Page 37 of Malevolent Secrets

I bite my lip, considering. "I don't know. It's a bit too...much."

Renee sighs, tossing the dress onto the bed. "Okay, how about something more casual? You need to look approachable but still put together."

I nod, appreciating her logic. We continue to rummage through my closet until she pulls out a simple, fitted navy blue dress. It has a modest neckline and falls just above the knee, perfectly balancing sophistication and subtlety.

"This," Renee declares, holding the dress up triumphantly. "It's perfect. It's you."

I smile, taking the dress from her. "You’re right. This feels like the right choice."

As I change into the dress, I catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror. The navy blue complements my complexion and the fit accentuates my figure without being too revealing. I pair it with a delicate silver necklace and simple black heels.

Renee looks me over, a proud smile on her face. "You look amazing. Lorenzo won't know what hit him."

Just as I'm about to thank her, my phone buzzes. It's a text from Lorenzo.

I want to send a car for you. What’s your address?

A cold shiver runs down my spine. I can’t let him know where I live. It’s too risky.

Thank you, but I’ll meet you at the club. See you soon.

Lorenzo's response is immediate.

As you wish. Looking forward to it.

I put my phone down, my heart pounding. The idea of meeting Lorenzo again fills me with a mix of dread and anticipation.

"I told him I’d meet him at the club," I say, turning to Renee. "I can't let him know where I live."

"Good call," she agrees. "Just be careful, okay? And if you need anything, call me."

"I will. Thank you, Renee."

We hug, and I feel a rush of gratitude for her unwavering support. As I head out the door, I take a deep breath, steeling myself for what lies ahead.

***

The drive to The Garden of Eden is a blur. My mind races with thoughts of Jeremy, the documents and the dangerous game I’m about to play with Lorenzo.

The city lights flash by in a kaleidoscope of colors, but I barely notice them. All I can think about is the man waiting for me.

When I arrive at the club, the bouncers recognize me and let me in without a second glance. The interior is just as loud and chaotic as before, but tonight, it feels different. The stakes are higher and I’m acutely aware of every eye that glances my way.

I spot Lorenzo almost immediately. He’s standing at the bar, his tall, commanding presence drawing the eye of everyone around him. When he sees me, his eyes light up with something that looks like approval. He gestures for me to join him and I weave through the crowd, my heart pounding in my chest.

"Daniella," he says smoothly as I approach. "You look stunning."

"Thank you," I reply, trying to keep my voice steady. "You don’t look too bad yourself."

Lorenzo smiles, a slow, dangerous curve of his lips that makes my pulse race. "Shall we?"

He offers his arm and I take it, feeling the weight of his gaze as he leads me to a private room at the back of the club. The room is dimly lit, with plush seating and a small table set with drinks. It’s intimate and designed for privacy.

As we sit down, I can’t help but feel the intensity of his presence. Lorenzo Duretti is a man who commands attention, who thrives on control. And tonight, I need to find a way to unravel his secrets without losing myself in the process.

I take a deep breath, meeting his gaze head-on. "So, Lorenzo, what exactly did you want to talk about?"

His eyes gleam with interest. "I think you know, Tesoro." That word again. Treasure. I have to constantly remind myself that this isn’t a romance novel situation. This is real and potentially dangerous for me.

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