"And I need to be there to note down everything about them." I cut him off. Lorenzo's smirk deepened as he stood, pressing a lingering kiss against my forehead. "I'll be home late tonight. You know—business."

My stomach twisted. I already knew what that meant. I leaned up, brushing my lips against his. "Be safe."

And just like that, Lorenzo Ricci walked out the door, and as soon as the doors shut, my smile disappeared.

I sat in the driver's seat of my black Mercedees, gripping the wheel tightly. My fingers trembled slightly as I stared at the contact on the phone.

Santino De Luca.

I had spent the entire night thinking. There was no other choice. If I wanted to uncover everything, I had to take this deal.

My thumb hovered over the call button for only a second before pressing it.

The line barely rang before his smooth, amused voice came through. "I thought you'd call sooner."

"I accept your deal." I swallowed.

There was a long pause, then a slow chuckle. "Smart girl."

"Where do we meet?" I asked, my voice steady despite the way my heart pounded against my ribs.

"Pier Four. One hour." The call ended without another word.

~An Hour Later