The Mafiaso And The AD 1024

Best impression

The designers worked with practised efficiency, draping me in various dresses and adjusting heels.

I tried to keep my patience as they fussed over every detail. Eventually, they settled on a long, silky black dress.

It was sleeveless, with a daring neckline that left little to the imagination but still managed to be elegant.

Paired with black heels adorned with a gold snake motif, the ensemble was completed with gold jewellery, dark makeup, and straightened hair.

As one of the designers stepped away, she made a phone call. I overheard snippets of the conversation-her mentioning "Boss" made it clear she was speaking to Donte.

"Boss, she's all done and prepared. Shall I send her down?" she asked, a pause followed by a soft "hmm" before she hung up.

The designer returned and gave me a nod. "Let's go, Amara."

I followed her downstairs, the soft thud of my heels echoing in the hallway.

The mafia members, dressed in their tuxedos, were gathered in the foyer, seemingly waiting for me. Marcel's eyes lit up when he saw me, and he gave me a warm smile.

He nudged Donte, who was adjusting his Rolex and looking at me with an intensity that made me feel both seen and scrutinized.

Our eyes locked for a moment before Marcel nudged Donte again.

Donte cleared his throat and made his way towards the stairs. He extended his arm for me, and I hesitated for a brief second before taking it.

As we descended, his arm felt both reassuring and oddly intimate.

"Shall we?" Donte asked, his voice steady.

I nodded, feeling the weight of the night's expectations press down on me. "You look gorgeous, by the way," he said softly.

I smiled, a bit self-conscious but appreciative of the compliment. "Thank you."

We made our way to the front of the mansion, where the other mafia members followed in their own cars.

Donte helped me into the passenger seat of his car, making sure the dress didn't snag. As I settled in and buckled up, I glanced out the window.

"Thank you," I murmured as he closed the door gently.

He nodded, a flicker of something I couldn't quite read in his eyes before Marcel approached him. They exchanged words that I couldn't overhear.

Marcel was smiling, while Donte's expression was more serious. After a brief conversation, Marcel chuckled and returned to his car. Donte got in, started the engine, and we began to drive off.

I sat in the passenger seat, the night air filling the car as we drove. I chose not to inquire about their conversation, sensing it was something Donte preferred to keep private.

Instead, I looked out at the city lights, trying to relax and focus on the upcoming event.

As the car made its way through the streets, I couldn't help but wonder what awaited us.

This night was more than just an event-it was a crucial step in my integration into Donte's world.

I was determined to make the best impression and navigate this new chapter with the grace and strength that had brought me this far.