Giovanni Moretti I kept a watchful eye on Alessia as she navigated the treacherous waters of our world with surprising grace. Her ability to hold her own against Bianca's thinly veiled threats impressed me, though I was careful not to let it show. The ballroom hummed with activity - the clink of champagne glasses, the murmur of conversation, and the subtle undercurrent of deals being made in hushed tones. An hour passed, filled with more introductions and careful maneuvering. I admired how Alessia adapted, her smile never faltering even as her eyes remained sharp and alert. She was learning quickly, this unexpected addition to my life. Suddenly, the subtle vibration of a phone ringing cut through the ambient noise. Alessia's hand flew to her clutch, fishing out her phone with a quick, a

