Alexander's gaze lingered on Amelia, his mind wandering to her captivating smile.
"Where were we? Ah yes, my devastating handsomeness," he said, flashing a charming grin.
Amelia chuckled.
"You're quite the charmer, Mr. Alexander."
Alexander smiled, pleased.
"Just trying to keep up with you, Amelia."
But beneath the banter, Alexander's thoughts whispered: "And trying to keep my mafia kingdom hidden... and my heart, which seems to be slipping away to Amelia."
Just then, his phone buzzed.
Marcus's update: "Ethan's handling the FBI situation. No worries."
Alexander's eyes met Amelia's.
"Dinner at my place?" he asked, innocence feigned.
Amelia hesitated.
"I don't know, Alexander. Your... reputation precedes you."
Alexander's expression softened.
"I promise, no pressure. Just Emily, Sophia, and me... and possibly a few heavily armed bodyguards."
Amelia's eyes widened.
"Mafia king, Alexander. It's hard to ignore."
Alexander's jaw clenched.
"I know. But I want you to see me, not my title... or my goons."
Amelia took a deep breath.
"Okay... but neutral ground, please. Somewhere without, you know, secret tunnels and escape routes."
Alexander smiled.
"Deal. Choose the place."
Amelia's shoulders relaxed.
"There's a small Italian restaurant downtown. No assassins allowed."
Alexander nodded.
"I'll make reservations. And leave my Tommy gun at home."
As they parted ways, Amelia's thoughts swirled.
"Am I ready for pasta... and possibly a side of organized crime?"
Later, Amelia's eyes locked onto Alexander's.
"Can we have dinner alone?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Alexander's expression changed, surprise flickering across his face.
"Without Emily and Sophia?" he clarified.
Amelia nodded.
"I want to get to know you better, Alexander. Without distractions."
Alexander's gaze intensified.
"I'd like that," he said, his voice low.
"But are you sure? You're still wary of me."
Amelia took a deep breath.
"I'm willing to take that risk."
Alexander's eyes crinkled at the corners.
"Very well. Just us."
He pulled out his phone.
"I'll cancel the reservations. We'll dine somewhere... more private."
Amelia's heart skipped a beat.
"Your place?" she asked, hesitant.
Alexander's smile was reassuring.
"A neutral location. I promise."
