The night inside the Morano mansion shimmered with a quiet that was almost deceptive like calm water hiding an undertow.
The chandeliers above glowed with golden light, spilling across the marble floors. Outside, rain whispered against the windows, soft and rhythmic, as though time itself had slowed to watch what was about to unfold.
Alessia had returned home, her expression was pale.
The maids watch her as no one could predict what was wrong, they couldn't ask either.
Her white silk robe clung delicately to her body, the faint curve of her belly wasn't too revealing.
She traced her fingers over it absentmindedly half wonder, half fear.
Behind her, Luca's footsteps were soundless. The scent of his cologne, cedarwood and dark spice filled the air before his presence did.
He stopped just inches behind her, his breath ghosting over her neck.
"Still awake?" he murmured.
