Charles wrapped his arms securely around Mark's neck, hiding a giddy smile against his shoulder as Mark carried him out of the villa and toward the beautifully lit tent by the pool, where the real, relentless rounds of the night were waiting to begin.
Back at Matteo's estate, the master bedroom was silent except for the soft, steady breathing of Adrian, who slept peacefully on the bed.
Matteo stood beside the bed for a long moment, quietly looking down at his partner. The warm glow of the bedside lamp illuminated Adrian's slightly flushed face, his lips parted as he slept off the alcohol.
Although Adrian had spoken about his confrontation with Owen as though he had won, Matteo knew better. He knew exactly how petty, volatile, and dangerous men like Owen could be. Someone like Owen wouldn't simply swallow that kind of humiliation. He would find a way to retaliate.
Matteo's expression darkened. He had no intention of waiting for Owen to make the first move.
