Alessia Mancini
The formality of his words contrasted sharply with the heat in his tone, sending a shiver down my spine. I fought to keep my composure, acutely aware of our surroundings. The casino's opulent decor suddenly felt oppressive, the glittering chandeliers casting shadows that seemed to hide a multitude of secrets.
"Well," I breathed, "when you ask so politely, how could I refuse?"
As the words left my lips, I wondered if I was playing with fire. Giovanni's world was treacherous, and I was walking a razor's edge between survival and something far more perilous. Yet the thrill of our exchange, the heady rush of power in this small victory, was intoxicating.
Giovanni's hand slid to the small of my back, guiding me away from the bustling casino floor. "Shall we seal our new agre
