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Unable to suppress my excitement, I glanced away from him for only a second and my eyes clashed with Antonio’s deadly stare.

My smile faltered as he clutched the glass in his hand before Kiryl lowered me back down, continuing to guide me.

“You’re quite talented, Miss Nirah,” he said and I could see the admiration, even behind the mask covering most of his face.

“Why thank you,” I whispered before stepping out. He spun me around until my back hit his chest and I couldn’t stop my laughter from pouring out as we extended our arms to the side.

His fingertips lightly trailed down my arm and he turned me so that we faced each other again.

With our faces merely inches away my hand flew to the back of his neck and his rested low on my back as we moved in a circle. “I’m sending you off, get ready.”

“What?” I asked, confused.

He spun me around and I landed in— Holy shit. Holy fuck.

“Hello, gorgeous.” One of the twins, Matteo, I’m guessing, slyly smiled and I fearfully returned the smile. “You look ravishing in that dress,” he said, tightening his grip on my waist, really close to my ass.

I had met him years ago at Antonio’s place and then again when Antonio got in that damn ring. He and his brother made comments I wouldn’t forget.

“Thanks,” I murmured, trying not to make it obvious that I was searching for Antonio.

I was desperate for this dance to come to an end as he led me across the dancefloor.

“We have unfinished business, don’t we?” He grinned, his hand slipping to my ass but I grabbed it, lifting it to my lower back instead.

“I’d rather rip my own heart from my chest.” I forced a smile and he chuckled.

“I’ll be seeing you soon, mi amore.” He winked before spinning me off.

“Oh, thank God.” I breathed, landing in the arms of another man.

I looked up and my relief washed away when I saw Antonio.

“Happy to see me?” He grinned.

“Nope,” I said, turning around but he pulled me back into his arms.

He tightened his grip around my waist and held onto my hand tighter.

“Don’t you know never to leave in the middle of a dance,” he arrogantly said as we danced. “Where are your manners?”

I rolled my eyes, finishing the dance with him and when the song came to an end, applause filled the room.

Without a second thought I pulled away from him and rushed out of the room.

I made my way through the crowd until I rounded the corner into an empty hallway.

Trying to calm myself I opened a couple doors in search of the bathroom.

Nearing the end of the hallway I opened the last door but it was empty. I groaned in annoyance and turned to leave but heard voices. And not the ones in my head. Hmph. They’ve been awfully quiet— Nope. Still here, Nirah. Of course, you are.

I turned my head, double-checking that the room was empty. Chewing my bottom lip I glanced up and down the hallway and after confirming no one was watching me, I quietly entered the room.

To my right were two large black curtains.

I crept up and the voices became louder and clearer. It sounded like three distinct male voices speaking in Italian.

I slowly leaned my ear closer, and from what I could gather they were planning something. Confirming details for an operation.