CHAPTER FIFTY

ANYA

As Vincenzo opened the car door for me, his manners as impeccable as ever, I settled into the seat and fastened my seatbelt as instructed.

I turned to face him, a question on my lips. “Where are we going?”

A mischievous smirk danced across his lips. “You'll see when we get there.” That typical Vincenzo enigma, always keeping me guessing.

Unable to resist, I reached for his hand once more, the connection between us feeling reassuring and comforting.

I observed his profile as he drove, his features defined and captivating. His beard, which had been present earlier, was now gone, leaving behind a clean-shaven countenance that highlighted his sharp jawline.

With a swift motion, he retrieved a wrapped gift from the glove compartment and handed it to me.

I looked at him in surprise, the quizzical expression on my face surely evident. What was this unexpected surprise?

He squirmed uncomfortably, his typic