’s POV
The moment I stepped through the gates of Adriano’s villa, an eerie chill brushed over my skin. It was silent. Too silent.
No guards at their usual post, no muffled chatter from the maids or clinking of glasses in the kitchen. Just pure silence.
My steps faltered as I stepped deeper into the grand, cold space. The air felt… off. Like something was lurking behind the calm, watching me. I swallowed hard, fighting the growing knot in my chest. Maybe they were all dismissed for the day? Maybe they were out back? But I knew better. Adriano never left his house unguarded. Ever.
My palms grew clammy as I slowly walked toward the hallway that led to the bedroom. I didn’t make it far.
Because Adriano was already there. Standing just at the end of the corridor like he’d been waiting for
