EVE

Chapter Fifty-Two

(Heartbreak and misery)

~Alberto~

The meeting was set for late afternoon, in the private dining room of an upscale restaurant that catered to the powerful and discreet. The place was a fortress of polished wood, fine linens, and hushed tones, where deals were made over the clinking of crystal glasses and the scent of imported cigars.

Angelo and I arrived together, with our suits tailored to perfection, the weight of our name and reputation preceding us with each nod of acknowledgement. Despite the pressure of the day, I maintained my composure. The thoughts of Vigilia's disappearance were ever-present, but I know I can't afford any distractions now. 

This is business, and business requires my clear mind. We were led through the restaurant to a secluded room at the back. Inside, a long table was set with pristine white cloth and gleaming silverware. At the head of the table sat Marianna's father, Don George Russo, a man whose presence commanded attention even in silence.

Marianna sat beside him, her posture perfect, her expression almost unreadable, the glimmer in her eyes that betrayed her excitement. She seemed determined to play her part well, to appear calm and collected, but beneath her poised exterior, anticipation simmered. She was beautiful, with dark, intelligent eyes and a grace that suggested she was well aware of the role she was about to play in this meeting.

His stupid son sat beside his daughter, faking poise. 

"Don Russo," Angelo greeted as they entered, his tone respectful but firm. 

"Thank you for meeting with us."

George nodded, gesturing for them to sit. 

"It's been a long time coming," he said, his voice smooth and controlled. 

"This union is in both our interests."

I sat across from Marianna, meeting her gaze briefly before turning my attention to her father. There was a spark there, something that told me she was more than just a pawn in this game. She was aware of the stakes, she would be potentially sold to me and despite the gravity of the situation, there was an undercurrent of excitement she was trying to conceal. The room was thick with tension of negotiation, of power plays and unspoken agreements.

"Alberto," George began, his sharp eyes studying me. George's gaze didn't waver. 

"This marriage will bring our families closer, solidify our territories. But it's not just about business. Marianna is my daughter, and I expect her to be treated with the respect and care she deserves."

I nodded, my voice steady as I replied, 

"Of course. I understand what this alliance means for both of us."

"Yet it has taken you this long to finally start negotiations" Ben points out.

"I am a busy man Benjamin." I simply say.

Marianna finally spoke, her voice calm and measured. 

"This isn't just an arrangement for me either, Alberto. I know what's expected, and I intend to fulfill my role, but I want to know we're on the same page."

"Will I ever get used to that fucking accent?"

"I appreciate her directness."

"We are," I assured her. 

"I believe we can make this work."

Angelo, sensing the importance of this moment, spoke up. 

"We're looking at expanding into the southern territories, where your influence is strongest. This marriage not only strengthens our position but also secures mutual benefits for both families."