*The bid*

The moment Lucas and Valentina stepped inside, the air around them shifted.

The grand ballroom was stunning—crystal chandeliers that cost millions laid a soft golden glow over the elegantly dressed crowd, with classical music playing in the background, it blended effortlessly with the murmur of conversations and the clinking of champagne glasses.

Even with the mask covering half his face, those who truly knew Lucas Caruso had no trouble recognizing him. The hot, unmistakable ...