Page 17 of Ruthless Royalty

“He’s not exactly known for his charm, but he’s not going to kill you. At least, not physically.”

“That’s so reassuring,” I mutter sarcastically, grabbing the sandwich bread. “How do you deal with him?”

“With a lot of patience and the occasional threat. I grew up with the guy, and he may be like a brother to me, but we all know what a tool he is,” he replies, leaning against the counter. “He’s used to getting his way, but that doesn’t mean you have to give in.”

“I’m not planning to,” I say. “But it’s like he’s made it his mission to make my life hell.”

“Welcome to Willow Bridge,” Nikolai says with a wry smile. “Everyone has their trials. Giovanni’s just happens to be a big, annoying one. Trust me, Chiara, he’s not worth the trouble.”

“Easy for you to say,” I mutter, glaring at the tomato like it’s Giovanni’s face. “You’re not the one he’s targeting.”

Nikolai shrugs. “True, but I know him well enough to say he’s doing this because you’ve got under his skin.”

I raise an eyebrow, incredulous. “Under his skin? Me? I haven’t done anything to him!”

“Exactly,” Nikolai says with a smirk. “You’re different. You’re not fawning over him or scared of him like everyone else. He doesn’t know how to handle that.”

“Well, he needs to figure it out fast because I’m not going to put up with his bullshit,” I snap, slapping two slices of bread together with more force than necessary.

Nikolai watches me for a moment, his expression thoughtful. “You know, you could always play along.”

I pause, my hands hovering over the sandwich. “Play along? What do you mean?”

“Give him a taste of his own medicine,” Nikolai suggests. “Show him that you’re not someone to be messed with. Use that fire of yours.”

I narrow my eyes at him. “And how exactly do you suggest I do that?”

He grins. “Oh, I’m sure you’ll think of something. You’re pretty creative when you’re angry. Remember that shiner you gave Mihai when he offered to help train you?”

I grin and as if I summoned him, Mihai strolls into the kitchen with his usual swagger on full display. “What’s all this about killing Giovanni? Can I join in?”

“Get in line,” I mutter, rolling my eyes.

Mihai laughs and grabs an apple from the fruit bowl. “Seriously though, Chiara, don’t let him get to you. He thrives on that shit.”

“Yeah, well, I’m about ready to throttle him,” I say, taking a bite of my sandwich. The tangy tomato and creamy cheese do little to calm my nerves.

“Violence isn’t the answer, you know,” Mihai says, winking. “At least, not yet. Let’s save that for special occasions.”

I groan, leaning against the counter. “I just don’t get why he’s like this. Is he really that insecure?”

Nikolai shrugs. “Maybe. Or maybe he just sees you as a challenge. Either way, you’ve got to stand your ground.”

“I am standing my ground,” I say, frustrated. “But it’s like he’s got this endless supply of ways to make me miserable.”

“Then outsmart him,” Nikolai suggests. “Use that brain of yours. Turn the tables on him.”

I look between the two of them, considering their advice. They’re right; I can’t let Giovanni’s games get to me. I need to show him that I’m not someone to be toyed with.

“Fine,” I say, determination settling in. “I’ll outsmart him. But if he pushes me too far, I’m not responsible for my actions.”

Mihai grins. “That’s the spirit! Give him hell, Chiara.”

I nod, feeling a spark of resolve. Giovanni Basile might think he can intimidate me, but he’s about to learn that I’m not backing down. If he wants a fight, I’ll give him one. And I’ll make sure he regrets ever trying to mess with me.

The next day, I’m determined to avoid the prick as much as possible. I stick to my classes, keep my head down, and try to focus on anything other than his smug face. It’s going well until I round a corner and almost collide with him.

“Watch where you’re going,Micetta,“ he says, his tone dripping with condescension.

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