Page 57 of Beneath the Shadows

“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.

Antonio

Once Alessia’s out of earshot, Vigo takes the seat I vacated behind his desk. “We need to talk,” he says, gesturing for me to sit.

I drop into the chair across from him and watch as he casually spears a forkful of pasta—my lunch. He chews slowly, watching me for a reaction, but I give him nothing.

"She’s come a long way these past few months," he remarks, wiping his mouth.

"Whatever you’re doing, it’s working," I reply, stroking his already oversized ego.

Vigo grins. "I'm glad you can see I was right about how to train her. Someday, you'll have a woman to do the same with. Fortunately, I've got all the tools you'll need." He takes another bite, savoring his self-satisfaction.

"You said we needed to talk," I remind him, steering the conversation back on track.

"Ah, yes." He sets the fork down, his expression sharpening. "With your father gone, God rest his soul,” he pauses, savoring his dramatics. “I need a new underboss. Someone I can trust completely."

Suddenly, the room feels smaller. The air thicker. The audacity—acting like he didn't have a hand in my father's death. I keep my face blank, refusing to let him see the revulsion boiling within me.

"You’ll be my new underboss, Anton," he says as though he’s doing me a favor. "You’re blood. And I know you’ll be loyal."

"Of course," I say, my voice steady. "Whatever you need."

"I knew I could count on you." He pauses, a satisfied smile spreading across his face. "Along with overseeing Alessia's security, you'll take over running the restaurant. Keeping the money flowing through it is critical to our operations.”

"I understand," I reply, voice-controlled. "I’ll make sure everything continues to run smoothly."

“Alessia will be starting work this week,” he says, leaning forward, his eyes gleaming with malice.

“Work?” I ask.

He lets out a snicker. "She’s going to beCasa della Ombre’snewest waitress. It'll make it easier for you to keep an eye on her—make sure she stays in line."

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