Dante got out first, then offered Chloe his hand to help her out of the car. Hand in hand, they walked gracefully toward the mansion, wearing masks of perfect happiness as the staff escorted them to the main garden, where the entire family had gathered.

"My dear son, you finally made it," said Eva, Dante's mother. She was impeccably dressed, carrying herself with all the elegance expected of a woman of her social standing.

"Mother." Dante leaned in and kissed her on the cheek.

"Hello, swee