A BILLIONAIRE’S NIGHTMARE

The skyline of Rome stretched out beneath the floor-to-ceiling windows of Alessandro Giovanni's penthouse office. The city, a living, breathing entity of lights and dreams, carried on its endless rhythm. But within the walls of this sanctuary, amidst the opulence of sleek, modern furnishings and tasteful decadence, the world stood still. It was a world veiled in shadows, concealed from the bustling metropolis below, a world known only to a select few. Alessandro Giovanni was a man of immense wealth, an enigmatic figure whose name was whispered in reverence in boardrooms and feared in courtrooms. His financial prowess was the stuff of legends and the empire he had built spanned continents. Yet, there was a battle raging within him, a battle that no one could see. Some people said he was the replica of the devil or he controlled hell himself. His facial and bodily features made most Romans agree with the saying that the devil is attractive. He wasn't just any kind of wealthy, he had wealth that could last 10 generations and counting. Alessandro Giovanni was a dream come true for any Romana. From behind his imposing desk, Alexander gazed out at the cityscape. His sharp, steel-blue eyes were fixed on the horizon. He was a man trapped within the prison of his thoughts. Gazing outside, he thought of buying an old hotel in Aventine, just beside a vineyard that he acquired a few days back. It would be profitable since a festival was to be held there in a few months. The office was a testament to his success. Polished mahogany and plush leather adorned the room. Crystal chandeliers cast a warm glow, and the walls were adorned with artwork of historical significance. It was a place of power and influence, but it was also a stark contrast to the turmoil within. Alessandro was a man who had achieved the pinnacle of success, but his inner struggles were known to only a few trusted confidants. He grappled with depression and anxiety, a battle that left him feeling isolated even amid a bustling city. The phone on his desk buzzed, interrupting his thoughts. He sighed, a heavy, weary exhale, and picked up the receiver. "Yes?" he answered, his voice curt and efficient. "Giovanni sir came the voice on the other end, deferential and respectful. It was his assistant, Sarah Roberto. "Sir, the Home Care Company called saying they've assigned a new maid for the Giovanni Mansion. You need to sign her papers so she can get in. The Limousine is waiting". Alessandro nodded, even though she couldn't see it. "Ok, Sarah. I'll be there shortly." Maids who have worked in the Giovanni Mansion never worked for more than a month. They were either relieved of their jobs or resigned by themselves. Alessandro never let anyone make a mistake even if it was forgetting to change his bed sheets daily or serving him lukewarm tea. He was just too much of a perfectionist. Many Care companies never wanted him as their customer as he could sue them at anything time. And nobody wanted to mess with the Almighty Alessandro Giovanni. He wasn't even a mafia but many mafias feared his name and avoided him like a plague. The call ended, and Alessandro pushed himself away from the desk. He adjusted the mask that concealed his turmoil, ready to face the world once more. The world where he was truly feared. He liked it…… a little though. In the world beyond, people saw Mr Giovanni as a man of indomitable strength, an unyielding force of nature. He was admired for his brilliance and feared for his ruthlessness. Yet, it was this very persona that he had crafted, a persona that concealed the depths of his struggle. He takes his files and heads towards the elevator breathing lightly. He makes a mental note to get his pills from his private Doctor, Dr Marco. His nightmares were not reducing and it triggered his anxiety. Beneath the mask of the billionaire lay a pain that he could not share, a battle that he fought alone. The shadows of his mind were his constant companions, and in the world he had built, there was no room for weakness. "Sir Giovanni, we're home" His driver called out to him. He gets out while the driver packs up his files. The Giovanni mansion can not be compared to a palace. It was more than that. With only ten rooms, three large balconies, a kitchen larger than a banquet hall, two tennis courts, a private gym, three large infinity pools, and a cellar that is wider than anything, the Giovanni mansion gave a classy but modern vibe. "Sir, your phone" "Who?" "It's Unknown, Sir" He nods as his driver passes the phone. "Giovanni Alessandro speaking" "Still having those nightmares, Al?" This voice brings terror to the eyes of Alessandro but he hid it to avoid unnecessary concern from his bodyguard and driver. "Do I have any business with you?" Alessandro asks hiding his fear with fury. "You will, soon enough Al" the masculine voice resonates through the phone. With that, the caller ends it. Alessandro knew who it was, the voice was familiar. Alessandro felt his hands trembling and quickly dismissed his bodyguard and driver. He didn't trust them enough to show them what he was going through. His whole body starts shaking and he starts getting those terrible migraines. He opens the door and collapses on someone. The person seemed too weak to hold him up. Wait...... It was a girl. Worry flashed through her green eyes making them greener. "She's beautiful, really beautiful,” Alessandro said in his head. She tried to pull away from him to get help but he held her hand and whispered, " Do not call for help or I'll kill you". He fainted.