CORA
Finally, we pulled up to the 'house' as Valerio called it, the driver switched the engine off and opened the driver car door, stepping out of it and walking around to my side.
He opened the door, giving me a nod as I stepped out, but as soon as I laid eyes on the building infront of me my breath hitched.
The estate was absolutely breathtaking. It was massive, with rolling hills that stretched out as far as the eye could see. The buildings themselves were stunning, with intricate architectural details that spoke of timeless beauty and prosperity.
As I stepped out of the car, my eyes were drawn to the main house in the center of the estate. It was enormous, with multiple floors and turrets that soared up into the air. The entire structure seemed to glitter in the sunshine, and I felt a sense of awe and wonder wash over me.
Valerio stepped out of the car behind me, and my heart skipped a beat as I turned to face him. He was tall and imposing, with a charisma and presence that was impossible to ignore. It was clear that he was the master of this place, and I felt a sense of unease as I realized that I was completely at his mercy.
"Rav, show her around." he said, gesturing to the sprawling grounds around us. "This is where you will be staying."
I nodded, resisting the urge to roll my eyes. It was clear from the way he was looking at me that he was sizing me up, assessing my potential as a wife. I knew that I needed to be cautious, to stay on my toes and be prepared for anything that he might throw at me.
He then walked into the building without a glance, forcing me to watch him stride inside the building.
"You must be Cora?" A man's voice snapped me from the daze I was in, I turned around to face him. "That's me, you?" I ask, wondering who he is. "I'm Ravos, call me Rav." He smiled, showing off his dimples as he extended a hand for me to shake.
I took his hand, returning the smile. "I'm Valerio's brother, he's a miserable f**k but you'll learn to deal with him." He muttered, chuckling.
"He seems..arrogant." I murmur, a scowl playing my lips.
"He just hate's people. Come on, I'll show you around." He say's, giving me a nod.
As we walked around the estate, Ravos pointed out the various landmarks and buildings, explaining their purpose and history. Despite the fact that I had never been there before, I found that he had an intimate knowledge of the estate and everything in it.
He pointed out the stables, the gardens, and the indoor pool, each one more extravagant than the last. The estate was a masterpiece of wealth and luxury, and I couldn't help but feel a twinge of envy at Valerio's ability to afford such grandiose living.
However, Ravos's attitude towards his brother did not go unnoticed by me. I could tell that he was not entirely happy with Valerio's actions, and that he disagreed with some of the things he did. It was a refreshing change to see that there was someone on the inside who was not completely devoted to Valerio and his whims.
As we walked around the estate, Ravos pointed out the various landmarks and buildings, explaining their purpose and history. Despite the fact that I had never been there before, I found that he had an intimate knowledge of the estate and everything in it.
He pointed out the stables, the gardens, and the indoor pool, each one more extravagant than the last. The estate was a masterpiece of wealth and luxury, and I couldn't help but feel a twinge of envy at Valerio's ability to afford such grandiose living.
However, Ravos's attitude towards his brother did not go unnoticed by me. I could tell that he was not entirely happy with Valerio's actions, and that he disagreed with some of the things he did. It was a refreshing change to see that there was someone on the inside who was not completely devoted to Valerio and his whims.
As we made our way back towards the main house, I couldn't help but wonder what kind of relationship Ravos and Valerio had. Were they close? Did they get along, despite their differences? Or was there some underlying tension between them, just waiting to explode into a full-blown argument?
In any case, it was clear that Ravos would be a valuable ally to have on my side. I made a mental note to stay on his good side and to try and build a relationship with him, even if it was at the expense of Valerio's favor.
As we entered the main house, Ravos led me upstairs to a guest room, which was spacious and comfortable. The bed was large and inviting, and I could tell that this was where I would be spending most of my nights.
"Make yourself at home," Ravos said, giving me a wink. "If you need anything, just let me know."
I smiled, grateful for his help. "Thank you, Ravos. I appreciate it."
"No problem, Cora." He nodded, his smile charming. "We have to stick together, especially when it comes to dealing with Valerio." He muttered, shaking his head.
With that, he left the room, leaving me alone to settle in. As I gazed around the guest room, I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease growing inside me. I knew that I was entering into a world of wealth and luxury, but I also knew that it came at a price. And I was about to find out just how high that price would really be.