All Chapters of The Games of the Heart: Chapter 11 - Chapter 20

The following day, I wake slowly, blinking against the gentle rays of sunlight filtering through the gauzy curtains. A sense of tranquility settles over me as I take in the plush bedding and stylish decor of the guest room. For a few precious Moments, I allow myself to simply exist in this cocooned state of peace before facing the new day.The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee eventually lures me from the luxurious bed. I stretch languidly before my bare feet meet the thick, soft carpet as I make my way to the ensuite bathroom. The rainshower's steady stream washes over me in a warm, soothing embrace, rinsing away any lingering tension.Dressed in a nice sundress I find in the walk-in closet, I venture out to the main living area in search of breakfast. The mouthwatering scent grows stronger, leading me to the sleek kitchen. A lovely maid greets me with a warm smile as she plates up a feast of frittatas, fresh fruit, and flaky pastries."Buongiorno, signorina," she says pleasantly, p

ANDREAThe following morning, I wake with a sense of purpose, excitement already thrumming through my veins. Today, I'm on a mission - to make a sizable dent in Stefano's bank account and prove a point. I've spent my father's money countless times to get his attention, but with Stefano, it's different. This isn't about seeking approval; it's about showing him that I'm not to be underestimated.I breeze through the mall like a woman possessed, my arms quickly laden with shopping bags from every high-end store I pass. The thrill of the hunt, the rush of swiping that black card - it's intoxicating. I can almost picture the look on Stefano's face when he sees the damage I've done, and it only spurs me on.My phone buzzes incessantly in my pocket; no doubt Stefano trying to reach me, but I ignore it. I want the full impact of my shopping spree to hit him all at once, without warning.I make my way to a cozy little restaurant before continuing my shopping excursion, my growling stomach urgin

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

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

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