Alessia’s Pov
The bar was crowded, filled with smoke and the loud hum of conversation and laughter over drinks. I was on my countless wipes at the counter that evening, trying to keep a low profile as sleazy remarks and whistles came my way.
“Why don’t you smile a little, bella? Brighten up the place!” one guy drunkenly suggested, leaning in with a grin that made my stomach churn.
I chose to ignore him, maintaining a steady hand as I continued cleaning. Just a few days earlier, I would’ve fired back with a witty retort. But now? I didn’t want to stir up any more trouble, especially with my mom's hospital expenses hanging over me like a dark cloud.
I had been keeping a low profile, merely focusing on my job and steering clear of any drama. The constant flow of degrading rema
