Morning light slanted through the windows of Valerio's workshop, casting long golden rectangles across the polished marble floor. Pierre stood just inside the entrance, taking in the vast space with careful eyes. The workshop occupied an entire wing of Valerio's mansion, a cathedral dedicated to the craftsman's obsession with perfection.
"Welcome to my sanctuary," Valerio said, gesturing broadly. His voice carried the same musical quality Pierre had noted at dinner, a performer's practiced cadence. "Few guests are granted such an honor."
"I'm flattered," Pierre replied, his tone neutral. He moved deeper into the space, examining the various workstations that lined the walls.
