Chapter 10 - Where the Light Hits Best
|
The third candidate arrived on the eve of Enzo’s thirty-fifth birthday.
Clarissa Miller was a high-society influencer and the daughter of a corrupt city commissioner whose political favors had kept rival families out of Manhattan. She glided into the dimly lit bedroom wearing a vibrant yellow designer gown, surrounded by a faint cloud of expensive perfume.
"Oh my goodness," Clarissa gasped, looking around the dark bedroom with a exaggerated pout. "Why is it so gloomy in here? It's terribly depressing!"
Bruno, standing near the doorway, chuckled nervously. "Don Alfonso prefers low lighting for his condition, Clarissa."
Clarissa paid no attention to Bruno. She walked over to the tall balcony windows, throwing open the heavy velvet curtains and flooding the room with harsh afternoon sunlight. Alfonso winced, turning his face away from the glare.
"That’s much better!" Clarissa declared, inspecting her reflection in the glass. "If we hold the engagement announcement on the terrace, the lighting will be absolute perfection for the press photographers."
She turned toward Enzo, giving him an alluring smile. "Enzo, darling, we simply must redecorate the grand hall before the wedding. Those antique dark paintings are completely outdated. I know a wonderful designer in Soho who can make this place look like a modern penthouse!"
Alfonso slowly sat up, the harsh light illuminating the deep lines of pain on his face.
"Tell me, young lady," Alfonso rasped quietly. "When you look at this room, what do you see?"
Clarissa laughed, tossing her styled hair over her shoulder. "Honestly? A desperate need for a makeover and a good lighting team!"
Alfonso closed his eyes, leaning back against his pillows. "Marisol," he called out softly. "Close the curtains. And show Miss Miller to the gate."
Clarissa’s mouth dropped open in outrage. "Excuse me?! I came all the way from the city!"
"Good day, Miss Miller," Enzo said coldly, stepping in front of her and pointing toward the door.
After Clarissa stormed out, cursing under her breath, Bruno slammed his hand against the doorframe.
May you like
"This is madness, Enzo!" Bruno snapped. "You've rejected the three most powerful families in the state! Your birthday is tomorrow! The council convenes at six o'clock!"
"My grandfather has made his assessment," Enzo replied smoothly. "The final choice will be announced at the meeting."
