Chapter 5Amara’s POV The neon sign of the local wine bar buzzed softly against the humid Italian night. I pushed through the heavy wooden door, the thick scent of oak casks, fermented grapes, and cheap tobacco hitting me all at once. The place was packed, a chaotic blur of locals laughing, shouting in rapid Italian, and swaying to a slow, sultry jazz melody that echoed from the corner speakers.I navigated the crowd with numb steps, dragging my small leather suitcase behind me until I found an empty wooden stool at the far end of the dark, polished bar. I climbed up, my muscles aching, and slammed my remaining cash onto the sticky counter."The strongest red you have," I told the bartender, my voice hoarse. "Keep them coming."He didn't ask questions. Within minutes, a heavy glass filled with deep, blood-red wine was placed in front of me. I didn't sip it. I swallowed half the glass in one burning gulp, letting the alcohol bleed into my system, desperately trying to drown the memory
Last Updated : 2026-07-13 Read more