Elijah didn't sleep that night.
Dominic's words lingered in his head.
"You're mine, Elijah."
What the hell did that even mean?
Elijah scoffed, rolling over in bed. He shouldn't care. Didn't care.
And yet…
His skin still tingled from Dominic's touch.
He groaned, sitting up. "I need a distraction."
---
The Invitation
Morning came too fast.
Elijah walked onto campus, yawning, when his phone buzzed.
Unknown Number: Hope you slept well, bello.
Elijah frowned. Bello?
Unknown Number: Meet me for coffee? Just a friendly chat.
A second later, a photo followed.
Matteo Romano—sitting outside a café near campus.
Elijah hesitated.
Dominic's warning echoed in his head.
"Stay away from Matteo."
But Elijah? Elijah hated being told what to do.
So he typed back: On my way.
---
A Game of Words
The café was quiet when Elijah walked in. Matteo sat by the window, wearing that easy, charming smile.
"Elijah," Matteo greeted smoothly, standing as Elijah approached. "Glad you came."
Elijah slid into the chair across from him. "Well, you asked nicely."
Matteo chuckled. "I always do."
A waitress appeared, setting down two cups. "For you, sir."
Elijah blinked. "You ordered for me?"
Matteo smiled. "I pay attention."
Elijah eyed him. "Creepy."
Matteo laughed, leaning back. "Or flattering."
Elijah took a sip. Okay, maybe the guy had good taste.
"So," he said, "why exactly am I here?"
Matteo tilted his head. "Can't a man enjoy good company?"
Elijah narrowed his eyes. "You're Dominic's enemy."
Matteo smiled. "Is that what he told you?"
Elijah hesitated. "Isn't it true?"
Matteo leaned in. "Let's just say… Dominic and I like playing the same games. Only difference? I play to win."
Elijah's stomach twisted. He wasn't stupid. Matteo was dangerous.
But…
There was something about him. Something calculated.
Something Dominic hated.
Matteo smirked. "Tell me, Elijah. Do you always do what Dominic says?"
Elijah frowned. "Of course not."
Matteo's eyes gleamed. "Good."
Before Elijah could respond, a dark shadow fell over the table.
His blood ran cold.
Dominic stood there, eyes burning.
And he was furious.
---