Azzurra slipped out of the coat with care, struggling slightly as she tried to climb out of the car without exposing too much. Marcello had already vanished into the venue, leaving her to manage alone in a dress that barely clung to her body.

Just as she was about to step out awkwardly, a tall figure appeared at the door, casting a long shadow over her. A strong hand reached out Marcello’s bodyguard.

Silently, she placed her delicate hand into his much larger one as he helped her down. At ...