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I take a deep breath and muster up all the courage I can find. "Oh goodness, no. Nothing like that. Dario, Elena is... eccentric, to say the least. But she's been a friend for a long time, and I trust her. You have to understand that in our social circles, people can seem a little... off sometimes. Perhaps she was just seeking some gossip. It's just how they cope with the pressures of our lifestyle."
He studies me for a moment, the intensity of his gaze making it difficult to breathe. "I want to believe you, Jasmine. I really do. But if there's anything else you need to tell me, now would be the time."
My heart races as I consider the weight of his words. If I tell him the truth about Elena – about me – I risk losing everything we've built together. But if I don't, I might lose him anyway. The decision feels impossible, but I know what I have to do.
"Please, just trust me on this," I plead, my voice barely more than a whisper. "I promise you, nothing is going on that you need to worry about."
For a moment, he holds my gaze, his eyes searching mine for any hint of dishonesty. Then, with a sigh, he nods. "Alright, Jasmine. I'll trust you. I just ... it was strange, her showing up here, at this hotel, being so intrusive."
As I watch Dario's expression soften, I realize that this is only the beginning of a dangerous game I'm playing. The choices I make now could have dire consequences for both of us. My heart pounds in my chest as I force myself to focus on the here and now.
“You’re right. She is a little strange,” I laugh. “But what can we do? She’s good at heart, and that’s what matters, isn’t it?”
“I guess,” Dario says with a little frown on his face, as he leans forward to give me a goodnight kiss. This time, there’s no spark. Just pure fear that spreads through my body, threatening to ruin everything I now cherish. Him, us, and the idea of a future together.
Chapter 26
Allies In The Shadows
Dario
The sound of my phone buzzing on the table interrupts the quiet morning I am sharing with Jasmine. I glance at the display, recognizing the number. It's another one of my trusted men.
They all seem to be calling me urgently, each one leaving a voicemail when I ignore them. Something serious must have happened for them to reach out like this, one after another. I can no longer let these calls go.
"Mi dispiace, amore," I apologize to Jasmine, who's observing me with curiosity. "I need to take these calls."
"Of course," she says, kindly. "Do what you need to do."
I step away from her and listen to the messages. The urgency in their voices is profound, as they request an immediate meeting at our usual spot, away from the prying eyes of Rome.
I feel a sudden surge of anxiety at the thought of what could possibly be so important as to meet at our spot, a spot even my father isn't privy too.
As I prepare to leave, I realize that having Jasmine by my side could make all the difference. She's proven herself time and time again with her intelligence and resourcefulness.
Her presence would not only provide emotional support but also potentially help navigate whatever situation we're about to face.
"Jasmine," I say, looking into her deep brown eyes. "I need you to come with me. Your insight will be invaluable at this meeting."
"Are you sure?" she asks, concern etched on her delicate features.
"Absolutely," I reply, my voice filled with conviction. "We're in this together, remember? The Ghost is now sending messages to you too. Crowned you the queen in this game of chess."
"Let's go," she agrees, determined to play her part.
As we approach the dilapidated warehouse, I feel uneasy, believing that once I enter, things won't remain the same.
The warehouse's crumbling walls and rusted metal gates don't exactly inspire confidence, but I know that appearances can be deceiving. This unassuming place serves as a front for my trusted allies – a sanctuary where we can gather in secret to discuss matters of grave importance.
"Are you sure this is the right place?" Jasmine whispers, her voice tinged with apprehension. Her eyes scan the surroundings, no doubt searching for any potential threats.
"Trust me," I reply, offering her a reassuring smile. "It's not much to look at, but it keeps prying eyes away."
I guide Jasmine through the darkened entrance, our footsteps echoing ominously in the cavernous space. The air within the warehouse is thick and hot, compressed and private, setting the tone for the meeting that awaits us.
Shadows dance along the walls as the flickering light from a single, dimly lit bulb barely illuminates the room.
"Stay close," I tell Jasmine, my voice barely audible above the hum of the generator providing power to the warehouse. Our hands intertwine, and I feel the warmth of her touch grounding me in this uncertain situation.
