Alessia Mancini
The sleek car glided through the winding coastal roads, each curve revealing a new vista of glittering sea and rugged cliffs. I kept my gaze fixed on the passing scenery, drinking in the beauty of Porto Cristallo at twilight, but my skin prickled with the weight of Giovanni's stare.
His presence filled the car, a palpable force of barely restrained power. I could smell his cologne, a heady mix of sandalwood and something darker, more primal. It made my pulse quicken, though I fought to keep my breathing steady.
"You're very quiet, Alessia," Giovanni's deep voice broke the silence, a hint of amusement colouring his words. "No more clever quips?"
I turned slightly, meeting his intense gaze for a brief moment before looking away. "I thought you preferred obedience to wit,
