88
Allesio’s POV
The sound of low chatter floated up from the living room as Alaric and I made our way down the staircase. Emilia’s excitement was unmistakable, her voice animated as she greeted her friend.
“She seems to be enjoying herself,” I muttered, keeping my tone neutral even though my mind was already racing.
Alaric raised a brow, glancing at me as we descended. “We’ll see how enjoyable it is after we get her friend’s name.”
It was protocol, of course. Anyone stepping into this house needed to be vetted, especially now, when tensions with rival families were high. Even Emilia’s friends weren’t exempt.
“Do you think she’s harmless?” I asked as we approached the hallway leading to the living room.
Alaric’s face was unreadable, his usual calm, calculating expression in place.
