♥ Chapter 1 ♥
Hilary Moretti.
Five years have passed.
Monday.
So much has changed in my life over these five years since that heartless man forced me out of our shared home. I found refuge in returning to my hometown in Italy, where both my parents and my childhood friends welcomed me with open arms. Knowing I wasn't alone brought immense relief, yet I confess, the shadow of depression loomed over me for a long while. The hurt he caused ran deep, but slowly, I began to find my footing again.
I reclaimed my maiden name and decided it was time for a lifestyle overhaul. During my marriage, I weighed in at one hundred and twenty kilos. The ensuing depression saw me shedding some weight, though I remain overweight at one hundred and six kilos. It was during this period of introspection and change that I discovered a newfound joy in caring for children. Finding myself without employment, I often babysat my friends' kids while they were at work, which sparked the realization that I could pursue a career as a nanny.
With encouragement from my friends, I approached a nanny agency. These past five years, I've worked in various households, typically spending a year at each. Unfortunately, my stints often ended prematurely because the children began referring to me as "mommy," a development that their biological mothers understandably did not appreciate.
My past self struggled with the reflection in the mirror. Now, I look at my dark skin, curly black hair, and light brown eyes, and I see the beauty in my body's curves. Like anyone, I have my moments of doubt, but I've come to love myself. These five years have been devoid of romantic relationships, a direct result of the trauma I experienced from being left for someone younger and slimmer. Now in my forties, life still has much to offer, yet a pervasive fear holds me back.
My career as a nanny has been my focus. Unable to be a mother myself, this profession fills a void in my heart. Hearing children call me "Mommy" has been both a joy and a sorrow, a reminder of what I've longed for but cannot have.
Today marks a significant step: an interview with the Russo family, among Italy's most prestigious. I'm to meet with Mr. Dominic Russo, the eldest son and a figure of considerable renown in the business world. Many women dream of capturing his heart, yet he remains elusive. Rumors swirl around him and his equally mysterious brother, whose name and face I don't know. My friend, who keeps up with such matters, tells me Dominic is thirty-one, and his brother is thirty, though little else seems to be known about him.
Nervousness grips me; it's been a month since my last position ended. A friend, spotting an urgent ad for a nanny placed by Mr. Dominic, encouraged me to apply. Sending in my CV, I was thrilled to receive an invitation for an interview.
Despite the changes and challenges, I'm content with where I am, working in a field I love. Yet, beneath it all, there's a yearning for someone to share my life with, someone who desires me, wants me, and loves me for who I am.
But part of me fears that may never happen.
07:30: The Moretti residence, Italy.
"Lary, are you ready?" Pietra, my friend, called out as she entered my room.
"Just double-checking my bag," I responded, earning an eye roll from her.
"You've checked it a thousand times. Try to relax," she said.
"I can't help it, Pietra. This isn't just any interview; it's with Dominic Russo, the most sought-after businessman in the world. I'm sure there's a lot of competition for this position. I'm really nervous," I confessed.
Pietra, a striking figure at thirty-six, stands tall with her white skin, red hair, and light blue eyes that could have belonged to a model. She's undeniably beautiful.
"I understand, but you can't let this opportunity slip through your fingers. Now, come on. Your interview is at half-past eight. Arriving early will show them you're a punctual person," she encouraged. I sighed in agreement.
"You're right. Let's go." I grabbed my bag and slung it over my shoulder, and took one last look in the mirror. Dressed in a black jumpsuit that snugly fit my frame, I opted for comfort and modesty, pairing it with sneakers and a light touch of makeup, just a hint of red lipstick. I prefer a natural look, especially since my work involves children.
Descending the stairs, we were greeted by my parents. Despite being in their sixties, they don't look their age, appearing more like they're in their fifties. They've always taken exceptional care of their health and appearance.
My mother is short with dark skin, dark brown hair, and light brown eyes. Her physique is well-maintained, betraying none of the typical signs of aging.
My father, on the other hand, is tall with dark skin, light brown hair, and very dark brown eyes. He has kept himself in good shape, a habit he's maintained from his younger days by regularly visiting the gym.
"Are you leaving, daddy's princess?" My father used the nickname he's given me since childhood, drawing a fond smile from me.
"You look beautiful, my love," my mother said, standing up to embrace me. "I'm confident you'll secure this job, my princess."
"Thank you, Mom. Yes, Dad, I'm off to my interview now. Wish me luck," I responded as he approached and hugged me.
"We have every faith in your potential, my love," they both said, kissing my forehead. "Now go."
After bidding them goodbye, I made my way to Pietra's car.
"I'm really nervous," I confessed as soon as she started driving.
"Just breathe, my friend. Everything will work out fine," she reassured me, prompting me to take a deep breath.
"Do you think I'll have to live there? In all my previous jobs, the employers preferred that I live in to make things easier," I pondered aloud.
"It's likely, considering it would be more convenient," she agreed.
The thought of living on the premises added to my anxiety. Despite having gone through numerous interviews, the prospect of working for someone as renowned as Dominic Russo was daunting. I could hardly keep my nerves in check, fearing I might faint from the pressure.
I decided to mentally rehearse my own interview, focusing on staying calm and collected.
God help me.