*Milan – Moretti Headquarters Rooftop, Evening*
Lanterns floated in the dark like suspended stars. Jasmine vines framed the rooftop garden, scenting the air with memory and bloom. Below, the city glittered—steel, stone, and legacy built on blood.
Claire stepped out of the elevator and into the night air, heart steeled.
Vincenzo waited beside a marble fountain, clad in a black suit, no tie. His hair slicked back, his hands clasped in front of him like a man preparing for war—or surrender.
“You asked to see me," Claire said.
He turned slowly. “Thank you for coming."
“I had nothing better to do than wander into a dramatic setup," she said, glancing at the petals scattered like strategy. “Let me guess. A proposal?"
“Yes," he said without hesitation.
She blinked. “No build-up?"
“I've n
