Alessia Mancini
I drifted in and out of consciousness, my mind hazy and unfocused. The silk sheets whispered against my skin as I shifted, trying to find a comfortable position. My body felt heavy, weighed down by an invisible force.
Fragments of memories flashed behind my closed eyelids - the cold warehouse, Bianchi's sneering face, the sharp pain of the needle. I shuddered, forcing my eyes open to banish the images.
Soft golden light filtered through gauzy curtains, bathing the opulent bedroom in a warm glow. For a moment, I thought I was still dreaming. But the dull ache in my muscles and the bitter taste in my mouth told me this was real.
"You're awake." Giovanni's deep voice came from nearby. I turned my head to see him sitting in a plush armchair by the bed, dark circles under hi
