The Slave of Pleasure
Chapter 10

Rachel

I arrived at the Moretti Mansion with a mixture of nervousness and curiosity. The sprawling estate, surrounded by high walls and lush gardens, exuded an opulence that I could barely process. As I walked through the wrought-iron gate, I was greeted by a dapper butler in an impeccable dark suit and a courteous smile. He nodded to me and led me through the mansion's majestic hallways, whose walls were adorned with luxurious artwork and tapestries. "Welcome to the Moretti Mansion, miss," he said, his tone formal but not without warmth. "I am Mr. Douglas, the house butler. I would like to introduce you to your new residence."

As we made our way through the hallways, I noticed the refined décor and the air of sophistication that permeated each room. Mr. Douglas stopped before an elegant, dark wooden door. He gestured me elegantly inside. "This will be your suite during your stay with us," he informed me. "One of the housekeepers, Mrs. Elena, will be at your disposal for any need." The door opened to reveal a room that looked like something out of a fairy tale. The room was spacious and airy, with large windows that let in the soft afternoon light. The polished wooden floors gleamed under the soft lighting of the crystal chandeliers that hung from the high ceiling. The walls were a neutral tone, with gold accents that added a touch of elegance. The room was divided into distinct areas, each more impressive than the last. There was a large walk-in closet with meticulously organized shelves and hangers, and an incredibly soft bed with a white silk canopy and colorful pillows that looked inviting and comfortable. Beside the bed was a small reading table with a brass lamp, and an elegant armchair was positioned near the window, offering a stunning view of the garden. The bathroom was a true retreat, with gleaming white marble and a deep soaking tub with gold accents. A double vanity with large mirrors and a separate shower completed the space, making it a place where I could relax and pamper myself. The private balcony was furnished with comfortable outdoor furniture and offered a panoramic view of the vast garden. I could imagine spending hours there, just relaxing and enjoying the beauty around me.

Miss Elena, a woman of average height with brown hair tied back in an elegant bun, entered the room. She wore a modest but well-fitting maid's uniform that exuded an aura of efficiency and professionalism. "Hello, Miss Rachel," she said with a warm smile. "I'm Elena, and I'll be here to help with anything you need. I'll make sure everything is in order for you."

"Thank you, Elena," I replied, trying to hide how overwhelmed I was. "I'm a little nervous, but it's nice to know I'll have someone to help me."

Elena began to pack my things, while I watched her with a mixture of gratitude and discomfort. She was incredibly kind and attentive, organizing my clothes in the closet with a precision I could never have achieved. We chatted for a while as we worked, and her presence was comforting.

"If you need anything, please don't hesitate to call me," Elena said when she finished packing. "I'm here to make sure you feel comfortable and welcome."

"I really appreciate it, Elena," I replied. "In fact, if I have any questions or need anything, I'll be sure to ask you."

After Elena finished her work, she left me alone to get settled. Sitting on the soft bed, I tried to process everything that was happening. The luxury of the mansion and Elena's kindness were a stark contrast to the reason I was here. The need to be here, to accept this situation in order to save my mother, felt like a huge weight on my shoulders.

I grabbed my laptop and sent an email to my friend Melissa to let her know that I had arrived at the Moretti mansion and to ask her to take care of my mother while I was away. I wrote it carefully, thanking her for her help and updating her on my situation.

After sending the email, I decided to get ready for dinner. The thought of getting ready and trying to look at least a little normal, despite the absurd situation I found myself in, seemed like a way to gain some control over the chaos. I chose a simple, elegant dress that I had brought, something that made me feel a little more like myself.

While I was getting ready, Elena came in again to offer to help me with whatever I needed. Her calm presence and the luxurious surroundings helped me replace some peace, even if temporary. I knew that despite all the comfort around me, the real battle was yet to come.

The butler appeared again and told me the time for dinner. I was a little nervous, it would be the first time that I would be going to dinner with Vincenzo, although I was a little scared and apprehensive, I can't deny that he is quite attractive to

me.

I talked a lot with Elena, although her English is not the best, and my Italian is average, we managed to understand each other well.

She doesn't know what I came here to do, no one does, only Vincenzo and I know how absurd this situation really is. For everyone I am a friend, a guest, and perhaps the boss's girlfriend.

I went down to dinner expecting to replace Vincenzo at the table, but, to my surprise, the dining room was empty. The long dark wooden table, covered with an elegant set of plates and cutlery, seemed even more imposing with no one around. The silence was almost palpable, broken only by the light sound of my footsteps on the marble floor.

The butler, Mr. Douglas, appeared discreetly at my side. "Miss Rachel, dinner will be served now. Mr. Moretti apologized, but he will not be able to accompany you tonight." I tried to hide the relief I felt at hearing this. The idea of facing Vincenzo at that moment made me nervous. I preferred solitude, at least for now. Dinner was served by a team of servants who moved almost invisibly, bringing exquisite dishes that I could barely taste. The food, as delicious as it was, seemed to lose its flavor in the surreal situation I found myself in. When I finished, Mr. Douglas approached me again. "Mr. Moretti would like to see you in his office as soon as you are ready," he said with a polite bow. My heart raced. I knew the real challenge was about to begin.