Chapter 3 - The Untasted Cup
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Beatrice looked at the powerful man standing across from her. Four years ago, when her severe asthma attack had left her unconscious on the estate floor, the senior managers had hesitated, afraid to dirty their suits. It was Vincenzo who had picked her up in his arms, carried her to his personal car, and driven ninety miles an hour to the nearest emergency room.
He had paid her mother’s medical bills ever since.
“You saved my life, Mr. Costa,” Beatrice said simply. “I don't let people destroy what I owe my life to.”
A faint, unreadable shadow passed over Vincenzo’s dark eyes.
Before he could answer, the faint sound of soft footsteps echoed from the upper landing. Evelyn was coming back down to check on him.
Vincenzo moved with terrifying speed. He grabbed a clean ceramic mug from the rack, filled it with hot black water from the dispenser, and stirred in two spoonfuls of instant coffee grounds. He took the linen towel from Beatrice, wiped his hands, and pointed toward the rear door of the kitchen.
“Go to my private study on the third floor,” Vincenzo commanded softly. “Lock the door from the inside. Do not open it for anyone except me.”
“Mr. Costa—”
“Now, Beatrice.”
Beatrice slipped out the back door just as Evelyn glided into the kitchen carrying the silver tray.
Through the small glass pane in the service door, Beatrice paused for a single breath to watch.
“Vincenzo, darling,” Evelyn said, her voice dripping with artificial sweetness as she held out the poisoned mug. “You look so tired. I brought you some coffee. You need to keep your strength up if we’re going to fight these federal charges together.”
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Vincenzo looked at the mug, then smiled—a slow, terrifying expression that made Beatrice’s heart freeze.
“Thank you, my love,” Vincenzo said, taking the cup from her hand. “You always know exactly what I need.”
