Alessia
Even after his father’s death, Antonio hasn’t slowed down. It’s as if his grief alone is fueling him, driving him to work around the clock, chasing down leads, and trying to piece together who was behind his father’s murder. I doubt he’s even slept. Val’s office has become his war room. The relentless search for answers consuming him.
The problem is, I think he’s looking in all the wrong places. I want to tell him as much, but this house has eyes and ears everywhere—and I don’t know who I can trust.
“This is for Antonio,” I say, holding up a plate to the guard stationed outside the closed office door. “Can I bring it to him?”
“He asked not to be disturbed,” the guard responds curtly.
“The man has to eat,” I fire back.
He narrows his eyes at me, clearly displeased at my insistence, but I don’t back down. Finally, he knocks on the door.
“What is it?” Antonio calls from inside.
“Mrs. Comiso would like to speak with you,” the guard announces flatly, as he opens the door.
“Let her in,” Antonio replies.
“Thank you,” I say, flashing a sweet, yet fake smile at the guard. He doesn’t react, simply closing the door behind me.
“I made you some lunch,” I say, placing the pasta on the desk next to him.
“Thanks,” he mutters, barely glancing at the food.
“Have you made any progress?”
He leans back in Val’s leather chair, letting out a deep sign. “Not really.”
“Where’s Valentino?” I ask curious why he’s not helping.
“Meeting with his new associates.”
“I thought his top priority was finding out who was behind this attack?” I ask, gauging his reaction.
Antonio stiffens slightly, then shrugs it off. "Was there something you needed?" he asks, changing the subject.
I hesitate, choosing my words carefully. “It’s strange, isn’t it? Valentino didn’t come right home the night it happened and now he’s barely involved in the investigation.”
For a fraction of a second, Antonio’s eyes narrow before he forces a smile. “Valentino has his methods.”
Before I can push further, Val strides into the room, eyeing me suspiciously. “What are you doing in my office, ?”
I stand up straight, keeping my expression neutral. “I brought Antonio some lunch. Have you eaten? I can make you a plate, too.”
Antonio stands and steps between us. “ was being the perfect hostess,” he says. “You’ve done well with her lessons.”
The Antonio I once knew would never have complimented Valentino, let alone admired his cruelty. His words make me uneasy, but I maintain my composure.
Valentino’s gaze drifts to the plate of food before returning to me. “And discussing business, it seems.”
“ was expressing her concern about your safety given everything that happened,” he says, his smile never wavering. “She only wanted to know if I’ve made any progress. There’s been no harm done.”
Valentino studies me for a moment longer before turning his attention back to Antonio. “Make sure you’re focusing on the task at hand, cousin. We need results.”
“Of course,” Antonio replies smoothly. “I’m on it.”
“And you,” Valentino says, turning his cold gaze back to me. “Need to stay out of our business. Do you understand?”
“I do,” I reply, lowering my eyes. “I’m sorry for overstepping.”
Valentino nods, his tone dismissive. “Go find something to do.”
“Do I have your permission to go for a walk?”
Valentino sighs dramatically as he walks to the door. “Dante,” he calls.
“Yes?” Dante appears almost immediately.
“ wants to go for a walk. Escort her,” Valentino orders.
“Not a problem, boss.”
“Thank you,” I say sweetly, stepping up on my tiptoes to kiss Valentino’s cheek. The gesture makes my stomach churn.
Valentino turns to Antonio. “And you doubted my methods,” he says as I walk out of the office. “You could learn a thing or two from me,” he adds as he closes the door.
“Are we walking in the park, Mrs. Comiso?”
"That would be nice," I reply, keeping my tone light. "Mind if I get my camera first?"
"Whatever you'd like," he answers.
I hurry upstairs to get my camera. It’s a beautiful day for photos, but I have something more important in mind—I need to stop by the gallery.
When I return, Dante holds the door open for me. “Ready?” he asks.
“Yes, thank you,” I say as I step outside. “Do you have a preference for which way we go?”
"Not at all. Lead the way." He gestures for me to go ahead.
We walk toward the park, the warmth of the sun on my skin a brief comfort. I snap a few pictures of the flowers, the kids playing nearby, but my mind is on the gallery. After a while, I clear my throat and turn to Dante.
“Actually, Dante, would you mind if we made a quick stop? There’s a gallery nearby. I’d like to drop off some photos to be developed.”
Dante hesitates, glancing around. “A gallery? Valentino only said the park.”
“I know. But it won’t take long. I really need to get these photos developed. It’s important,” I plead.
He shifts on his feet looking torn. “I don’t want to upset Val. I know how he gets.”
I place a hand on his arm, meeting his gaze. “Please, Dante. It won’t take long.”
He sighs, still unsure. “Alright, Mrs. Comiso. But we need to be quick.”
“Thank you,” I say, relief flooding me. “And please, call me .”
Dante shakes his head, a faint smile on his lips. “It’s easier if I stick with Mrs. Comiso. Less chance of slipping up when we get home.”
“I understand,” I say with a slight nod.
He pulls out his cell, powering it off. “Do you have your phone with you?”
“I left it at home. I know Valentino tracks it.”
Dante slides his phone into his pocket, glancing around nervously. “Let’s hope he doesn’t check mine.”
“I’m sure he’s distracted with Antonio,” I say, trying to reassure him.
We continue walking, though Dante seems more on edge now, glancing over his shoulder more frequently. The streets are bustling with life, and I capture moments of everyday beauty—a street vendor selling flowers, a couple sharing an ice cream cone, a child chasing a butterfly. Each click of the shutter helps calm my nerves.
As we approach Starlight Studios, anticipation settles in. Dante holds the door for me, and I step inside.
“Allie, it’s good to see you,” Ophelia says with a warm smile.
“I have some new photos to drop off,” I say, handing over the memory card.
“I can’t wait to see them,” she says, her eyes bright. “You always bring such unique perspectives.”
I smile, trying to keep my nerves in check. “Thank you.”
“Your last set sold out,” she continues, her voice full of admiration. “I have your payment.”
I press a finger to my lips, signaling her to keep her voice down. Ophelia slips an envelope into my hand, and I quickly glance over my shoulder to ensure Dante isn’t watching, before tucking it into my pocket.
“Thank you,” I whisper.
“Are there any you want prints of?” she asks.
“Not today,” I reply. “I hope to have some more for you soon.”
“I’ll be looking forward to them.”
After gathering my things, Dante leads me back outside. “Shall we head back to the park?” he asks.
"Yes," I reply, a hint of relief in my tone.
Valentino can’t ever find out about the gallery. The money. This isn’t only about doing something I love—it’s my lifeline, my eventual way out. I can’t endure the abuse or being raped much longer.
One wrong move, one slip up, and everything falls apart. What would Val do if he found out? I can’t bear to think about the consequences.
No. I have to stay focused on the only thing that matters—my freedom.