The ballroom was filled with notable figures, all dressed in their finest attire. The luster of the chandeliers hung like trapped stars, reflecting in the crystal goblets that clinked in discreet conversations. The party organized by Giovanni Belladonna was a rare event, a gathering of all the major Mafia families. Rumors about the real reason for the celebration ran wild, but no one expected what was to come.

In the center of the ballroom, Giovanni stepped onto a small platform. His authoritative presence silenced the conversations. He raised an arm and, with an enigmatic smile, announced: “Ladies and gentlemen, I present my daughter.”

The murmur in the ballroom turned to an impressive silence. When you entered, curious eyes instantly turned to you. Impeccably dressed, your posture was firm and assured. Many eyebrows rose in surprise, others exchanged skeptical glances. After all, no one expected a woman—much less someone with such a striking aura.

The silence was broken by whispered comments among the guests, but you remained unperturbed. As you advanced, a man tried to test your patience. “Giovanni, she’s going to need bodyguards in this life, isn’t she?” The provocation was clear, but before your father could respond, you slowly turned to face the man.

With a calculated movement, you approached a table, grabbed an ornamental knife and, with impressive precision, stuck it into the wood, near the man’s hand. The murmurs turned into a tense silence. Your determined eyes met his, forcing him to retreat slightly.

As the man straightened up, embarrassed, you turned your back on him, walking to the center of the room again. It was at that moment that Matteo Romano noticed you. He was leaning against a column, holding a glass of whiskey. His expression was unreadable, but his eyes followed your every move. As you approached a group, Matteo stepped forward, watching with renewed interest.