The sound of my hurried footsteps echoed in the corridor, each step a frantic attempt to escape the whirlwind I had just left behind.
My hand was still trembling, the sting of contact with Adrian's cheek a vivid reminder of what had transpired.
What had I done? Slapping a Mafia boss? A man as powerful and dangerous as Adrian Santoro?
I placed a hand on the cool marble railing of the staircase, taking a moment to steady myself.
My breathing was erratic, and my mind raced with the consequences of my impulsive act.
If Adrian decided to retaliate...
"Maria!"
His voice was smooth, confident, and far too close for comfort.
I turned to see Adrian striding toward me, his movements deliberate, his face calm except for the faint redness where my palm had landed.
"Wait," he said, raising a hand to stop me. "We need to talk."
I shook my head, taking a step back.
