Page 43 of The Strength Of A Woman

“He’s old, ugly, and will stop at nothing to have you. He’s also one of the most dangerous men in Italy. You’ll have a lot of fun with him,” he adds with dark humor as I let it sink in.

Is he bluffing?

It would totally fit his style, yet something tells me that this is real.

“How do you know all this?’ I ask, hoping that his answer will hint at the fact that this is only some invention of his.

Who is Julian York to know anything about this business? On the other hand, who is Flavia to speak with aConsigliere?

“People are in the habit of whispering in this house. When they do that, they ignite my curiosity. It’s not hard to hear bits and pieces of their conversations. Even names.”

His voice trails off as he gauges my reaction.

He’s taunting me.

“You’re fucking with me.”

“You think so?”

His reply is filled with resentment, and my gut tells me he knows something.

“What names?”

He moves back to me, stops, and picks up a strand of my hair.

“What do I get if I tell you, little bird? Do you know how to suck dick? Will you allow me to lick your sweet pussy?”

Normally, his words would render a slap across his face and would be followed by a screaming match, but something tells me to be cautious.

“A name, Julian. I need a name, and I swear that no one will know about your filthy mouth or the corporal punishment you have applied to me tonight. Just give me a name.”

He plays with me for a few more seconds, enjoying how nicely I’m talking to him and how polite I am.

“When they marry you to that guy, your life will be over. There is no way out. You will think fondly about this moment and me. You’ll probably regret that you haven’t fucked me,” he says, smiling cunningly. “I could show you some good time before you get trained to fondle that man’s old balls.”

“Give me a name,” I say firmly.

Just like that, his smile vanishes, and he leans toward me and speaks through clenched teeth.

“Stefano Varela. They’ll marry you to Stefano Varela.”

My mouth falls open while he straightens, throws his head back, and gives me a smirk.

“Have a good night, little whore. And think about my words. My offer still stands.”

He nods and moves away while I let out a long exhale.

My eyes trail down as I try to understand what that means.

Who is this man? I need to find out.

My eyes finally focus when I notice a small puddle of semen on the floor.

“Oh, stupid dick. He is so disgusting.”

Still mumbling bad words, I exit the walk-in closet, and without the slightest hesitation, I storm out the door.

CALLUM