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I feel sick to my stomach to learn about The Don Marchetti’s tactics. There’s evil, but even evil takes a whole new dimension when there’s kids involved. I put my phone aside and search Dario’s face.
He looks worried, concerned, caring. In my heart, I believe that there’s no way a man like Dario could be an accomplice to his father’s crimes. But then, my brain shrieks at me - even if he was, how do you know he’s not capable of wearing a mask?
For this moment, maybe what I need is some space and distance to clear my head. Too much has happened tonight. The shooting, the ghost, the kiss …
"Maybe I should go home," I suggest hesitantly. "I don't want to put you out and be a distraction. You might have things to do."
"Jasmine, no." Dario's voice is firm, his grip on my arm tightening ever so slightly. "It's not safe for you to be alone, especially now. You could be followed or watched."
I wish I could tell him who I am, that I’m trained to bring down criminals. I can handle myself. But that would blow my only chance to get close to him for my mission. He needs to believe I’m a damsel in distress, that I need his help. That’s what fuels his purpose.
“But Dario,” I try again. “Wouldn’t it be easier to defend yourself if you’re not looking over your shoulder to see if I’m okay? Please. Let me return home. I’ll stay out of your way.”
“Do you truly think I’d be able to focus on anything but you when you’re not here? All the time, I’d be worried if you’re okay, Jasmine. And if something was to happen to you, I’d be the one to blame. Please, I never ask for favors, but today, I ask you for the first one in my life. Stay.”
The way he looks at me, all soulful and true to each word, how can I say no? And he’s right.
As much as I hate to admit it, staying here with him might be the wisest decision, both for my mission and my own safety. But that doesn't mean I have to like it.
"Alright," I concede, feigning reluctance. "But only because you insist."
His eyes narrow, as if he senses something off about my agreement, but he says nothing. Instead, he guides me further into his apartment, one hand protectively resting on the small of my back.
"Thank you, Dario," I murmur, allowing a tremor to enter my voice. "I will admit, I've never been so scared in my life."
"Hey," he says softly, his thumb brushing against my cheek. "You're safe now. I won't let anything happen to you."
It's a sweet sentiment, but it makes me feel like a fraud. I'm not some helpless damsel in distress who needs a strong man to save her – far from it.
I've been trained for this very situation, taught how to manipulate those around me to achieve my goals. And yet, there's something about Dario that makes me want to believe in his promise of protection, even when I know I shouldn't.
He takes me to a room and shows me around. “I hope you will be comfortable here,” he mutters. I look around myself and nod. “It’s perfect.”
“There are towels, soap, shampoo and everything you’d need in the shower. In the cupboard, you’d find spare clothes. And there’s a mini-fridge with snacks and drinks in case you get thirsty at night.”
“Thank you, Dario,” I smile at him. I look around and notice how he’s thought of everything. “You make a good host.”
He gives me a wry smile. “For the rare chance I receive a guest. It’s an honor, to have a friend stay over.”
“That’s what I am…” I tease. “A friend?”
He says nothing, but the smoldering look he gives me tells me otherwise. He wants me to be more. A lot more than a friend.
“I trust you’d be comfortable,” he says, taking a step back towards the door. “I’ll be right next door if you need anything. Sleep well.”
He steps out of the door and is about to close it when I realize I don’t want the night to end just yet. I know I should keep my distance, but I’ve already crossed so many lines, what’s a few more.
“Wait, Dario,” I say out before I can stop myself. “I can’t sleep.”
Five minutes later, we’re sitting in his living room again. This time, with a beer each. Dario’s expression is serious.
"We need to focus on the information the Ghost provided. There's an imminent betrayal coming, and we have to be ready for it."
"Right," I nod, trying to push away the memories of his lips against mine, focusing on the conversation in hand. “So, what do we know?"
"According to the warning, someone close to us will betray us soon," Dario explains, his brow furrowing in thought. "It could be anyone, Jasmine. A friend, a family member, someone we trust."
"Then we need to set traps," I suggest, my mind racing as I try to come up with a plan. "Find a way to expose the traitor before they can do any more damage."
