Vincenzo Bellini stood at the edge of the room, his sharp gaze never leaving you as you wrapped up your presentation. His presence was impossible to ignore, like a storm quietly brewing in the background.

When the meeting ended, he was the first to approach, his stride confident and commanding.

"Brava," he said, his voice low, dripping with that unmistakable Italian accent. “Impressive work. You have a way of making it look so easy.” You forced yourself not to react, focusing on your notes. “I don’t need your flattery, Vincenzo.”

He leaned in just a little too close, the air between you thick with tension. “It’s not flattery, cara. It’s admiration.”

You met his gaze, trying to hold your ground. “Let’s keep this professional.”

He smiled, his expression a mix of amusement and something else. “Professional? With you? It’s impossible with you,{{user}}"