THE HEIR’S BRIDE

Chapter 6: The De Luca Dinner

The morning had been full of nerves, but now, as evening came, Elsa stood in front of the mirror while Isabella worked on her. The gown was deep emerald satin, fitting Elsa’s body perfectly.

Isabella stepped back, her eyes scanning Elsa with a critical yet admiring gaze.

“You look stunning,” Isabella murmured, her hands adjusting the delicate jewelry at Elsa’s neck. “But remember tonight, you're not just Elsa Moretti. You’re Elsa De Luca now. You need to show them you're worth this.”

Elsa ,brushing a stray lock of hair from her face. “I’m not sure I belong in this world, Isabella. It’s all too... overwhelming. The power, the expectations…”

Isabella chuckled lightly, her fingers deftly adjusting Elsa’s sleeve. “Darling, you’ve always been more than capable. You just need to own it. And Alex…”

She paused for a moment, her gaze flickering with mischief. “Well, he’s not exactly the most charming man, but he’s yours now. So, let’s work on making this dinner a start to something.”

Elsa’s stomach tightened. “I don’t know,” she said softly. “It feels like I’m just a piece in a game I don’t even understand.”

Isabella smiled kindly and turned Elsa to face her. “That’s because you are a piece, my dear. But it doesn’t mean you can’t have a voice. Don’t let them see your fears. Show them the future Mrs. De Luca.”

Then she gave Elsa a playful grin.

“Especially Alex. He’s hot, and I’m sure it won’t hurt to show him you’re not as innocent as you seem.”

Elsa's cheeks flushed, and she shook her head. “Isabella...”

“Just remember, he’s not going to be easy to crack. But trust me, once you do, you’ll have him wrapped around your finger.”

“And I’ll be with you tonight so, what could go wrong”

Elsa leaned in for a hug “Thank you Izzy, I don’t know what I would’ve done without you”

The De Luca mansion looked as big and intimidating as ever. Inside, every room was neat and filled with expensive things, but it didn’t feel warm or welcoming. Everything seemed arranged to show power, not comfort. Elsa walked quietly, feeling like a guest in a place that wasn’t hers yet.

Beside her, Isabella walked with confidence, her head held high. She lightly held Elsa’s arm and leaned closer. “Don’t let all this scare you,” she whispered with a soft smile. “This is your new world now, Elsa. You belong here, even if it doesn’t feel like it yet.”

Victor De Luca, the head of the family, was already sitting at the end of the long table. His presence was strong and commanding, making it clear he was in charge. Beside him sat Elena, Alex’s mother. She looked calm and graceful, her posture perfect as she watched everything quietly.

Elsa felt Rosa’s hand on her arm, a comforting touch in a sea of uncertainty. “You’ll be fine,” Rosa whispered, leading Elsa into the room.

Victor glanced up from his drink, offering a thin smile. “Ah, Elsa. I trust you’re well?”

“Of course, Mr. De Luca.” Elsa's voice was steady, but her insides were anything but calm.

“Rosa,” Victor greeted warmly, He nodded toward the Moretti family, gesturing for them to take their seats.

Isabella took Elsa’s arm gently and led her to her seat, positioning her between her and Elena, who gave her a welcoming smile

“I’m so glad you’re joining us tonight, Elsa. I do hope you find everything to your liking .

"I trust the journey here wasn’t too much of a hassle?" Elena asked.

"Not at all," Elsa replied, offering her most practiced smile. “Thank you for hosting us tonight”

As Elsa sat down, her eyes moved around the room until they landed on Alex sitting directly across from her. He was looking at her, his eyes steady and fixed. His face showed nothing, but the way he kept his gaze on her a little longer than needed made her feel uneasy, like he was trying to figure her out.

He seemed to pause on purpose, his dark eyes watching her in a way that made her both nervous and curious. His presence was strong, almost pulling her in, and even though he looked serious and cold, there was something about him that couldn’t be ignored.

“Elsa, dear,” Elena spoke up again, her voice cutting through the tension in the room, “you’ll be moving into the mansion soon. I believe it’s important for you to become well acquainted with the family before the wedding. It will make the transition easier.”

Elsa’s stomach fluttered at the mention of the wedding, her mind racing. She hadn’t expected the announcement to come so suddenly.

Rosa, sensing Elsa’s discomfort, gently explained, “It’s only for a while, darling. Just a chance for you to become familiar with the De Luca family. It will be good for you.”

"Yes, of course," Elsa said, keeping her tone neutral.

Victor, who had been quiet until now, placed his glass of wine on the table and looked around. “I’m glad to have everyone here,” he said. “Family dinners are a time to reflect, and it’s good to have the Moretti family with us tonight. This alliance, even if it started out of necessity, will strengthen our future.”

Alex, seated at the far end, remained quiet, his posture rigid as he listened to his father. His gaze seemed fixed on something far beyond the dinner table, and Elsa wondered if he ever truly allowed himself to be a part of moments like this.

The dinner began in earnest, with conversation flowing between the families. Victor spoke of the importance of loyalty and strength, emphasizing the role of family in the De Luca legacy. Rosa, In the absence of her husband , ever the supportive wife, engaged in light discussion

Throughout the meal, Elsa’s attention kept drifting back to Alex. There was something about him that drew her. His icy composure seemed to crack only in fleeting moments when his eyes flickered toward her

The conversation was in full swing when the door to the dining room opened, and Bianca entered with a dramatic flair.