The Mafia's heart

Rhea stepped out of the crowded streets and into the dimly lit alley, her eyes scanning the deserted passageway. She had been warned not to take this shortcut, but she was running late for her shift at the restaurant. As she quickened her pace, the sounds of footsteps echoed behind her.

Suddenly, a hand clamped over her mouth, and Rhea was dragged into the shadows. She struggled to break free, but her attacker was so strong. Panic set in as she realized she was being mugged.

Just as Rhea was about to give up hope, a figure emerged from the darkness. He was tall, with piercing eyes that seem to bore into her soul. His chiseled features and sharp jawline made him look like a marble statue came to life.

With a swift motion, the stranger dispatched Rhea's attacker, sending him crashing to the ground, his gaze softening.

"Are you okay?" He asked, his deep voice sending shivers down her spine.

Rhea nodded, still trying to process what has just happened. The stranger's eyes lingered on hers for a moment, but his expression remained cold and unyielding.

"good", he said curtly' turning to leave.

Rhea felt a pang of disappointment at his abrupt departure. "wait", she called, out her voice barely above a whisper.

the stranger stopped in his tracks, his backs stilled turned to her. "what" he asked gruffly

Rhea hesitated, unsure of what to say. "thank you", she said finally, her cheeks flushing.

The stranger turned to her, his eyes narrowing slightly. "'don't mention it," he said coldly. "just be more careful in the future".

Rhea felt a shiver run down her spine at his words. there was something unnerving about this stranger's cold demeanor, something that made her feel like she was walking on thin ice.

"i will", she said quietly, looking down at her feet.

His eyes lingered on her for a moment before he turned an disappeared into the night, leaving Rhea feeling both grateful and unsettled.

She took a deep breath and shook her head, telling herself she was just being paranoid. But the memory of the man's cold eyes lingered in her mind, haunting her like a ghost.

Rhea shivered and wrapped her arms around herself, feeling a chill run down her spine. she knew she would never forget the stranger who had saved her, but she couldn't help wondering if she had just made a deal with the devil himself.