Page 127 of Beneath the Shadows

In this quiet space, a profound connection deepens between us, binding us in ways that feel more powerful than I’d ever thought possible. It’s a union not only of bodies but of hearts, of souls.

I lift my head and brush my lips softly against his. With careful, tender movements, he rolls me onto my back and positions himself over me. Slowly, he slides inside me, making love to me with unhurried, intimate strokes.

He moves with a deliberateness that tells me he’s as consumed by this moment as I am. Antonio’s eyes never leave mine, conveying love and a fierce protectiveness that makes my heart swell. Beneath him, I feel worshipped and adored

When we finally climax, each pulse feels like an unspoken vow, our bodies speaking truths our voices never could.

We lie entwined, lost in the quiet aftermath. In this moment, I feel the depth of our bond. It’s not just physical it’s a connection rooted in something far deeper, something neither of us can deny.

Antonio

Alessia lies beside me, her leg draped over mine as her fingers trace lazy patterns across my chest. Her touch is soft, almost hesitant, as if she’s still testing the waters after everything we’ve shared. I tighten my arm around her, pulling her closer, savoring the warmth of her bare skin against mine.

She shifts slightly, breaking the comfortable silence. “What are you planning to do with all those pictures?”

I can’t help but smile, already anticipating her reaction. “I’m thinking about remodeling the restaurant. Using your photos as the inspiration for the new design.”

She props herself up on her elbow, eyes widening. “Are you serious?”

“Completely,” I reply, her excitement contagious. “The place needs an update, and your work deserves to be seen.”

Her gaze softens, disbelief flickering in her eyes. “And the gallery show?” she asks, voice quieter now. “You’re really okay with me having it? Even with everything going on?”

I know no one’s ever supported her dreams before, not like this. I brush a strand of hair away from her face, letting my thumb graze her cheek. “I’m more than okay with it,tesoro. It’s time the world sees how talented you are.”

The way she looks at me makes my chest tighten. It’s not just appreciation—it’s deeper than that. And it terrifies me.

Before I can say more, her phone buzzes on the nightstand, shattering the moment. Her body tenses as her hand reaches for it.

The color drains from her face as she reads the message. “He knows where we are,” she whispers. “We’re being watched.”

She passes me her phone, and I read the message.

The pendulum swings, inching closer with each breath you take. No matter where you go, Alessia, you remain under its relentless gaze.

The number from the message is already disconnected when I dial—not that I’m surprised.

“Get dressed,” I say, trying to keep my voice steady for her sake. “We can’t stay here.”

Her hands shake as she reaches for her clothes. I hate that she’s seeing just how bad things have gotten, but there’s no way to keep her in the dark anymore.

The sun’s beginning to set, casting long shadows across the room. Walking home now isn’t an option. I grab my phone and call Dante.

“We’re at the restaurant. I need you to bring the car.”

“No problem,” he replies.

I glance at Alessia as she finishes getting dressed. Lowering my voice, I add, “A text message came through to her phone. We’re being followed.”

There’s a brief pause. “How long ago?”

“Just now.”

Another silence follows. I can almost hear Dante calculating the situation. “I’ll be there in ten. I’m bringing extra men. We’ll sweep the area before you move.”

“Thanks. See you soon.” I hang up and turn to Alessia, catching her gaze. I try to keep my tone calm. “Dante’s on his way. We’ll be home soon.”

She walks over and wraps her arms around my waist, resting her head on my chest. “Why is he doing this?”

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