Becoming the Cruel Mafia's Wife

The much-anticipated day had finally dawned. Dressed in a stunning white gown, the delicate hand-embroidered patterns on my sleeves exude elegance. The heart-shaped crystal embellishments along the neckline add a touch of glamour. My hair and makeup are flawless. I may look like a princess, but deep down, I don't feel like one. No amount of perfect makeup or expensive attire can bring genuine joy to my heart. I, Abigail Hayes, a mere nineteen years old, am on the verge of marrying a man who lies in a coma. "Anything for the sake of my family," I reminded myself. Jack Hayes, a man consumed by his addictions and gambling habits, was the reason behind this sacrifice. I had to bid farewell to my true love and surrender myself to a stranger I would never truly know. It's astonishing how my picture-perfect world crumbled, and it’s all because of my father. We were a respected family in the elite circles of New York. Our appliance manufacturing business had thrived for four decades until my father's vices destroyed everything. Gambling became his obsession, tearing him away from my mother and the family business. He lived a life of excess, squandering our wealth in casinos around the globe, shattering a twenty-five-year marriage and the home I once knew. My father's reckless choices led the company to ruin. His debts far outweighed his winnings from gambling. The only reason he managed to stay afloat for the past five years was due to his reputation in the city. The collapse of our family's company brought about a drastic change in our lives. We went from being respected and well-off to becoming a middle-class family, stripped of our status, wealth, and subjected to the ridicule of high society. In the midst of this turmoil, I had to make sacrifices. I had to let go of my friends, my travels, my designer clothes, and the glamorous galas and events that were once a part of my life. But none of that mattered to me, because witnessing the disintegration of my parents' marriage was far more painful. That's why I'm willing to make sacrifices. In the realm of New York's high society, there is a man who commands immense wealth, power, and respect. He is both revered and feared by all, with rumors suggesting his involvement in the dark underbelly of society. His story is tragic, for despite his vast resources, he remains trapped in a vegetative state, unable to awaken. This man, whom I have never met, was left in a coma following a terrible accident. It has been two long years since that fateful incident. Although I have only heard his name mentioned in various meetings, his presence looms large in my mind. Some described him as cruel, arrogant, ruthless, and full of evil. Others saw him as intelligent, bold, admirable, ingenious, and shrewd. The entire city was shocked by his accident, and the fact that he was left in a coma only intensified the shock. But despite his condition, he would still get married. Even if he had no knowledge of it. And that's where I come in, the "happy bride" who is willingly entering into this marriage, sacrificing myself for the money I desperately need. I feel almost obligated to become Damon Lombardi's wife. Could I have objected? Of course, I had that option. But how could I refuse to become the future heir to the vast Lombardi estate? In my current position, with no money, no status, being unable to afford university, and a failing company, being the wife of a man in a vegetative state doesn't seem like such a crazy idea. At least, that's the excuse I tell myself every day to keep from feeling utterly miserable. I'm not foolish, even though some may think so because of my silence. His family saw some potential in me and asked for my hand in marriage. I'm young, with nothing to lose, and honestly, if we consider the circumstances, I would be the one benefiting the most from all of this, right? Or perhaps it's because I was the only one who didn't immediately refuse, knowing that the other girls did. Some were afraid of the rumors they had heard about him, while others wanted to avoid a life with a comatose man and the possibility of becoming a widow at such a young age. What they don't know is that he will never wake up, or at least that's what his family has told me. And so, today, my life will change completely. I can only hope that my sacrifice will be worth it. I don't love this man, I don't even know him, but I would do anything for my family, even if it meant marrying someone who is essentially a living dead person. They assured me that I would have access to that inheritance. I just hope they stick to their promise. Two knocks on the door snapped me out of my gloomy thoughts. "Come in," I called out, getting up. I caught a glimpse of my mother in the mirror. She looks stunning in her tidy and classy outfit. It's a reminder of our former lives. "You look absolutely gorgeous, my dear," she said, coming closer and holding my hands. Everyone will see how stunning you are. "That's not what matters to me, mom. I just want this day to be done with." "I understand how hard this is for you, I know how much you loved Evans and how much it hurt you to end things with him for the sake of the family, but every sacrifice has its rewards, Abby." She gently stroked my cheek. "We both know that your father's habits will soon leave us penniless, but as Mrs. Lombardi, you'll be able to take care of us both, even him. You'll be able to revive the company. You won't rely on the Lombardi’s money anymore, and if you wish, you can always divorce later on. "It's easier said than done." "I know you can handle that," he assured me with a conciliatory smile. "Your intelligence has always been remarkable." I remained silent, suppressing my words to avoid fleeing from this situation. We made a commitment to that family, and backing out at the last minute and running away from them out of fear, away from Evan, would only make me feel miserable. It would be like breaking his heart, as I had planned, and it would result in our separation. Together, we left my room and made our way to the Lombardi mansion, where the ceremony would take place. ... I walked down the aisle, holding onto my father's arm, heading straight towards the altar. Everyone present gazed at me with curiosity, disbelief, and anticipation, but I refused to lower my head. I understand their perspective. I would probably see myself the same way if I were in their shoes. Who gets married without the groom being present? Silly Abigail, that's what they must be thinking. What they don't realize is that I couldn't care less. It's obvious that Damon cannot be here, as that would be impossible. However, since this family thrives on appearances, they couldn't simply skip the ceremony. "Finally, Mr. Lombardi is getting married!" "Let's have a wedding even without the groom!" At least his signature will be present at our wedding. How they managed it, only God knows. As I approached the judge, everything else happened in a blur. The signing, my vows carried away by the wind, the "Yes, I do," the photographs, and the celebration all flash before my eyes. My cheeks ached from pretending to wear a happy smile, my feet could no longer bear the pain of my high heels, and my head throbbed from the messy bun they styled for me. Now it's all over. I am officially Abigail Lombardi, the rightful owner and mistress of Damon and his entire estate. I have officially moved into my new home. I gazed out of the car window at the mansion that now belongs to me. My heart pounds in my chest, knowing that soon I will have to face him. I didn't want to step out of the car, but as I thought about the future I had planned, I gathered the courage to do so. I am Mrs. Lombardi now. "Madam, welcome," the woman who has been waiting outside the car for over half an hour greets me. I answered her with a slight nod. "What's your name?" I also inquired with curiosity. "Eliza," she responded, somewhat anxiously. "Alright, Mrs. Eliza, there's no need to be so formal with me, let alone bow," I said with a faint grin. Her respectful treatment is enough for me. Although she didn't return the smile, I could sense the calmness my words brought her. One might assume I'm a cunning, selfish, and ambitious individual who seeks control, but that's not the case. I am a kind-hearted young woman, even though the latter fact remains unchanged. I did marry my husband out of convenience. "I'll show you to Mr. Lombardi's room," she offered, gesturing for me to follow. “Mrs. Marilyn is expecting you. Your belongings are there as well, so you can change out of that gown.” My heart raced upon hearing that my mother-in-law was waiting for me. It would be the first time I would engage in a conversation with her as her daughter-in-law, because during the wedding, she simply embraced me and left. I followed her carefully, clutching my dress and marveling at the grandeur of this mansion. It boasts at least three stories, with the exterior facade resembling a masterpiece of architectural design. I can only imagine what lies within. I'll explore it at the earliest opportunity. Following behind Mrs. Eliza, I am awestruck by the beauty, elegance, and sophistication of the mansion's interior. Upon exiting the lift, we arrive at the top floor. Strolling through the grand corridor, we finally reached a massive oak door in a rich mahogany hue. Eliza opens it, ushering me into the room. Peering from the doorway, I saw my mother-in-law rising with a smile, and I attempted to reciprocate, but it came off more as a nervous grimace. Then my eyes moved to the body lying on the bed. Damon Lombardi lies peacefully on the bed, connected to the machines that are keeping him alive. As I passed by, I couldn't help but notice his striking features. His skin, though slightly pale, still holds a delicate beauty. His face, though hardened, showcases a square jaw, thick eyebrows, long eyelashes, and full lips. It's a shame that such a handsome man is trapped in this lifeless state. I can tell he must have been a tall man, probably close to six feet tall. His jet-black hair contrasts against his pale complexion, giving him an ethereal aura. But in reality, his skin carries a hint of a tan. "He's quite the looker, isn't he?" my mother-in-law asked, gently taking my hands. "If you had known him before the accident, I'm certain you would have fallen in love with him." I shook my head, disagreeing, because I already had someone I loved. "Perhaps..." I nervously replied. Will I have to sleep here? I had hoped for a room of my own. It's just... it's... "I understand," she interrupted my string of thoughts, her voice calm and understanding. "I know what you're thinking right now. But you must sleep beside your husband, talk to him, so he knows you. When the day comes when he wakes up, you won't be a stranger to him." I can see hope in her eyes, longing for a miracle. But deep down, I know it's an impossible dream. The doctors have made it clear that Damon would never wake up. They're only here because his mother refuses to let go. "I'll talk to him every night," I assured her, a genuine smile forming on my lips. She smiled with satisfaction upon hearing my answer. What else can I say? I'm not heartless. “Welcome to your new home, Abigail. Eliza will be your nanny, ready to fulfill your every request. Don't hesitate to reach out to me if you need anything or want to visit. From now on, you are like a daughter to me.” "Thank you so much, Mrs. Lombardi." "Call me Mom, or feel free to call me Marilyn when you feel comfortable." She kissed both my cheeks affectionately. "I'll let you rest now." She embraced me lovingly, as if she truly cared for me. “Thank you for agreeing to marry my son.” With that, she exited the room, leaving me alone. If only she knew my true intentions, I doubt she would embrace me so warmly again. I turned my gaze towards the man lying there, lost in deep slumber. I released the breath I had been holding and approached cautiously, my nerves on edge and my heart pounding. His breathing was steady, yet his face appeared hardened, as if harboring anger. "Hello, Damon. I'm Abigail, your wife," I said softly as I removed my wedding dress. “Your grandmother chose me for this role, and I accepted for one reason alone. Having your last name is my ticket to a better life. I don't love you, nor do I desire to, so it will be easier when you're gone. I don't think you're foolish. I'm well aware of the rumors surrounding you. I just hope you won't despise me for it.” My heart skipped a beat, my soul felt as if it were leaving my body, and fear engulfed me. Two dark orbs locked onto mine. A gaze so intense, cold, and lifeless. My legs grew weak, sweat trickled down my forehead, and just as I was about to utter a word, he shut his eyes once more, leaving me frozen in place. With trembling hands, I hastily slipped back into my dress and rushed out of the room, desperately searching for Mrs. Eliza to inform her that her master had awakened. I didn't sprint too far before I came across her in the hallway. "He's opened his eyes!" I exclaimed, my voice filled with urgency. "He's opened his eyes!" I said this in a state of panic, my words pouring out in a frantic and nervous manner. If he woke up from his coma and heard me, it could spell trouble for me. "He usually does that," she said, a smile forming on her face as she observed my confused expression. “It's just a reflex of the eyelid muscles, not a sign of consciousness. Let's return to the room. I'll help you with changing that dress.” I remained silent and allowed her to lead me. I know what I saw, and the look Damon gave me was not that of an unconscious person. Filled with anxiety, I let Mrs. Eliza guided me back to the room. I permitted her to remove my dress and replace it with a delicate silk robe. She took off my tiara, earrings, and even untied my bun to comb my hair. I left her presence, my mind consumed with confusion and fear, rendering me unable to move a muscle. I could only gaze at the man who now shared my bed. In my thoughts, I replayed the moment over and over again, knowing deep down that his eyes weren't empty. However, I can't reveal my true intentions to the woman behind me, because it would jeopardize everything. "You'll soon grow accustomed to this, just like the rest of us," she assured me with a warm smile, urging me to rest. Before leaving the room, she informed me that she would come fetch me for breakfast. Resigned, I made my way to my side of the bed, my heart pounding in my chest, and cautiously lied down on the edge, keeping a distance of almost two meters between me and Damon. "I'm sorry," I whispered softly. I covered myself completely and prepared to go to sleep, my heart still racing.