“You, Francesca Ferrari, deserve an exciting, adventure-filled life. Don’t let the details of the day bog you down too much. Now, let’s take advantage of the rest of the evening and walk. I will show you the Venezia I know.”

We paid the bill and walked out, arms linked. He escorted me deep into the underground of the city, into dark alleyways twisted in a maze that led us by the water, over small bridges, and into shadowed corners. Whispers in the breeze mingled with the dank scents of the water. The light from the stars and moon guided us by the canals and parked gondolas rocking back and forth, creaking gently. He pointed out treasures in shop windows and hidden cafés filled with locals who drank and feasted without the probing gazes of tourists. It was a night of magic and romance, and I savored every precious, fleeting minute.

As the hour grew late, I texted with Mom and Allegra, feeling relief that my daughter was home safe and looking forward to hearing her story. We walked back to the hotel with slow, dragging steps, not wanting to see the evening end.

As we got closer, his hand dropped from mine. My heart mourned his touch.

We rode the elevator to my floor. He walked me down the hallway and stood outside my door.

“Thank you for a perfect night.” My throat felt raw with emotion. Longing. Fear. Desire. All of the mess mixed together in a cocktail that was both potent and tempting.

He moved in, and his mouth covered mine. I pressed against him and looped my arms around his shoulders. The idea of going to bed alone rocked my core, and I knew in that moment, I couldn’t let him go.

His lips eased from mine. “Francesca.” My name was a whisper. A command. A question.

I didn’t pause. “Come inside.”

He nodded, his face tight, his eyes burning with heat. “Sì.”

My hands trembled around my key card as I unlocked the door and he stepped inside with me.

CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX

Allegra

The rest of the tour flew by.