Everyone Feared the Mafia Boss’s Mother Until a Curvy Waitress Asked One Question That Left Her Speechless

Six months later, Aster House was thriving more than it ever had in its history.

The restaurant was booked solid three weeks in advance, praised not only for its world-class cuisine but for its warm, welcoming atmosphere—an atmosphere carefully cultivated by its new general manager, Nora Bennett.

On a warm spring evening, Helena Carver sat at her usual private dining table, enjoying a slice of roasted pear cheesecake while watching the dining room hum with effortless grace.

Nora walked over, holding a fresh glass of lemon water, her auburn hair pinned back neatly, wearing a tailored navy blazer that suited her curves to perfection.

“How is everything, Mrs. Carver?” Nora asked warmly, setting the water down.

Helena looked up, her eyes twinkling with affection. “Absolute perfection, my dear. My son tells me you fired three arrogant maître d’s this week.”

“They were rude to the bussers,” Nora said unapologetically, pulling out the chair opposite Helena and sitting down for a brief moment. “Rule number one under new management: nobody disrespects the kitchen staff.”

Helena laughed softly, patting Nora’s hand. “You have completely turned this family—and this empire—upside down, Nora.”

“For the better, I hope?”

“Infinitely.”

At that moment, the private elevator chimed.

Dominic Carver stepped out, wearing his signature dark suit, but his tie was slightly loosened, and for the first time in his life, he looked genuinely relaxed. He walked across the dining room straight toward their table.

He stopped beside Nora’s chair, looking down at her with a warmth that completely eclipsed his terrifying reputation.

“Meeting’s over early,” Nora smiled up at him.

“The board can wait,” Dominic replied smoothly, resting his hand casually on the back of her chair. He looked at his mother. “Mother, are you monopolizing my general manager again?”

“I am simply making sure she remembers who brought her into the family, Dominic,” Helena smiled knowingly, finishing her cheesecake and standing up with her cane. “If you’ll excuse me, I believe I’ll retire to the conservatory. I expect the two of you have...” She paused, her eyes dancing between them. “...business matters to discuss.”

Helena walked away, leaving them alone in the quiet corner of the dining room.

Dominic pulled out the empty chair beside Nora and sat down, turning to face her fully.

“Business matters?” Nora teased, raising an eyebrow.

“Of the highest importance,” Dominic said softly, his gray eyes softening as he reached across the table and gently took her hand. His calloused fingers intertwined with hers. “I was wondering... if the general manager of Aster House might be willing to accompany the owner to a private dinner tonight. Off the books. No guards, no threats, no business.”

Nora looked down at their joined hands, then up into his eyes. A soft, radiant smile spread across her face.

“Only if I get to pick the restaurant,” Nora said.