Chapter 3 - The Sanctuary of Iron
The office of The Romano Cultural Initiative was located in a grand, stone building on the edge of the Pilsen neighborhood. The structure had once been an old bank, featuring tall arched windows and reinforced iron columns that gave it the feel of a historic fortress.
When Bella arrived on Monday morning, she found the interior filled with the dust of renovation. Heavy drop cloths covered the floors, and the sound of hammers echoed through the high ceilings.
"You're late, Miss Marino," a voice called down from the mezzanine.
Dante Romano stood at the top of the iron staircase, his jacket off, the sleeves of his white shirt rolled up to reveal intricate black ink that stretched down to his wrists. He looked less like a corporate titan today and more like a man who knew how to build things with his own hands.
"The bus was delayed by traffic, Mr. Romano," Bella said, walking up the steps, her boots clicking against the iron. "Some of us still rely on public infrastructure."
"Then we’ll get you a car," Dante said without looking up from the architectural plans laid out on the railing.
"No," Bella said instantly. "We discussed this. I am an employee, not a dependent. I take the bus."
Dante finally looked up, his dark eyes fixing on hers with that familiar, intense scrutiny. "You have a stubborn streak that borders on financial negligence, Bella."
"It's called boundaries," she replied, setting her bag on a nearby desk. "Now, where are the files for the community grant applications? Your mother told me the local arts program was rejected last week because of a technical error in the filing."
Dante watched her for a long moment, the corner of his mouth twitching upward. "They’re in the safe room behind the main office. Matteo will give you the key."
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As she moved past him, her arm brushed his. A sudden, sharp spark of electricity seemed to snap between them, causing Bella to draw her breath in sharply. Dante didn't move, but his gaze followed her every step until she vanished into the back room.
She sat at the heavy desk, her heart racing for reasons that had nothing to do with the heavy iron doors or the dangerous reputation of her new boss. He's just a man, she told herself, opening the first folder. A dangerous man who pays for your mother's medicine. Keep your head down.
