Into the Lions Den

ARYA’S POV My heart was hammering so hard I was convinced everyone could hear it. The security guard was still staring at her computer screen, and more people were starting to look our way, their conversations quieting as they sensed drama. I adjusted my mask, trying to look confident rather than terrified. Luca stepped forward smoothly. "Perhaps there's been a mistake with the database entry? Signorina Colombo's father is very particular about security measures. It's possible-" "What's going on?" A new voice cut through the tension, it had the kind of easy confidence that came from knowing you owned the room. I turned to see a man approaching, probably in his late twenties, devastatingly handsome in a tailored tuxedo and a gold mask rested on top of his head yet it made his dark eyes even more striking. The security guards immediately straightened, their demeanor shifting to respectful. "Signor Conti," the female guard said, her tone apologetic. "We're just verifying some identifica