CLOSER TO THE FIRE

The night air was crisp as Chloe stepped out of the club, her heart still racing from that close call. Milan had almost noticed her—almost. That one glance had been enough to remind her that this mission wasn't just about deception. It was about survival.

She needed to be smarter.

Instead of watching from the shadows, she had to get closer. Not to Milan directly—at least not yet—but to someone who could give her insight into his world.

Her research had already pointed to a few key figures in his operation. One name stood out: Luca Moretti, Milan's right-hand man. Ruthless. Loyal. Dangerous. If there was anyone who knew Milan's weaknesses, it was him.

The next evening, Chloe returned to the club, this time with a plan. She had shed her quiet observer role, trading it for someone bolder. Her black dress hugged her frame just enough to draw attention, but not too much to stand out. She had learned early on that blending in wasn't just about hiding—it was about choosing how people saw you.

At the bar, she ordered a drink and waited.

It didn't take long.

Luca Moretti slid onto the stool beside her, his movements lazy, confident. He was taller than she expected, his sharp jawline shadowed with stubble.

"You look new," he said, voice smooth but edged with something unreadable.

Chloe turned slightly, offering a small smirk. "I've been here before. Maybe you just weren't paying attention."

Luca chuckled, taking a slow sip of his whiskey. "Oh, I pay attention. Especially when someone like you walks in."

She let the compliment slide, keeping her expression neutral. "Then maybe you can help me. I'm a journalist, working on a piece about the city's underground scene. Thought this place might have some interesting stories."

Luca's gaze sharpened, but his smirk didn't waver. "A journalist? Dangerous profession around here."

"I like danger."

For a moment, he studied her, as if weighing the truth behind her words. Then, he leaned in slightly, voice lowering. "If you're looking for stories, you're in the wrong place. People here don't like their secrets exposed."

Chloe tilted her head. "Including Milan DeLuca?"

Silence.

Luca's playful smirk vanished in an instant.

Chloe had pushed too hard.

He set his glass down, his fingers drumming once against the counter. "I'd be careful if I were you," he murmured. "Some questions don't come with safe answers."

Before she could respond, he stood and walked away, disappearing into the VIP section where Milan was waiting.

Chloe exhaled slowly.

She had made an impression—but was it the right one?

One thing was certain. Milan would know about her soon.

And when he did, she had to be ready.

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