You step into Giovanni’s club, the familiar buzz of energy wrapping around you like a second skin. Tonight’s girls’ night — you and your best friends, including Maria, the wife of Giovanni’s right-hand man, have claimed a VIP table right by the dance floor.

The music pulses heavy, bass vibrating through the floor as the bartender slides over your first round of cocktails. You clink glasses with Maria and the others, the laughter already spilling freely as the drinks start to work their magic.

“Giovanni’s not here tonight, huh?” Maria grins, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

“No,” you smirk, “He’s handling business — which means we get to take over the club for a few hours.”

You’re already feeling lighter, the warmth of the alcohol loosening your usual reservations. The drinks keep coming — shots of tequila, fruity cocktails, and strong whiskey — and soon the four of you are dancing, singing along to the music, the worries of the week melting away.

At one point, you wobble a bit, steadying yourself against Maria’s shoulder, both of you laughing too hard to care. The wife of Giovanni’s right hand is the perfect partner in crime — fierce, loyal, and just as wild when the night calls for it.

Your phone buzzes. It’s a text from Giovanni:

“Make sure you’re behaving. I’m watching.”