“I don’t know.” Matteo fiddles with the fancy watch on his wrist.
“Well, call her, and stop moping around.”
I pause at the top of the spiral staircase that curves to the foyer below.
Guests mingle beneath me as they’re checked into the ballroom: family, colleagues, and allies, all handpicked by me.
The grand chandelier above scatters light on the expensive attire and the thousand-dollar jewelry adorning their bodies.
“Andiamo, you two, let’s go.” Bruno appears from the shadows. “We’re closing off the upper floor and keeping guests downstairs.” He nods to the guards posted at the bottom of the stairs and another one feet from us.
Matteo nods and hurries down the stairs, texting rapidly as he enters the ballroom.
Bruno turns to me. “Enjoy yourself tonight, Farfalla. You’ve earned it.”
I flash him a smile. “I always do.”
The upbeat tempo of the music fills me as I reach the bottom steps into the foyer.
Moving past the line of guests, I enter through the doors into the ballroom, and begin mingling with the crowd.
The scent of floral perfume and spicy cologne surrounds me as I shake hands and hug the family and friends that have gathered here for me. It’s nice to see everyone happy for a change.
Through the sea of people, I spy my sister Ginevra, Gigi for short, laughing at the bar with a man.
I stop short.
Who the fuck is that?
I don’t know him.
How the hell did he get in?
This is a private invite-only event.
“Gigi and her obsession with men,” I mutter.
Weaving through the crowd, I make my way to the bar. Gigi’s wild chestnut curls bounce as she places her hand on the man’s wrist and leans into him. Her emerald eyes sparkle with lust.
Gag me!
That’s typical of Gigi though.
Always falling in love with whatever man gives her the time of day.
But then again she’s barely twenty-two and by the grace of god has avoided the poison of this lifestyle that courses through my veins.
I’d rather she reap the benefits of happiness and peace, while I get put through hell.
Walking over to her, I wedge my fingers into the back of her strapless green gown, pulling her back slightly so I can wrap my arm around her shoulders.
“Enjoying yourself, sis?”
Gigi squeals and hugs me. “Yes, Cipi. You always throw the best parties.”
I glare at the man she’s entertaining. His black hair is slicked back and his fallow-colored eyes meet my gaze. His expensive black suit is tailored to highlight his defined chest and arms. A high-end watch, chain, and diamond stud in the right earlobe complete his look.
“I don’t believe we’ve met.” I extend my hand and he shakes it with a firm grip.
