Chapter 8 - THE ESTATE MANAGER'S INTERRUPTION
Before either of them could say another word, the sharp, rhythmic sound of polished leather shoes clicking against the marble floor echoed from the far end of the hallway.
Marcus, the Rossi estate manager, turned the corner carrying a leather-bound briefing folder. Impeccably dressed in a tailored charcoal suit, Marcus walked with the calm, rigid efficiency of a man who managed the dangerous machinery of the Rossi household.
Marcus stopped dead in his tracks ten feet away.
His eyes widened slightly as he took in the scene: the fearsome, shirtless boss of the New York underworld pressing a young household assistant against the wall, his bandage fresh, his breathing heavy, and the atmosphere between them electric with an undeniable, dangerous tension.
Marcus quickly recovered his professional composure, dropping his eyes to the floor.
"Don Rossi," Marcus said smoothly, his voice entirely neutral. "I apologize for the intrusion. The legal counsel has arrived downstairs regarding the Brooklyn dock transfer. They require your sign-off."
Luca did not immediately move. He kept his palm planted against the wall beside Elena’s head for three agonizing seconds, his eyes never leaving her face.
Slowly, deliberately, Luca pulled his hand back. He stepped back a single pace, giving her space, though his presence still dominated the hallway.
May you like
"Tell them to wait in the study, Marcus," Luca commanded without turning his head, his voice cold and absolute. "I'll be down in ten minutes."
"Understood, sir," Marcus replied, bowing his head slightly before turning on his heel and walking back down the corridor, his footsteps fading into the distance.
