My heart pounded like a war drum, each step making my pulse race faster. A subtle tremor ran through me with every breath, but I kept my head high and my shoulders square as I made my way down the grand hall. Stefano and our two guests awaited me at the other end, a scene that held more weight than I could bear to let show.
I locked my gaze on Stefano, and my foolish heart betrayed me, skipping as he came into focus. Dressed in his signature black pants and a half-buttoned shirt that showcased a tantalizing glimpse of his chest, tonight he had added a fitted jacket that hugged his broad shoulders. The temptation to fall into his arms clawed at me, but I resisted. I knew well the eyes upon us; any slip could shatter all Stefano had carefully orchestrated.
Reluctantly, I turned my attentio
