Ruthless Hearts

Chapter 5

Dominic and Isabella froze in the bush, the guard's voice growing nearer. Before Dominic could react, Isabella leapt out, leaving him hidden in the shadows.

"Hey there, handsome," she purred, sauntering up to the guard. The moonlight highlighted her striking features, and she flashed him a flirtatious smile. The guard's stern expression softened, his guard lowering as he took in her beauty.

"What's a pretty thing like you doing out here?" the guard asked, his eyes raking over her form.

Isabella laughed lightly, stepping closer to him. "Just looking for some fun," she said, running a finger down his chest. For a moment, the guard seemed to buy it, his eyes glazing over with lust.

But then his gaze sharpened, recognition dawning in his eyes. "Wait a minute... you're—"

Before he could finish, Isabella's hand shot out, delivering a swift blow to his temple. The guard crumpled to the ground, unconscious. She knelt beside him, checking to make sure he was out cold.

Dominic emerged from the bush, his eyes wide with surprise. A smirk tugged at his lips. "Good one, Piccola," he whispered, running his hand over her long hair.

She stood up, brushing herself off. "I told you I could handle myself," she replied, a hint of pride in her voice.

They moved quickly, entering the mansion through a side door. The halls were dimly lit, shadows dancing on the walls. Dominic led the way, his gun drawn, ready for any sign of trouble. Isabella stayed close, her own weapon at the ready.

As they navigated the labyrinthine corridors, they encountered several guards. Dominic's sharp reflexes and brutal efficiency paired seamlessly with Isabella's agility and precision. They fought side by side, a deadly duo moving as one. Dominic couldn't resist making slick comments between skirmishes.

"Not bad for a lady who should be cooking dinner," he teased after she took down a particularly burly guard with a swift kick to the jaw.

"Keep talking, and you'll be the one needing dinner served through a straw," she shot back, not missing a beat.

Finally, they reached Russo's office. The door creaked open, revealing an opulent room filled with leather-bound books and ornate furniture. Dominic swept the room with his gun, but it was empty. No Russo, no henchmen, nothing.

Isabella walked over to the massive mahogany desk, her eyes scanning for any clues. Her gaze landed on a VHS tape labeled "For My Dear Guests." She picked it up, her heart pounding. "Dominic, look at this," she said, holding up the tape.

He joined her at the desk, frowning at the tape. "Let's see what our friend has to say," he muttered, slipping it into the tape player.

The screen flickered to life, and Russo's face appeared. He was an older man with silver hair slicked back, a scar running down his cheek. His eyes were cold, calculating. He leaned back in a plush chair, a sinister smile playing on his lips.

"Well, well, well," Russo began, his voice dripping with mockery. "If it isn't my favorite rivals. You thought you could just waltz in here and catch me off guard? How quaint."

He laughed, the sound grating on Isabella's nerves. "You see, I've been expecting you. Did you really think I wouldn't notice your little alliance? Dominic and Don Marino, the unlikely duo. It's almost comical."

Dominic's jaw tightened, his fists clenching at his sides. Isabella felt a surge of anger, her blood boiling at Russo's arrogance.

"By the time you see this, I'll be long gone," Russo continued. "I have eyes everywhere. I know every move you make before you even think of it. This little invasion of yours was predictable, and frankly, disappointing."

He leaned forward, his smile widening. "But don't worry. I haven't forgotten about you. I've left you a little gift. A reminder that I'm always one step ahead. Enjoy."

The screen went black, and silence filled the room. Isabella felt a chill run down her spine. Russo's words echoed in her mind, the reality of their situation sinking in.

Dominic growled in frustration, slamming his fist on the desk. "That bastard," he muttered, his eyes blazing with anger. He turned to Isabella, his expression grim. "We need to get out of here. Now."

As they hurried out of the mansion, Isabella's mind raced. Russo was more dangerous than she had ever imagined. But one thing was certain— she wouldn't stop until he was brought down. No matter the cost.

Isabella joined Dominic and his men outside the mansion, the cool night air biting at her skin. She leaned against the rough brick wall, next to the still unconscious guard she had knocked out earlier. The scene before her was a mix of tension and relief, Dominic's men gathered around him, discussing their next move.

Dominic stood at the center of the group, his presence commanding and authoritative. His sharp jawline and piercing blue eyes were accentuated by the shadows, giving him an almost dangerous allure. His dark hair, tousled from the night's events, added to his rugged handsomeness. The taunting smile that played on his lips was both infuriating and captivating.

After a few moments of intense conversation, Dominic ordered his men to head home. They nodded, asking if he was coming with them. He shook his head slightly, replying, "In a little while."

He then turned his attention to Isabella, that same taunting smile still in place. He walked up to her, his eyes twinkling with amusement as he looked down at the unconscious guard. "You did a number on him, Piccola," he chuckled, his voice warm despite the cold.

Isabella smirked, crossing her arms. "He deserved it. Besides, someone had to make sure you weren't out here getting yourself killed."

Dominic's laughter was low and genuine. "I have to admit, you did surprise me. Not many people can get the jump on one of Russo's guards."

"I told you, I can handle myself," she replied, a hint of pride in her voice.

Dominic's expression softened slightly, the amusement giving way to a more serious look. "Piccola, get home safe. We aren't sure yet what Russo meant by his 'gift,' so we need to be cautious," he said, his tone earnest.

He then walked towards a sleek black SUV where his best man, Tony, was waiting. Grasping the door handle, Dominic turned around once more, his eyes locking with Isabella's. "I hope to see you in future meetings. You've earned it," he said, winking before slipping into the car.

Isabella couldn't help but smile as she watched the SUV drive away, Dominic's words echoing in her mind. She had proven herself tonight, not just to her father, but to Dominic as well.

A low grunt from the guard at her feet snapped her out of her thoughts. He was starting to come to, groaning as he tried to sit up. Without missing a beat, Isabella kicked him like a donkey, sending him back into unconsciousness.

"Stay down," she muttered, turning on her heel and walking off into the cold night. The chill wrapped around her, but it couldn't dampen the warmth of her triumph. She headed home, her mind already plotting her next move. The battle with Russo was far from over, and Isabella Marino was ready for whatever came next.