Bound by my blood

Chapter twenty-two

Vincenzo's arm wraps firmly around my waist, his touch deliberate but affectionate—a gesture meant to uphold appearances and soothe my anxiety. His presence is commanding as we stand in the grand entrance hall, awaiting our guests.

The towering chandelier above us casts a soft golden glow over the polished marble floors, reflecting against the dark wood panelling that lines the walls. Outside, the hum of approaching cars fills the cool evening air, growing louder as they pull up in front of the estate.

I swallow, my fingers discreetly gripping the side of Vincenzo's suit jacket. "I'm nervous. Is everything ready?" I murmur, just low enough for him to hear.

His posture remains relaxed, but I catch the flicker of amusement in his dark eyes. "Everything is fine," he assures me, voice smooth as silk. Then, in a lower, more serious tone, he adds, "Stay by my side tonight. The mayor's son has a reputation for being a man-whore."

I arch a brow, glancing up at him. "Isn't he bringing his girlfriend?"

"Yes, but I don't know how serious they are." His lips twitch slightly, but then his expression hardens. "Now smile—they're here."

A sleek black car rolls to a stop outside. The doors open, and I inhale sharply, straightening my posture. Anna, one of the housemaids, rushes forward just as the heavy knock echoes through the grand hall.

The door swings open, and immediately, three suited bodyguards step inside, scanning the room with practised ease before making way for the true guests of honour.

The mayor strides in first, exuding authority with every step. His wife follows close behind, an elegant woman who looks at least a decade younger than him, with a beauty that seems almost too polished—like something sculpted rather than natural.

Then, trailing behind them, is their son.

And beside him—hand-in-hand with the notorious man-whore—is a woman who nearly makes my heart stop.

A gasp escapes my lips before I can stop it.

It's my cousin.

Elisa.

Of course, she's in one of her disguises. Tonight, she's a vision—long, glossy purple hair cascading over her shoulders, her striking features accentuated by subtle yet meticulous makeup. But there's no mistaking those sharp eyes, filled with mischief and knowing.

Vincenzo's fingers press gently into my side—a subtle warning to compose myself. Quickly, I mask my shock with a polite smile.

"Welcome to our home," Vincenzo greets smoothly. "This is my wife, Alexandria. Brunch will be served shortly—please, follow me to the dining room."

The mayor's wife doesn't immediately move. Her eyes flick over Vincenzo's body, lingering far longer than necessary. Then, with a slow blink of her lashes, she looks back up at his face, her smile just a little too warm.

My hands twitch at my sides.

I don't care who she is or what power she holds. If she makes a move on my husband, I will personally ensure she doesn't live to regret it.

Vincenzo gently tugs me forward, but I resist ever so slightly, subtly gesturing toward Elisa. He follows my gaze, but his expression remains unreadable.

I can tell he doesn't understand.

Still, he nods and lets me go.

As Elisa walks past me, I reach out and grab her arm, pulling her back just before we step into the dining room. The moment the doors close behind us, I throw my arms around her in a fierce hug.