Luciano rose from his seat without warning.
The movement was sudden enough to make Calista flinch.
Across the room, Oriana noticed at once. She paused mid-sip, her sharp eyes following her brother as he adjusted his robe with calm precision. There was nothing rushed about him, yet the air shifted.
"Excuse me," Luciano said evenly. "I need a word with Calista."
His voice was smooth.
Oriana's lips curved into a slow smile. "Of course, brother."
Luciano turned his gaze to Calista. "Come."
It wasn't a request.
Calista hesitated for half a second—just long enough to regret it. When she placed her hand in his, his fingers closed around her wrist instantly.
He pulled her to her feet without looking back.
Oriana watched them leave, her eyes narrowing slightly, interest flickering across her face. She did not miss the way Calista struggled to keep up, nor the way Luciano's grip never loosened.
The door shut behind them.
