Chapter 22
Before stepping into the violent shadows of the night, Alessandro walked to the secure east wing. The bright, pristine colors of the hallway were soothing, heavily guarded by his most elite men. He opened the heavy oak doors to find Rosalie reading a beautifully illustrated storybook to Livia on the plush velvet sofa. "Daddy!" Livia cheered, her new, stylish bob bouncing as she ran to him. Alessandro dropped to one knee, wrapping his powerful arms around his daughter, inhaling her sweet scent. "I have to leave for a few hours, little bird," Alessandro murmured, his raspy voice dropping into a tender, gentle register. "You be good for Rosalie." "I will, Daddy," Livia promised, kissing his rough cheek. Alessandro stood up, his towering, masculine frame radiating absolute protection. He looked directly at Rosalie. "The perimeter is on full lockdown. The Falcone family is attempting a push on our northern supply routes. Do not leave this suite for any reason tonight." Rosalie nodded firmly, her fair, rosy cheeks pale but her eyes filled with a fierce, unbreakable resolve. "I understand, Mr. Rizzano. She will not leave my sight. We are perfectly safe here." "I know you are," Alessandro replied coldly, adjusting his tailored suit jacket as he turned his back. The loving father vanished, and the ruthless warlord took his place.
