The First Lie

Dante's Penthouse – The Next Morning

Belle lay still in Dante's bed, watching the early morning light spill through the windows.

She had survived the night.

But now, the real game began.

Giovanni expected information.

Dante expected loyalty.

And she was trapped between two men who would kill her without hesitation if she played this wrong.

She slipped out of bed quietly, careful not to wake Dante. She needed a plan.

Her only choice?

Feed Giovanni harmless information.

Give him just enough to keep him satisfied—but nothing that could truly hurt Dante.

---

Giovanni's Safehouse – Afternoon

Belle stepped inside, the scent of cigar smoke thick in the air.

Giovanni was waiting, lounging in a leather chair, amusement dancing in his dark eyes.

"I was beginning to think you wouldn't show," he mused.

Belle smirked. "I always keep my word."

Giovanni chuckled. "Then let's hear it, princess. What do you have for me?"

Belle took a breath, keeping her expression unreadable.

"Dante is planning a meeting with the Moretti family," she said smoothly. "A minor business deal. Nothing high-risk."

Giovanni studied her.

Then—he smiled.

"Smart girl. You're starting slow."

Belle tilted her head. "Would you rather I gave you something reckless?"

Giovanni laughed. "No. You're playing it safe. That's good. It means you plan to last."

Belle's stomach twisted.

She wasn't planning to last.

She was planning to end him.

But for now?

She had bought herself time.