LILITH POV
This was my world, but tonight felt different. The music's beat throbbed through my chest, grounding me as I stepped onto the stage. Here, I wasn't Lilith Russo, the awkward nineteen-year-old college student who trips on her own two feet. Lilith Russo, who couldn't look into anyone's eyes or make a coherent sentence without fumbling or blasting out classical literature to hide her nervousness. I was known as The Raven. A beautiful seductress, a shadow they couldn't touch but watch, a desire they couldn't hold but feel. Letting out a deep breath, my hands gripped the pole. I started slow, letting the rhythm seep into my bones, each sway of my hips a controlled invitation. I let go of the pole and let my fingers glide along my thighs, a practiced movement meant to tease. Of course, I knew how to play this game and dangle just enough mystery to keep them wanting without giving too much. "How much for that whore?" I heard whispers. It wasn't the first time and I doubted it would be the last time. I knew every response to each word said the moment I took the stage. As for the first question, my boss would snarl, "She's not for sale." "Can I touch her to know if she's real? She feels unoriginal." "I'll pay you triple if I can feel that sweet ass of hers." "Your hands to yourself or I cut it off." That would be the response from Marco, my boss. There were many more silly questions, and I was glad I wasn't the one doing the answering. Marco was often within earshot and ready to give a snarky response to anyone who needed it. I was his valued dancer; hence, for that reason, he placed me on center stage to entertain only the ones above the higher working-class men. Even though, he never clarified that, I didn't ask any questions as I knew what he meant. Those were called the VIPs of La Notte. They were the most important people for Marco and his club, and I couldn't mess up as much as I desired. I sucked in a deep breath as I felt eyes on me. "Don't look, Raven," I whispered to myself. It was rule number one for me. 'Don't make eye contact with anyone in the VIP section no matter what. The world could be ending, La Notte could be getting destroyed, but I'd be on the damned stage swaying my hips to the music playing. I kept my gaze fixed somewhere in the haze of lights and smoke, refusing to meet the eyes in the darkened VIP section. They were trouble. The VIP section was home to the worst of them— the powerful and untouchable. I didn't need to know their names or their intentions; they were a different breed. My job was to entertain and survive, not to invite complications. I bite my lower lip, my body moving on autopilot, twisting and arching. Puffing out a breath slowly, I sucked in another breath. The air felt thicker and charged, and I could feel their stares crawling over me. However, one gaze seared into my skin, hotter and heavier than the others. Fuck. They were urging me to look, trying to turn my head sideways and coaxing me to squint and find the very eyes that were looking at me. "Don't you dare look," I said through gritted teeth. But I couldn't help it. My fucking resolve cracked, and for a heartbeat, my eyes flicked up and I met his eyes— a fucking mistake. The rules I had kept for three damned years, a man had made me break it in just a day and he barely did anything to make me do so. The man I was currently staring at was sitting in the shadow, a face I knew only by reputation: Giovanni Ricci. The man everyone in La Notte feared and wouldn't dare talk awful about him even in his absence. I had always wondered why he was feared that much. He was an ordinary human, like the rest of us, but now, I could almost see it. His stare was dark, intense, as if he could strip away the pretence, and dig into who I really was. The second Rule I had always upheld by heart was: Never let anyone believe you can be owned. I knew that even if I could break the first rule, there was no way I could break the second because no one indeed owned me. I worked for Marco, but that didn't make him own me. I did sign a contract, and that was to keep shut about everything that happened in the La Notte. Every one of us—the dancers— did. Someone could be killed in the most horrible way ever, assaulted, and well kidnapped; we have to keep our damned mouths shut and never speak of it as it wasn't in our right to do so. Marco did have the final say about what I did most of the time, but he still allowed me freedom. And yet, Giovanni's eyes trapped me, like he dared me to break my rules just to let him see a little more. He tilted his head, a silent command that left my breath hitched. Rolling my shoulders, I eventually broke the spell, and spun, my back to him trying to steady my racing pulse. The song crescendos, and I slide to the floor, twisting in a way that should feel graceful but vulnerable under his watchful gaze. Why the hell was he still staring at me? Discretely, I glanced at myself to ensure my costume wasn't out of place. Perhaps he recognized me from somewhere, that could be the only reason he would be staring. "You're too perfect to be in here, Raven. Now I see why Marco is so much into you being on the center stage," Flora, one of the dancers, said. "Thank you," I flashed her a small smile. Even though I didn't care about her compliment, I wasn't one to waste it. We had never had a real conversation until now because it was either she was glaring at me, or saying one or two things about me to the other dancers so I could be hated. "Marco is watching; we need to return to the waiting room for his next instruction. There are some important guests here," Flora said before trotting away. "She acts like she's the boss. She's just a newbie here and should respect everyone because we were here before her!" Candy, a petite brunette, retorted. "You know how Flora can be, I wouldn't cross her path if I were you," I murmured. Candy shrugged, "I am not afraid of her." then she leaned into me despite how tiny she was. "I heard she's sleeping with the boss, so he lets her do as she desires. Such a stanky whore." I heard that too. I knew it wasn't just mere gossip, it was indeed happening, but I didn't care about that. I was okay with that as long as I could get what I wanted to fend for myself. "Come on, Marco is watching," Candy said. I forced myself to back up, plastering on a Raven's sultry smirk. From the corner of my eyes, I saw Giovanni raise a hand, the silent, unmistakable gesture calling me over. I froze, my heart beating rapidly. Rule number 3: Never answer a call unless you know the price. I had seen other girls lured by that beckoning hand, and they never left the same. I desired to turn away and make a dash towards the exit, never looking back because there was no way in hell I was going into that place to meet with the devil himself. Yet, my stupid legs couldn't cooperate with what my brain wanted. I took the first step forward, then the second, ignoring the alarms sounding in my head.LILITH'S POV I gasped as a hand gripped me, stopping me from moving further. A relieved sigh pierced through me as I saw it was Marco. I couldn't be any happier to see his annoying face; at least he had stopped me from making a terrible mistake. He pulled me towards the room's corner, where it was quieter. Many people do not come to this part of La Notte; you only come here when you want privacy. I frown, staring at Marco, wondering what he wanted. "How are you?" His toffee-brown eyes moved over my body. "Um, fine, I guess," I laughed. Even as I was anything but that. My body ached from exerting too much pressure on it. You'd think doing this for three years would make me an expert in the field, but I was far from that. Also, the fact that Marco was asking about my well-being when he had never indeed cared made it even more laughable. "Good," he nodded. "Do you remember the deal from earlier?" Tilting my head, I tried to remember the exact deal he was talking about. W
LILITH'S POV My head hurt, and likewise, my throat. It wasn't easy to keep my eyes open because it closed by itself as soon as I opened them. I couldn't remember the last time I tasted booze. It was my first time in La Notte, and I was clueless about what was being done. Someone had offered me a drink, and I had drunk without thinking. That was the first time I suffered from a hangover, and also the last time I stopped drinking since I tend to do something out of the ordinary. When I mean out of the ordinary, I embarrass myself. Last night, I never wanted to drink, but it was the only thing that could keep me calm. I never would have imagined that a glass would knock me out cold. Shifting on the bed, I heaved a breath, pushing back the nausea that surged through me, before opening my eyes. They slowly accommodated to the brightness of the room. I glanced at myself as I felt exposed. I couldn't remember slipping out of my clothes last night or maybe I had changed before returning
GIOVANNI POVBeing made in the family—it was more than a title. It was a damn oath written in blood. I'd earned my bones long ago, proving to Don Massimo that I had the stomach for what The Life demanded.As a capo in La Famiglia Ricci, it was my job to run my crew with a tight fist to make sure no one got any ideas about stepping out of line. To keep the family's interest protected, to settle debts, to enforce loyalty—I did what was needed to do. And in return? I had the family's backing. Respect, fear.But it wasn't all power and luxury. Being a made man meant you didn't get to quit, didn't get to retire. You either did the work, or you were sleeping with the fishes. That was how it was, how it always would be."Capo." Jacques, one of my muscles said.I stopped walking to stare at him. He was standing by Luca. Jacques and Luca were my muscles, always two steps behind and ready to handle any trouble that came my way. Loyalty was everything in this line of work; they were the only one
LILITH'S POV I felt jittery. Rubbing my clammy palms on the A-shaped brown skirt I wore for the umpteenth time, I placed my hand on my raving heart. "Take a deep breath, Lilith, and remember that the universe is unfolding as it should be." taking two deep reassuring gulps of air as if my life depended on it, I walked towards the entrance of the hall. I had practiced for the test a week before and was sure it was also child's play. In fact, I had skimmed through my notes before arriving at school. However, I couldn't tell why I was afraid of failing. Maybe it was because of Social Psychology (PSY 340), and I had heard a lot of rumors from the seniors about that class. I guessed it was because I learned one could fail without trying, which made me a bit nervous. "Fuck, watch where you are going?!" A voice growled, causing me to jump back in fright. I had almost slammed into him. It was my fault; I didn't watch where I was going. "I'm sorry," I stuttered, bending to pick up my book
GIOVANNI POVMarcella was hurt because of me. I was her big brother and protector. I should have been watching over her!Instead, I had been with a woman. A woman I could not stop thinking about now!Although Marcella had her personal bodyguard, whom Don Massimo had placed close to her school, I still made it my primary objective to look after her.Don Massimo had been good to me, picked me from the damned gutters, and brushed me up. I wouldn't have gotten to this stage of my life if it weren't for him. He had treated me like a son.Honestly, anyone who didn't know the relationship between us would assume I was his child. However, Don Massimo himself had never treated me anything lesser than that.Marcella had gotten hurt under my watch because I was fucking some unknown woman. Yet, I was here thinking of the same woman instead of looking for those who had hurt her and giving them a taste of their medicine.Grimacing, I stared at the boner forming on my pants. The dent was noticeable,
LILITH POV Which of all my important nothings shall I tell you first? (Jane Austen) My mother, Maria Russo, a woman with a slim build and greying hair often tied in a bun. Her hair was once dark brown like mine, often in a loose wave that fell over her shoulders. She was my motivation. She was the reason I had decided to pursue psychology, not just because of the fantastic career opportunity I'd get from it or the scholarship I had been granted. My mother's tumor diagnosis drove me to study Psychology, seeking answers and ways to support her. Maria Russo was a hardworking woman who was responsible for my brother and me. She juggled multiple jobs to provide for us, and despite how low-paying they were, I had always been grateful. She was the kind of woman I desired to be, not in relationship wise because men had dealt with her. They were assholes, and none of them were redeemable in my eyes. Ever since I learned about my mother's illness, I have taken over the responsibility
LILITH POV Who does he think he is? I glared at the spot that his car was in. He allowed me to leave but couldn't return to the clubhouse. I stayed in the position until he left. Giovanni believed he could buy me with his words and money. Just what the hell was he trying to play at? Maybe he knew what was happening. He knew I was trying to gather information for him to Marco, and he was trying to avoid that to distract me. Yet, he could have easily talked me out of it and not offered me a job of his own. At the same time, I didn't want to believe that was the case. Today, just like two days ago, I had blown it off. I wondered if I was ever cut out for this job or maybe Giovanni was doing everything possible for me not to get what I wanted for Marco. It was possible because how could he offer me a job just a few days after Marco did? He certainly was aware of what was happening. I jumped slightly, glancing at where I was, as I heard a rustling sound. This place I was in wasn't id
GIOVANNI POVGuy, my secretary took the phone I extended to him as soon as I was done with the call. Cracking my knuckles, I walked to the man in the room's centre.He whimpered, his bloodied face pressed against the cold concrete floor. The dim, flickering light above threw shadows across his trembling form, his muffled pleas barely audible over the distant hum of machinery. I crouched down, gripping his chin to force him to look at me. His bloodshot eyes darted, searching for mercy he wouldn’t find.Mercy was never in my eyes, to begin with.“Loyalty isn't a choice, stronzo,” I said, my voice calm, “You took a damn oath, James, and for a fucking pussy, you choose to throw all that in the wind.”"Tell me, how many days did she offer to fuck your little dick for you to go against your family and the code of honor?"He tried to speak, but the gag stuffed in his mouth made it pathetic, incoherent. I snorted, and my patience wore thin. With a flick of my hand, one of my men yanked the ga
LILITH POVIt was close to midnight, and Giovanni hadn't returned yet. I was home. When I got home, I met Casey and Christie. I was glad that they were fine.They had all returned from the hospital except my mother. Even though she was still in the intensive care unit, there was an assurance that she wouldn't die overnight. The doctor had said so, and they were monitoring her. If her condition changes, they'll inform us as soon as possible.I was okay with her staying there. At her present condition, I didn't think we'd be able to care for her as much as they'd be able to do so in the hospital.Again, it would be a hassle having her here, and when she had another crisis, we'd need to take her to the hospital again.I looked out the window and saw a light flashing into the room. It was from a car driving in. One of Giovanni’s cars, but not the one he always drove in.I stepped away from the window as the car came to a halt, and Rowland climbed down from it.Snatching my robe from the s
LILITH POVI paced the room. Despite being lovely to look at due to the pastel wall painting and the vast window that allowed light to come into the room, it didn't give me any slight comfort that I needed right now.I believed the room had been specially prepared for me. I'd have thought of how thoughtful they were if the room wasn't a prison to me.No matter how cozy the room looked, it was a prison, and I didn't think I'd be coming out of it anytime soon.I hadn't seen my father in sight, nor Diego. The bastard that brought me to this place had only pushed me into the room before locking the door and walking away.He had even warned me not to attempt jumping out of the window as I'd only break a neck or even die in worse-case scenarios.I walked to the said window, looking down. Instantly, I withdrew my head as a wave of dizziness washed over me.It was higher than I had thought, and he wasn't lying. If I tried to jump, I wouldn't be breaking a neck alone, I'd die from the impact.
GIOVANNI POVI was with the guys, having a drink. We were trying to unwind and hoped for the best.Everyone was on edge. I glanced at Romeo sitting by himself and playing on his phone. He had stopped crying long ago. I wouldn't blame him.If I was his age, I might have that emotion as well. Only if I had my parents and I was as close as he was to them.I never had the privilege to feel this intense emotion because it was seen as a weakness. And I'd never allow myself to be as weak as that.But when it came to Lilith. It seemed like an entirely different thing for me. I had experienced moments of weakness, fear, and even more sensitivity than I had ever experienced in my life.I had tried to distance myself, believing because I was always in her presence, that made it that way.But even in her absence, she still managed everything to be about her.Looking away from Romeo, I caught Casey and Christie's movement. But not Lilith. Both were running towards us.I frowned, looking at both of
LILITH POVMy mother had been taken to the intensive care unit, while we were outside the door pacing, and waiting for the outcome of the doctor's diagnoses.I couldn't understand what was happening. I was still confused. Not only me. But Romeo who was now crying silently while Casey comfortable him, and everyone else.They had the same expression on their faces. I mean my mother had been fine. She was doing fine today and suddenly, she seemed unresponsive and her breath fading.Even though no one would openly admit it, I could tell the end was near for her. I didn't want to believe it too. But it was fucking too soon.I expected her to live months!Or even beat the doctor's words and stay years and even forever. She'd get to see her grandchildren and be the best grandmother ever, but that wouldn't be happening."Where are you going to?"I stopped walking, looking around me. I didn't realise I had left the others and was now very much closer to the main entrance.Giovanni was behind m
LILITH POVOut of all the things I wanted to hear Giovanni say, my father coming back was certainly not it.I stared at him. He wasn't bluffing. He looked absolutely serious. It was weird that he was mentioning my father seeing as I hadn't spoken to him about him. Also, the fact that he knew his name and he mentioned it made it even weirder."How do you know who my father is?" I questioned.Giovanni gripped my hand, pulling me up the remaining step, and towards the room. When we were inside the room, he let go of my hands.I watched as he stepped further inside, tugging his tie, and undoing the top button of his shirt.He rolled up his sleeves, pushing his hand inside his hair before turning to me."I am certain we haven't spoken about my father," I winced at the term father. I didn't want to refer to him as that because he was anything but my father, but at this moment, I had no choice.Since I wanted answers from Giovanni, it was only fitting I used it."There are things you don't k
GIOVANNI POVShe was fine.The thought jumped around in my head over and over again.Since I received Luca's call and went there to take care of business myself, I had been unsettled. Even though Luca had assured me that Rowland had driven her home safely, I didn't want to believe that.But now, seeing her in person, a relieved sigh coursed through me.I stumbled towards her, almost falling to her feet, but she caught me, her arms wrapping around me."What happened to you?" she whispered.I didn't respond to her. I couldn't. I doubted I could find my voice even if I tried to.I hugged her as tight as I could, never wanting to let her go. Inhaling her intoxicating scent, I shut my eyes tightly, opening them as I heard her voice."You have blood all over you, Giovanni. What happened to her?" She tried to move out of my embrace, but I held her back."Don't leave," I choked out.I had never been this emotional. Not even when Diamante left me a day before the wedding. Not even when Diamant
LILITH POVAs soon as I stepped inside the house, I was engulfed in a hug. It wasn't Giovanni as I had thought.Rather, it was the two people I had thought were still in the spa. The two people I was afraid for.As soon as they released me, my eyes widened, and I pulled them into an embrace of my own."You're safe!" I whispered again, holding them as tight as I could, as if they'd disappear if I let go.Casey laughed, "Of course we are."I pulled away, looking at both of them. They seemed fine and barely had any scratches on them. I was confused, but I was also curious to know how they had come out of the spa unscathed.Also, why didn't they bother to come looking for me?"What happened? I tried to make Rowland go back for the two of you and he assured me that you both would be fine. Perhaps I shouldn't have bothered!"I scowled at the smile still present on Casey's face. She was enjoying this. I had almost died because of them. I couldn't imagine what would have happened if I had bee
LILITH POVWe had barely reached the escape exit when I remembered I had forgotten something.The girls!I halted abruptly, my eyes widening as I looked around me. I tried to find Christie and Casey. But it was impossible to see anything due to the crowds and everyone running here and there to save themselves."We need to leave here!" Luca urged, tugging me.I resisted.Turning to stare at him."I need to find Casey and Christie!" I yelled."They'll be fine. We need to save you first," Luca said.I glared at him, tugging my hand from his. "Really? You want me to leave my best friends to some murderers?""I am sure you're ready to answer Xanthos when he knows you purposely left her, " even to Theo.Although Theo wouldn't admit to wanting Casey, and she, too, had denied it several times, I knew there was something going on between them."Or the murderers could be here for you and you'd get hurt because you wish to look for your friends who might have saved themselves. Then, I won't have
LILITH'S POV"Really?" I murmured, scowling as I saw Luca.He must have followed me here on Giovanni's order. But I thought Giovanni didn't care. How the hell did he know I was leaving the house, seeing as he had been avoiding me and we hadn't seen each other all morning?Perhaps he was watching from his window."So convenient of him," I rolled my eyes. He could watch me and despatched his bodyguard to watch me, but he couldn't even bring himself to speak to me."That's Luca," Casey pointed to where Luca was standing at the entrance.He wasn't even making his presence discreet. At least, someone else would have hidden from sight and maybe watched from a distance. Someone like Rowland.But he was doing the opposite."Did you mention you're coming here to your husband?" Christie asked me. "I thought both of you weren't on good terms."I shrugged, then stared at Christie. She shrugged as well. How would she know Giovanni and I weren't on good terms? She was really observant.She must hav