Chapter 3 - The Threat at the Gate
Lorenzo felt a sharp pang in his chest. Without a moment's hesitation, he slid his arms under the little girl and lifted her securely into his chest.
The child buried her face in his neck, wrapping her arms tightly around his collar as she clung to her one-eyed stuffed rabbit. Pino stood up instantly, turning his body to guard their path, letting out a low, rumbling growl toward the open glass doors of the villa.
"Nobody touches your mother in my home," Lorenzo said, his deep voice carrying a cold, protective promise that echoed off the stone walls.
He turned and walked up the grand marble steps, carrying the child with natural ease. Standing near the entrance was Renata, the mid-40s head maid dressed in a traditional black maid uniform with a white collar and apron.
Renata’s hands shook uncontrollably as she clutched a set of brass keys. Her face turned deathly pale as she saw the child resting safely in Lorenzo’s arms.
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"Mr. Duca… I can explain…" Renata stuttered, her voice trembling with rising panic as her eyes darted nervously toward the driveway.
👉 What did the little girl whisper in Lorenzo's ear that shattered Renata's lie?
