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Ashes of the Past

Author: Nana A
last update Last Updated: 2025-05-03 12:58:00

The safe house Riccardo brought them to was hidden deep within the countryside—an old vineyard turned fortress, surrounded by thick woods and iron gates.

The ride there was a tense blur, adrenaline refusing to release its grip on Camilla’s body.

Even when they pulled into the circular driveway and the heavy iron gates clanged shut behind them, she couldn’t shake the feeling that the ground was still moving under her feet.

Inside, the house was dimly lit, with low ceilings and thick walls that seemed to swallow sound.

Perfect for hiding.

Perfect for regrouping.

Marco and Luca immediately began sweeping the property for threats, speaking in terse, clipped Italian over their radios.

Riccardo led Camilla upstairs to a small sitting room, where a crackling fire offered a faint warmth.

Only then, when they were finally alone, did he speak.

“You were brilliant tonight,” Riccardo said, his voice low.

Camilla met his gaze, her fists still trembling slightly from the aftermath.

“I had to be,” s
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