The dull, heavy thud of his body hitting the floor echoed through Villa Nero, followed by silence. The kind that made breathing feel too loud.
Isabella’s heart slammed against her ribs as she stared at the man on his knees.
“No…” she whispered, blinking to make sure she wasn't seeing things.
But he was real with bruises and blood all over his face and body. And looking straight at her.
“Signora…” he choked out.
That old title dragged her five years back in an instant.
“Alessio…” she breathed.
“You know him?.” Lorenzo’s gaze snapped to her.
Isabella didn’t answer immediately, the truth was unraveling too fast.
“He was the one,” she said finally, her voice tight. “He helped me escape.”
The room shifted as all eyes turned to Lorenzo who in turn looked down at the man.
Alessio was o
