Semua Bab The Mafia's Nanny : Bab 91 - Bab 100

91Rosa’s POV Dinner had been tense, to put it lightly. The kind of tension that sticks to your skin, makes the air heavier, and every word feel like a weapon. It wasn’t new to me, being in situations like this—powerful men with their piercing gazes and loaded questions. But Allesio? He was a different story altogether.I couldn’t stop staring at him.Not because I wanted to—no, that would’ve been too simple. It was the way he carried himself, the silent command of his presence that made it impossible to look away. Even when I tried to focus on Emilia or Alaric, my eyes betrayed me, darting back to him every chance they got.Dinner was over now, and Emilia and Alaric were putting Francesca to bed. That left me in the dining room with him. Alone.I hated how my pulse quickened.He sat at the far end of the table, his body relaxed but his sharp eyes locked on me. It was like he could read every thought racing through my head, like he knew I was fighting a losing battle against the pull

93Rosa’s POV The guest room smelled like lavender, a scent I recognized as distinctly Emilia’s. Her love for all things calming and soft hadn’t changed. I sat cross-legged on her bed, my suitcase tucked neatly in the corner. Emilia shuffled around the room, fussing with pillows and blankets like she thought I’d complain about the arrangements.“You don’t have to try so hard,” I teased, a smirk playing on my lips.She glanced over her shoulder, her expression caught between a laugh and a frown. “I’m not trying hard. I’m just making sure you’re comfortable.”“Emmy,” I said, using the nickname I’d called her since we were kids, “you could stick me on a couch and call it a night. I’d survive.”She rolled her eyes but finally stopped adjusting the already-fluffed pillows. “Fine. But don’t complain if you get cold.”“Noted.”She climbed into bed beside me, curling her legs under the blanket. For a moment, we sat in silence, the dim glow of the bedside lamp reflecting on the walls. It felt

95Rosa’s POV The kitchen was quiet except for the soft hum of the refrigerator and the occasional clatter of Irene’s utensils. I leaned against the counter, cradling my coffee, still trying to shake the haze of sleep. Seeing Allesio standing there, pouring himself a glass of orange juice like he had all the time in the world, was not part of my plan for a peaceful morning.He looked too at ease, too perfect for this early hour. The way his hair fell slightly tousled, paired with his usual cocky smirk, made him look like he’d just stepped out of a dream—and not necessarily the good kind. I wasn’t ready for him.I tried to ignore him, focusing instead on the comforting warmth of my mug. If I didn’t engage, maybe he’d just go away. No such luck.“Good morning to you, too,” he said, his voice low but carrying just enough amusement to make me clench my jaw.I refused to look at him, taking a long sip of my coffee instead. Silence stretched between us, but I felt his gaze, sharp and probi

97Rosa’s POV The air was sharp with the morning chill as I stepped out of the mansion and into the waiting car. My father’s message had been clear—today was important, a negotiation that could strengthen our family’s alliances. It was rare for him to call on me for something this significant, but I knew better than to question his motives. In our world, trust wasn’t given lightly, and every move had a purpose.The driver didn’t make small talk, which suited me just fine. My mind was already preoccupied with the task ahead. The meeting was with the Russo syndicate, a group that had built its empire on loyalty and calculated risk. My father wanted an agreement that would mutually benefit both families—sharing resources, protection, and, most importantly, influence.When we pulled up to the sleek high-rise downtown where the Russo family operated, I straightened my shoulders and adjusted my jacket. I wasn’t here to charm them, though it wouldn’t hurt to show confidence. Negotiation was

99Rosa’s POV I ran my hand through my hair, not minding that I would get it rough that way. All I could think of was how I was going to get my father’s latest assignment done. And a certain, hot man that had been plaguing my mind ever since that damned one night stand.“Pass the salt,” I said, not looking up as I reached across the table. My eyes were focused on my phone, and while that was a bad habit while we were all having dinner, I didn’t think anyone cared in particular.Before my hand even got close, the small silver shaker was already in front of me, Allesio sliding it into place with a faint smirk. “Always in a rush, Rosa.”I narrowed my eyes at him but didn’t say anything, my fingers brushing against the cool metal. “Thanks,” I muttered.“Anything for you,” he said, and though his tone was light, the words carried an undercurrent I couldn’t ignore. This had been going on for a few days now. Him helping me out when with the littlest things like this. Any other woman would h