Page 64 of Marked By Mayhem


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I trace my fingers along his jawline. “I think that is what made me fall for you… and it was all worth it.”

“I fell for you the first time I saw you,” he drawls.

"I am happy I got to review The Odeon," I say with a genuine smile. "I am happy to be here, with you and there is no other place I want to be." I am drooling over him. And I don’t mind it. Not one bit.

“Well, then stay, for as long as you want,” he smiles.

I offer a teasing grin. "As much as I'd love to, reality awaits. Rent and my obligations to my flat mate. I haven’t been in touch since you kidnapped me, Mr."

“You can just inform her,” he says casually.

“Sure… By the way, my flat mate is a he,” I say.

His eyes deepen with a subtle possessiveness. "A guy?"

I playfully tap his nose, attempting to keep the mood light. "Ah, you're getting territorial already."

Tommaso's features relax, a satisfied smirk playing on his lips. "Good that you know. I wouldn't want you living with another man. It’s not safe. You can live here."

A chuckle escapes me at the unexpected possessiveness. "Jealous much? You're the only mob boss in my life, don't worry."

His eyes narrow, a hint of a smirk on his lips. "Mob boss or not, I don't like the idea of you living with another dude."

I decide to play along but tell him anyways. "Reed is not like that. He's more into his opera and cheesy jokes than being a threat to anyone."

Confusion clouds Tommaso's eyes. "Reed? Hm." I nod, enjoying the look on his face.

"Yes, and he's probably more interested in your impeccable looks than anything I have to offer. Watch out for yourself. I am good."

Tommaso raises an eyebrow, a hint of amusement and arrogance in his demeanor. "Well, I can't blame him for having good taste."

I roll my eyes. "Of course."

Tommaso feigns a sigh, but there's a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Forget Reed, I can take care of the rent. I want to take care of you, you can stay here with me for as long as you want, and I would be the happiest man on earth to have you by my side." I consider arguing for my privacy, my spaces, my life… but stop before I can even begin to speak. I think about all I want to do with him, and how comforting his presence has been in the past few days.

Fuck, I might be addicted to him because I can’t find it in myself to let him go just yet.

The white light from my laptop’s screen bathes my room as I sit down to finish the article exposing Mauro. The keys of the keyboard click with each word, and a sense of accomplishment fills the air. I did it.

The headline shouts the truth that was hidden for too long: "The True Face of Mauro D’Erranti." The story tells things just how they happened, revealing the crimes committed under his command. As I review the article, a smirk plays on my face. One milestone at a time.

This isn't just another story; it's a victory in revealing the darkness that has lurked for so long. Mauro's reign of terror is exposed for the world to see, and it feels like I’m finally closer to getting justice for Jenn. One step closer. Once the edits are done, I lean back, satisfied.

The article is not just a professional win; it's a personal one. I suddenly remember something and smile. I open my email and start writing a thank-you mail to Mauro’s ex-wife.

Dear Darla,

I hope you're well and almost over the second trimester!

Thank you for your courage and help. You should be proud of yourself, you’re a fighter.

The article is finished and ready to be published. I am attaching it for you to read.

This is your victory, first. Mine, afterwards.

Your bravery has contributed to bringing justice to those who deserve it. You have helped get justice for all the innocent lives he took.

Never forget that your safety remains our priority. If you need anything or want to reach out, please do! I'm grateful for your trust in us.

Source: www.allfreenovel.com