Damian nodded grimly. "Antonio wanted you out of the picture long before I ever met you.
Someone's forcing his hand and whoever it is just declared open war."
She tried to breathe, but her chest felt tight. "Damian, you're saying my father…"
"I'm saying," he interrupted softly, "he's not the man you think he is."
Her throat tightened. "Then tell me who he is."
He looked at her for a long, haunted moment.
"He's a man who taught me everything I know about power and control and what happens when you love someone enough to defy both."
The words hit her like a blade wrapped in silk.
"Damian…"
He reached out, brushing his thumb along her jaw, the gentlest touch in a brutal night.
"Let's get you out of here first.
Then I'll tell you everything."
Luca's POV.
He slammed the SUV door open as they emerged from the fire's glow.
"About damn time!" he barked.
"I thought I'd have to drag you both out myself."
Damian led Isabella gently inside the car.
