Chapter Three

Elena stepped out of her doorway, the porch light casting a warm glow. She walked down the path, past the carefully arranged flowerbeds. The sidewalk led her through streets lined with tidy lawns and ornate mailboxes. As she reached the corner, a taxi slowed to a stop beside her. She got in, giving the driver a brief nod.

As the taxi navigated through quiet streets, Elena observed the scenery outside the window. The elegant homes and manicured lawns soon gave way to strip malls and neon signs. She let out a sigh and directed her thoughts to the rendezvous, a calculated risk in her carefully managed world.

At Broad and Market, she exited the taxi and scanned the crowded sidewalk. Elena ducked into an alleyway, every sense on high alert. Long, ominous shadows stretched across the deserted street, cast by the flickering streetlights. The air reeked of street food, exhaust fumes, and decay, wafting from crumbling brick and rusty dumpsters.

She paused, her eyes adjusting to the darkness. Then, she spotted the car idling at the corner, its headlights cutting through the darkness. Without hesitation, she approached the back door opened it and then she slipped inside. The familiar scent of leather enveloped her, mingling with the subtle tang of expensive cologne.

Elena pulled out the small jade figurine. “As promised.”

Gloved hand closed over the artifact, his fingers brushing hers for a fraction of a second. He turned the figurine over, inspecting it with a meticulousness that spoke of years in the trade.

“For you,” he said, his voice low. Elena’s eyebrows arched, surprised by the unexpected gesture.

She took the figurine, weighing it in her palm.

“You paid a lot of money to have me swipe this, why gift it to me?” she asked, her tone neutral.

Shadow’s gaze locked onto hers, his eyes glinting in the dim light.

“Sometimes, the greatest treasures lie within the fakes.”

Elena’s expression remained impassive. She tucked the figurine into her clutch, while she mentally updated the transaction as the weirdest encounter she ever had with a client.

Shadow shifted, giving her a curt nod, “Your Father’s?’ he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Elena’s breath caught, her hand instinctively guarding the small, delicate locket at her neck.

“How do you know my father.” Her voice came out smaller than she intended.

“I know that you broke into the Salvatore estate a few days ago, in a bid to unravel the mystery surrounding his murder.”

Her fingers dug into the leather seat. “That’s none of your business and you seem to know so much about my movements. What’s your angle here?”

Ignoring her questions, he continued. “Amongst Lorenzo’s private records, there’s an information on some dealings that occurred decades ago. Those records are vital and more importantly, they are tied to the real reason your father was murdered.”

Elena's eyelids fluttered shut. “I am not an expendable thief, so I can smell bullcrap from miles away. You make it seem like you’re helping me, but I know there’s something in this for you. What is it?”

“Let’s just say that some things are not always as they appear. My motive is mine to know. I have given you a very vital information to help your cause and of course, I am paying for your services.”

He nodded silently “Skulking in the shadows will only get you far enough. But, if you like, you can operate in broad daylight as Elena Romano. You will be able to get close to Lorenzo and hasten your mission, starting tonight.”

Elena’s eyelids fluttered open. “You said the records are vital. How are they tied to my father’s murder? I need to know what I’m walking into.”

Punctuating his words with a wave of his hand, as if cutting through the tension in the air. “Everything in this world is connected, you just need to know where to look. In this case, you’re looking for answers and I’m giving you the chance to find them.”

He passed her a bulky package.

“This is everything you’ll need for tonight’s mission. The Salvatore brothers are hosting a closed-door meeting tonight. This isn’t the usual business gala—this one's off the books. Just the heavy hitters of the underground world. Mafians, mob bosses... the kind of men who don’t make the news unless bodies show up."

Elena's pulse quickened, her fingers tightening around the package. "What's the agenda?"

He glanced out the window, as if searching for answers. "No one outside that room knows for sure. But when they get together like this, it’s always for something. Expect alliances to shift and a few names to disappear by morning."

Elena shrugged. “Good thing I’m not interested in Mafian politics.” She rummaged through the bags, pulling out a sleek dinner gown.

"You’d be standing in for Vincent Macini tonight." He said, his tone casual.

Elena froze. “No, I’m not."

Shadow raised an eyebrow. “You need an in, and Vincent’s connections will grant you access."

“That may be true, but I don’t mix up in Vincent’s world or business,” Elena said flatly. “What we share is... different. We keep our private lives separate. Do you understand… It’s purely physical. No strings, no favors. Strictly business and occasional pleasure."

Shadow’s expression remained neutral. “That’s a lot of details that I didn’t ask for. Also, I’m sure Vincent won’t object,” he stated.

Elena snorted. “You’ve already cleared this with him, haven’t you?”

Shadow looked out at the window, his voice taking on a subtle, measured tone. “Some alliances require flexibility, Elena. And some truths require... sacrifices. The question is, are you willing to walk away from a chance to uncover the truth about your father?”

Elena’s jaw clenched, her eyes flashing with determination.

“Fine.” Her voice was laced with resignation. “You better hope you have a contingency plan, incase this one backfires. Vincent is mean and I like everything the way it is right now between us."

Shadow gave a nod at the bulky package. “You already have everything you’ll need for tonight’s mission...”

He paused, and placed a gloved hand on her arm. "Whatever you do tonight, keep it clean. Do not start a war. Watch out for Nico Salvatore. He is as mean as he looks…”

“I know the risks,” she interrupted, her voice firm.

“Lorenzo might be charming and smooth, but he’s not a fool. The moment he realizes you’re working against him; he won’t hesitate to kill you.”

Elena’s lips curled into a bitter smile. “Let him try.”

Shadow’s voice took on a hint of urgency. “If you find anything – anything at all – you contact me immediately.” Giving her another curt nod, he stepped out of the cab and back into the darkness.

The vehicle picked up and slowed to a stop a few meters ahead. Without another word, Elena opened the door and stepped out, the night air cool against her skin.

A black sedan waited, its engine purring softly.

The rear door opened, revealing a suited figure. "Ms. Romano," she said, her voice neutral.

Elena nodded, settling into the seat beside her.

***

The sedan glided through the estate's gates, the soft crunch of gravel beneath the tires giving way to the sweet scent of blooming roses. Beyond the ornate gates, a phalanx of black-suited guards stood watch, their eyes scanning the visitors with an air of quiet menace. Elena took one final glance at the mirror and sighed in satisfaction, letting her hair down for final effects. She had shed her dark attire for a stunning gown, her reflection transforming from casual to sophisticated socialite.

As she stepped into the grand foyer, Elena found herself amidst the city's most influential and feared. Her fingers played idly with the delicate chain of her necklace, a habit she’d picked up to help calm her nerves.

“Elena Romano?” A voice, low and smooth, cut through her thoughts.

She turned, her smile poised and practiced. Nico Salvatore stood before her, a flicker of surprise crossing his face as he took in her presence.

She allowed him the indulgence.

He wasn’t the first one to be drawn in by her sharp cheekbones framed her oval face, and her almond-shaped green eyes that sparkled with mischief. The loose strands of dark hair she’d allowed to cascade over her shoulders softened her otherwise fierce appearance.

 “Yes,” she replied, extending a hand. “Vincent sends his apologies. He had an urgent matter to attend to.”

Nico’s grip firm but not unfriendly. "I don’t know Vincent to ever send substitutes to important meetings?"

“It was very necessary. I assure you.”

She flashed him a disarming smile and he returned the gesture, but Elena noticed the smile didn’t reach his eyes.

“We’ll see. Lorenzo’s been waiting for you,” His tone was flat. “I’m sure he’s eager to meet our unexpected guest.”

Elena allowed a small smile. “Then I won’t keep him waiting.”

With a subtle nod, Nico led her through the crowd. His short, curly hair always seemed just on the edge of disarray, as if he’d run his hands through it after a fight or a late-night deal. It suited him—a man who thrived in chaos, never caring to play by the rules of polite society. Even now, as he moved silently beside her, he had an air of restless energy.

Elena took note of the attendees.

The cream of the underworld had gathered, their polished smiles and tailored suits masking the weight of their collective power. The infamous Morano crime family, the ruthless Vega cartel. She was sure that she saw a high-ranking member of the Russian Bratva.

She caught sight of Lorenzo as he walked towards them, his face devoid of any emotion.

Elena's fingers instinctively tightened around her clutch, the feel of her weapons concealed within were a grounding force and reminded her that she could hold her own against any adversary.

“Elena Romano,” she introduced herself.

His touch was warm; his eyes however was anything but. "Ms. Romano, you're even more captivating than rumored. Though I must admit, I’m curious why Vincent sent you last minute.”

Elena’s smile never wavered. “He sends his regrets, but I’m more than capable of handling the details of our business. He also thought it would be a good opportunity for us to… get better acquainted.”

Lorenzo's eyes narrowed. “I agree. In this circle, trust is earned. Ms. Romano.”

Elena merely smiled, her expression serene. “I wouldn’t expect anything less.”

A faint smile tugged at Lorenzo’s lips. “Good.”

Elena noted the arm he extended to her, a gesture of inclusion, even as her instincts urged caution.

“You must be looking for Nico. I believe he’s around somewhere.

With a graceful nod, Elena took his arm.

The grand tour passed in a blur of opulence and subtle display of rich taste and elegance. Elena made the right comments, asked the right questions, all the while cataloguing every exit, every security measure, every weak point she could exploit. She noted that security was rather lax for such an exclusive event. She turned to Lorenzo, her brow slightly raised.

“Interesting choice to keep the security minimal for a gathering of this caliber. Aren’t you worried about a fight breaking out?” she asked, keeping her tone casual.

Lorenzo chuckled softly, a glimmer of amusement in his eyes. “Ah, Ms. Romano, if I were to let every family invite their security details, this place would feel more like a military headquarter and that would draw unwanted attention. In our line of work, trust is the currency that keeps the peace.”

Elena tilted her head, intrigued. “So, you’re betting on trust? With all these factions gathered?”

“Precisely,” he replied, a serious note creeping into his voice. “Tensions are very high between families, and even the slightest flex of muscle could provoke a war. The fewer armed men in the room, the more likely we are to maintain the fragile truce.”

“Besides, some of these men know how to handle their business without the need for firearms. If anything, it’s a show of confidence.” He gave her a mock bow, as if he’d just offered a smooth presentation onstage.

Elena’s scowl remained in place. “You think the likes of the Morano crime family and the Vega cartel will respect that?”

Lorenzo shrugged, a charming smile playing at the corners of his mouth. “They’ll respect it or face the consequences. After all, in the outside world, we are all walking a tightrope. Many misconceptions are flying around about Mafian families. It’s only natural that in-house, a little grace goes a long way.”

 “These men do know better than to mistake my graciousness for ignorance. We each know our places and no one steps beyond theirs.”

The vibration of his phone interrupted the tour. Sensing an opportunity, she waited a beat and then made a silent sign that she needed to use the ladies room. He made gestures towards a part of the house.

Almost there…

A low murmur of voices echoed from around the corner and Elena ducked behind a statue, pressing herself flat against the wall. She watched silently as two of Lorenzo’s men strolled past, their footsteps heavy and unhurried, until they disappeared into another room.

She exhaled softly and pushed forward, weaving through the maze of hallways until she reached the heavy iron doors she’d studied earlier on her map.

Elena cursed silently, glancing back to ensure no one was coming. The high tech keypad next to the door was a new addition—it must have been installed after she broke in.

“Who are you?”

Elena stiffened. She’d been made.