the mafia boss’s starving mother threw every plate away—until the curvy cook defied him, uncovered the betrayal in his own house, and he claimed her as the woman no one would ever humiliate again

Three days later.

The winter storm had finally passed, leaving the Savelli estate bathed in a bright, dazzling sea of sunlight.

For the first time in four months, the grand dining room was fully lit. The dark mahogany table was set not with sterile plastic trays or chemical test kits, but with fine white linen, silver cutlery, and fresh crystal vases filled with red roses.

At the head of the table sat Odette Savelli.

She was wearing a beautiful plum-colored silk dress. Though still thin, the hollow, terrified look in her eyes was entirely gone, replaced by a soft, glowing peace.

Sitting beside her was Matthias, wearing a sharp black suit, his slate-grey eyes constantly shifting toward the double doors of the kitchen.

The doors opened.

Clara walked into the dining room carrying a massive, steaming silver platter.

She wore a simple, beautifully tailored dark blue dress that hugged her gorgeous curves, her dark hair swept up in an elegant bun. She looked radiant, strong, and completely at home.

She placed the platter in the center of the table and uncovered it.

Inside was a rich, fragrant roast chicken surrounded by golden roasted potatoes, sweet carrots, and fresh herbs—a warm, simple home-cooked meal made with love and complete safety.

Odette looked up at Clara, tears of profound gratitude filling her hazel eyes.

"Clara, my dear," Odette said, her voice strong and clear. "Sit down with us."

Clara hesitated, smiling softly. "My lady, I am still the chef. I should clear the prep station—"

"You are not the chef anymore, Clara," Matthias’s deep voice resonated through the room.

He stood up, walked around the long table, and took Clara by the hand. He pulled out the plush leather armchair directly to his right—the seat reserved exclusively for the most honored member of the family.

"Sit, Clara," Matthias murmured softly, his hand lingering against the small of her back as she sat down.

Odette reached across the table, taking a large, crisp piece of roasted potato, putting it in her mouth, and chewing with genuine, blissful delight.

"It is magnificent," Odette smiled, taking another bite without a single second of hesitation.

Matthias looked at his mother eating happily, then turned his gaze down to Clara.

His hand slid down beneath the tablecloth, his long, warm fingers closing around Clara’s soft, plush thigh, giving it a firm, possessive, and intensely loving squeeze.

Clara looked into his grey eyes, feeling a wave of intense heat rush straight through her blood.

"Thank you, Clara," Matthias whispered beneath the quiet sounds of his mother’s meal. "For giving me my family back."