Iris POV
Bellotti's confident smile weakened just a little bit. I noticed a hint of curiosity starting to show in his eyes. He looked at me and asked, “Do you believe that you can get me to change my mind just by acting tough?” His voice carried a tone that was both mocking and curious at the same time.
“It’s not just about showing off or trying to act tough. It’s really about surviving and making it through tough situations” I said firmly trying to make my voice sound strong and sincere hoping that he would understand where I was coming from.
“Do you believe that if I wanted to harm you I would be standing here right now trying so hard to get you to listen to me? If I truly wanted you out of the picture you would simply be another issue that I would need to deal with.”
Before I was able to finish my train of thought a person quietly entered the room. They leaned in close to Bellotti and began to whisper something very urgently into his ear. I noticed that Bellotti's facial expression changed from one of doubt and disbelief to one of curiosity and interest.
His eyes narrowed as he took in and processed the information he was receiving from the whispered words. After what felt like an incredibly long moment he made a signal with his hand for the man who was holding the gun to relax and to lower it indicating that the immediate danger was somewhat reduced.
However, I felt deep down that the trouble we faced was far from over. This situation was only just starting and I understood that I needed to be completely prepared for whatever might happen next no matter how challenging it might be.
I felt a sudden tightness in my throat and then just like that the pressure that had been pushing against my head disappeared completely. I cautiously opened my eyes and at that moment a huge wave of relief washed over me making me feel much lighter. I couldn’t help but say a quiet thank-you under my breath feeling grateful for the change in my situation.
“It appears that you are indeed being honest Iris,” Bellotti said speaking in a surprisingly kind tone for someone who has so much control and influence. “I have spoken with my men and they have confirmed the details of your story. Because of this, I feel there is no longer any reason for me to doubt you.”
I suddenly felt a rush of energy and excitement flooding my body a combination of relief and strong determination. “So I will do what I promised,” I said speaking with a calm and steady voice.
“However I don’t want any money. I don’t want anything for myself at all. The only thing I ask is for you to help me save him. Please help me save Rafaelle and Dahlia. In exchange for your help, I will show your men how to get inside Campani’s house. This way you will have the chance to strike right at the very center of his power.”
The Don looked at him with a sharp and intense gaze as if he were trying to figure out the truth. He leaned in closer and his voice had a slight edge of doubt and mistrust.
“So tell me what makes you believe that we can trust you? We are well aware of your connections to the ruthless and dangerous Rafaelle Tommaso. Plus we know that you used to work for Tudor a man whose morals are very questionable at best. With all that in mind, why should we take the risk of trusting you?”
I felt a brief flash of anger when I understood what was being suggested but I forced myself to push those feelings down and keep them under control.
“Right now there is no reason for you to question my intentions or what I truly want to achieve. I have proven to you that I am willing to risk everything even my safety and security for the sake of this mission. The thought of losing Rafaelle a man I have come to care for deeply and love is something I simply cannot accept. Don Campani is not only a dangerous enemy to you but he also poses a serious threat to me and my well-being. I truly cannot stand this man and I have a much better understanding of his weaknesses than you might realize. Please allow me the chance to assist you in bringing him down. Let me help ensure that he will never again have the opportunity to harm anyone else or misuse his power.”
Bellotti brought his cigar back to his lips and took a long slow puff letting the smoke curl into the air. He had a serious look on his face one that suggested he was deep in thought.
He was not just any strategist he was an expert at planning almost like a grandmaster in a game of chess. He carefully considered every possible move he could make thinking about what might happen as a result.
The room was very quiet and the only sound was the ticking of the clock on the wall. Each tick felt loud and heavy making my nerves feel even more anxious and on edge.
After what seemed like a long time he finally opened his mouth and started to talk. “Okay, Iris. I have decided that I will fulfill your request. You are very smart and you have a way with words which are both qualities that can be very useful to us. Because of that, I will provide you with twelve of my best men and they will be led by a man named Hector to help you with whatever it is you are trying to accomplish. However, I want to make this very clear if you ever decide to betray us or act as if we are fools you will face consequences that are far more terrible than just dying. Do you understand what I am saying?”
“I completely understand what you are saying,” I replied feeling a surge of hope that made my heart feel like it was lifting and soaring high in the sky.
At first, I felt a wave of fear and anxiety that wrapped around me tightly but gradually it disappeared completely. In its place, I felt a strong surge of determination rushing through me. I had done it! I had managed to convince the powerful and intimidating Don Giacomo Bellotti and his crew to come to my aid.
Just a few hours earlier I had thought that my plan was utterly impossible but now it seemed achievable and within my grasp. I could sense that Rafaelle and Dahlia would be safe now. Moreover, for the very first time, Don Campani would be facing a challenge that might lead to serious trouble for him possibly even his downfall.
The agreement was officially made creating a delicate partnership formed in a very difficult and dangerous situation. My journey which used to be unclear and full of questions had now become straightforward and focused. The struggle to protect Rafaelle support Dahlia and fight for what is right and just had started. The battle was underway….