Sneaking into his heart

Chapter 1

12 years later

Lucia

I pressed on the gas pedal of my sedan, forcing the engine beyond its capacity as I sped down the highway. This notice for an urgent meeting came too suddenly, forcing me to fly across half of the country in record time. This gathering of all members in our organization was a first in the two years since I became a worker for the Cavarelli syndicate, so it was of crucial importance. At the same time, my heart secretly thrummed with excitement as I will get to see Adriano in person today... for the third time in my life and for the first time since I infiltrated his empire. While the first time I saw him had been forever burned in my memory, haunting me almost every night, the second time had also remained deeply ingrained in my mind. 

At the time, I had secretly started participating in illegal underground fights to gain more hands on experience. Mel had been trying her best to teach me everything about the mafia, which she strangely seemed to be quite knowledgeable about, even training me physically, but I felt it wasn't enough. With the underground fights, I improved much faster and I earned quite a lot, which allowed me to afford other important training, such as in shooting. It was during one such fight that I saw him. He had arrived with his usual grand air, his very presence making his surroundings tremble with fear. Everyone kept fussing and crowding around him, trying to get a second of his attention. Yet, at the time he was still just Don Carlo's illegitimate son, with no hope of ever being able to climb to the highest position. It was only years later that he killed his father and seized the position as underworld boss. Somehow, I wasn't very surprised when I heard the news. What else to expect from such a ruthless person. Needless to say, now the power he exudes would be much more colossal. Seeing him that day had rekindled my hatred, the burning passion allowing me to knock down my opponent within minutes, as I imagined him to be Adriano. After that, I doubled my efforts to be able to reach him, starting off as low as being a drug dealer. The path was laden with risks, but I pulled it through, steadily climbing the ranks until I became in charge of a whole region. However, the last two years have been stagnant. While I earned lots of money as a mafia member, I had no access to Adriano whatsoever, not even able to glimpse him from afar. I've been dealing mostly with his underboss, Ryan, who's been overly attentive to me. It was obvious that Adriano was extremely cautious, the number of people he allowed close to him being a select few. But today was a unique opportunity where he will show himself in front of everyone due to a certain emergency situation.

Thirty minutes later, I stopped my vehicle in front of a huge white gated entrance, watching the guard who approached me. Retrieving the special invitation I’d been given, I handed it over to him. The guy analysed the paper, then scanned it with some device. Once he was done, he nodded at me and went back inside. A few seconds later, the entrance gave way, a splendid villa fronted by a huge immaculate garden coming into view. Among all of Adriano’s properties I had seen so far, this one had to be the hugest. It had to be to accommodate all the members coming here today, which probably numbered over a hundred. The place was also highly secured, the guards pretty much littering the whole area. I was guided to an underground parking which was almost filled to its capacity. Seemed like I was one of the latecomers. Not that it mattered since the main guest, Adriano had yet to turn up. At least that was what I could tell from everyone’s leisurely demeanor. 

Checking myself in the rearview mirror, I adjusted my golden-blonde locks, then stepped out of the vehicle. A couple of guards greeted me, then guided me towards a row of stairs. I kept following the guys through a long corridor until they halted at an opening which revealed a lavish living room, resembling a hall for holding grand events. The waiters busied themselves meandering about the elegantly dressed people scattered around the room, sharing the usual chatter and banters. As I traipsed forward, almost everyone turned to look my way, some faces curious, others displaying recognition, even contempt or disquiet. Not paying my surroundings any mind, I confidently trudged forth, going deeper into the room. I must say I made quite a name for myself in the time I’ve been working for the Cavarelli syndicate,  mainly thanks to my efficiency and quick wit. The businesses I took under my control quickly flourished, the profits at times even increasing tenfold. This meant that I was filling Adriano’s pockets, but it didn’t matter. All will be paid back in time. My rapid rise in status triggered lots of jealousy and scorn, especially from women who were also envious of my looks. However, these never bothered me, quite the contrary. It just meant I was that good, which I had to be so that I could achieve my goal.

Perusing the crowd, I strolled around for a long while, stopping at several places, keenly observing. I then headed towards the far back of the room, grabbing a glass of wine along the way. I hardly ever associated with anyone, preferring to remain by my lonesome, watching from afar. Casually leaning against the elaborately patterned wallpaper, I observed the guests who had long since resumed their mingling and chattering. I almost wanted to laugh at their relaxed demeanor, as if they were just enjoying a nice party. Were they even conscious of the motive behind this gathering? Every single one of us will be passing under the limelight today. A culprit was needed for the recent incident, meaning Adriano would not give up until someone endured the consequences, whether innocent or culprit. I glanced at the opening several metres from me which gave way to a corridor leading to an emergency exit. Everything is about strategy. If I learned anything in my years working for the mafia, it was that one should never let down his guard. I sighed my eyes darting to the towering main door. Adriano sure liked to make people wait for him, huh. I had already been here for over thirty minutes, having arrived one and a half hour later than the time mentioned, yet there was still no sign of him or one of his associates.  My eyes then returned to the room, landing on one particular person who had caught my attention earlier. He was doing a good job at acting normal, casually talking to others around him, but I caught on to the tension thrumming within him. Nothing gave it away, just the fact that he seemed to be acting too normal... That in itself was suspicious. Not that I cared. Finding the culprit was Adriano's problem and if he's even half as good as rumored, he should be able to identify the obvious right away. 

Just then, a familiar group of girls approached me and I rolled my eyes internally. Looks like we're in for another round.

"It's good to see you again, Lucia." An overdressed auburn-haired girl in her early twenties sneered.

"Meredith." I said simply nodding once.

"I didn't see you coming so I thought you had the good notion to not turn up today." She went on in a sarcastic voice. 

"But Meredith, Don Adriano made it clear that everyone needed to attend today." Another girl explained with fake concern. "Anyone missing can expect his imminent death."

She snorted. "That might be the case, but no one will notice even if that recluse doesn't turn up, least of all Don Antonio. I mean… she couldn't be more invisible." They all burst out laughing at her comment, all the others voicing their agreement like parrots. 

I couldn't help the pathetic look I sent their way. Did these girls believe they were still in high school or something? Or maybe their brain couldn't grow past that stage. I didn't even bother responding to their lame joke. 

Meredith brought her face closer to mine. "Say, Lucia. Who do you think is responsible for leaking information about this biggest drug cargo, ultimately causing Don Adriano to lose millions?"

I gave her a cunning smile. "If you believe yourself so clever, why don't you tell me your guess?" 

Her nostril flared, her smile turning menacing. "Sure, I have a good hunch… that you are the culprit!" She spat.

"Oh really?" I responded in a bored tone. "And on what base did you come to this conclusion?"

"You have always been an attention w***e, so I bet you schemed all this to make everyone more interested in your pathetic self."

That's all she could come up with? I sighed wearily, now realizing why many people say that dealing stupid people is the hardest thing. 

"Words can play against you, Meredith." I said cryptically. "Be careful you don't fall in your own trap."

Her face turned even more red with anger. "Admit it!" She said in a sharp voice. "You orchestrated all this! Just to catch Adriano's attention!"

I was getting tired dealing with them already, so I just gave them exactly what they wanted. "You guessed it exactly." I deadpanned. "How wise of you."

Her nostrils flared. "You asked for it! Just you wait." She then turned around and traipsed away, the rest of the girls parroting her movements.

These girls were just too naive. It made one wonder how they even managed to get here. Though, I guess it was mostly by using their body. 

Another thirty minutes of dully watching the crowd went by and then the thud of the front door's knob being turned resounded throughout the room, quieting all the chatter. Everyone turned towards the main entrance, their faces displaying nervous anticipation. The cool outside air drifted through the room as the door was shoved open, a spectacular display of the beautifully lit garden peeking through. The fluorescent lights reflected off the imposing figures standing at the door's entrance, further highlighting their grandeur. The people in his path immediately scattered away, their movements almost panicky, while others who stood further away discreetly approached the front, wanting a better look or maybe even grab a second of this prominent figure's attention. In a heartbeat, almost everyone in the room stood in a beeline on either side of the door, leaving a clear pathway to another far corner where some sort of VIP lounge stood on a slightly elevated platform. In all his majesty, Adriano Cavarelli sauntered in with his underboss to his right and his two bodyguards on either side. The air in the room instantly grew thicker, his imposing presence permeating the whole atmosphere. The people mumbled respectful greetings and flatterings as he passed by, the women showing off their best looks, all trying to catch his interest. However, he kept his gaze straight ahead all along, never paying them any mind. I maintained my position, leaning against the far wall, my gaze rapt on Adriano. A roller-coaster of emotions ran through me causing my heart rate to pick up dramatically as goosebumps broke out all over my skin. My sister's killer... finally he was right here within reaching distance, but still unapproachable. Wait, is it just me or Adriano briefly glanced my way? I then shook my head. Must be my imagination... He sleekly walked to the platform, settling on the most prominent-looking sofa, facing the whole room. Several unnerving minutes of silence ensued as he raked his gaze through the crowd, his eyes finally settling on me and lingering there. I maintained a neutral expression and, ignoring the knots of dread forming in my stomach, I returned his stare evenly. It was barely discernible, but I swore I caught a slight upward twist to his lips right before he brought his focus back to the crowd in front of him.

"You guys are aware of the reason behind this urgent meeting, so I won't waste my words." His deep baritone voice boomed through the room, instilling keen attention in every person.  "Whoever the culprit is... if you surrender now, I might give you an easy enough death."

The atmosphere was thick with tension as everyone darted their gaze around, trying to pinpoint any suspicious behavior in their comrades. I closely scrutinized the behaviour of the man who'd been acting strangely earlier.  My lips then lifted in a pitying smile. The poor guy just gave himself away. Jason Parker, a man in his late thirties, who's been in this syndicate for over 5 years now. I must say such a move is surprising coming from this guy who'd never had any slip up until now... At least not one that would stir attention. Greed is such a dangerous temptation. Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed Adriano's gaze was rapt on me. My heart started pounding in my chest. Could it be that he... I internally shook myself, forcing calm upon my heightened senses. There was no reason for him to suspect me, so I should stop assuming the worst. 

"If anyone has any clues about who the culprit might be, you'd better come forward now. Otherwise, be prepared to face the consequences." His low threatening tone made everyone cower away from his sharp gaze. When his eyes yet again lingered on me, I stared back challengingly. Though his face remained stoic throughout, I caught a hint of satisfaction in his expression. Was he trying to test me? If so, then why?

Just then another sharp voice echoed through the room. "Don Adriano!" Meredith deliberately purred his name sensually. "I know who the traitor is." She batted her eyelashes up at him, a seductive smile on her face.

I sighed exasperatedly. This girl never knows when to stop.

Adriano narrowed his eyes at her. "And?"

"It's Lucia Keller!" She shouted loud and clear. Everyone's gazes turned to me, some displaying shock and others pity. I maintained my relaxed demeanor, as if I hadn't just been turned into the center of attention.

"And on what basis are you saying this?" Adriano questioned her.

"She said it herself that she's the one who did it!" She announced confidently, appearing proud of herself.

Adriano narrowed his eyes at her. "Strange, you're the one who appears suspicious in my opinion."

Her smug smile froze, her expression turning stricken. "I would never even dream of betraying you boss, I swear. I was only trying to help by identifying all suspicious persons."

Adriano gave a bored sigh. "Your words appear sincere, but I'm not convinced." He nodded towards the guards standing nearby. "Take her away for questioning."

All the people standing close to Meredith readily scrambled away as if she was infectious. "Boss, I beg you, please spare me!" She wailed, falling to her knees. "I swear I didn't betray..." The rest of her words were muffled when the guards restrained her, then dragged her away.

"Anyone else wants to add something?" Adriano asked the crowd again. "Remember my warning. If anyone has any valid clue as to who the culprit could be, this is your last chance to come forward."

The whole room has been stricken into silence. Gone was the relaxed mood from earlier. 

"Until we have identified a culprit, no one can leave this place. Well then, you may continue enjoying your evening." With those words, he stood up from his sofa and headed towards a door at the back of the raised platform.

As soon as he left, the crowd erupted in murmurs. I noticed Ryan descending from the platform and mingling into the crowd.  Many people tried to engage him in conversation, but he brushed them all off as he steadily approached me.

He dragged his fingers across his straight light-blond hair, pulling back the locks which had fallen into his bright grey eyes. Ryan Crawford was only two years my senior and gifted in both looks and skills. His prowess and accomplishments so far had earned him a well-respected name in the underworld. When I had first learned about Adriano and the people surrounding him, especially after realizing how outstanding they all were, it made me feel so insecure, the road to be able to someday reach their level seeming too harsh. Still, I had nothing else to live for, so I chose to strive for it, pushing all my limits. It all paid off well in the end.

"I'm glad to see you again, Lucia." Ryan said with a bright smile.

"Hey Ryan." I greeted. "What's up?"

"Do I need a reason to come see you?" He asked, seeming slightly offended.

"Not really. I'm only asking coz you seem slightly perturbed." 

His grin widened. "As expected of you... always so perceptive." His eyes shined with admiration.

I shrugged. "It was just obvious. So? What's the matter." I had a hunch that he had an ulterior motive in approaching me today. 

His expression turned slightly irritated. "The truth is I'm still angry about Meredith's earlier scheme. I can't believe she'd go this far just to draw attention to her." He looked at me with concern. "Sorry you had to bear the consequences because of her."

"Tantrums thrown by a kid do not bother me." I said simply.

He burst out laughing. "Well said. That girl has been nothing but an impediment from the beginning. If it weren't for her slightly influential family she wouldn't have even managed to set foot here." He gave me a reassuring smile. "Anyway, now that boss has decided to deal with her, she won't bother you ever again."

I gave him a small smile, then changed the subject. "So? How are you guys planning to identify the traitor?"

He sighed wearily. "So far we have no idea. We're hoping this arrangement will put the culprit under pressure and he'll end up exposing himself."

This guy really trusted me too much for his own good. If Adriano knew he was disclosing such confidential information, there was no telling what he'd do to him.

I darted my gaze around the room's ceiling. "If my guess is correct, you guys have been here since much earlier and have been observing this room through camera feeds. Is that right?"

His eyes widened in surprise, even showing some admiration. However, his expression quickly grew conflicted and he seemed at a loss over how to respond.

I gave him a reassuring smile. "It's fine if you aren't allowed to reveal this." I then went on in a distant voice. "But I'm sure he has already identified the person by now."

"What do you mean?" He asked in an urgent voice. He then brought his face closer to whisper in my ear. "Don't tell me you've already found the culprit?"

"Yes." I said wistfully. "It was pretty obvious."

He appeared flabbergasted by my revelation. "That's... how did you... Who is it?"

"Stop behaving so conspicuously." I chided, discreetly pushing him away. "You'll ruin this perfectly elaborate plan."

"What plan?"

I shook my head. "Nevermind. Why don't you tell me the real reason you're here."

His expression suddenly turned sombre. "The boss wants to see you."

The muscles in my stomach tightened with nerves. Finally... I would get to meet him... A mixture of dread, anticipation and nervousness coursed through me.

"Lead the way, then." I replied in an even tone.

"Lucia." He suddenly said, holding my arm. "I don't know why he suddenly wants to see you or if it has anything to do with what Meredith said, but should anything happen, I promise I'll protect you." His eyes burned with sincerity as they bore through mine.

"Thanks for your care." I murmured. "But I'm a big girl. I can look after myself."

I felt bad to brush him off like that. From the beginning, he had made it obvious that he was interested in me and wanted to deepen our relationship. However, I didn't have any time or interest in such things. My revenge was the only thing that ever mattered to me. Anyway, I was doing him a favor by pushing him away, since nothing good will ever come from getting involved with me and my twisted life.