Alessia Mancini
As I looked into his eyes, I saw the unwavering belief he had in me. It was intoxicating and terrifying in equal measure. Part of me wanted to lose myself in that conviction, to become the woman he saw when he looked at me. But another part – a part that was becoming quieter with each passing day – whispered that I was losing myself in the process.
I swallowed hard, pushing down the conflicting emotions. "Alright," I said, forcing a smile. "Show me the rest of your world, then."
Giovanni's eyes glinted with approval as he guided me through the casino. The air was thick with cigar smoke and the cloying scent of expensive perfumes. Every few steps, we'd pause as Giovanni introduced me to yet another "associate" – each one more intimidating than the last.
As we moved on, I
