Son of the Devil

Chapter Fourteen: A View from the Top

A week before meeting Nonna, Lucio surprised Enzo and his friends with a shopping spree at exclusive boutiques to prepare for an upcoming soirée. Lucio had extended the invitation to Giorgio, Fonsie, Stef, and Tina, understanding that Enzo would feel more comfortable with his friends by his side. Although he didn't wish to feel more vulnerable than he already was, Enzo must admit that it was touching to think that someone like Lucio would even take his feelings into account.

The exclusive boutiques were opened privately for them, with Sandro and Nero guiding the shopping experience. As Enzo wandered through the racks in the third store, running his fingers over the luxurious fabrics, a sense of unease crept over him. No one had ever footed the bill for such an extravagant shopping spree for him before. The fact that another man was doing this for him added another layer of mystery to the situation.

"Have you found anything to your liking, Mr. Moretti?"

Being addressed by Lucio's last name, Enzo couldn't help but shudder. He knew he'd have to get used to it, but when a well-dressed, sophisticated woman like Bella assisted him while using that formal name, it felt awkward. Before meeting Lucio, women like Bella, who worked in high-end shops, would visit their bakery and barely acknowledge him, treating him like he was invisible. Seeing their roles reversed now was nothing short of astonishing.

"Do you have anything in soft pink?"

"You mean like a pastel?"

He nodded. "I'd like to wear something different from black. I'm sure everyone at the party will be wearing it."

Bella smiled, sharing his sentiment. "We do have some sets you might like. They're from a renowned designer's spring ready-to-wear collection. Would you like to take a look?"

Soon enough, Enzo was draped in a striking dip-dye printed jacket in Bordeaux pink. He stood before the mirror, scrutinizing his reflection with unease. The outfit was undoubtedly beautiful, but it seemed to miss the mark on him.

Bella approached with a pair of matching shoes.

"These should complement the look."

Enzo slipped off his sneakers and slid into the black, high-cut leather boots. He studied his reflection once more, an improvement, but...

"Wow, Enzo..." Stef couldn't help but comment as they watched him try on different outfits. "You look so different in designer clothes."

Tina sat beside her brother and nodded. "Absolutely. Everything seems to suit you."

Bella chimed in, "Your height really complements these sophisticated looks. Dressing you up is a pleasure."

Enzo blushed a little, appreciating the compliment. "Thanks..."

"Don't you like the suit?" Fonsie also noticed Enzo's discomfiture.

"I love it, but..." Enzo hesitated, searching for the right words to express his feelings.

He glanced at his hands in the mirror, noticing his nails, elongated and painted in an unsightly red by his nieces and nephews. The contrast with the delicate pastel pink outfit was jarring. His dark, bangs-covered hair also felt mismatched with the ensemble.

"I don't know if it's me."

"Then, we'll just have to change, won't we?" Bella suggested kindly. "Let's head to the salon on the third floor. We can adjust your hair, nails, and makeup to better suit the look."

"You really think that'll make a difference?"

Bella chuckled softly. "Typically, partners of Mafia bosses like to dress extravagantly to showcase their spouse's power and influence. But that approach doesn't seem to fit you, does it? I think you lean more towards sophistication with a touch of elegance."