The name escaped him in a breathless whisper, quickly turning into a sharp gasp.
It was her, his niece. Shock surged through him as he rushed forward. "Liana! What are you doing here? Are you okay?"No response. Her face was pale, her eyes distant, tears slipped down her cheeks without pause, as though she wasn't even aware of them. "What's wrong?" he pressed. "Why are you here at this time of night?" Nothing."Did Matteo chase you out?" he asked, his tone tightening slightly.Still nothing.
Julio's expression hardened. "I know you're upset with me," he said, his voice lowering, "but you need to speak." Liana remained silent, her gaze unfocused. "Liana," he snapped, frustration breaking through, "talk to me!"
Slowly but surely she turned her eyes met his. They were bloodshot, fille
