Chapter 217

• Giovanni's Perspective
• I stood in front of the huge floor-to-ceiling windows, holding the latest agreement from Elena in my hand. Outside, the city was shrouded in night, its bustle and hustle as tumultuous as the chaos in my mind. Neon lights flashed, but no matter how long I stared, the view couldn't relieve the weight I felt inside.
• Elena's image was a nightmare I could barely shake. Her sly, deep eyes always found the most sensitive spots, striking at my fragile defenses. Despite the loathing in my heart, I knew it was only temporary—I couldn't tear off the mask of hypocrisy just yet.