"I could not tell you if I loved you the first moment I saw you, or if it was the second or third or fourth. But I remember the first moment I looked at you walking toward me and realized that somehow the rest of the world seemed to vanish when I was with you."
―Cassandra Clare
THE CHAPTER IS NOT EDITED
**************************************************************
Third person
In the dimly lit office of his expansive mansion, Aldo leaned back in his leather chair, the low hum of city life seeping through the mahogany-framed windows. The air was thick with the scent of cigar smoke, a symbol of both luxury and power. His eyes, deep and calculating, scanned the room as he spoke into the phone.
"I understand the urgency. Rest assured, I'll handle it swiftly," Aldo's voice resonated with a calm authority that demanded attention.
"We need your guidance, Don Aldo. The streets of Naples are restless, and we've had some unexpected disruptions." the man replied.
Aldo's gaze flickered towards the clock briefly. His fingers, adorned with a gold signet ring, tapped rhythmically that echoed through the grandeur of the room.
"Luciano will handle the situation. I'll have him assess it personally. We can't afford any setbacks in Naples," Aldo asserted, his words measured, each one a directive carved in stone.
As the call concluded, Aldo's thoughts drifted to the city that held both history and secrets. Naples, once a familiar terrain, now demanded his attention not as a local figure but as the formidable head of Costa Nostra. The weight of his position, the constant juggling of responsibilities, resonated in the lines etched on his face.
Aldo's thoughts lingered on Luciano - a silent acknowledgment of the man who managed the intricate dance of power in Naples. The responsibilities had shifted, but Aldo understood the delicate balance required of a leader.
Internally, he wrestled with the nostalgia of the narrow Neapolitan streets and the pragmatism that came with being the don. The city's pulse, once familiar, now echoed distant rhythms. Aldo pondered the sacrifices and choices that had sculpted his trajectory, the layers of mystery that shrouded his past and motivations.
As he hung up the phone, Aldo steepled his fingers, contemplating the intricacies of the situation. Naples beckoned, not as a nostalgic return but as a calculated move in the complex chess game of organized crime. The resonance of power lingered in the room as Aldo prepared to orchestrate his next move.
Aldo boarded a late-night flight from Palermo to Naples, the city lights below shimmering in the darkness as the aircraft descended toward its destination.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The morning sun shone down on the bustling city streets as Aldo made his way through the crowds. He was dressed in a crisp, black suit with a neutral expression on his face. His mind was preoccupied with the meeting he had to attend with a man who had been causing him trouble regarding a deal and money raise.
As he walked down the crowded street, he couldn't help but notice a girl standing near a shop, talking with another girl with a beautiful smile. Clad in a black full-sleeve tee and a maroon pleated skirt, she radiated delight and excitement. She was like a breath of fresh air in the otherwise dreary surroundings. Her wavy raven hair cascaded down her back and her middle olive complexion glowed in the sunlight. But what caught his attention the most were her captivating eyes, which seemed to hold a mysterious allure.
Entranced by her beauty, he followed her like he was under a spell. His eyes never left her, taking in every slight movement and gesture she made. She seemed lost in her own world, happily browsing through the items at a shop.
But just when he was about to approach her, one of his men appeared and broke the spell. His attention was drawn away from the girl and back to the present. He quickly dealt with his subordinate and when he turned back to where the girl had been, she was gone.
Frustrated and a little disappointed, Aldo pushed the girl out of his mind and focused on the task at hand. He had to deal with the man and his sudden demand which was causing problems in his business.
But his mind kept wandering back to the mysterious girl. He couldn't shake off the feeling and made a mental note to find out more about her.
Aldo turned into a dead-end alley, where the cacophony of the main market faded away. The passage constricted, leading him to a door that opened into a clandestine tunnel. As he traversed it, he entered a dimly lit chamber where contraband items were stockpiled, and stacks of cash adorned a table where individuals diligently carried out their illicit dealings. The sudden appearance of the don himself garnered surprise among the occupants, for it was a rarity to witness the don in this covert domain.
Without wasting a moment, he addressed one of them about their incharge, his tone carrying a subtle edge. Simultaneously, a man entered the room from the opposite side with a retinue, visibly taken aback at the unexpected presence of Aldo. The room fell silent as the newcomer locked eyes with Aldo.
A moment of recognition flickered across his face, and he extended his hand in greeting, introducing himself as "Acciai." However, Aldo merely nodded with a neutral expression.
"I hope I'm not interrupting anything," Aldo remarked with a smirk, his eyes fixed on Acciai.
Aldo's casual statement lingered in the air as Acciai, withdrawing his hand, stammered, "N-no, Don Aldo, it's my pleasure," his words tinged with a mix of respect and nervousness.He inquired about Aldo's unexpected visit, his tone laced with curiosity.
Aldo, still smirking, dismissed the pleasantries. "Let's not pretend, Acciai. I've heard the whispers, and actions speak louder than words." Acciai nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation.
Aldo motioned towards a quieter room with fewer people. "Let's have a discussion," he suggested. The two men entered the room, and Aldo took the main seat, observing the surroundings with keen interest. Acciai stood before him, awaiting further instructions.
With a gesture, Aldo indicated for Acciai to take a seat. As Acciai settled into the chair, Aldo's gaze wandered over the papers and items scattered on the table. Acciai remained silent, studying Aldo's eye movements, trying to understand the thoughts of his don.
Aldo shifted in his seat, his gaze locking onto Acciai with a commanding authority. He steepled his fingers, which were earlier tapping on the armrest. His face bore a serious and focused expression, a clear sign that this conversation meant business.
"Acciai, I thought it would be prudent for us to have a little chat. I don't need these formalities; they don't benefit me," Aldo declared, cutting through the pleasantries.
Acciai, though slightly nervous talking to the don himself for the first time, maintained a neutral facade. "Yeah, of course, Don."
Aldo leaned forward, narrowing the distance between them. "Let's talk about these demands of yours, shall we? A rise in profits, more stakes in the game. Interesting," he said, a subtle but dangerous smile playing on his lips.
"I have been putting in the work, taking risks. I believe I deserve a bigger cut, and I am confident about it," Acciai asserted, attempting to sound confident.
Aldo's smile turned challenging. "Risks, Acciai, are like playing cards. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. But we have played a calculated game, haven't we?"
Acciai fidgeted slightly, feeling the weight of the situation. "I think my contributions are worth more now."
Aldo reached for a cigarette, lit it with the lighter on the table, and took a deliberate puff. Exhaling a plume of smoke, he spoke, "Ahan..!Contributions are only as valuable as the outcomes they yield, isn't it? What outcomes can you promise that justify altering our arrangement?"
The atmosphere grew tense as Aldo became more serious. Acciai, looking uneasy, insisted, "Don, I've got connections, expanding the network."
Aldo raised an eyebrow. "Connections are delicate, Acciai. Loyalty is rare. You are risking much for a fleeting advantage, don't you think?"
"but Don,I-", Acciai started but before he could elaborate, Aldo cut him off. "Let me make something very clear. Patience is a virtue, and I don't take kindly to disruptions in my business. You are playing a dangerous game, and you know who will win. I assume you are smart enough to realize that, hm?"
Aldo stood up, a subtle smirk playing on his lips as he glanced around. He headed towards the door, looking back at Acciai. "Think carefully. Greed has a way of unraveling even the most carefully woven plans." With that, he turned around and left, leaving Acciai alone in his space, contemplating the consequences of his ambitious desires.
As Aldo leaves the crowded streets, he goes to see the warehouses and meets Luciano, one of his closest friends and capo of the Naples region under Costa Nostra. They talk for some time discussing major future business plans and some shipment issues. He is later detailed with the progress and deals that have been made in his absence there by Luciano's adviser, along with the accounts of both the legal and illegal businesses.
As the day races toward its end, the sun casts long shadows across the city. The office buzzed with the low hum of productivity as Aldo immersed himself in a series of crucial phone calls, the urgency of each conversation reflected in the furrow of his brow.
A soft knock echoed through the room as Luciano discreetly entered, catching Aldo's attention. Aldo glanced up from his phone, signaling Luciano to proceed.
"Got a moment?" Luciano inquired, leaning casually against the slightly ajar door.
Aldo, acknowledging the significance of the interruption, nodded. "Yeah, what's up?"
Luciano straightened up, his expression conveying a sense of urgency. "I have a meetup with a German investor at 7 pm for the legal business. It would be great if you could come. Umm...It's crucial for the expansion of our international business. It's okay if you are busy, I'll attend it. I thought it would make sure the deal is confirmed."
Aldo, understanding the gravity of the situation, replied, "Sure. Just text me the location, and I'll be there. But I've got a few calls to wrap up first. you attend him and I will join you guys later"
Luciano, checking his watch, emphasized the importance of the impending meeting. "You better make it quick. This is a big opportunity for us, and we need to seal the deal tonight."
Aldo, with a hint of confidence in his voice, assured him, "Don't worry, Luciano. I won't miss it, send me the details."
With a nod, Luciano headed towards the door, but not without leaving a parting piece of advice. "And Aldo, make sure to leave some room for small talk."
Aldo, raising an eyebrow at the notion of small talk, replied with a smirk, "Small talk? You know I don't do small talk but I'll make sure he will agree to our conditions. Now, go on. I've got work to do."
As Luciano chuckled and exited the room, Aldo returned to his phone calls. Aldo receives a message from Luciano about the meetup location. He glances at his watch, realizing he's running late. He leaves from there shortly after and reaches his penthouse. He had an online meeting but there was enough time for it and the meetup, so he decided to attend it rather than postponing it.
Settling into his home office, he delved into a series of online meetings, his focus unwavering despite the dissonance of his surroundings.
Time seemed to slip away as Aldo delved into discussions, unaware of the ticking clock. It wasn't until 6:45 pm that he glanced at his watch, realization dawning upon him. The German investor meeting was imminent, and he was perilously close to being fashionably late.
He got ready and made his way towards his garage. he wore a dark blue blazer with a black shirt inside combined with jeans giving casual-formal mixed vibes. One can describe his style as something like" casual elegance" or "sophisticated comfort".
Aldo rushed through the city streets, his sleek black car weaving through traffic. The illuminated cityscape blurred as he raced against time, and by the time he arrived at the location, it was already 7:30 pm.
He entered the bustling venue, his eyes scanning the room for Luciano. The place was full and people were enjoying themselves. The air was filled with a cacophony of sounds - clinking cutlery, soft background music, whispers, chatters, and laughter. It was a stark contrast to Aldo's preference for silence and peace, a fact that he found ironically amusing given his high-stakes profession.
As Aldo stepped into the restaurant, a waiter promptly guided him to his designated seat, an unspoken acknowledgment of his stature. No introduction was necessary; everyone knew him as a renowned businessman. Many in the room recognized him by his other personality, yet their lips remained sealed, restrained by a mixture of apprehension, the allure of wealth, and the undeniable influence he wielded. He was not just Aldo but Don Aldo - a name synonymous with both fear and authority in the world of business.
As Aldo entered the venue, Ludwig Helmgard rose from his seat, extending a firm hand in introduction. "Don Aldo, a pleasure to finally meet you in person," Ludwig's voice exuded a mix of respect and anticipation. Aldo, the embodiment of authority, responded with a dignified nod, acknowledging the formalities.
They settled into their seats, Luciano taking the lead in presenting the ambitious project in the USA. "Ludwig, this venture is a guaranteed source of substantial profit for you," Luciano asserted confidently, his words laden with the promise of financial gain.
As Luciano delved into the intricate details, Aldo assumed the role of an observant spectator, his sharp eyes capturing every nuance of Ludwig's reactions. Meanwhile, a waitress approached, attempting to inject a hint of flirtation into the atmosphere, particularly directed towards Aldo. He shut her down with a curt gesture, his focus unwavering, while Luciano skillfully intervened to place their order.
Amidst the ongoing exchange between Luciano and Ludwig, Aldo remained silent, his thoughts calculating the dynamics at play. When Ludwig hesitated, unsure about sealing the deal, Aldo recognized the need for his intervention.
"Mr.Helmgard," Aldo's voice cut through the air, commanding attention. "It's a simple decision - yes or no. Plenty are eager to collaborate with me at a lower cost. Don't let this opportunity slip away."
Aldo's manipulative yet assertive tone shifted the balance of power in the room. Ludwig, swayed by the aura of authority, eventually agreed to the deal. However, Aldo, reveling in the moment, now sought to tighten the reins further.
"But let's talk numbers," Aldo suggested with an evil glint in his eye, a wolf disguised in businessman's clothing. "I believe we can make this deal even more favorable."
The atmosphere grew tense as Aldo artfully negotiated, enjoying the strategic dance of power. The meeting continued, the stakes rising with each calculated move.
As the conversation between Aldo, Ludwig, and Luciano veered into small talk, Ludwig's words grated on Aldo's nerves. Despite the irritation simmering beneath the surface, Aldo maintained his stoic facade, concealing any signs of discontent. The entire table succumbed to a palpable tension, creating an uneasy atmosphere that lingered like an unspoken challenge.
Aldo poised himself to retort, ready to cut through the tension with a sharp remark, when an unexpected burst of laughter disrupted the strained air. His gaze snapped towards the source, revealing two girls engrossed in their animated conversation at a nearby table. The intrusion heightened the already charged situation, threatening to unravel the delicate balance.
About to snap at the disturbance, Aldo's eyes caught something that momentarily arrested his irritation. There she was - a vision amidst the chaos. Her smile radiated like a carefully crafted masterpiece, and her eyes sparkled like black diamonds, captivating his attention. Clad in the same dress, her hair now elegantly bundled into a messy low bun, she embodied a captivating allure.
For a fleeting moment, Aldo's hands twitched involuntarily, a subconscious desire to release the tresses that were now confined. The dichotomy of irritation and captivation played out on his face, revealing the internal struggle within. The unexpected encounter had injected a different energy into the atmosphere, momentarily diverting Aldo's focus from the tension at the table.
Aldo abruptly realized he had been entranced by the captivating woman, and with a swift turn, he redirected his gaze to its intended target. The brief lapse had gone unnoticed by their guest, engrossed in the unfolding dinner service. The waitress, undeterred by Aldo's momentary distraction, engaged him in conversation about the menu.
Meanwhile, Luciano sported an amusing and mischievous smirk, an unspoken acknowledgment of Aldo's "gaze distraction." The look infuriated Aldo, but he maintained composure, his irritation simmering beneath a façade of polite engagement.
Amidst the palpable tension, Ludwig, oblivious to Aldo's inner turmoil, attempted to diffuse the atmosphere with a forced chuckle. "Ah, business can be a serious affair, can't it?" he quipped.
Aldo, suppressing his irritation, replied with a tight smile, "Indeed, Mr.Helmgard. But we manage to navigate through it."
As the dinner progressed, Aldo subtly shifted the conversation back to business, his tone deceptively courteous. "Ludwig, I trust you're satisfied with the course of our discussions so far. However, I would be remiss not to highlight the gravity of our expectations moving forward."
Ludwig, sensing an underlying threat, became a more reserved presence at the table. Aldo's words were wrapped in polite veneer, but their implications were razor-sharp, cutting through any illusions of negotiation equality.
As the tension in the room thickened, Ludwig, now a subdued figure, reluctantly agreed to adhere to Aldo's conditions. The dynamic of power had shifted, and the subtle threat had left an indelible mark on the negotiation table.
With the agreement in place, Luciano and Ludwig delved into the details of their newfound deal. Aldo, now relegated to the role of a silent observer, scrutinized their discussion with keen interest. His eyes, though seemingly passive, held a sharpness that betrayed the intricate calculations occurring within.
His silent observation was stopped when his keen ears caught snippets of a captivating conversation unfolding behind him. He learns from their talk that the girl's name is Ella and her friend's name is Vanya.
A soft, yet authoritative voice, belonging to the woman named Ella, carried an alluring tone that danced between sternness and sweetness, especially when she laughed and teased. Aldo's attention shifted, and he found himself eavesdropping on the engaging discourse between Ella and her friend Vanya.
"Vani, yaar, Indian-Italian vibes are something else, huh? Ek dum crazy mix! What do you think?" Ella remarked with a smile, her voice carrying a playful undertone.
Vanya nodded in agreement, "Totally! It's like, yeh dono alag-alag worlds hai, but jab mix hote hain, it's a whole vibe."
A melodic laugh escaped Ella's lips, "True! Imagine an Indian-Italian fusion restaurant. Spicy arrabbiata curry or maybe biryani with a hint of basil? Maybe we can call it 'Spice and Sass,' what say?"
Vanya grinned, "Now that's a business idea!"
Ella continued teasingly, "With a side of cultural diplomacy, of course."
Vanya, taking a more serious tone, reflected, "On a serious note, the diplomatic ties between the two nations hold immense potential. Strategic collaborations could create a global impact, don't you think?"
Ella nodded in agreement, "Absolutely, Vanya. It's about fostering understanding, breaking down stereotypes, and building bridges. The world needs more of that."
Her animated tone continued, "And did you know about the historical connections? Marco Polo's journey and the Mughal influence in Italy?"
Intrigued, Vanya urged, "Woahh, that's interesting, tell me more about it na."
Ella, with enthusiasm, wove a narrative, "Well, umm, it's like a tapestry of shared stories, like exotic spices traveling the Silk Road, art influencing art across these continents, and many more. It's magical, really."
Vanya playfully suggested, "You know... you should become a diplomat. You've got the diplomacy and the perfect sass for it."
Ella, smiling, responded, "Maybe one day, who knows? But for now, let's just enjoy our hypothetical 'Spice and Sass' story and enjoy our time."
Aldo, seemingly engrossed in his own world, listened intently to each line, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. He was impressed by Ella's intelligence, maturity, and elegance, qualities that resonated even in the hypothetical musings about Indian-Italian relations.
There was a fierceness and boldness in her words that simultaneously fascinated and infuriated him. In his mind, she was a kind of enchantress, casting a spell on him through her looks, smiles, talks, and unyielding spirit.
In the midst of the intricate negotiations, a man discreetly approached Aldo, his voice a hushed whisper as he relayed urgent information about an accident at the shipment location. The leader was attempting to reach him. Aldo, maintaining his composed demeanor, nodded in acknowledgment, and the man discreetly departed.
Excusing himself from the table, Aldo informed Ludwig and Luciano of an important call that demanded his immediate attention. Both men, understanding the gravity of Aldo's business affairs, assured him with nods and understanding glances as he left the table.
Aldo reached a quieter corner of the restaurant, away from prying eyes and attentive ears. Answering the call with a simple hum, the voice on the other end pleaded for understanding, assuring Aldo that the promise would be kept. Aldo, unyielding in his stance, reiterated that his words were final.
However, the man on the other end begged for just one more week. Irritation crept into Aldo's usually patient demeanor, a disturbance in the tranquility he had carefully crafted for this evening.
"I am not at my house currently," Aldo tersely responded, his irritation palpable. "We will discuss this later. Ensure the completion of the deal, and compensation details can be addressed at that time. Failure to comply will have consequences for you and your men."
The man, sensing the gravity of the situation, attempted to interject, but Aldo, unwilling to entertain further pleas, abruptly ended the call. His patience had reached its limit, and the intrusion threatened to mar the carefully constructed atmosphere of the evening.
Aldo stood there for a moment, his fingers running across his forehead as he processed the unforeseen disruption. Irritation etched on his face, he re-entered the restaurant, scanning the surroundings. To his chagrin, the ladies, Ella and Vanya, were nowhere to be found. He clicked his tongue in annoyance, a subtle yet audible expression of his frustration.
Making his way back to the table, he announced, "I have some important work to attend to. I'll be leaving early." Ludwig offered a simple nod, while Luciano, ever the talkative one, assured him, "No problem, Aldo. The main work is already done. I can handle the rest."
"I was repeating your words, man", Luciano, caught off guard, laughed awkwardly, attempting to ease the situation.
"hmm.", Aldo, unresponsive to the attempt at levity, hummed in acknowledgment and turned to leave.
As the driver opened the backdoor of the car, Aldo took a seat, his mind swirling with thoughts. Something about the encounter with Ella had piqued his interest, and he couldn't shake the need to know more. He dialed a number to one of the most reliable figures in his tech network.
"Marco, I need you to find the background and every detail you can on the girls sitting behind me in the restaurant, especially the one in the black dress. I'll message you the location."He emphasized the urgency, promising to message the location of the restaurant shortly. The man quickly agreed and asked if there was anything else.
Aldo, his tone firm, replied, "Ensure the details are sent as fast as possible. I don't want any traces of the search, no loose ends." Marco, understanding the gravity of the situation, affirmed, "Yes, Don," before Aldo promptly cut the call.
As the car pulled away from the restaurant, Aldo leaned back, his mind thinking about his encounter with the same woman twice on the same day.
As Aldo reached his apartment, the weariness of the day lingered on him like a heavy cloak. Dismissing formalities, he flung his coat onto the sofa, a subtle expression of his exhaustion. Despite the fatigue, a singular thought dominated his mind - Ella. Images of her from their encounter earlier flooded his thoughts, a surprisingly pleasant distraction from the demands of his day.
Walking towards his office, he opened the door, the click of the lock echoing in the quiet space. Seeking solace in his personal sanctuary, he made his way to the bar section, pouring a generous amount of whiskey into a glass. The amber liquid beckoned a momentary respite as he took a sip, the rich warmth coursing through him.
Despite the taxing day, the mere prospect of unraveling the mystery that was Ella stirred an unexpected excitement within him. He settled into his chair, a wave of relaxation washing over him. The glass found its place on the table, and he closed his eyes, leaning back with a contented sigh.
A message alert interrupted the tranquility, a sound that snapped him back to reality. Marco, his silent confidant, had delivered a file on Ella and Vanya. Opening it, he discovered that Ella was a computer science student in Chicago, an immigrant from India at the age of eight. Her friend, Vanya, was a local medical student with a family deeply entrenched in the medical field. They were in town for a medical campaign and some sightseeing.
Aldo, scrolling through the details, couldn't help but smile at the photo of Ella on the last page.
"Beautiful! Like made to be mine," he whispered.
Zooming in, he absorbed every detail, savoring the visual connection to the enigmatic woman who had unwittingly occupied his thoughts. Closing his phone, he took another sip of whiskey, contemplating his next move.
Determined, he dialed a number, a voice on the other end greeting him .
"Emilio"
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Word count:-4198 words
Write a comment ...