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Chapter 23 - Velvet Nights

Author: Lissy
last update Last Updated: 2025-05-10 17:28:20

Valentina’s POV

Zahra clasps her hands gently, eyes shimmering with appreciation.

“That was… enchanting,” she says with a soft and clear voice. “You truly have a gift, Mrs. Ricchezza—not just with words, but with presence. It felt as though the past had come alive.”

Hassan, seated beside her, leans forward slightly, nodding with a thoughtful expression.

“Mesmerizing,” he agrees. “Very few people can command a room so wholeheartedly without raising their voice.”

Zahra smiles, a touch of warmth—and calculation—in her gaze.

“I see now why my husband insisted we meet you. He was right. There’s something… simply unforgettable about you.”

“I’m truly grateful for the compliment,” I say with a sugar-sweet smile. “It means the world coming from such cultured and enlightened people as yourselves.”

Raffaele looks at me—and for once, he’s at a loss for words.

As the final notes of laughter drift across the table and the last of the savory dishes are cleared, a silver tray is brought in—laden with
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