Chapters two: The interview
703 Words
Alessia sat in the waiting area outside Massimo De Luca’s office, her fingers gripping the strap of her purse as she took slow, deep breaths. This was it. The moment she had been preparing for. She had spent months building this identity—Alessia Romano, a competent and experienced secretary with a flawless resume. A woman who had no ties to the past, no tragic history, no vendetta against the man she was about to serve. The doors to his office were massive, dark wood with gold handles, standing as an intimidating barrier between her and the infamous Mafia boss. She had read every file on him, watched countless security tapes, listened to informants whisper about his ruthlessness, but nothing had prepared her for meeting him in person. A man dressed in a tailored black suit stepped out and nodded at her. "You can go in now." Alessia wiped her palms on her skirt and stood, her heels clicking against the polished floor as she walked inside. The room was grand, with tall windows that overlooked the city, casting a golden glow over the space. The walls were lined with bookshelves, filled with old books and artifacts. A large black desk sat in the center, and behind it was the man himself—Massimo De Luca. He was even more imposing up close. Dark eyes that held no warmth, sharp jawline, and an aura of complete control. He didn’t look up as she entered, flipping through a file on his desk instead. "Alessia Romano," he finally said, his deep voice sending a chill down her spine. "Have a seat." She sat in the chair across from him, keeping her expression neutral. He closed the file and leaned back, studying her. "Your resume is impressive. Fluent in multiple languages, experience working with high-profile businessmen. But tell me, why should I hire you?" Alessia had expected this. Like the previous question, she had rehearsed her answers, ensuring they were flawless. "Because I understand discretion, loyalty, and efficiency. I know how to handle difficult situations, and I don't let emotions interfere with my work." He arched a brow. "Is that so?" She nodded, meeting his gaze without faltering. "Yes. I am professional, reliable, and adaptable. I can anticipate your needs before you even voice them. I will be an asset, not a liability." A smirk tugged at the corner of his lips, but it didn’t reach his eyes. "You're very confident. But confidence isn't enough in my world. Trust is earned. How do I know you're not working for someone else?" Her heartbeat quickened. Did he suspect something already? She forced a calm smile. "You don’t. But I’m here, willing to prove myself. Give me a chance, and you'll see my loyalty firsthand." Massimo stared at her for a long moment before standing. He walked around the desk, stopping right behind her chair. She could feel the heat of his presence, the raw power radiating from him. "You know what happens to those who betray me, don’t you, Alessia?" Her throat went dry, but she nodded. "Yes, Mr. De Luca." "Good." He turned back to his desk, picking up a pen. "Your contract will be ready by tomorrow. Be here at eight sharp. Don’t be late." Alessia stood, keeping her expression composed. "Thank you. I won’t disappoint you." As she walked out of his office, she released the breath she had been holding. She had done it. She was in. But this was just the beginning. Now, she had to survive. And most importantly, she had to make sure Massimo De Luca never discovered the truth about who she really was. --- The moment she stepped outside, her phone buzzed in her pocket. She pulled it out and saw a message from her contact at the agency. Unknown Number: Are you in? She quickly typed a response. Alessia: Yes. It worked. A few seconds later, another message popped up. Unknown Number: Be careful. He’s not an easy man to fool. She knew that. But this was personal. She had no intention of failing. Alessia Romano was now the secretary of the most dangerous Mafia boss in Italy. And soon, she would bring him to his knees.
- Writer
