The Mafia Boss's Unwanted Wife

Chapter 17

 Katrina woke up early the next morning, even though she only slept for a couple hours, she felt well rested. Alonzo was still in bed sleeping like the dead, and it surprised her that he hadn't woke up and reached for her when she crawled out of bed. He'd been sleeping in more ever since her week of bed rest, and she didn't complain because she didn't have to wake up in a cold bed every morning. She slipped on her housecoat and slippers and headed down the stairs to the kitchen.

 She couldn't stop thinking about what had happened at dinner last night with Maria and the Family. Now every time she had to look in Maria's eyes she would see her father; her very cold father. Katrina wanted to do something enjoyable today to erase the horrible mood last night had put upon everyone. She wanted to start their day off right with a delicious Italian breakfast. Then they could take her sightseeing and show her the beauty of Italy, and she was not taking 'no' for an answer.

 On her way down the stairs, several bodyguards stepped out from the shadows and nearly scared her to death. They nodded their head in respect and Katrina couldn't help but wonder if they ever slept. Her husband must pay them substantially to be on the clock twenty-four-seven. As she entered the kitchen, uncomfortable questions arose in her head. They were willing to risk their lives to protect her family. Did they have family they would leave behind? Wives, sons, or daughters? Mothers and fathers? All to keep her and their baby safe.

 Truthfully, she didn't want to think too hard about it, it would make it worse to get to know them on a personal level. She shook her head to clear her thoughts as she flicked on the lights. She'd been up for an hour or so searching the internet for a delicious Italian breakfast to cook. She settled on Garlic Zucchini Frittata, which looked like an over the top fancy omelet. She wasn't the best cook in the world but she knew how to cook eggs and chop up some fresh fruit.

 She busied herself grabbing ingredients out of the pantry and refrigerator. She constantly looked at her phone to make sure she wasn't forgetting anything. She was good at following directions, well, when it came to cooking. She searched for the measuring cups and spoons and was ecstatic when she finally found them after several minutes of looking. She tried to keep as quiet as possible as she tried to reach a skillet hanging high above her head. After stretching as far as she could, with no hope of reaching it, she gave up and was about to ask one of the guards to help when more lights flicked on and Charles stood before her already wearing his uniform.

She looked guiltily at him and tried to smile to cover up her inadequacy in the situation, he returned her smile with a pleasant greeting.

 "Buongiorno signora Riccardi." He said politely as he walked over and pushed a button that allowed the pots and pans to lower. Before she could reach up to get the skillet he grabbed it for her and placed it on the stove.

 "Buongiorno Signor Charles and thank you, but please do call me Katrina and please speak English with me, my Italian is very limited." She responded and pleaded with him.

 "Of course Katrina, you are most welcome, and please call me Charles."

 "Did I wake you, if so please forgive me I tried to be discreet but I'm the clumsiest person I know, especially now that the baby has me so off balance." She said and he smiled at her own joke.

 "No dear, you didn't, I usually wake at six in the morning to prepare breakfast, but it seems you've beaten me to it."

 "Forgive me for messing with your routine Charles. I wanted to make a delicious breakfast for everyone today, since last night ended so badly. I want everyone to wake up in good spirits." She explained.

 "You have nothing to apologize for my dear; this is your home after all. Have you chosen what you would like to prepare this fine morning and can little old me be of any assistance?" his question and comfort with her made her smile.