*A risk*

The drive was quiet, aside from the occasional sound of Matteo’s fingers tapping against the steering wheel. Valentina barely acknowledged it. She sat with one leg crossed over the other, eyes fixed outside the window as the city blurred past.

It wasn’t until they reached the hotel that Matteo spoke.

“We’re here,” he said, slowing the car.

His aunt, who had been silent the entire ride, finally moved. She unclipped her seatbelt, then reached for her purse.

“Thank you, ...