**POV Enrico**

Standing in that living room, waiting for her, was worse than facing a packed stage. I think I’d never been so nervous in my life.

I sat on the sofa, hands crossed, trying to look calm while my mind spun. I glanced at the clock once. The second time, only a minute had passed.

Manuela still hadn’t come. According to the housekeeper, she was getting ready. And I kept debating whether I wanted to see her soon or preferred her to take longer—so I could calm down while I ...