It was the day of the hunt. Xavier stood by the courtyard fountain, rifle in his hands. She was late. The hunt wasn’t just sport, it was a Lorenzo tradition. A test of composure, instinct, and presence to welcome a new member. And she was late. Tilly, his maternal cousin, leaned against the edge of the fountain, her blonde curls spilling over her shoulder. “I can’t wait to meet her in person,” she teased, spinning her rifle once. “Xavier’s very own fiancée. To his left, Matteo and Sonia, Xaviers's friends, stood waiting. Matteo was restless, tapping his boot on the gravel. Then movement caught his eye. Two figures approaching from the far path out of a car. Aveline. And beside her, a woman he didn’t recognize. Her steps were quick, deliberate, as though she’d been scolded for being late and intended to make up. “Here she comes,” Matteo smirked, placing his arm around Tilly’s shoulder. Xavier folded his arms across his chest, watching every step she took. “You’re late,” he s
Last Updated : 2025-10-10 Read more