Chapter 363

• I pulled Sofia into a warm embrace, my heart swelling with pride for the unyielding strength of my best friend. There were no words to say—Sofia never needed reassurance. She carried her confidence like a flame, burning bright for everyone to see. Even in my darkest moments, when Leonardo’s rejection had drained the joy from my life, Sofia’s unwavering belief in herself and the people she loved had been my anchor, keeping me afloat.
• When Enrico appeared to whisk her away, I turned to catch up with Carlo, eager to hear more about the assassination attempt he’d so casually mentioned. Leonardo, to his credit, kept his growling to a low rumble as Carlo pulled me into a bear hug, though his steely gaze hardened in the background.
• “Really, it was pathetic,” Carlo said with a shake of his head, feigning disappointment. His lips curved into a smirk that made Leonardo’s jaw tighten. “Not even a proper attempt. Missed my heart by a mile. The poison? Barely more than a mild annoyance. Took me, what, three hours to burn it off? Perks of running hot.”