Chapter 3

Riccardo  

 

The tie around my neck sat just right against the crisp white collar of my shirt, but I fiddled with it anyway. Everything had to be perfect tonight. No slip-ups. No distractions. I knew what I had to do.  

 

I looked up and met my own gaze in the mirror. Sharp suit, polished shoes, not a hair out of place. In our world, presentation was key. If you looked powerful, people would believe you were. The only person missing was her. She was the one that always made sure I looked perfect for these events.  

 

"Are you going to take forever, or are you actually planning to leave this room?" Bento’s voice cut through the quiet.  

 

I glanced over at my brother. He was lounging against the doorframe, his suit jacket draped casually over his shoulder, his tie already loosened. He was the complete opposite of me in every way.  

 

I straightened up and said, “I’m ready,” while fiddling with my cufflinks.  

 

Bento raised an eyebrow, smirking. “You don’t look ready. You look like you’re about to attend a funeral. It’s a gala, Rick, not a corporate meeting.”  

 

“It’s business,” I shot back, my voice icy.  

 

“It’s always business with you.”  

 

He chuckled as he pushed off the doorframe and strolled over. “You know, you can actually have some fun every now and then. Grab a drink, chat with someone who isn’t plotting something, and just chill. What’s the worst that could happen?” Running into them again. I wanted to reply.  

 

I locked eyes with him, my expression unyielding. “Chilling can get you killed.”  

 

Bento rolled his eyes but didn’t press the issue. He knew better than to push me too hard on nights like this.  

 

“Alright,” he said, giving my shoulder a friendly pat. “But just so you know, I’m going to drink enough for both of us tonight. Don’t even think about stopping me.”  

 

I shrugged off his hand and turned to my glass of whiskey on the desk. I picked it up, feeling the cool glass steady me.  

 

“Do what you want, Bento. Just don’t make me look bad.”  

 

“Make you look bad?” He laughed as he headed for the door. “You do that all on your own.”  

 

I didn’t reply. Bento’s carefree attitude was a luxury I simply couldn’t afford.  

 

As I downed the last of my whiskey, my thoughts shifted to the night ahead. The gala was more than just a social event—it was about power. The Parkers would be there, along with every other influential family. Everyone had their own agenda.  

 

And I planned to walk away with the advantage.  

 

 

I had my drink in my hand as I looked around the hall. I hated events like these. Everyone here wants something. As I looked at the door, my eyes landed on them. I noticed Ava Parker and hated to admit she looked breathtaking in that dress, but I knew who and what she was. She was trying hard to look and act like her sister.  

 

I watched as her father whispered something in her ears. The look in her eyes showed fear, mixed with sadness. What the fuck did he say to her? She quickly masked her face and hid all her emotions.  

 

 

“What are you looking at?” Bento asked, standing beside me.  

 

“Nothing.” I said in a clipped tone.  

 

Bento ignored my tone and continued talking, but I didn't listen. I wanted to be ready if anyone tries something tonight. I don’t trust these people here.  

 

 

I turn my attention to my father, who’s chatting with Benjamin Parker. What the fuck were they discussing? I don't trust either one of them. I have to keep a close eye on them, that is for sure.  

 

My father looked up as if he could feel my burning gaze on him. He had a stern look on his face when he waved me over. This better be good; otherwise, I'm going to lose my sh*t.  

 

 

I was shaking hands with Benjamin when Ava stopped in front of us. "Ah, Riccardo, I’m not sure if you remember my other daughter, Ava." I looked at Ava, and there it was again. The hurt in her eyes, which she masked with a confident smile, reached out her hand. "Great to see you again, Riccardo."  

 

I barely looked at her. Now that she is in front of me, I could tell it was one of Maddy’s dresses she was wearing. What the hell was she doing? "I'm sure it is," I replied coldly, turning back to my drink without saying anything else.   

 

I tried to ignore her, thinking she would take the hint and leave me alone. But no, the spoiltbrat kept on talking until I had to shut her up. I had enough of her annoying voice.  

 

Luckily, my brother walked over. He greets her with a warm smile, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "So, what do you think of my brother after all this time?" he asks, raising an eyebrow. I didn't stay to listen because I didn’t care what she thought about me.  

 

I went back to the bar, ignoring her burning eyes on me.  

 

Ava Parker You, along with your entire family, will bear the consequences of Madeline's murder. I thought as I ordered another drink.