Alessia's POV
Isabella was used to a life of control, her freedom tightly monitored by the men around her. And now, with me here, she finally had someone who wasn't part of that overprotective circle.
"You're stuck with me now," she grinned. "And trust me, I'm going to make the most of it."
I shook my head, but I couldn't help the small smile that tugged at my lips.
For the first time since stepping into this house, someone was genuinely happy about my presence.
THE COURTYARD - THAT EVENING
The late evening air was warm as I stepped onto the stone path leading to the courtyard. It was one of the few places in this house that felt untouched by Marco's influence, wildflowers grew in a riot of colors, vines curled around the stone archways, and the scent of flowers and damp leaves filled the air.
I came here to breathe, to think. But I wasn't alone.
