Page 69 of His

He turned his head slightly, his mouth so close to mine that I could feel his breath. “I’m sure,” he replied, his tone firm. “Raffaele needs to think we’re distracted, vulnerable. He needs to believe there’s tension between us.”

I nodded, straightening up, my expression hardening. “Then let’s give him a show.”

The room fell silent for a moment as the auctioneer announced a new item—a rare vintage bottle of wine from an exclusive vineyard nearby here in Tuscany. I could see the interested glances, the quiet murmurs of the guests. It was the perfect opportunity.

I leaned back, just slightly, enough to pull away from Massimo, my eyes narrowing as if in irritation.

“You know, Massimo,” I said, raising my voice just enough to be heard by those nearby, “sometimes I think you care more about your reputation than anything else, especially me.”

“Sofia, now’s not the time,” he murmured, his tone low, but just loud enough for those around us to hear.

I let out a small, sharp laugh, shaking my head as if exasperated. “When is the time? You drag me to these events, parade me around like some trophy, and expect me to smile and nod and pretend like I don’t see what’s happening, like I don’t know what you are.”

I could feel the eyes of the other guests turning toward us, curiosity piqued by our angry-sounding exchange.

Good.

Let them listen. Let them wonder.

Massimo’s grip tightened slightly on my arm, a warning, but I pulled away, my expression heated.

“I’m not just some piece in your game, Massimo,” I continued, my voice a little louder now. “I’m done pretending.”

“Careful,bella,” he warned softly, his voice carrying just enough menace to make my skin prickle. “You’re playing with fire.”

I took a step back, my chin lifting defiantly. “Maybe I like the heat,” I shot back, feeling a thrill run through me as I spoke the words.

The tension in the room was palpable now, the whispers growing louder, and I could feel the eyes of the crowd watching us, trying to figure out what was happening between us. I knew Raffaele’s men were here, somewhere, listening, watching, and that was exactly what we wanted.

Massimo’s eyes darkened, and for a moment, I could see the real fire in them, the real anger.

“Fine,” he said, his voice tight, controlled. “Go ahead. Make your point. But remember, you’re still mine.”

I felt a rush of heat at his words, a surge of excitement that I tried to mask with a scornful smile.

“We’ll see about that,” I replied coolly, turning on my heel and walking away, my heart racing in my chest.

As I moved through the crowd, I could feel the eyes following me, the whispers growing louder. I had no doubt Raffaele’s men were taking the bait, thinking they’d just witnessed a crack in our alliance.

But they had no idea. We were just getting started.

The room buzzed with tension, and I could feel the weight of a hundred eyes on my back, whispering, speculating. I kept my head high, shoulders back, letting the silk of my dress sway with each movement.

As I neared the edge of the room, I dared to glance over my shoulder. Massimo was still standing where I had left him, his jaw tight, his gaze locked on me, but he made no move to follow. He was playing his part perfectly, letting me go, letting everyone in the room believe that we were at odds. It stung a little, seeing him remain so composed, but I knew it was all part of the plan.

I turned back around, heading for the exit, trying to calm my racing heart. I needed to get away from the crowd, away from the prying eyes and curious glances. I needed a moment to collect myself, to make sure I stayed in control.

But just as I reached the door, a smooth, familiar voice called out to me.

“SignorinaSofia.”

I froze, my breath catching in my throat. Slowly, I turned to see Raffaele Moretti standing a few feet away, a cordial smile onhis lips, his eyes sharp and assessing. He looked every bit the polished gentleman—dark suit impeccably tailored, tie perfectly knotted, not a hair out of place. But there was something about him that made my skin crawl, something cold and calculating behind that charming façade.

“Leaving so soon?” he asked, taking a step closer, his tone friendly, almost concerned. “I couldn’t help but notice the… tension between you and Massimo.”

I forced a polite smile, trying to match his tone. “Just a small disagreement,” I said, keeping my voice light. “Nothing to worry about.”

His eyes flickered with something unreadable, and he tilted his head slightly, studying me. “I see. Still, it’s a shame to leave before the night has even begun. These events can be… tedious, but they’re a necessary evil in our world, wouldn’t you agree?”