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Griselda seemed genuinely intrigued, asking more questions about our projects, their potential applications, and the ethical considerations we took into account. It felt exhilarating to share my passion with an outsider interested in my line of work.
We strolled through the lab, and I continued explaining each project, emphasizing the potential impact of our work. Her curiosity drove her to ask more questions, and I was more than happy to answer.
"But what are these modifications used for?" Griselda asked when I finished showing her around.
"They serve various purposes," I began, gauging her reaction. "But a significant part of it is to deal with the Mancini family."
Chapter 16
Griselda
AsIstoodinthe corner of Emilio's lab, I found myself utterly captivated by the sight before me. Emilio was in his element. His presence seemed to fill the room, commanding attention and respect from everyone around him. It was a side of him I hadn't seen before, and it was fascinating.
He was engrossed in a conversation with his employees, each one wearing a white lab coat and carrying a board, presumably discussing modifications for one of the many cars parked around the lab.
Not able to hear their discussion from where I stood, I was drawn to watch Emilio’s gestures. They were purposeful and expressive, emphasizing the points he was making. His hands moved fluidly through the air, sketching out ideas, designs, and concepts that only he could fully comprehend.
And then there were his eyes. Oh, those eyes. They burned with a passion that was impossible to ignore. I could see that this was something that he not only enjoyed but lived for and thrived on.
I caught myself smiling, my heart warming at the sight of him so engrossed in what he loved.
As I observed him, I couldn't help but reflect on our time together. The luxury of Lumière Heights Hotel, the elegance and sophistication—it all made sense now. Emilio was a billionaire, the CEO of Royalty Rentals, a man whose influence reached far beyond what I had initially imagined. It was both awe-inspiring and humbling.
I felt embarrassed when I remembered how I had laughed at him.
Amidst the hum of activity, Emilio’s presence still commanded my attention. I stood there, lost in thought, when I sensed someone stepping up beside me.
I turned to find Enzo, Emilio's trusted right-hand man, standing next to me. His eyes were fixed on Emilio, observing his every move. We stood there in relative silence for a moment as I wondered what he wanted to say. Breaking the silence, Enzo's voice cut through the air, direct and probing.
"What are your intentions with Emilio?" The question hung in the air, stark and unexpected.
I choked on his words, taken aback by the bluntness. My mind raced, trying to find the right words to express my thoughts.
"I... I care for Emilio," I finally managed, my voice hesitant yet resolute. "I genuinely care about him, though I can’t say I approve of your…activities."
Enzo studied my face for a moment, seemingly assessing the truth in my words. His demeanor softened, and he sighed, a mix of concern and something akin to relief in his eyes.
"Emilio values you," he said, choosing his words carefully. "He's been through a lot, and trust doesn't come easily for him."
I absorbed Enzo's words, wondering what happened to Emilio to make Enzo say this.
"He's had a challenging past," Enzo continued, his intense gray eyes filled with empathy. "Growing up in a complex family situation, he learned to guard himself. It's why he's so focused on achieving his personal goals. He's worked tirelessly to create a better life for himself and those he cares about."
Having watched Emilio laugh and interact with his employees was a side I hadn't expected from a person tied to a notorious mafia family. It made me wonder about him. It was also ridiculous how quickly my annoyance and anger at Emilio were fading.
Enzo noticed my soft smile, a warm expression on his face. It was as if he understood the questions that churned within me. He nodded towards the area over my shoulder, prompting me to turn back.
There, approaching us, was Emilio. Enzo leaned in close as if sharing a secret.
"In regards to what you’re thinking, not everything is as it seems,” he whispered, his voice tinged with a hint of mystery. "The truth about Emilio and the life he leads is more complicated than you think."
Before I could even ask what he meant or what he knew about my thoughts, Enzo slipped away just as Emilio showed up, his genuine smile brightening the atmosphere around us.
"Everything alright?" Emilio inquired, glancing in the direction in which Enzo had just vanished.
I nodded. "Yeah, he just kept me company."
Emilio raised an eyebrow, a hint of skepticism in his eyes.
