Azzurra had barely closed the guest room door before stomping in and locking it behind her. Alarico paused in the doorway, startled by the click of the bolt then he waited, silent, for whatever explanation she might offer. He remembered too well how things had fallen apart between them before; he’d promised himself not to block her path or follow her again.

Elettra inhaled several deep breaths and turned to face him. Her legs trembled with nerves, but she fought to steady herself, shifting ...