Nikoletta paused for a moment, then turned to Marcus with a calm, almost teasing look. “Marcus, tell me the truth. When was the last time you felt real fear—not for yourself, but for someone else? Do you have a secret you’ve never told anyone, not even your closest friends? And the most important question—what does the word loyalty mean to you?”
The entire table fell silent.
All eyes shifted to Marcus. He held her gaze, thoughtful for a beat, then answered with a steady, almost disarming sincerity.
“Fear… I felt it the day I lost someone I loved. A secret… yes, I have one. But it’s not meant for strangers’ ears. And loyalty—loyalty is a promise. One I intend to keep, no matter the cost.”
Nicoletta nodded, and something like quiet triumph flashed in her eyes. He hadn’t broken. And she k
