More than a few times, I got hurt. The worst was a broken arm. Dad was furious, and I know he punished Lucien fiercely even though I tried to tell him it was an accident. He seemed to believe it wasn’t. And I can’t remember what I believed. What I knew, though, was that if Dad punished him today, Lucien would punish me tomorrow. I learned to steer clear of him for the most part. Soon after that, he was sent to boarding school, so I only saw him during holidays and summers.

But even given all of this, rape is something else. A different sort of violence. And with Hannah having been so young, I just can’t wrap my brain around it. I don’t want to believe it.

A banner alerting me to a text flashes across the screen. It looks like two messages were sent hours ago, but since I just turned the phone on and it picked up a signal, they’re only now delivering. The messages are from Lucien. I read the first one.

Him: Vittoria. I instructed Brady to put the phone and the cash in your envelope. He told me they didn’t search you. Let me know when you’re online.

I pause for a moment, not expecting this. I read the second text.

Him: Believe it or not, I am trying to help you. And yes, I’m doing it for myself as much as you. You’ve always thought me selfish, and you’re right. I am. Call or text me. Hear me out.

Me: I’m here.

Him: I’m glad they didn’t find the phone.

Me: What do you want?

Him: Those crooks you’ve got yourself mixed up with are no good. They will steal what is ours. What would be for the children you or I will have one day. And they will destroy Dad’s legacy. I know you don’t want that. They kidnapped you and Emma. They’ve stolen your inheritance. I will get you out of there and have that marriage annulled. No judge will let it stand. Not to mention their enemies. They will come after you, too. You’re a target.

I consider his message and type my response.

Me: Why do you care? You hate Emma and me. You’ve made that abundantly clear.

Him: Like I said, I’m selfish. I want what’s mine.

The thought that Amadeo and Bastian aren’t going to let me go circles around my brain as I respond.

Me: How can you help us?

Lucien: I have a contact in Naples. A powerful contact.

Me: ??

Lucien: He can get you both out.

Me: Out to where? Are we just going to be someone else’s prisoner?

Lucien: For fuck’s sake, do you want my help or not?

Me: What I want is to be free.

Lucien: ?

Me: Who is it? Your contact?