he couldn't answer. Where was Dante taking her? Why now? And wh

ation of the unknown. She hated that even now, she felt the subtle tug

her mother, and if she had to endure Dante's control for a while to secure her

open slightly, and the same woman from before-Dante's st

get ready for the day," she said gently, her tone

g the woman. "What does 'ge

mile. "It's best not to ask too many questi

sarcastic reply. "

tated but elegant, paired with expensive heels. It was the kind of outfit Sophia imagined women i

roat. Another reminder of the gilded cage she

at Sophia. Her voice softened. "You should

ssing down on her. She didn't have many options

restrictive and strangely empowering. She caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror and almost didn't recognize the wom

ack, smoothing the fabric with careful ha

ckening again. Whatever Dante had planned, sh

nto a phone. His presence filled the room, commanding without effort. Even from beh

staircase. The soft clack of her heels on the marble floor m

His eyes lingered for a moment too long, taking in the sight of her in the dress he'd chose

his voice a low rumble that

be flustered by his compliment. "Y

if her resistance only amused him. "I wasn't a

uld retort, Dante gestured toward the door wher

nty gnawed at her. But staying here, under his roof, felt no less like a tra

word, she foll

ophia stared out the window, trying to gather her thoughts. Dante sat beside her, his presence heavy despite the silence. He w

ecluded, and the buildings were replaced with sprawling estates hidden behind high walls. It was the

ron gates. Security guards stood at attention, their eyes flicking to

he asked quietly, her v

pped out of the car and waited for her to follow

inally answering, "is

old finality of his tone-made her stomach churn. Deals?

ck, guiding her toward the entrance. The touch was subtle but co

with purpose. It was clear that this was no ordinary business. The air felt thic

th tall, arched windows overlooking the city. A man was already waiting inside

er with a flick of his hand. "This

crutiny. There was something calculating in his gaze, something that made he

hly, his voice as polished as his

feeling the tension mount.

retort. He exchanged a glance with Dante

ft her back, the possessive touch a reminder that she was here b

. What kind of business was this? Wha

the real deal being made h