15. Natalia
FIFTEEN
My eyes flew open, and I jerked upright, kicking the sheets off my legs in panic as the remnants of a vivid dream clung to the edges of my consciousness. For a fleeting moment, I was disoriented, the unfamiliar surroundings confusing me. But then, like a tidal wave crashing over me, the memories of yesterday came rushing back–the lavish dinner where I came face-to-face with the formidable Ricardo Reyes himself. And, of course, the late-night visit from Dante.
I recalled how Dante looked at me, his mouth on mine, his hands on my body, and then his lips trailed fire across my skin. His magnificent cock inside me.
Last night was anything but pretending. It was so real, so powerfully vivid, that I lost myself entirely in the experience.
But that’s all it was – a fantasy, a carefully constructed illusion.
I untangled myself from the sheets, bare feet hitting the carpet.
After a quick shower, I dressed in a simple sundress and sandals, determined to make the most of my time in the mansion. Every room, nook, and cranny was a potential goldmine of information.
As I wandered out to the hallway, voices drifted up from below. Curious, I followed the sound to a massive library where Sofia and her mom chatted animatedly. They smiled as I entered.
“Eva, you’re up!” Sofia jumped up to greet me. “We’re planning the day. Have you ever ridden horses?”
“Horseback riding?” I said, masking my surprise. Of all the ritzy activities I expected at the Reyes estate, saddling up hadn’t crossed my mind.
Sofia was excited. “Yes! It’s one of my favorite things to do here. The trails wind through gorgeous scenery. And the stables are divine – you’ll adore the horses!”
I forced a laugh, faking a self-deprecating smile. “Oh gosh, I don’t know about that,” I waved dismissively. “I’m no rider, really. More of a city girl.”
Not a total lie – Eva Morales belonged among Manhattan’s glitzy skyscrapers, not on a horse. But truthfully, I’d grown up riding, spending countless hours in the saddle on my dad’s Texas ranch.
From the moment I could walk, Daddy had me on a pony, teaching me the land’s ways and the value of hard work.
But that history had no place in Eva’s meticulous backstory, so I buried those memories and focused on maintaining my cover.
“Nonsense!” Sofia exclaimed, waving away my protests with a flick of her wrist. “It’ll be fun, I promise.”
“Well, I suppose I could give it a try,” I said, injecting just the right amount of nervousness into my tone. “But you’ll have to promise not to laugh at me when I inevitably end up in the dirt.”
Sofia clapped her hands together, her face alight with glee. “It’s settled then! We’ll have the stable hand prepare the horses after lunch.”
As we chatted and made plans, I glanced around the room, taking in every detail: the artwork adorning the walls, the gleaming marble floors, and the expensive furnishings.
As Sofia and her mother excused themselves to prepare for our outing, I wandered the mansion halls, my steps taking me deeper into the heart of the Reyes domain.
I paused outside a set of heavy doors. I’d learned last night that behind those doors was Ricardo Reyes’s study, the nerve center of his criminal empire. If there were any evidence to be found–any smoking gun–it would be in here.
With a furtive glance over my shoulder to ensure I was alone, I tried the handle. To my surprise, it turned easily in my hand, the door swinging open with a soft creak.
The study was decorated in masculine elegance, with rich leather chairs, floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, and a massive mahogany desk that dominated the center of the room. My gaze was drawn to the piles of papers and ledgers strewn across the desk, a veritable treasure trove of potential evidence.
Moving quickly but quietly, I crossed the room and began rifling through the documents: shipping manifests, financial records, and coded messages.
With trembling hands, I pulled out my phone and began snapping photos. Each click felt like a thunderclap in the stillness of the study, but I pressed on, driven by the knowledge that this could be the break we needed.
Suddenly, a noise from the hallway made me freeze. Footsteps, growing louder by the second. Someone was coming.
Panicked, I shoved the phone back into my dress and hastily rearranged the papers on the desk, trying to erase any evidence of my snooping. My heart was in my throat as the footsteps drew closer.
The door swung open, and there stood Dante, his brow furrowed in confusion as he saw me in his father’s study.
“Eva?” he said, his voice tinged with surprise. “What are you doing in here?”
I forced a smile, willing my racing heart to slow, to regain some semblance of composure. “Dante, I... I was looking for the restroom,” I lied, the words tumbling from my lips with practiced ease. “I must have taken a wrong turn.”
He regarded me momentarily, those piercing blue eyes seeming to bore into my very soul. For a heart-stopping instant, I thought he could see right through me and sense the deception beneath my carefully crafted facade.
But then, to my relief, his features softened, and he offered me a crooked smile.
“No worries, babe,” he said, crossing the room to take my hand. “Let me show you the way.”
As he led me from the study, I released a shaky breath, my heart still pounding from the near-miss. The thrill of uncovering potentially crucial evidence was intoxicating, but a growing sense of unease tempered it. Dante’s mere presence seemed to short-circuit my brain, leaving me fumbling and flustered, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that my growing attraction to him was a dangerous distraction.
The stables were a sight – a sprawling complex of whitewashed stalls and gleaming tack rooms, with the scent of hay and leather hanging thick in the air. I tried to fake an air of wide-eyed wonder as Sofia led me through the grand archway, but the truth was, I felt more at home here than in most places I had been in years.
“Isn’t it just beautiful?” Sofia breathed, her eyes shining with pride as she gestured to the immaculately groomed horses and the meticulous attention to detail. “These are some of the finest Arabian bloodlines in the country.”
I nodded, letting out a soft whistle of appreciation. “The horses are gorgeous,” I said, my gaze lingering on a magnificent chestnut stallion who tossed its head, nostrils flaring. “Truly stunning creatures.”
Sofia beamed at me, her enthusiasm infectious. “I knew you’d love it here,” she said, looping her arm through mine and leading me towards a tack room. “Now, let’s get you all set up with a horse, and we can hit the trails.”
As we selected our mounts and began the process of saddling up, I fought to keep my movements slow and uncertain, playing the role of the inexperienced city girl to perfection. Sofia, bless her heart, was a patient teacher, guiding me through each step with infinite kindness and good humor.
“Okay, Eva,” she said once our horses were ready. “Time for the real test – mounting up.”
I took a deep, steadying breath, steeling myself for the performance of a lifetime. With a theatrical wobble, I approached the mare Sofia had selected for me, eyeing the stirrup with trepidation.
“Just put your left foot in the stirrup like this,” Sofia demonstrated, her movements fluid and graceful. “Then grab the saddle horn and swing your right leg over.”
I nodded, biting my lip in concentration as I followed her instructions. But just as I was about to hoist myself into the saddle, I let out a yelp and stumbled, my foot slipping from the stirrup as I landed on the ground with a dull thud.
“Eva!” Sofia cried, her eyes wide with concern as she slid from her mount and rushed to my side. “Are you alright?”
I groaned, clutching my lower back as I fought back a grin. “I think so,” I managed, grimacing for added effect. “Just a little bruised pride, that’s all.”
Sofia shook her head, her brow furrowed with worry. “Maybe we should call this off,” she said, biting her lip. “I don’t want you to get hurt.”
“No, no,” I protested, waving her off as I staggered to my feet. “I’m fine, really. Just a little clumsy.”
Sofia didn’t look convinced, but I could see the disappointment flickering in her eyes at the thought of canceling our ride. With a surge of fake determination, I squared my shoulders and approached the mare again.
This time, I easily swung into the saddle, settling into the familiar leather with a contented sigh. Sofia’s eyes widened in surprise, and I offered her a sheepish grin.
“Beginner’s luck, I guess,” I said with a wink, relieved I managed to fool her so effortlessly.
As we set off down the winding trail, the world fell away, and for a few blissful hours, I lost myself in the simple joy of riding. The rhythmic sway of the horse’s gait, the gentle breeze carrying the scent of salt and sea grass, and the warm sun on my face were a slice of peace amid the chaos that had become my life.
Sofia was in her element, her face aglow with happiness as she led us through the lush landscapes of the estate. We talked and laughed, sharing stories and secrets like old friends, and for a moment, I could forget the lies that had brought me here.
As we crested a hill, the vast ocean expanse stretched before us, sparkling like a million diamonds in the afternoon light. Sofia reined in her horse, her eyes shining with wonder.
“Isn’t it breathtaking?” she said, her voice hushed with reverence.
I nodded, my gaze drinking in the beauty of the scene. “I can hardly believe it’s real,” I said, emotion choking my voice.
Sofia turned to me, her expression raw and unguarded. “Eva, can I confide in you about something?” Her voice was hushed, almost lost in the ocean breeze.
“Of course,” I said, my heart clenching at the vulnerability in her eyes.
“It’s Allen, my boyfriend. Dante’s forbidden me from seeing him. He’s convinced Allen’s tangled up in some mob bullshit. That’s why he’s not here this weekend.” She met my gaze head-on. “Sometimes, I feel like I’m suffocating. Like my family’s expectations are a goddamn straightjacket, and I’ll never break free.”
I reached out, my hand covering hers, offering solace through touch. “Sofia, you’re a force of nature. So much passion and fire burns inside you. Don’t let anyone kill that flame, you hear me?”
She smiled, unshed tears glittering in her eyes. “Thank you, Eva. I’m so glad you’re here.”
Guilt churned in my gut as we guided our horses back to the mansion, warring with the warmth of Sofia’s friendship. She had bared her soul to me and entrusted me with her deepest fears and insecurities, and I was betraying that trust with every breath, exploiting her for intel on her brother’s operation.
We returned to the stables, and I dismounted from the horse with a heavy heart.
“You alright?” Sofia asked, her eyes concerned as she handed over the reins to a groom.
“Y-yeah,” I stammered, “Just a bit sore from the ride.” Liar, Natalia, liar.
Sofia laughed, “Join the club,” she said, rubbing her backside. “We should probably get back inside before Dante sends out a search party.” She winked at me before turning away. “I’m glad we did this today.”
“Me too,” I said genuinely.
Sofia and I entered the house’s foyer, and I forced a smile, determined not to let my inner turmoil show. “That was wonderful, Sofia. Thank you for sharing this with me.”
She beamed, her eyes sparkling with happiness. “I’m so glad you enjoyed it, Eva.” She paused, her head tilting to the side. “You know, I feel like I can be myself around you. It’s...refreshing.”
The words hit me hard, and I had to fight the urge to flinch. “I feel the same way,” I said, my voice soft and sincere. “You’re a wonderful person, Sofia. Never forget that.”
She smiled, reaching out to squeeze my hand, and I had to resist the overwhelming urge to pull away. “Well, I’m going to go freshen up for dinner. Feel free to explore the grounds a bit more if you’d like. I’ll see you in a bit!”
As she bounded up the stairs, I watched her go, my heart heavy with conflicting emotions. Part of me wanted to call out, confess it all, and beg for her forgiveness. But I knew I couldn’t. The mission came first, no matter the personal cost.
With a resigned sigh, I turned and headed outside, my feet carrying me towards the stables again. I needed a moment of solace to clear my head and regain my focus.
The familiar scent of horses enveloped me as I stepped into the cool, shadowy interior of the barn. I wandered the aisles, trailing my fingers along the smooth wood of the stalls, my gaze drawn to the powerful, graceful creatures within.
“Couldn’t stay away, babe?”
I whirled around, my heart drumming a staccato beat, only to find Dante leaning against the doorframe with a crooked smile. “Dante,” I breathed, cursing how my pulse quickened at seeing him. “I, uh, was just...”
“Enjoying the view?” he interrupted, pushing himself off the frame and strolling towards me. “Can’t say I blame you. These horses are something else, aren’t they?”
I nodded, forcing myself to meet his gaze. “They’re magnificent. Your family has an incredible estate.”
Dante’s eyes darkened, a flash of something unreadable passing across his features. “That they do,” he said, his voice rough. “Though I can’t say I’m always a fan of the company that comes with it.”
I tilted my head, intrigued despite myself. “What do you mean?”
He let out a humorless chuckle, running a hand through his hair. “My old man, for one. He can be...a real piece of work. And his soldiers - they’re not exactly the kind of people I’d invite over for a barbecue, you know?”
I forced myself to remain calm, to play the part of the curious, sympathetic lover. “I can imagine it must have been difficult growing up in that environment.”
Dante’s gaze searched mine, and I saw vulnerability in his eyes for a moment. “It was,” he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. “But I’ve learned to play the game, to keep my head down and my priorities straight.”
I took a step closer, my hand reaching out to rest on his arm. “And what are your priorities, Dante?”
He stared down at my hand, his face unreadable. “Family,” he said finally, his voice gruff. “Protecting the ones I love, no matter the cost.”
I felt a pang as I saw a glimpse of the man beneath the cartel prince facade.
“That’s admirable,” I said, gently squeezing his arm. “Not many people would be willing to make that kind of sacrifice.”
Dante let out a humorless laugh. “You have no idea.” He paused, his eyes searching mine. “But enough about me. What about you, Eva? What are your priorities?”
The question caught me off guard, and I felt my carefully constructed mask begin to slip. “I, uh...” I stammered, cursing myself for my lack of composure.
Dante’s lips morphed into a small, knowing smile. “Don’t worry, babe. I’m not looking for some big, dramatic declaration.” He reached up, his fingers gently tracing the line of my jaw. “I just want to know you. The real you, not this polished, perfect version you show the rest of the world.”
“Dante, I...” I trailed off, unsure of what to say. How could I possibly act real for Dante?
“Shh,” he said, his thumb brushing across my lower lip. “It’s okay. You don’t have to say anything.” His gaze darkened, the air between us crackling with undeniable tension. “Just let me in, Eva. Let me see you.”
Before I could react, his mouth was on mine, his kiss searing and possessive.
I melted into his embrace, my hands fisting in the front of his shirt as I returned his kiss with a fervor that surprised even me. Everything else faded away - the mission, the lies, the guilt. All that mattered was Dante and how he made me feel alive in a way I hadn’t experienced in years.
When we finally broke apart, both of us panting, I knew I was in far deeper than I ever could have imagined. Dante Reyes had wormed his way under my skin, past my defenses, and into the very core of me. And I had no idea how I would find the strength to pull myself back out.
“We should probably head back to the house,” I managed. “Dinner will be served soon.”
Dante’s hand found mine, and our fingers intertwined, fitting together perfectly. As we walked back to the house, the gravel path crunching beneath our feet, I marveled at how my skin tingled at his touch, a silent testament to his power over me.