Exposed to the CEO Behind the Mafia Mask (by Silver Spoon) novel Chapter 352

Chapter 352: Chapter 136 Phoebe Goes Missing

Gemma’s POV

The week had passed in a haze of family business and preparations, and I completely forgot to mention Nancy’s unexpected visit to Dominic’s office. That same day, we had ventured into the secured shopping district to find Vincenzo’s birthday gift. His birthday celebration was scheduled for the weekend at the Thorne family estate, and the young heir had been calling me constantly all week, buzzing with excitement about the party details. His enthusiasm was absolutely endearing.

The celebration day arrived quickly. I felt particularly at peace since changing my phone number had finally ended those disturbing calls, allowing me to sleep without fear again.

"Songbird, are you ready to go?" Dominic strolled into our walk-in closet, selecting one of his custom Italian watches and fastening it around his wrist with practiced ease.

"Almost there, handsome," I replied, applying the final touches to my makeup.

Dominic checked his encrypted phone, smiling. "Vincenzo won’t stop calling. What an impatient kid!"

"He’s just thrilled about his big day," I laughed, amused by Vincenzo’s single-minded focus these past few days on his coming-of-age celebration.

"That boy gets excited about any family gathering," Dominic chuckled. "I’ll wait for you downstairs."

After he left, I finished my makeup, slipped into my dress, and examined my reflection. The emerald green gown I’d chosen deliberately matched Dominic’s eyes. It hugged my curves perfectly, featuring a tasteful V-neckline and elegant shoulder straps. My hair was styled in a sophisticated braid with a few loose tendrils framing my face.

When I descended the marble staircase, Dominic’s reaction was immediate and gratifying.

"My goddess!" he exclaimed, his eyes traveling appreciatively over my form. "You’re the most magnificent creature my eyes have ever beheld!"

I smiled at his enthusiasm. "You always know exactly what to say, don’t you?"

"I’m merely stating facts," Dominic replied, wrapping his arms around my waist. "It’s almost unfair to the other family members—you’ll be stealing everyone’s attention!"

"And that doesn’t make you jealous?" I teased.

"Not at all," he responded confidently. "I know you’re mine. Let them admire your beauty—you’re absolutely breathtaking. I’m just fortunate to be the man who gets to take you home."

"Well," I murmured, giving him a quick kiss, "keep talking like that, Dominic Frost, and you might receive more than just admiring glances by night’s end."

His smile widened considerably. "In that case, I can’t wait for this celebration to be over!"

I laughed at his eagerness. "Seems like impatience runs in the Frost bloodline!"

He joined my laughter as we headed out, his arm possessively around my waist.

Nadia had arranged her son’s celebration in the Thorne estate’s grand ballroom—though "estate" hardly did justice to what was essentially a fortified compound. The residence resembled those featured in luxury magazines, with every detail exquisitely refined, blending old-world elegance with modern security features.

The ballroom stood adjacent to the main residence, overlooking meticulously maintained gardens patrolled by discrete security personnel. Imposing marble columns supported a vaulted ceiling, while the walls featured bulletproof glass panels. Massive crystal chandeliers hung from above, their light reflecting brilliantly throughout the opulent space.

Despite the grandeur, the decorations maintained tasteful sophistication befitting a family heir. The entertainment was spectacular—acrobats executing impressive maneuvers on aerial silks suspended from the ceiling. Professional performers moved throughout the space, while fire-breathers created dramatic displays at the secured entrances. It was as if the circus performers themselves served as living decorations—luxurious yet still appropriate for a young heir’s milestone celebration.

"Auntie! You look absolutely ravishing tonight, even more stunning than usual," Vincenzo greeted me enthusiastically, offering an elaborately garnished mocktail from a silver tray. "This is for you, beautiful. No alcohol, of course—for my little cousin’s sake."

"Thank you, sweetie! How thoughtful," I smiled, embracing him warmly and offering birthday wishes before he turned to embrace Dominic with obvious affection.

"Auntie, I adore the gift you sent! Look—I’m already wearing it!" Vincenzo proudly displayed the platinum wristwatch I’d selected from Dominic’s connections.

"I’m delighted you like it, sweetie."

"And what about my present?" Dominic interjected with mock offense. "No mention of that?"

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