Page 9 of Doll's Eye

“It’s because of your future with me that we are meeting. And you are a Bonetti, no?”

Tilting my face back up towards him, I actually crack a smile. “I am.”

Chapter five

Massimo

Iwas a bit vexed when I learned that Alessia would not be present at last night’s discussion.

I’m not sure what her family’s intentions were for leaving her out, but to me, it made her seem more like a transaction than an equal part of the arrangement. By the time I succeed the De Luca empire, she will know she is a queen. Not a mafia princess nor a mobster’s wife.

When the discussion over the sex trade had begun, I stole a glance over at her. And when I did, she was unruffled. Looking just as regal as she had when she entered the room, and it deadened.

It has always been in our best interest to solidify her family with mine since our territories are so close, and we’re two of the original families, even before the notorious original five. Not to mention our influence in Italy.

Tullio and Sarita would have been a conciliatory match, but they would only empower us by name. Although I lost muchrespect for Tullio, I was content with the marriage not going through.

There were plenty of suitable options for me out there. Ones that made more sense; age-wise, money-wise, and connection-wise. But I was thinking more strategically. I wanted someone who could make us a power couple and best suit my ambition.

My father was against my decision from the start and still is. He has some nonsensical vendetta towards the Bonettis that started way before the first failed arrangement. Eventually, I was able to convince him that this would be most beneficial.

I last spoke to Alessia three years ago, but that was not the last time I saw her. She unknowingly demanded my attention and became a permanent fixture inside my head.

But my decision became absolute when she so gruesomely killed one of Gallo’s men. The other families labeled her as unstable and untamable, but all I saw was her tyrannous potential.

Alessia is perfect, and it was her I wanted.

Us two together, we will build an untouchable empire.

Since then, I’ve stood back, giving her as much time as I could spare. But it’s time to execute my plan and secure this alliance.

And as soon as I can get this wedding planned, the better.

Pulling up to the Bonetti estate for the third day in a row, I head inside to pick Alessia up for our dinner date. I’m keen on getting her alone and to be able to give all of my focus to her.

After being checked at the door for weapons, I’m led in through the house and towards the voices. Over the years, I’ve noticed how different our two families are. They’re close to one another and still live here at the estate. I care for my siblings, and some could say we are close, but we don’t spend much time together, and I am the only one who lives full-time at the estate, considering it will be mine someday.

When I enter the kitchen, my eyes land on Alessia right away. Her toned legs are on display, and a red velvet dress hugs every curve of her petite body. Her ass plump, and the curve of her back accentuated. Her long, dark hair is worn down in big soft curls down her back. And with the heels she’s wearing, her calf muscles are more defined. All I can think about is how delicious it would be to bite into them and how many times I can wrap her hair around my fist.

They urgently take notice of my presence, and the atmosphere becomes restless. Everyone except for Marino, Tullio, and Gemma seems to be here. All together as a family, not at all looking like the mobsters they are known for. If you weren’t aware of the concealed weapons they wear as an essential, you wouldn’t take any of them as a threat.

“Buonasera.”Good evening. I dip my chin and place my hands casually in my pockets. They all say hello to me and begin talking amongst themselves again.

Alessia heads my way with a pretty smile. “Hello, Massimo.” I lean down for us to greet. She rests both hands on my shoulders and mine automatically go to her hips, causing her to tense under my touch. Soon my touch will make her quiver. It will take some time to ease her into me. A woman any less than her I would have to break and reconstruct into a woman fitting for a life at my side. Not Alessia. She may need some softening, but she’s ready.

I’m reluctant to let her go, but I manage to. “Are you ready?”

“I am.” She turns to shout, “Buona notte!”Good night! They respond with their goodbyes, and all eyes remain on us as we turn to leave the room. I’m sure her brothers abhor the thought of their sister being alone with me.

“Was there a special occasion tonight?” I ask as we head for the door.

“No.” She shakes her head, and then she smiles up at me. “Just a typical night at the Bonetti’s. You come from an Italian family, Massimo. Don’t you all spend too much time together?”

“I can’t say that we do. Not like that, at least.” I hold the car door open for her, let her slip inside first, and then join her in the backseat.

“Do you have family dinners?”

“No.”

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