Page 47 of The Bonventi War

"Champagne?" A waiter appears with a tray.

"Please," Raven says, reaching for a glass.

I grab two glasses, handing one to her.

The string quartet starts a new piece, something classical that makes Raven's eyes light up. "Oh, I love this one," she says softly.

"Vivaldi?" I guess.

She looks surprised and pleased. "Yes, actually. How did you know?"

I laugh. "Shit, I just guessed. He's the only guy I know of."

She laughs and gives me that smile as she takes a sip of her champagne.

Fuck, she's beautiful when she smiles like that. The urge to kiss her right here in front of everyone nearly overwhelms me. To show all these people exactly who she belongs to.

We make our way deeper into the crowd. I spot familiar faces—business associates, some other mafia family members, and the occasional politician. They all nod respectfully as we pass.

"Giovanni!" A booming voice cuts through the noise. Fuck. I'd recognize that grating sound anywhere.

I turn, plastering on a fake smile as Councilman Roberts approaches. The man's a necessary evil—corrupt enough to be useful, but not smart enough to be a real threat.

"Councilman," I greet him, my voice cool. "I trust you're enjoying the evening?"

"Oh, absolutely!" He grins, his eyes darting to Raven. "And who might this lovely lady be?"

I feel Raven tense slightly under my hand. Before she can speak, I cut in.

"This is Raven," I say, my tone leaving no room for further questions. "My date for the evening."

Roberts' eyes widen slightly, and I can practically see the gears turning in his head. He knows better than to press further if he wants to keep breathing.

"Well, it's a pleasure to meet you, Raven," he says, forcing a smile. "If you'll excuse me, I need to go speak with your brother, our infamous senator. Enjoy your evening!"

I scan the room and notice Livia and Alina sitting at a table in the far corner of the room. Perfect. I want Raven to meet them.

"Come on," I say to Raven, my hand still firmly on her lower back as I guide her through the crowd. "There are some people I want you to meet."

As we approach, Livia sees us first and says something to Alina. Both look stunning as they stand, Alina's baby bump prominent under her elegant black maternity gown.

"Ladies," I greet them, "I'd like you to meet Raven. Raven, this is Livia, Enzo's wife, and Alina, Marco's wife."

Livia's eyes widen slightly as she takes in Raven, and I can see her carefully assessing every detail. Alina just smiles warmly.

"It's wonderful to meet you both. And oh my goodness, you look absolutely radiant!" she says to Alina. "Though I have to say, you look like you're ready to pop any day now, "Raven says with a smile.

Alina rubs her swollen belly. "Tell me about it. I feel like I'm carrying twins, even though we know it's just one very active little boy."

"Well, I'll be lucky if I look as beautiful as you when I'm pregnant," Raven says.

"Oh please, you look amazing. How the hell did you end up with such a nice date, Gio?"

I feel the sudden need to correct her, but in my hesitation, Raven speaks up.

"Money. He pays me to hang out with him," she says and nudges my ribs.

The women laugh. "Oh, and funny too," Livia says. "I like her. Please, sit with us."