Chapter 2 - THE UNEXCEPTED CLAIM
Lorenzo opened the dark velvet box on the counter.
Inside rested a stunning vintage diamond ring, glowing under the harsh kitchen strip lights.
It was not an delicate, fragile band; it was bold, strong, and unmistakably royal.
“I don’t accept gifts from strangers,” I said, backing away slightly.
“I told you last night,” he said, taking a step closer to close the distance. “I won’t be a stranger for long.”
Aiden struggled against the bodyguards, his breathing ragged. “Camila, don't listen to him! He’s insane!”
Lorenzo didn’t even glance back at Aiden.
“If he speaks again, break his jaw,” Lorenzo ordered casually to his men.
“No! Please!” I gasped, grabbing Lorenzo’s suit jacket in panic.
The moment my hands touched his expensive wool coat, Lorenzo froze.
He looked down at my hands clutching his coat, then up into my eyes.
“You care about his safety?” Lorenzo asked, a dark spark of jealousy flashing in his gaze.
“I care about human life!” I countered, staring straight into his dark eyes. “He’s innocent!”
“No one in this city is innocent, Camila,” Lorenzo said softly.
He placed his hand over mine, squeezing gently.
“If you want him to walk out of this kitchen alive, you will walk out with me right now.”
I looked at Aiden’s terrified face, then at the heavy kitchen doors.
I knew this wasn't a choice; it was a command wrapped in silk.
“Fine,” I breathed, untying my flour-dusted apron and letting it fall to the floor.
“Let him go, Lorenzo.”
Lorenzo nodded once, and his men released Aiden instantly.
Aiden fell to his knees, gasping for air and staring at me with wide, horrified eyes.
“Camila, don’t go with him!” Aiden choked out.
May you like
I looked back at Aiden one last time, realizing the easy romance I had imagined with him was gone forever.
Lorenzo wrapped his arm around my waist, his hold possessive and firm, leading me out into the Chicago afternoon.
