Chapter 101

Chapter One Hundred and One

Genevieve clung tightly to Matteo’s arm, as if he were the only steady thing in a sea of chaos. The grandeur of the main hall enveloped her as they stepped inside, and she paused to take it all in. The space was vast enough to hold thousands of guests. Tables were arranged along one side, a large open area stretched out for dancing, a podium sat elevated on a stage, and a bar lined the far wall. The air buzzed faintly with anticipation and the subtle scent of polished wood and fresh flowers. She inhaled deeply, steadying herself just as a man approached them.

“Mr. Accardi,” the man greeted with a formal nod, marking Matteo’s name off a lengthy list. “May I inquire who you’ve brought with you?”

“This is Genevieve Sinclair,” Matteo said smoothly, stepping back and raising her hand slightly as if presenting her for inspection. Then, without missing a beat, he pulled her close to his side.

“I’ve also brought my personal security detail,” he added.

Genevieve glanced over her shoulder and spotted Leo and Frankie, both wearing serious, watchful expressions. Leo’s eyes scanned the room with his usual calm vigilance, while Frankie’s gaze was sharper, colder—almost like he wore a mask. She was reminded of the first time she’d met him. Though his tousled hair was now slicked back and his tuxedo concealed most of his tattoos, some ink still peeked from beneath his shirt sleeves. The scars on his cheek and throat remained, impossible to hide. His black eyes didn’t just look around; they locked onto targets, dissecting and dismissing threats with brutal efficiency. A shiver ran through her at the intensity of his stare, but paradoxically, she felt safer than she had in a long time with him standing guard behind her.

Matteo’s own posture had changed the moment they entered the hall. His back was rigid, his eyes darkened with no trace of their usual golden hue. His jaw twitched slightly as he surveyed the banquet room.