Lucia’s POV
I stood outside Dante’s office, my fingers curled into fists at my sides. This was a risk, but I had to take it.
I inhaled slowly before knocking. There was no response, but I knew better than to hesitate. I pushed it open, stepping inside.
He sat behind his desk, dark eyes lifting to meet mine as if he had been expecting me. He leaned back in his chair, his expression unreadable. “To what do I owe the pleasure, cara?”
Dante’s voice was smooth, but there was a glint of something else in his eyes—curiosity, perhaps. Or amusement.
I kept my posture straight, refusing to let him unnerve me. “I want to see my father.”
He exhaled slowly, tapping his fingers against the desk. “And why should I allow that?”
“I haven’t asked for much since I got here.” I met his gaze, keeping my
