~The lost one~

Chapter 31

**Simi's POV**

---

The darkness enveloped me like a heavy blanket, pressing down and making it hard to breathe. My hands were bound behind my back, the ropes biting into my skin with every movement. My head throbbed, and I could barely make out the shapes around me in the pitch-black room.

I tried to focus on the sounds. Faint whispers filtered through the darkness, punctuated by occasional clinks and shuffles. I strained my ears, desperate for any clue about where I was or what was happening.

A door creaked open, letting in a sliver of harsh light that momentarily blinded me. I squinted, trying to make out the silhouettes of the people who had come in. The murmurs grew louder, and I could make out snippets of conversation.

"This is the perfect opportunity," a voice said, its tone cold and calculating. "The Gabrinis won't know what hit them."

Another voice, deeper and more authoritative, spoke with an edge of menace. "Remember, this isn't just about money. We're sending a message. They need to understand the consequences of crossing us."

The leader of the group emerged from the shadows, his face partially obscured but his presence commanding. I could sense his power and control even without seeing him clearly. He seemed to relish the fear that his mere presence instilled.

"Who are you?" I croaked, my voice hoarse from the shock and fear. My heart pounded in my chest, each beat a reminder of the danger I was in.

The leader chuckled softly, a sound that sent chills down my spine. "Ah, the lost daughter. How poetic. I've been waiting for this moment for a long time, Simi."

The use of my name made my blood run cold. "Why are you doing this? What do you want from us?"

He stepped closer, and I could see his eyes gleaming with cold, calculated intent. "It's not just about money or ransom. It's about making a statement. Your father—Vittorio Gabrini—has wronged me and my associates in ways you can't even begin to understand."

I swallowed hard, trying to steady my breathing. "What are you going to do to me?"

He smirked, his gaze lingering on me with a mix of pity and malice. "We're going to make sure your family understands the gravity of their actions. You're a pawn in a much bigger game, Simi. And I intend to use you to make them pay."

The gravity of his words sank in, and I felt a wave of dread wash over me. This wasn't just about a simple kidnapping; it was part of a larger, more sinister plot.

I struggled against my bonds, but the ropes only dug in tighter. My mind raced, trying to come up with a plan, any plan, to escape or at least find a way to warn the Gabrinis.

The leader's voice interrupted my thoughts. "You might be wondering how long you'll be here. Let's just say that as long as it takes to achieve our objectives."

He turned to leave, his footsteps echoing in the cold, empty space. "In the meantime, try to make yourself comfortable. It might be a while before anyone comes to rescue you."

As the door slammed shut, the darkness seemed to close in even tighter. My hands ached from the ropes, and my heart raced with fear and anxiety. I had no idea what would happen next or how the Gabrinis would find me in this maze of shadows and secrets.

But one thing was clear: I had to stay strong and hold onto hope. If I could keep my wits about me, maybe—just maybe—I could find a way out of this nightmare.