**Stefano’s POV**

The pier felt like the end of the world.

The air was thick and heavy, smelling of salt and rotting wood. A thick mist hung over the black water, making everything look like a bad dream. I stood at the edge of the docks, my hands buried deep in the pockets of my overcoat. I watched the waves slap against the wooden poles.

A few yards away, Elena’s car rested quietly in the fog.

Luca stood by the driver’s-side door, his face grim, his jaw set. He didn’t have to say a ...