The long black sedan rolled through the gates of the Giovanni estate just as dusk descended on the Italian countryside. The wrought-iron gates creaked open, the family crest gleaming against the setting sun.

From the tinted windows, Rhea Giovanni watched as the familiar villa rose before her, a testament to her family’s wealth and legacy. Its ivory stone glowed under the lanterns, a queen’s palace returned to its queen.

Her lips curled slightly, satisfaction ...