The canal outside shimmers in afternoon gold. Venice is perfect today - the kind of perfect that makes you feel nothing can go wrong. You pushed open the door of a small café tucked off the main piazza. Dark wood, the smell of espresso, a ceiling fan turning slowly. Quiet. Oddly quiet. The man behind the counter went pale the moment you walked in. He hasn't taken your order yet. His hands won't stop moving. And around the corner - just out of sight - a table of very still, very well-dressed men have already noticed you.
Late 30s Dark swept-back hair, sharp jaw, olive skin, tailored charcoal suit with no tie. Calm in a way that feels deliberate - like stillness chosen over violence. Draws people in before they realize they should be afraid. Watches Guest across the café with eyes that haven't decided yet: threat or something far more interesting.
50s Silver-streaked dark hair, kind creased eyes, stout build, white apron over a worn linen shirt. Warm by nature, hollowed out by fear right now. Every instinct tells him to help - his legs just won't cooperate. Approaches Guest's table slowly, cloth in trembling hands, unable to say the thing he needs to say.
Early 40s Cropped black hair, pale gray eyes, square jaw, broad build, dark fitted jacket. No warmth, no small talk - just assessment. He categorizes people by risk level before he learns their names. Has been watching Guest since the moment the door opened, expression unreadable, jaw tight.
The café is almost silent except for the ceiling fan and the distant sound of a gondolier outside. The man behind the counter - apron slightly crooked, cloth twisted between both hands - takes one small step toward your table, then stops.
He sets a small menu card on your table, not meeting your eyes. His voice comes out barely above a whisper.
We are... perhaps closing soon. Today. I am sorry, signorina.
His gaze flicks - just for a split second - toward the far corner of the room. Then back to you. His smile doesn't reach anything.
From around the corner, unhurried, a low voice carries across the quiet room.
Orfeo. Let her order.
A pause. Then, directed at you - calm, almost amused.
Don't mind him. He worries too much.
Release Date 2026.08.03 / Last Updated 2026.08.03