Luca POV
The meeting began at nine the next morning.
By eight thirty, the team headquarters already felt hostile.
Security escorted us through the private entrance because reporters had gathered outside again. Some shouted questions about Arden Motors. Others asked whether the team planned to fire me. A few shouted Riley’s name as though she were responsible for every contract in Formula One.
I kept walking.
Riley stayed beside me.
She wore dark trousers, a simple blouse, and the bracelet I had given her at the villa. The four small charms moved against her wrist with every step.
I noticed them immediately.
So did my manager.
He looked at our joined hands, then toward the glass doors ahead.
“This is a board meeting,” he said. “Not another public statement.”
“I know.”
“You shoul
