-or rather, Sofia Ricci-stood before the mirror, staring at the unfamiliar reflection she had so carefully crafted. Her dark ha

together with enough plausibility to pass basic scrutiny. But beneath the new name,

from the club manager: "Be h

asteful enough for the upscale environment but alluring enough to attract attention. A final glance at the mi

arpets, and a polished mahogany bar stretched across one side of the grand hall. Wealthy patrons laughed and exchanged deals over glasses of

ataloging faces, mapping connections. The bartenders were gossip hubs, the waiters invisible eyes and ears,

e saw him-M

d-tall, imposing, with silver streaks in his dark hair, his sharp suit tailored to perfe

h her skin, but she swallowed it, her practiced smile nev

another figure-tall, lean, with striking

dows. But seeing him now, she felt a chill. He was no mere enforcer. His gaze scanned the room with the precision of a p

cer. Marco's confidant.

e. A darkness in Lorenzo's eyes, a guarded edge that spoke of s

d them to their tables, exchanged pleasantries. But she also listened-catching whisper

a menu to a wealthy couple, s

w here, ar

ing dangerous. Bella turned, her smile unwavering,

t." Her voice was calm, res

cker of something unreadable i

Sofia

ul name for a b

tly, feeling his eyes linger. But he stepp

Sofia. I hope you fi

ed. Had he seen through her? No. It was impossible. But she knew eno

staff lounge, exhaustion finally settling in. But b

had crossed paths with

ning. The mask of Sofia Ric

ield it with de