Forbidden Desire 18+

Chapter Three

ISABELLA MATTIA

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My father has practically been running around like a headless chicken for the last few weeks. Ever since I told him that I got accepted into a University half way across the country, he's been acting as if I'm moving to another planet and he'll never see me.

The only good thing is my mother is the one who is reasonable, telling him that I must live my life and I shouldn't stay cooped up because he thinks it's best for me. It'll only push me away and make me run as far as possible.

I need this. Fuck. I need this so bad. I feel like I'm wasting away here.

My dad has been making plans–making sure the best bodyguard is there by my side. He says that I've never met him but he trusts that he's best in the game and that after what my father has done for him, he'll give his all to protecting me.

The thought of someone following me around day in, day out, makes me feel nauseous and irritable but it's either a bodyguard or nothing. I'm not happy about it but I'm choosing to keep my thoughts to myself–for now.

No doubt he'll rip the opportunity from me before I get a chance to moan about the situation.

"Isabella," I glance to my father as I lounge on the sofa in my pink silk pyjamas. His arms fold over his chest as he studies my attire. "Get dressed into something appropriate. I have someone for you to meet today before you leave on Sunday."

I roll my eyes. "I'm at home, dad. I can wear what I want."

His jaw ticks and I know I'm pushing his buttons. I've seen how protective he is over my mother when someone looks at her the wrong way, I haven't experienced what he'd do if I was wearing something inappropriate around someone who is meant to be working for him.

"Go upstairs and get changed," he snaps.  "I will not tell you again."

"If he's going to be my bodyguard, he's going to see me in all my states."

My father's nostrils flare and I know I've touched a nerve. I'm only adding to his misery but I don't care, he has to know the truth. He won't be able to control me from hundreds of miles away.

"Isabella," he grumbles. I've heard that voice before and it didn't end well.

I release a huff and stand up. "You're insufferable."

"Right back at you," he snaps as I tuck my arms over my chest and stomp upstairs like a teenage brat.

I'm well aware I act like an asshole but that's because I've been brought up to be an asshole. This place is like a mad house, I feel like I'm going mad every fucking second and I can't wait to get that taste of freedom.

Not long now, Isabella. You can do this.

Once I get to my room I throw on some clothes that won't make him want to murder me. I shove my hair back and let two pieces of my dark bangs hang down across my cheeks. As soon as I find my father downstairs, he's on the phone.

He takes one look at my outfit and nods in approval. See? Insufferable.

"The guards will let you in," he says through the speaker.

I lean against the sofa and stare at him. Boy, I can't wait to meet my shadow for the next five years. It's going to be riveting.

There is a strong knock on the door, my father is there in an instant. He straightens out his shirt and clears his throat. I shake my head subtly. What does he have to prove?