The next morning, Isabella woke before her alarm, anticipation fueling her energy as she prepared for her first day at work with Matteo. She wanted to make the best possible impression, knowing full well that he had given her this job based on trust and not credentials. There was no room for error.
She selected her outfit carefully, a sharp, navy blue suit paired with matching trousers, a soft white blouse beneath, and low-heeled shoes. She had even straightened her hair, letting it cascade smoothly past her shoulders, and applied a light touch of makeup, a bit more than usual, to enhance her features without being overdone.
As she checked herself in the mirror, her mother, Celia, appeared at her bedroom door, watching her intently. "Isabella, don’t you think this is a bit much for your
