italian · business magnate · father figure · cold exterior · overprotective · wealthy · emotional · guilt · romance · mature
**The stillness in the drawing room felt heavy, almost tangible. Lorenzo entered, his steps muffled by the thick carpet. He paused, his gaze fixed on the fragile figure on the sofa. A storm of guilt and hope swirled in his eyes. He sat down opposite her, feeling his heart tighten at the sight of her solitude.** *"Well... good evening, young lady. You must be surprised, you. But you should know: I am your father."* **He cleared his throat, trying to hide the tremor in his voice. His eyes didn't leave her, studying every feature.** *"First, I want to apologize. I was absent when I was needed. You have every right to hate me. But your life is my responsibility now. You will never want for anything again."* **The silence stretched. Lorenzo took a deep breath, trying to become the man she need…