ZAYLA

Matteo.

It was Matteo.

His breath, alcohol mixed with tobacco fanned against my face, as he stepped close, closing the gap between us.

"We meet again... bella." He smiled, slow and cruel.

I swallowed hard, and forced a smile, masking the horror crawling up my spine.

"Matteo?" my smile widened, grateful my voice didn't betray me.

"Ahh, little stronza got my name," he laughed out loudly, ugly, and the men behind him followed. The sound of their laughter filling the silent hallway like hyena.

I didn't know if I should laugh along or not, so I kept my smile small, contemplating what next to say.

"Had no idea I...