Bab 31: Business, Not love.

Both Edoardo and Evelina blinked, their surprise momentarily mirrored in their expressions.

Why would he ask to speak with her alone? Edoardo wondered, his brows knitting for a brief moment. His gaze flicked to Evelina before he quickly masked his thoughts with a professional demeanor.

Evelina, meanwhile, felt her pulse quicken. Why is he dismissing his personal assistant? Her mind raced, trying to come up with a reason for the unexpected meeting.

Edoardo regained his composure first. "Of course, sir," he said smoothly, stepping aside. He gave Evelina a brief, reassuring nod before closing the door behind him.

Now alone with Leone, Evelina felt the room's atmosphere shift. The silence was palpable, and her nerves bubbled to the surface. She swallowed hard, her throat suddenly dry, as her eyes flicked to Leone, who regarded her with a calm but penetrating gaze.

"Sit," he said simply, gesturing to the chair across from him.