*ADELINE*
As the sun poured its golden rays down on the private island, I felt a mix of warmth and anxiety settle in the pit of my stomach. That morning had started like a dream, with Vincenzo's tender kisses and the weight of his body against mine. The world felt right in those moments, wrapped up in the cocoon of our shared intimacy—or so I thought. However, just as quickly, reality crashed back down when he had to leave for the Don's meeting.
"Adeline, you can't come this time," he said with a hint of regret in his eyes as he fastened his tie. His tone was firm yet gentle, like the soothing sound of waves kissing the shore. I hated the way my heart sank at his words, tightening its grip like a vice.
"Have a successful meeting; try not to kill anyone," I had teased, attempting to mas
