After breakfast, Dimitri went to pack a small bag.
Eve followed him to the bedroom.
"You're sure everything's okay?" she asked, watching him move efficiently through the closet.
"Positive. Why?"
"You just seem... I don't know. Tense. Like something's on your mind."
Dimitri stopped packing, came to her, cupped her face in his hands.
"The only thing on my mind is you. And how much I'm going to miss you while I'm gone." He kissed her deeply. "I love you. More than anything in this world."
"I love you too."
"Good. Remember that." He pressed his forehead to hers. "And remember to stay safe while I'm gone. I'm leaving men here. Extra security. Just to be careful."
"Dimitri, you're going to Italy for business meetings, not war. I'll be fine."
"Indulge me. Let me keep you safe."
Eve sighed. "Fine. Extra security. Whatever makes you feel better."
"Thank you."
An hour later, Marco arrived with a car.
