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Mafia's Coded Heart

Mafia's Coded Heart

Lord Comfort

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She was a hacker sought out by mafia gangs and Luca Santoro was finally able to get his hands on her where she worked as a hostess to cover up her hacker identity. "You're just a mere pawn in my game, Ash Vega." "I am Astrid, no longer Ash Vega. Get it straight, Don Santoro." As they both went deeper and deeper into the darkness lurking, they developed a relationship they couldn't define. But she was good with codes, she could break the codes in his heart to define what they were. The more valuable an asset, the more it is sought for in the underground world. More giants rose in order to claim the valuable one Luca Santoro possesed. Will he be able to protect her?

Chapter 1 One

Chapter One

Astrid's POV

The music boomed, electrifying the room, and THE NEXUS pulsed with an extra layer of energy tonight. Neon lights danced across the walls, casting a kaleidoscope of colors, as laughter, clinking glasses, and the acrid smell of smoke filled the air, crafting an illusion of safety. But we all knew better - safety was just an illusion here.

I navigated through the crowd, balancing a tray with one hand and flashing flirtatious smiles at the suited businessmen, they were my best targets, and the young entrepreneurs, who had eyes for good stuffs like me. There were also the regulars: Jack, the charming but ruthless real estate mogul, and Marcus, the soft-spoken tech investor with a penchant for secrecy. My beauty and charm were undeniable assets, drawing attention and tips from these men who were accustomed to getting what they wanted.

The tight black dress hugged my curves, and I moved with practiced ease, my heels clicking on the polished floor. This place was a cesspool of shady deals and dangerous people, yet it was also my sanctuary. Some might say it was an odd place to hide, considering the danger that lurked here, but for me, it was perfect. As a hostess focused on getting her tips, I blended into the background, invisible to prying eyes.

"Astrid, VIP table next," my supervisor's voice crackled through the earbuds and I hummed in response, already moving toward the VIP section. Tonight felt off, though. I knew the regulars, but one man stood out. The air around him seemed to vibrate, drawing subtle glances and hushed murmurs as he navigated the crowd. His sleek, dangerous aura was unmistakable. Even without knowing his name, I sensed the power radiating from him - power that inspired fear.

Luca Santoro.

The name whispered in the city's darkest corners, spoken with equal fear and respect. Mothers warned their daughters about men like him - men who spelled instant death if crossed. His reputation preceded him, a trail of rumors and half-truths that only added to his mystique. And he was at Nexus, a club that catered to the city's elite and shady underworld.

A shiver ran down my spine. Men like Luca didn't frequent clubs like this without a reason, and I had an unsettling feeling he was searching for something valuable.

My curiosity piqued, despite knowing better. It never led me anywhere good. I'd learned to suppress it, to focus on my job and blend into the background. But there was something about Luca Santoro that drew me in, a morbid fascination with the danger that surrounded him.

"Astrid, VIP table F," my supervisor repeated, her voice firm. I hesitated, my feet rooted to the spot. Luca Santoro sat at table F, his piercing gaze locking onto mine. Did I really have to serve him?

He spotted me even before I could reach the table, his dark eyes locking into mine with precision. Like a hunter locking on its prey. My pulse quickened but I kept my expression neutral, forcing a smile as I approached the table he was seated, flanked by two of his men. They were as imposing as he was and weren't even trying to soften their menace.

"Good evening." I said, my voice light and smooth. "Can I get you three anything?"

He didn't answer right away. He just let his gaze travel slowly up and down my body, assessing me like I was some merchandise he was considering buying. I fought the urge to shiver under his gaze, trying to keep my hostess facade.

"What's your name?" He finally asked, his voice low and smooth and I could almost not hear it.

I hesitated just for a fraction a second, before answering. "Astrid."

His lips slowly curved up into a dangerous smile that didn't reach his eyes. "Astrid. A pretty name for a pretty face." He leaned back in his seat, his gaze not leaving mine. "I've heard you're good with computers, Ash Vega."

My heart skipped a beat but I kept my expression neutral. "I think you've got the wrong person, sir. I'm Astrid and I'm just a hostess here."

His smile widened but I could feel the lack of warmth in it. It was more of a deadly smile than a soothing one. "You see, I've been looking for someone with a particular set of skills and that led me to Ash Vega. Unfortunately, no one has heard from her over the past year and then my lead pointed me here. To you."

I swallowed hard, trying to keep my smile on.

This is bad, very bad.

I thought I've been able to keep a low profile all this while but they could still find me if they wanted to? "I think you've been misinformed. I know nothing about computers."

"Is that so?" He tilted his head, as if considering my words but the glint of the predator in his eyes remained which told me he didn't believe a word I was saying.

If Luca Santoro was looking for me of all people, it meant he knew a lot about me. And for someone who was on top of the food chain to come down here looking for me, I knew I couldn't escape whatever it was he came here for but I had to try my luck.

"You're the one I'm looking for and you are going to work for me." He finally said after leaning forward, his elbow on the table.

"I'm sorry. I'm not interested." I replied and at that instant, his smile vanished, replaced with a cold determination and I knew deep down that I've done it.

"You don't have a choice, sweetheart."

"You're mistaken. Now if you'll excuse me, I have other customers to attend to." I turned to leave, but one of his men stood in my way, his expression blank but threatening. I swallowed hard, looking back at Luca who was still staring at me with the same gaze.

"I'm not in the habit of repeating myself." He said softly. "You are coming with me, Ash. One way or another."

Panic surged through me but I was trying my best to keep calm. "I'm not going anywhere with you."

He was quiet for a few seconds before letting out a sigh as if disappointed. "I was hoping you'd see the reason but I guess I was wrong." He reached into his jacket and pulled out a small vial. I've seen the vial quite a few times to not recognise it. "But I guess we'll have to do it the hard way."

Before I could react, he was on me in a swift second. I took a step back, but it was too late. His hand clamped down on my arm as he pressed the vial against my lips. The liquid was bitter, sliding my throat before I could spit it out.

"What did you–" My voice slurred, the room spinning as the liquid started to take effect.

I was right, he had drugged me.

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