Page 55 of Beneath the Shadows

“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, Alessia?”

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. “Alessia 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.”

“Alessia 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?”

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