The air in the dimly lit, high-end bar was thick with the acrid smoke of expensive cigars and the hushed murmur of clandestine conversations. Emilia felt a shiver of unease as she stepped through the ornate double doors, her gaze sweeping across the plush leather upholstery and the discreet alcoves that dotted the room – perfect for conducting the shadowy dealings of the city's criminal elite.
"Careful where you step, dolcezza," a silky voice drawled, laced with amusement. Emilia's head snapped towards the sound, her eyes meeting the amused gaze of a woman seated in the shadows. "Ah, my apologies," Emilia replied, her tone sincere as she crossed the polished mahogany floor, the clack of her heels echoing through the dimly lit space.
