Chapter 24 Lucia's Worth

The ride back was silent. City lights streaked past the window, flashing across Lucia's empty expression. She leaned against the door, staring out the window. Alessandro sat beside her, but the space between them—just one empty seat—felt like a gaping abyss. He didn't look at her, though she felt his gaze land on her more than once. The air inside the car was suffocating. The scent of alcohol and faint gunpowder clung to him, dangerous and distant. He had to know she was angry. Anyone could see her smile had turned into a rigid mask the moment she took his arm again. But he said nothing. Perhaps he didn't care, or maybe he didn't know how to begin. His pride kept him from humbling himself, especially when he believed the problem had already been handled. The car entered the estate and stopped at the main building. Lucia didn't wait for him. She stepped out, lifted her skirt, and climbed the stairs quickly. Alessandro followed. He watched her determined figure depart, and he fr