I searched for my name along the rows of name-cards as Marco finally left me alone to run some errand. But I found my name nowhere until I stumbled upon Alessandro himself, presiding at the head of the table like a vengeful god. And there was my name written in bold black letters, on the seat beside him.

He looked up and noticed me standing there, silent, bathed in the blinding light of the chandelier.

Instantly, the charming, diplomatic smile he wore, fell away. And the devil returned, his ...