Alessandro Ricci never wanted to inherit the dark empire his family built. A reluctant mafia leader with a quiet intensity, he rules with sharp intelligence and a firm hand, but his soul craves freedom from the shadows. Known for his calm demeanor and ruthless precision, Alessandro is a man of control-until Amara Russo storms into his life with her humor, vulnerability, and defiant spark. Amara, a woman who hides her scars behind witty remarks, finds herself caught in a dangerous web when her brother's reckless decisions pull her into Alessandro's world. To her surprise, the cold and enigmatic mafia boss isn't what she expected. Beneath his reserved exterior lies a man burdened by the weight of duty, longing for something-or someone-to make him feel alive. As their worlds collide, so do their hearts. Amara's light begins to thaw Alessandro's carefully built walls, while his protective strength gives her the courage to face her fears. Their connection is electric, their passion undeniable, but with every touch, they risk unraveling the fragile balance of their lives. In a world where danger lurks in every shadow and love demands vulnerability, can they find solace in each other-or will the darkness of Alessandro's past consume them both? "Seduction in Shadows" is a captivating tale of love, loyalty, and the power of redemption, where hearts collide in a fiery romance that defies the odds.
Chapter 1 Shadows of the past
Chapter 1: Shadows of the Past
Amara Russo had faced her fair share of bad ideas. This one, however, might top the list.
Walking into a mafia headquarters unarmed, unprepared, and wearing her favorite (and only) leather jacket that had been patched so many times it practically told a story? Definitely bad.
Her fingers gripped the crumpled IOU her brother had stupidly signed. She read the sum again and nearly laughed-it wasn't funny, but if she didn't laugh, she'd cry.
Amara wasn't sure what she expected from Ricci Enterprises, but the polished glass-and-steel exterior didn't scream mob boss inside. If she didn't know better, she'd assume they sold luxury handbags.
The receptionist looked up as she approached. Cool, professional, and wearing a blazer that probably cost more than Amara's rent. "May I help you?"
"Yeah," Amara said, trying not to sound as panicked as she felt. "I'm here to see Alessandro Ricci."
The receptionist's perfectly plucked eyebrow arched.
"I mean, Mr. Ricci," Amara corrected, plastering on a nervous smile. "Or the 'big scary boss man.' Whatever title he prefers."
The receptionist didn't laugh. Of course, she didn't. With a curt nod, she made a call, and two men in suits appeared moments later, motioning for Amara to follow.
She trailed behind them, muttering under her breath. "You'd think the mafia would at least offer snacks for guests. Maybe a cappuccino? No? Cool, cool."
The office they led her to was stark, masculine, and elegant in an intimidating way. Dark wood paneling, leather chairs, and floor-to-ceiling windows that offered a sweeping view of the city.
And then she saw him.
Alessandro Ricci.
Amara had prepared herself for a grizzled, middle-aged mobster with gold chains and a cigar. What she got instead was... well, devastating. Alessandro looked like he belonged on the cover of a high-end magazine, not running a criminal empire.
Dark hair, piercing eyes, and a quiet power that made her stomach flip uncomfortably. He wasn't trying to intimidate her. He didn't need to. His very presence did all the work.
"You must be Amara Russo," he said, his voice a low rumble that sent shivers down her spine.
"That's me," she replied, straightening her jacket. "Amara Russo, sister of the idiot who gambles like he's allergic to common sense."
Alessandro's lips twitched. Just barely. "Sit."
Amara sank into the chair opposite his desk, crossing one leg over the other. She felt his gaze sweep over her, assessing, calculating, and not the least bit impressed.
"Your brother owes me money," Alessandro began. "A substantial amount."
"Substantial is subjective," she quipped, though her voice betrayed her nerves. "To me, substantial is twenty bucks and a pizza."
His expression didn't change, but there was something in his eyes-a flicker of amusement, maybe?
"Do you have the money?" he asked, leaning forward slightly.
Amara hesitated, her palms sweaty against the chair's armrests. "Not exactly. But I do have a great sense of humor. And I can make lasagna. Really good lasagna."
One of the men standing behind her cleared his throat, clearly trying not to laugh.
Alessandro's gaze didn't waver. "I don't recall asking for lasagna."
"Well, that's your loss," she shot back. "Lasagna's a universal peace offering. You should try it sometime."
His lips pressed into a thin line, and for a moment, Amara thought she might have pushed too far. But then he leaned back, his fingers steepled as he studied her.
"You're very bold," he said finally.
"I prefer 'resourceful.' Bold makes me sound reckless."
"Isn't that what you are?"
Amara shrugged. "Maybe. But if it gets my brother out of this mess, I'll wear the label proudly."
Alessandro's gaze sharpened. "Your brother's mess is now your responsibility. You have one week to find the money."
"Just one?" she asked, feigning disappointment. "What happened to two weeks? Or, you know, a payment plan? I hear those are all the rage with student loans."
Alessandro tilted his head, his expression unreadable. "One week," he repeated.
Amara sighed, standing reluctantly. "Fine. But for the record, you could use a better customer service policy. Maybe some smiles? A complimentary espresso?"
He didn't reply, his gaze following her as she turned to leave.
"Oh," she added, pausing at the door, "if I survive this, I'm naming my lasagna after you. 'Ricci's Revenge.' Catchy, right?"
This time, she swore she saw the faintest hint of a smirk.
As she walked out of the office, her heart still pounding, Amara couldn't help but glance back. Alessandro Ricci was dangerous, no doubt about it. But she had a feeling he wasn't the only one capable of playing with fire.
Other books by Christian steele
More