Isabella stared at herself in the full-length mirror. The red dress transformed her completely. With her hair swept up and makeup applied by professionals, she looked like she belonged in Matteo's world.
She looked dangerous.
Who is this person staring back at me? Isabella thought. The woman in the mirror had sharp cheekbones highlighted with powder. Her lips were painted deep red like blood. Her eyes looked bigger, darker. More mysterious.
The silk dress hugged her body in ways that made her feel exposed and powerful at the same time. The fabric was smooth against her skin. Cool and expensive. It whispered when she moved. Isabella had never worn anything that cost more than her adoptive father's monthly salary.
A knock at the door made her turn. Her heart jumped. "Come in."
The door opened and Matteo entered. He stopped dead in his tracks. His dark eyes went wide. For a moment, he just stared at her like he'd forgotten how to speak.
