Chapter 49

• My heart pounded like a war drum, each step making my pulse race faster. A subtle tremor ran through me with every breath, but I kept my head high and my shoulders square as I made my way down the grand hall. Stefano and our two guests awaited me at the other end, a scene that held more weight than I could bear to let show.
• I locked my gaze on Stefano, and my foolish heart betrayed me, skipping as he came into focus. Dressed in his signature black pants and a half-buttoned shirt that showcased a tantalizing glimpse of his chest, tonight he had added a fitted jacket that hugged his broad shoulders. The temptation to fall into his arms clawed at me, but I resisted. I knew well the eyes upon us; any slip could shatter all Stefano had carefully orchestrated.
• Reluctantly, I turned my attention to the guests. Beside Stefano stood Ornella, a striking brunette with fair, porcelain skin and eyes as piercingly blue as my own. Her beauty was undeniable, almost painfully so, and I had no doubt she could have her pick of admirers. This thought only deepened my irritation. Ornella wore a gown much like mine, but in the rich hue of dark wine. Her neckline plunged daringly, revealing more than decorum would approve, her nipples prominent beneath the flimsy fabric. Part of me was relieved not to be the only one dressed in next to nothing, but the fact that I knew exactly why she’d chosen that dress ignited an irritation I could barely hide.