Impure Love (Dark Mafia Duet #2)

23. Dante

23

DANTE

S itting in my office, I let my thoughts drift to Aliyah. She's more than I anticipated. At first, I figured she'd submit seeing as she had no other choice left. But now, she’s helping me, integrating herself into my life in ways I never imagined. The thought stirs something unfamiliar inside me, an emotion I can't quite name.

I lean back in my leather chair, staring at the ceiling. She’s not just submitting; she’s showing strength, intelligence, even loyalty. I never thought a woman like her would fit so seamlessly into my world. It makes me want to reward her.

I bring up the camera feed from our bedroom, eyes fixed on Aliyah as she paces the floor. Her every move, even in solitude, is mesmerizing. With a click, I summon Marco through the intercom.

"Bring her to my office," I instruct, voice low but firm. He nods, understanding the unspoken urgency.

Switching back to the feed, I watch as Marco enters the room. Aliyah looks up, a mix of apprehension and compliance in her eyes.

"Boss wants you," Marco says, and she doesn't hesitate. My blood stirs, watching her immediate compliance. She leaves the room, heading straight for my office.

Moments later, she stands in the doorway. Her eyes lock onto mine, a blend of fear and defiance. I lean back, savoring the power I hold over her.

"Come here," I order, voice steady and commanding.

She steps forward, her movements graceful yet hesitant. The air between us thickens with tension. She stops a few feet away, waiting for my next command.

"Closer," I growl, not breaking eye contact.

She obeys, closing the gap until she stands right in front of me. Her scent, sweet and clean fills my senses.

"Good girl," I murmur, reaching out to run a finger down her arm. She shivers at my touch, a reaction that sends a thrill through me.

I pull her closer until she stands between my spread legs, my hands gripping her waist firmly. Her breath hitches, and I savor the tension radiating from her.

"Do you know how much you've pleased me?" I murmur, holding her gaze. "The information you gave me about the Vitales—it means a hell of a lot in my world."

Her eyes widen with surprise and cautious relief. She swallows hard, clearly unsure of how to respond.

"Your loyalty," I continue, my voice dropping to a low growl, "deserves a reward."

She blinks, a flicker of hope in her eyes. "A reward?" she echoes, voice barely above a whisper.

"Yes," I say, running a thumb along her jawline. "From now on, you have the freedom to move around the mansion."

Her eyes light up, but I tighten my grip on her waist, ensuring she understands there's a catch. "However, when I call, you bring your sexy ass running. Understood?"

She nods, the relief in her expression almost palpable. "Understood," she whispers.

I lean back, watching the effect my words have on her. The tension in her shoulders eases, and a tentative smile tugs at her lips. It’s fascinating, seeing the mix of fear and gratitude in her eyes.

"What are you thinking?" I ask, genuinely curious. "You look like you're about to cry and laugh at the same time."

She hesitates, then finally speaks. "I—I’m just relieved. And grateful," she admits, voice trembling slightly. "I didn't expect this."

I tilt my head, studying her. "What did you expect?"

"I don't know," she admits, eyes dropping to the floor. "More punishment, maybe. Less freedom."

I chuckle, the sound dark and amused. "You've earned it. And I always reward loyalty."

Her eyes meet mine again, filled with a strange mix of emotions. She’s trying to figure me out, and I can see the struggle in her gaze.

As I watch her, a thought crosses my mind. What would a date with her be like? Taking her out, seeing her in a different setting, away from the constant tension of my world. The idea is both intriguing and unexpected.

"You know," I say, voice thoughtful, "I wonder what a date with you would be like."

Her eyes widen in shock, clearly not expecting that. "A date?"

"Yes," I reply, a smirk playing on my lips. "An actual date. Dinner, maybe a show. Something normal."

She stares at me, clearly stunned. "Why would you want that?"

"Why not?" I counter, leaning back in my chair. "I want to see you in a different light."

She bites her lip, clearly unsure how to respond. The uncertainty in her eyes is almost endearing.

Tomorrow, I decide. I’ll take her to the exclusive Russo-owned restaurant. One my father had a hand in acquiring before his mysterious murder. The implication of taking Aliyah somewhere meaningful is strange to me, and I shake the thoughts off. It’ll be a perfect opportunity to show off my prize.

"Marco," I call out, my voice echoing through the study.

He steps in, always punctual. "Yes, boss?"

"I want reservations at Il Sogno for tomorrow night. Make sure everything is perfect," I instruct, leaning back in my chair.

Marco nods, a knowing glint in his eyes. "Anything specific, boss?"

"A private room. And tell them to prepare the best wine," I add, the image of Aliyah in a luxurious setting forming in my mind. "And flowers. Lots of them."

"Understood," Marco replies, already jotting down the details.

"Also," I continue, a smirk playing on my lips, "make sure the staff knows to keep their distance. I don’t want any interruptions."

Marco's eyebrows raise slightly, but he nods. "Consider it done."

With that settled, I turn my attention back to Aliyah, who is still standing in front of me, eyes wide with curiosity and a hint of apprehension.

"We're going out tomorrow," I state, watching her reaction closely.

Her eyes widen further, a mix of surprise and confusion. "Out? Where?"

"You'll see," I reply, enjoying the suspense. "Wear something nice. I expect you to look stunning."

She bites her lip, clearly torn between compliance and rebellion. "And if I refuse?"

I lean forward, my gaze locking onto hers. "Refusal isn’t an option, sweetheart. You'll do as I fucking say."

She swallows hard, nodding slowly. "Fine."

"Good girl," I murmur, reaching out to tuck a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "Now, go get some rest. You'll need it."

She hesitates for a moment, then turns and leaves the room. I watch her go, a sense of satisfaction settling over me. Tomorrow will be interesting.

The next evening, Marco confirms everything is ready. The private room at Il Sogno, the best wine, and the flowers. I dress in a tailored suit, the dark fabric accentuating my imposing frame. Aliyah steps out of the adjoining room, wearing a sleek, elegant dress that clings to her curves. She looks breathtaking.

I pull Aliyah to me, capturing her lips in a possessive kiss. She melts into me, a shiver running through her, igniting the fire between us. I growl, the sound vibrating against her mouth. The way she reacts to me, the way she surrenders, hardens me instantly. I pull away, fighting to compose myself, the sexual tension between us almost unbearable.

"Let's go," I say, clearing my throat. She nods, eyes wide with the same mix of fear and desire that always gets to me.

We walk out to the waiting car, my hand firmly on her lower back. The ride to the restaurant is silent, but the air is charged. She glances at me occasionally, curiosity and something else flickering in her eyes.

When we arrive at Il Sogno, I lead her inside, enjoying the way heads turn to watch us. I love showing her off, making it clear she’s mine. The private booth is set up exactly as I ordered, flowers arranged beautifully on the table. Aliyah's eyes widen, and she looks around in awe.

"It's beautiful, Dante," she whispers incredulously.

I take her hand, pressing a kiss to her knuckles. "Only the best for you."

She blushes, and I guide her to her chair, pulling it out for her. The waitstaff, impeccably trained, watch us with a mixture of respect and curiosity. They know better than to interrupt.

As we sit, I notice Aliyah's gaze lingering on the flowers. "You like them?" I ask, a hint of a smirk on my lips.

She nods, still looking amazed. "I’ve never seen anything like this."

"Get used to it," I say, leaning back in my chair. "You deserve it."

Her eyes meet mine, and for a moment, there's a connection, something deeper than the power dynamic between us. It’s fleeting, but it’s there.

The waiter arrives with the wine, pouring us each a glass. I watch Aliyah as she takes a sip, her eyes closing briefly as she savors the taste.

"Good?" I ask, already knowing the answer.

"Yes," she replies, voice soft. "Very good."

I take a sip of my own, keeping my eyes on her. She’s still visibly affected by the setting, the luxury of it all. It’s a stark contrast to her usual surroundings, and I can see the impact it has on her.

We start with small talk, the tension between us simmering just below the surface. She asks about the restaurant, and I tell her its history, how my father had a hand in acquiring it.

"I had no idea," she says, genuinely intrigued. "It’s fascinating."

I nod, pleased with her interest. "There's a lot you don’t know about me, Aliyah. But you will."

She swallows, the intensity of my words not lost on her. "I suppose I will."

The rest of the meal passes in a similar fashion, a blend of tension and unexpected ease. By the time dessert arrives, I can tell she’s more relaxed, the initial shock wearing off.

I reach across the table, taking her hand again. "I want you to understand something," I say, my voice low and serious. "I take care of what’s mine."

Her eyes meet mine, a mixture of emotions swirling in their depths. "I know," she whispers, and I can see she’s starting to accept it.

"Good," I say, a satisfied smirk on my lips. "Now, let’s enjoy the rest of the night."

Chapter 24—Rodeo