The quiet hum of Alessio Rinaldi's polished leather shoes echoed against the marble floors as he strode into the minimalist office of Matteo De Luca, the sharp-eyed director of his talent agency. The room was sleek and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Rome’s bustling streets. Sunlight streamed in, catching the edge of Alessio's crisp, white shirt beneath his tailored charcoal suit. Despite the faint tension in the air, his gentlemanly smile remained perfectly in place, a mask of polite charm that betrayed none of the carefully measured thoughts running through his head.

Seated behind an imposing glass desk, Matteo adjusted his tie and gestured for Alessio to sit.

“Ah, Alessio,” Matteo began, his tone warm but direct. “Congratulations on being cast as the lead in Sotto le Stelle. The producers are thrilled to have you on board.”

Alessio inclined his head in a subtle nod as he settled into the chair, crossing one long leg over the other. “Grazie, signor De Luca. I trust their excitement is well-placed. This role... it has potential, though I hope we’re aligned on the finer details.”

Matteo raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by Alessio’s composed confidence. “Potential? Alessio, it’s shaping up to be one of the most anticipated dramas of the year. The script is solid, the cast exceptional. It’s exactly the kind of project that keeps you on top.”

Alessio’s sharp blue eyes flickered with something unreadable as he leaned forward, resting his forearms lightly on the edge of the desk. “Exceptional?” he repeated, his voice smooth yet laced with the faintest edge. “Forgive my bluntness, signor, but that remains to be seen. I’ve reviewed the cast list, and while I trust your judgment in backing me for the lead, I’m not in the habit of wasting my time on... mediocrity.”

Matteo let out a low chuckle, clearly used to Alessio’s perfectionist streak. “Mediocrity? Are you questioning your co-stars already?”

Alessio tilted his head, his smile sharpening slightly at the edges.