CHAPTER ELEVEN- Shadows in the Light
680 Words
Leonardo stood near the large window in his study, the early morning light casting long shadows across his desk. Marco, Enzo, Luca, and Paolo all sat in silence, watching their boss pace. They had all moved to his study after what had happened in the dinning this morning. His jaw was tight, his fingers tapped against his thigh, a habit that always meant trouble was coming.
“We need to find the source of the rumors in the underground,” Leonardo said, he was furious. “I want names. I want reasons. I want to know whi is trying to test me, and I won’t let it go unanswered.”
Enzo leaned forward, serious. “Could be connected to the wedding. You know some circles don’t like peace. They thrive on chaos.”
Paolo nodded. “We’ve been watching, the Russians and the Mexicans but this feels different. Kind of Subtle.”
Leonardo’s eyes narrowed. “There’s nothing subtle about it—it’s personal.”
He turned to Luca. “From now on, you’re in charge of watching over Elena. She’s off-limits. No more close calls. If anything happens to her, it’s on you.”
Luca nodded. “Understood, boss.”
Just then, Leonardo’s phone buzzed. A text from Elena.
“Violet called. She wants to meet for coffee. I told her I’d ask you first.”
Leonardo paused, considering. She’d been quiet since the last incident, barely speaking to him unless necessary. He didn’t like how her eyes held fear when they met his. He should at leastet her do something that would make her feel happy.
“Tell her yes,” he texted back. “Luca” he said “You'll be in charge of Elena's security. Make sure she's safe. Don’t ever let her out of your sight. Gianluca’s coming wasn't a coincidence.”
Luca nodded again. “You got it.”
***
Elena’s hands trembled as she picked out a light dress and jacket. She wasn’t sure if what emotion she was feeling, either excitement or nervousness. Probably both. It had been weeks since she last saw Violet, and things had changed so quickly.
She stepped out of the house with Luca trailing behind, silent and watchful. The drive was calm until they reached the city.
On the way,Luca tried to make conversation and even made Elena laughed before his sharp eyes caught something in the rearview mirror. A black car. Too slow. Too careful. He made a few turns, testing, and the car followed.
“Change of plans,” Luca muttered. She noticed the changed in him and didn't question him.
He took a detour through smaller streets, eventually shaking the tail. He managed to memorize the plate number. As soon as Elena was safe inside the café where Violet waited, he stepped outside and sent the plate number to Leonardo.
Back at the estate, Leonardo stared at the plate number. “Gianluca. It most definitely would be him. One day and he's already causing me trouble”. He muttered
Of course.
“Find him,” Leonardo told Paolo. “He’s getting bolder.”
***
Inside the café, Elena’s face lit up when she saw her sister. Violet rushed into her arms, hugging her tightly.
“I’ve missed you a lot, sisi. You look so different,” Violet said, eyes soft. “Like a real bride now.”
Elena smiled shyly. “It still feels strange. I doubt if I’m doing anything things right.”
“You have to be patient with yourself, there's no perfect person,” Violet whispered. “You just have to be you. So… is he treating you okay?”
Elena hesitated. “He’s… intense. But he’s not cruel. At least, not to me. Not really. It’s just… complicated.”
Violet squeezed her hand. “You don’t have to explain. I’m glad you’re safe. And I’m here. Always.”
The two sisters sat, talking, laughing, sharing warm drinks and little secrets like they used to—two quiet souls, finding comfort in each other despite the shadows creeping around them.
- Writer
