Alessia Mancini
I took a deep breath, inhaling the heady mix of expensive perfume, cigar smoke, and anticipation that permeated the casino. The weight of Giovanni's gaze and Enzo's watchful eyes pressed against my skin like a physical touch. But I wouldn't let it rattle me. I couldn't.
As we descended to the main floor, the soft whisper of my red gown against the plush carpet mingled with the symphony of slot machines and excited chatter. My mind raced, strategizing. I needed to play this perfectly - not too obvious, but not too cautious either.
"Ready to lose your bet, mia leonessa?" Giovanni's low voice rumbled near my ear, sending an involuntary shiver down my spine.
I turned to face him, arching an eyebrow. "Confident, aren't we? You might want to save that swagger for after the
