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CHAPTER SIXTEEN

Author: Amal .A. Usman
last update Last Updated: 2021-11-04 13:56:34
It's been a few days since the party at Mr. Carter's house, and Stefano has been relentlessly gathering information on the Kazan gang, a group that was supposedly wiped-out years ago. The night we returned to his apartment, I asked him why Mr. Carter didn't provide the information Stefano needed, given their apparent friendship. Stefano's jaw tightened, his eyes darkening as he explained that if the Kazan gang was indeed behind the bullet purchase, Mr. Carter's life would have been ended the moment he uttered a word.

I'm in the kitchen, savoring a leisurely breakfast, when my phone trills, interrupting the peaceful morning. Glancing at my phone screen, an unknown number flashes. Curiosity piqued, I swipe to answer. "Hello?"

"Hello, is this Andrea?" The deep, resonant voice on the other end sounds vaguely familiar, but I can't quite pinpoint where I've heard it before.

"Yes, this is she. How can I help you?"

"It's Ivan. How are you doing today?"

"I'm good, and yourself?"

A warm chuckl
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  • The Games of the Heart   CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

    Later at night, as I prepare for dinner with Ivan, I fabricate a story about needing to arrive separately and ask him to send over the address of the restaurant where we'll be dining. I don’t mention Stefano joining us; I have an excuse to explain his presence once we meet. As I slip into the elegant dark green dress, its form-fitting silhouette gracefully accentuates my curves. The sparkling embellishments on the straps draw attention to my cleavage, adding a touch of allure. If that weren't enough, its above-the-knee length showcases my tan skin, further enhancing its appeal.I step out of my room, the click of my heels echoing in the hallway. Stefano's eyes widen as he takes in my appearance."No! Not even a million years," he growls, his gaze smoldering with a possessive intensity that sends a shiver down my spine."What?" I feign innocence, reveling in the way his jaw tightens."That outfit. You are not wearing that to meet him." His voice is low, laced with a warning that only fu

    Last Updated : 2021-11-04

  • The Games of the Heart   CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

    The following day, I take a taxi to an isolated corner of California, my heart heavy with the knowledge that this may be my last chance to see Stefano before my flight. I’m on my way to see him because I lost my documents after my little breakdown the other night in the elevator. Luckily for me, they were given to Stefano, but he never returned them to me till today. The memory of his disappointment when I told him I was leaving still lingers, a dull ache in my chest. But he didn’t fight me, didn’t beg me to stay once I explained the reason behind my departure.And then there’s Ivan, surprising me with a text last night about meeting up again today. His nonchalance about Stefano surprised me - clearly, he doesn’t see him as a threat. It makes me question the true nature of my relationship with Stefano. Is his possessiveness simply that of an overprotective brother? The thought sits like a stone in my stomach. I want to be anything but a sister to him.The taxi driver’s announcement of

    Last Updated : 2021-11-04

  • The Games of the Heart   CHAPTER NINETEEN

    ANDREASamuel continues to try his best to shake off the pursuing cars, but it's a daunting task. His hands grip the steering wheel tightly, knuckles white with tension as he swerves and weaves through the abandoned streets. I can see the determination etched on his face and the unwavering focus in his eyes as he pushes the car to its limits.My heart pounds in my chest, adrenaline coursing through my veins as I watch the unfolding chaos. The sound of gunfire and screeching tires fills the air, a cacophony of violence and desperation. I can't help but wonder how we ended up in this nightmare, how a simple trip to the airport turned into a life-or-death struggle.Suddenly, my eyes widen in horror as I spot a stationary car ahead, unmoving in our path like a silent sentinel. Time seems to slow down, each second stretching into an eternity as we hurtle toward the immobile vehicle. I brace myself for impact, my hands gripping the seat, my breath caught in my throat.But Samuel doesn't slow

    Last Updated : 2021-11-04

  • The Games of the Heart   CHAPTER TWENTY

    The following morning, I wake early, nerves thrumming with anticipation. I step out of my room, determined to let Stefano know I have to leave. To my surprise, a suitcase sits at the edge of the stairs, and curiosity prickles my skin. Who could it belong to?“Are you going somewhere?” I ask as Stefano descends the stairs, his expression unreadable.“Are you ready?” he counters, ignoring my question.“For what? And you didn’t answer me.” Confusion furrows my brow.“Samuel, get someone to take her bags downstairs,” Stefano calls out, striding into the kitchen without a backward glance.“Stefano!” I hurry after him, frustration simmering in my veins.He sighs heavily, turning to face me, coffee cup in hand. “Do I have to explain everything to you?” He sets the cup down on the counter with a clatter, and I cross my arms, arching a brow in silent challenge.“Fine. Do you remember what I said yesterday?” I nod, heart, skipping a beat.“Good. I’m doing as I said.” He picks up his cup and mov

    Last Updated : 2021-11-04

  • The Games of the Heart   CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE

    STEFANOThe following day, I leave my hotel room, my mind preoccupied with the unexpected business I need to attend to in Mexico. The trip wasn’t planned, but it provides a good opportunity to check on my family’s ventures here, ensuring everything is running smoothly. As I approach the front desk to check out, the receptionist stops me, informing me that a package arrived for me this morning. Confusion furrows my brow, as I’m not expecting anything, and few people were aware of my presence here. A flicker of hope ignites within me, wondering if perhaps it’s a surprise from Andrea and what it could be.I can vividly recall the way her cheeks turned pink last night as I spoke about my ideal woman in front of her mom and grandmother. The memory brings a smile to my face, and I couldn’t wait to see her again once I finished up my business today.Eagerly, I take the square box from the receptionist, my fingers trembling slightly as I tear open the packaging. But the moment I lay eyes on it

    Last Updated : 2021-11-06

  • The Games of the Heart   CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO

    ANDREAI storm into Stefano's apartment in California, my blood boiling with rage over his abrupt leave from Mexico. I can't believe him. Was kissing me really that terrible? And worse, after making all those promises about keeping me safe, he just up and left without a word. Fury consumes me because I know he feels the same way I do. My attraction to him is no longer one-sided, so why is he holding back?"Stefano!" I bark, making my way to the kitchen. I had considered checking the bedroom first, but the sound of movement drew me to the kitchen instead.As I enter, I notice a figure standing in front of the fridge. Drawing closer, I realize it's Stefano, his hand reaching for a bottle of water."Stefano!" I yell again, demanding his attention. He slams the fridge door shut, instinctively reaching for a knife, but he freezes the moment he sees me."Andrea, what the fuck?" he gasps, retracting his hand. "When the hell did you get here?" His voice is low as he pinches the bridge of his n

    Last Updated : 2021-11-06

  • The Games of the Heart   CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE

    I stir awake, stretching my hands out, but they come in contact with nothing. I peel my eyes open, and my gaze falls on the vacant space where Stefano should be. The sunlight filtering through the curtains casts a warm glow over the room, highlighting the emptiness beside me. A pang of anxiety grips my chest. Where is he?Throwing off the covers, I climb out of bed and call his name, but only the echo of my voice responds. I step out of the bedroom and head downstairs, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee guiding me to the kitchen.Stefano!” My voice trembles as I step into the room. Relief floods through me when I see him, his back turned, pouring a cup of coffee. He spins around, and the flush from last night’s fever has faded from his cheeks. He doesn’t say anything, just stares at me, or rather my neck, and I wonder why until I see what he’s staring at in my reflection on the fridge. Hickey covers the skin on my neck and shoulder, and no part in between is left untouched. My cheeks

    Last Updated : 2021-11-06

  • The Games of the Heart   CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR

    ANDREAI angrily mash the button, flipping through the channels on the hotel room’s TV. A simmering rage still courses through my bones from Stefano indirectly kicking me out of his apartment. I can’t believe he did that - the worst part is I felt more heartbroken than angry, and I hate that. I fucking hate feeling this way.The shrill ringing of my phone snaps me out of my murderous thoughts about Stefano. I pull the phone from where it’s wedged under my thigh and check the caller ID. My blood runs cold the second I see my father’s name on the screen. A million questions race through my mind. Why is he calling now? He never calls, only sends the occasional curt text. Dread settles like a lead weight in the pit of my stomach as I slowly, reluctantly, answer.The shrill ringing of my phone jolts me out of my dark reverie about Stefano. I yank the phone from its hiding spot under my thigh and check the caller ID. My heart sinks like a stone when I see my father’s name flashing on the scr

    Last Updated : 2021-11-06

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  • The Games of the Heart   EPILOGUE-TWO

    I wake up with a contented smile on my face, basking in the afterglow of a restful night's sleep. At nines months pregnant, with my due date rapidly approaching, it's become increasingly difficult to find a comfortable position that allows for uninterrupted slumber. But last night, the stars aligned, and I was blessed with the gift of deep, rejuvenating sleep.As I stretch languidly, I feel Stefano's strong arms snake around my rounded waist, pulling me closer to his sleep-warm body. He nuzzles his face into the crook of my neck, his stubble deliciously rough against my sensitive skin, and inhales deeply as if trying to absorb my very essence."Morning," I murmur, my voice still husky with sleep."Good morning, luce del Sol," Stefano replies, his lips brushing the shell of my ear and sending delightful shivers down my spine. "How was your night?""Not bad," I say, relishing the feeling of his large hand splayed protectively over the swell of my belly, his wedding band glinting in the

  • The Games of the Heart   EPILOGUE-ONE

    The warm sun caresses my skin as I step out of the car, breathing in the salty sea air. Stefano's strong hand grasps mine gently, guiding me toward the stunning villa that will be our home for the next few days. After all the stress and drama we endured with Ivan, this babymoon getaway to the Costanzo family's private island is exactly what we need.At 20 weeks pregnant, my belly is really starting to show. I rub it affectionately, feeling our little one kick inside me. Stefano smiles, placing his hand over mine. "We're here, amore mio," he whispers, his eyes shining with love and excitement.As we tour the magnificent villa, I can't help but be in awe of its beauty. The living room opens up to a glistening pool, the water sparkling invitingly under the sun. After a refreshing shower, we settle into the plush bed, the sound of waves lulling us to sleep.The following day, I awake to the tantalizing aroma of breakfast and Stefano's warm smile as he carries in a tray laden with my favor

  • The Games of the Heart   CHAPTER SEVENTY-FOUR

    We arrive back at the office after a few minutes of driving, the hum of the city a distant noise through the car windows. The sun is setting, casting a golden hue over the glass buildings and turning the streets into a labyrinth of shadows. I walk into my office, the familiar scent of polished wood and the faint aroma of coffee lingering in the air. I take my seat behind my mahogany desk, the weight of the day settling on my shoulders.I’m about to open a document and start reading when I feel the cold press of metal against my neck, the sudden chill sending a shiver down my spine.“Hello, krasivy,” Ivan’s voice rasps, his foul breath fanning across my skin, making my stomach churn.“Hello, Ivan,” I reply, my voice steady despite the fear knotting in my chest. I reach for my gun in the drawer but stop as he speaks again.“Do not even think about it,” he warns, taking my gun with a casual ease. “I have missed you like crazy these past few weeks. Did you miss me?”I turn to look at him,

  • The Games of the Heart   CHAPTER SEVENTY-THREE

    I settle into the chair in the warehouse meeting room, my hand unconsciously resting on my slightly swollen belly. At fifteen weeks pregnant, the changes in my body are subtle - noticeable to me but not yet obvious to others. I push thoughts of the baby aside, focusing on the task at hand.“Tell me, Fred, how are we doing?” I ask the man Santiago hired to help me ruin Ivan.“We have destroyed a good number of his restaurants here in the US. The Costanzo family is also doing an excellent job with his businesses in Europe. Good is what I would say, Ma’am.”“That’s good to hear. Has he visited any of the places we’ve destroyed?”“No, he hasn’t.”“None?” I ask, a little shocked.“Yes, none.”“That is odd. I’m sure it’s only a matter of time before he comes out of his hiding place.”“I believe so, too.”“Hopefully soon. We can end here for today. Thank you.”“You are welcome, Ma’am,” he says, leaving the meeting room.I follow him once I gather my things, my mind racing with the implicatio

  • The Games of the Heart   CHAPTER SEVENTY-TWO

    A week or two has passed since I returned to Miami, the familiarity of home providing a small measure of comfort amidst the grief that still clings to me like a second skin. Work has been a welcome distraction, the routine of the office offering a semblance of normalcy in a world that feels irrevocably changed. And through it all, the tiny life growing inside me has been my anchor, a constant reminder of the love Stefano and I shared.Today, I find myself at our gang's headquarters, a place I rarely frequent due to Dad's desire to keep me out of our mafia business. I am on my way to Santiago's office."How are you doing, Sis?" Santiago greets me as I enter, his eyes searching my face for signs of the pain I've become so adept at hiding."I'm doing well," I reply, sinking into the chair across from him. "And you?"He nods, a flicker of understanding passing between us. "I'm good. I have what you asked for." He slides a file across the desk, the innocuous manila belying the significance

  • The Games of the Heart   CHAPTER SEVENTY-ONE

    Three weeks have passed since Stefano's death, and the pain still feels as raw as the day I learned of his fate. Sometimes, I catch myself pretending he's just away on a long trip, that he'll walk through the door any moment with that crooked smile I loved so much. But reality always crashes back, leaving me breathless with grief.Today, I'm heading to the airport to fly back to Miami. Stefano's funeral was a week ago, a blur of black clothes and tear-stained faces. I cried so much that day I feared for our baby's well-being. But our little one is strong, just like their father. I'm determined to take care of myself and this precious life growing inside me. It's what Stefano would have wanted.As I descend the stairs, my hand trailing along the smooth banister, Aurora's voice breaks through my reverie. "Are you ready to go?""Yes, I am," I reply, reaching the last step. The maid follows behind with my final bag, a bittersweet reminder that I'm leaving this place that holds so many mem

  • The Games of the Heart   CHAPTER SEVENTY

    Later that night, Thomas arrives at my room with a bulletproof vest in hand. My heart races as I realize what this means—I'm going with them. Aurora joins us, her presence a comforting reassurance that she'll be by my side, keeping me safe in the car.As we arrive at the location where we suspect Stefano might be held, an eerie silence hangs in the air. Aurora and I wait in the car, our hands clasped together, as Thomas leads a group of men into the abandoned building. The minutes drag on, each second an eternity of uncertainty.Suddenly, Thomas emerges from the building, his face contorted with rage. He kicks the car tires, a guttural scream of agony tearing from his throat."What's wrong?" I ask, my voice trembling as I step out of the car."Nothing," he replies, his eyes avoiding mine.Aurora comes to stand beside me, her presence a steadying force. "Did you find Stefano?""No, we didn't," Thomas admits, anger seething beneath his words."What did you find inside that has you so wo

  • The Games of the Heart   CHAPTER SIXTY-NINE

    It's been a few days since I witnessed that horrifying video of Ivan torturing the love of my life. The images haunt me, seared into my mind like a cruel brand. I try to stay strong for the tiny life growing inside me, but it's a constant battle. Every time the memories resurface, tears flow unbidden, and my thoughts spiral into the dark abyss of what horrors Stefano might be enduring at Ivan's merciless hands.In a desperate attempt to find him, I tried calling the number Ivan used to contact me that fateful day. But it was a futile effort - the calls never connected. He must have used a burner phone, discarding it the moment our conversation ended. The video itself arrived on a phone Ivan mailed to me, a calculated move to avoid leaving a digital trail. As much as I loathe him, I can't deny his cunning. Had he sent it via email or social media, tracing the device back to him would have been far easier.The Costanzo family has been relentless in their search for Stefano, mobilizing e

  • The Games of the Heart   CHAPTER SIXTY-EIGHT

    The sun hangs high in the Sicilian sky as I sit in the Costanzo estate's opulent living room, my packed bags waiting for Stefano. The baby and I are doing fine, but today, I'm leaving Sicily. Stefano plans to send me to Singapore until it's safe for the baby and me to return to Sicily or Miami. Nobody knows where I am going except Stefano and me. We all felt it would be safer that way; even my mom doesn't know.Aurora's entrance breaks my reverie. "I'm going to miss you," she says, her voice thick with emotion."Me too," I reply, fighting back the lump in my throat."Hopefully, Stefano will deal with Vladimir soon, so it will be safe for you to be around us again," Aurora adds, her eyes reflecting a mix of hope and worry.I nod, glancing at my wristwatch for the second time in twenty minutes. Anxiety gnaws at my insides. "Did Stefano tell you anything to pass on to me?" I ask, trying to keep the desperation out of my voice.Aurora's brow furrows. "No, was he supposed to?""Not really,

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