Deceptive Hearts

4

The Santoro estate was alive with grandeur, each corner of the ballroom exuding luxury and opulence. The air was thick with laughter, the clink of champagne glasses, and the murmurs of deals being made in the shadows. Alora Brown stood at the edge of it all, feeling out of place despite her elegant black gown that hugged her form perfectly. Her heart pounded in her chest as she scanned the room, trying to locate her target.

But this wasn’t just a job anymore—it was her sister’s life on the line.

“Relax, you’re doing fine,” whispered Ezra, his arm casually draped over Alora’s shoulders as if they were nothing more than close friends enjoying the evening.

His voice was calm, his demeanor easy, but there was an undercurrent of seriousness in his eyes. Ezra was the man Mina had arranged to help her tonight, and he played the part of a charming companion well. But Alora knew he was watching her every move, making sure she stayed on course.Alora forced a smile, nodding slightly.

“I’m trying,” she said, her voice betraying the tension she tried so hard to mask.

“I just need to get this right.”Ezra patted her shoulder lightly, his gaze sweeping over the crowd.

“Remember the plan. Get close to him, but not too close. And most importantly, keep your emotions in check. You don’t want to get in too deep.”

As they moved through the crowd, exchanging pleasantries with various guests, Alora’s eyes caught sight of the man she was meant to meet tonight—Dante Santoro. He was surrounded by a small group of admirers, but even from a distance, he commanded attention. Tall, broad-shouldered, and impeccably dressed, Dante exuded a quiet power that drew people in.

His dark eyes scanned the room, missing nothing, and when they landed on Alora, something shifted in his gaze.

“Ezra,” Dante greeted, his voice deep and smooth as he extended his hand in a firm handshake.

His eyes flickered to Alora, curiosity sparking in their depths. “And who’s your lovely companion?”

Ezra smiled, the perfect host.

“Dante, this is Alora Hayes. She’s new to our circle and eager to make some new connections. I thought you two might hit it off.”

Dante’s gaze never left Alora’s as he took her hand, his touch firm and lingering just a moment longer than necessary.

“Alora,” he said, his voice wrapping around her name like a caress. “Welcome. I hope New York has been treating you well.”

“Thank you, Mr. Santoro,” Alora replied, her voice steady despite the flutter of nerves in her stomach. His presence was overwhelming, but she couldn’t afford to let it show.

“It’s certainly been an experience.”

“Please, call me Dante,” he insisted, a small, almost imperceptible smile playing at the corners of his mouth.

His eyes, dark and intense, held hers captive as if searching for something hidden beneath the surface.

“And I hope tonight will be a highlight.”Before Alora could respond, a light-hearted laugh cut through the tension.

“Oh, Dante, stop scaring her,” a young woman teased as she approached, her smile wide and friendly.

Alora recognized her immediately from the research Mina had made her do—Victoria Santoro, Dante’s younger sister. Victoria’s eyes sparkled with amusement as she gave Alora a once-over.

“I’m Victoria, and if my brother’s being too intense, just let me know. I’ll save you.”Alora laughed softly, grateful for the interruption.

“Thank you, but I’m holding my own so far.”Victoria winked.