Page 5 of Auctioned Innocence
“Indeed. Perhaps it’s time we brought Sofia further into the fold, Francesco. She’s clearly ready for more…responsibility.”
My father’s laugh is too tight. “Let her finish college first, old friend.”
“Of course.” Lorenzo raises his glass in acquiescence, but his gaze lingers on me. “All in good time.”
The weight of unspoken words makes the air feel thick.
When I can’t take it anymore, I excuse myself to get some air on the terrace.
The night air is cool against my flushed skin as I lean against the stone balustrade.
I hear Dante’s footsteps before I feel his presence behind me.
Of course he followed. He always follows.
“You shouldn’t be out here alone.” His voice is rough.
I turn to face him, summoning every ounce of courage.
“I’m not alone. You’re here.”
He steps closer, close enough that I tip my head back to maintain eye contact.
“That’s the problem, isn’t it?”
My heart hammers against my ribs, though I keep my expression neutral.
“Why is it a problem?”
“Principessa…” It’s a warning and a caress all at once.
His hand comes up, hovering near my face without touching. “You know why.”
“Because of Marco? Because despite what I’ve proven I can do, you still see me as some fragile thing that needs protecting?”
There’s a lump forming in my throat, and I swallow hard.
Don’t cry, don’t cry…
“Because your father and brother would have my head,” he counters, his voice low.
Then, even quieter, “And because once I start, I won’t be able to stop.”
The raw honesty in his voice makes me shiver, cutting through my frustration.
His eyes drop to my lips, and for once I have no clever response ready.
The French doors creak behind us, and we spring apart as one of the staff steps out. “Miss Sofia, your father is asking for you.”
I flee inside without looking back, but I can feel Dante’s eyes burning into me all the way up the stairs.
In the grand hallway, I nearly collide with Uncle Lorenzo, who steadies me with a hand on my arm.
“Careful, my dear.” His grip lingers a moment too long. “You look flushed. Everything all right?”
“Fine,” I say too quickly. “Just needed some air.”
His eyes search mine. “You should be more cautious about the air you choose to breathe, Sofia. Some atmospheres can be…intoxicating in ways that cloud judgment.”
