e surface, threatening to erupt into open conflict at any moment. Amidst the chaos of their feuding, Vincent Moret

ty. Tall and striking with piercing brown eyes and a commanding presence, Alessandro wa

or, and he wasted no time in arranging a meeting to discuss the terms of their proposed union. Amara watched w

have arranged for you to meet Alessandro Romano," he announced, his voice brooking no argument. "He is a fine

that her marriage would be a strategic alliance, a means to solidify their power and expand their

e of dread. She knew that she could not defy her father's wishes, but the tho

ind a way to escape the fate that had been thrust upon her, no matter the cost. But

icipation and apprehension. The pulsating rhythm of jazz music filled the air, mingling with the chatter of

uating her slender figure and hinting at the quiet strength that lay beneath her seemingly delicate exterior. Her dark hair

a sense of unease settling in the pit of her stomach. It had been several min

rtists – each lost in their own world of conversation and laughter. The atmosphere was electric, charged with the promise

ight of him striding confidently through the crowded room. Tall and impeccably dressed in a

sparkling with warmth and charisma. "Amara," he said, his voice smooth and vel

sight of him. "Not at all," she replied, her tone p

rt that settled over her like a shroud. Despite Alessandro's charming demeanor and polite conversation, th

Alessandro Romano, her expression a mask of polite disinterest. Despite Alessandro

ed charm. "Amara, you're even more beautiful than I imagine

e but distant smile. "

f his exploits and achievements, each one more exaggerated than the last. But try as h

the dimly lit bar, sit

lean and athletic build that hinted at both strength and agility. Every movement he

ffortless style, framed a face that could have been carved from marble. Sharp angles defined his jawline, le

they seemed to hold the wisdom of ages, their depths betraying a keen intelligence that missed nothing. The

ictories won. Though it marred the perfection of his features, it only served to enh

Rowan exuded an aura of sophistication and power. His attire was understated yet

olding before him and the couple seated at a nearby table. His gaze lingered on Alessandro Ro

gth that drew his interest. Though he did not know her, there was something about her presenc

atched them with

f curiosity danced in his piercing dark brown eyes. Sensing a story unfolding before him,

across the room as he regaled his compa

andro boasted, a self-assured smirk playing on his lips. "

politely, her expression unread

tone polite yet guarded. "But forgive me if

hint of irritation flashing in his eyes bef

reaching across the table to lightly touch her hand. "I have

wined hands, her expression inscrutable

she replied, her voice tinged with a hint of resigna

ords, a flicker of annoyance crossing his feat

ugh the tension between them was palpable. "

interest was piqued further, his gaze li

s interest only deepened. Sensing a subtle tension between the two, he lea