Chapter 2 - A Billionaire’s Playground
The interior of Lorenzo Moretti’s private residence looked less like a home and more like a museum curated by a villain from a high-stakes spy thriller. Vaulted ceilings soared overhead, supported by massive pillars of dark polished marble. A crystal chandelier worth more than a suburban neighborhood cast a cold, brilliant glow over minimalist modern art and priceless antiques. Footsteps echoed hollowly on the imported Italian tile as Silas escorted Clara down a long, dimly lit corridor.
Despite herself, Clara felt a shiver run down her spine, though she refused to let it show on her face. Armed guards stood at every corner, dressed in identical tactical gear, their eyes tracking her every movement with predatory precision. They weren't just security; they were an elite private army.
"In here," Silas instructed, stopping in front of a set of heavy mahogany doors reinforced with steel plating.
He pushed them open, revealing a vast, panoramic study. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a breathtaking view of the churning, rain-slicked river against the distant glittering skyline of the city. Standing by the glass, holding a crystal tumbler of amber whiskey, was Lorenzo Moretti. He had discarded his suit jacket, his white dress shirt rolled up at the sleeves to reveal powerful, corded forearms etched with faint, faded scars.
As the heavy doors clicked shut behind Clara, Lorenzo turned slowly. His cold steel eyes locked onto hers instantly, carrying a weight that could crush ordinary men. But Clara just stared back, leaning slightly against a nearby marble pillar as if she were waiting for a bus.
"You have an attitude problem, Miss Vance," Lorenzo said, his deep, velvet voice cutting through the silent room like a blade.
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"And you have a boundary problem, Mr. Moretti," Clara retorted instantly, crossing her arms. "Some of us have lives outside of your little mafia fantasy world. Now, why am I here? If this is about the water glass, I suggest you call room service."
Lorenzo stared at her for a long, agonizing moment, completely motionless. Then, a slow, dangerous smile crept across his lips.
