"What's all this? Secret files... badges? Who are you really?
I put my phone down see this baby
steps closer, examining the secret chamber Is this some kind of joke? You expect me to believe any of this?
narrows her eyes How do I know you're not just making this up to impress me or distract me from something?
grabs Startella's arm Prove it. Show me proof that any of this is real.
examines the badges closely This... this can't be fake. But why did you hide this from me? How long has this been going on?
takes a deep breath I need time to process all of this. Can you at least explain why you felt the need to deceive me?
because I’m wanted by the police for being a mafia boss
pauses, her eyes widening in fear Mafia boss? Are you serious? How could you keep something like that from me?
because I was worried you’d get scared and leave me
falls silent, processing the information I can't say I'm not scared... but I can't imagine walking away from you either. We've been through so much together.
tears well up in her eyes I just want to understand. Why didn't you trust me enough to tell me the truth?
because I thought you’d be angry and I don’t want you to leave me
takes a step back, hurt evident on her face You should have trusted me, Startella. We're supposed to be partners, to share everything with each other.
I hugged you I’m sorry I’ll tell you everything
Startella apologizes and promises to be transparent with Victoria from now on, working to rebuild their trust
so do you still want to be with me?
takes a deep breath Yes, I do. Despite everything, I love you, Startella. But we need to work through this together. Trust is crucial in our relationship.
I promise I will tell you everything
firmly I'm giving you one chance to prove yourself, Startella. If you deceive me again, I walk away. Do you understand?
nods Alright, let's start fresh. Tell me everything about your past as a mafia boss. I want to know everything, no secrets.
takes notes and asks questions, thoroughly vetting Startella I need to understand the extent of your involvement in the mafia.
pauses, contemplating Startella's revelations Mob boss... It's hard to comprehend, but I suppose I have a choice to make.
what are you thinking about?
paces back and forth I need time to process all of this. Being a mob boss is dangerous and illegal. Can I really handle this kind of lifestyle?
stops pacing and faces Startella I have to decide if I can support you in this dangerous path or if we need to make changes.
sits down, takes Startella's hand I mean, can we find a way to live dual lives? As a couple and as a mob boss and wife? Or do I need to find a new life entirely?
smiles softly I wouldn't dream of leaving you, Startella. I love you too much for that. But we need to figure out a way to make this work.
returns the hug, determined Okay, Startella. We'll make this work. But we need to be careful and vigilant. No more secrets.
smiles and deepens the kiss Starting today, we'll create a safe haven where our love can thrive amidst the chaos. No more secrets, no more lies.
I promise you can trust me
smiles and holds Startella's hands Thank you, Startella. Your honesty means the world to me. Let's work together to build a future where trust and love prevail.