Valeria

The morning started quietly. I sat in Dante’s office, reviewing contracts that needed his approval. The room was calm except for the faint ticking of the clock. I was halfway through signing a file when loud voices echoed from the hall. It sounded like an argument, sharp and chaotic.

At first, I thought it was one of the guards settling a delivery dispute, but the tone grew louder—angrier. I set my pen down and stood. Then I heard her voice.

Elena.

It had been weeks ...