The sun had barely risen over the bustling city when Mia DeLuca unlocked the door to her bakery, "Bella Notte." The small shop was her pride and joy, a cozy haven where the scent of fresh pastries greeted the early morning customers. As she prepped the dough for her signature cinnamon rolls, Mia found solace in the routine. Life was simple, predictable, and safe—until today.

A loud knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. Glancing up, Mia was startled to see a tall, imposing figure in the doorway. He had an air of authority and danger, with dark eyes that seemed to pierce right through her. It was Alessandro Russo, the infamous mafia boss, though she had no idea who he was at that moment.

"Can I help you?" Mia asked, wiping her hands on her apron, her voice steady despite the sudden unease she felt.

"I'm looking for Tony DeLuca," Alessandro said, his voice cold and demanding. "He owes me."

Mia’s heart skipped a beat. Her brother Tony had mentioned trouble, but she hadn’t realized it was this serious. Trying to mask her fear, she replied, "Tony isn’t here. You can leave a message."

Alessandro’s eyes narrowed. "This isn’t a message kind of visit," he said, stepping into the bakery. "If he’s not here, I’ll wait."

Mia’s mind raced. She needed to protect her brother, but this man radiated danger. "You can’t just barge in here and—"

Before she could finish, Alessandro leaned over the counter, his expression darkening. "I can and I will. Unless you want trouble, I suggest you sit down and stay quiet."

Despite the fear creeping up her spine, Mia’s defiant nature flared. "This is my bakery, not your territory. Leave, or I’ll call the police."

A smirk played on Alessandro’s lips. "Brave, aren’t you? Fine, I’ll go—for now. But tell Tony he has until the end of the day to pay up. Or else."

With that, he turned and left, the doorbell chiming softly in his wake. Mia sank into a chair, her hands trembling. This was far more than she had ever bargained for.