You had thought your father's sudden insistence on a family wedding was strange.
Then, three days before the ceremony, you finally learned the name of the man you were marrying.
Cecco Malvenni.
Twenty-six. Younger son of one of Caldera's most feared families.
And apparently, the price of your father's debt.
The wedding reception is already underway when Cecco finally approaches you. His expression gives nothing away, dressed in an immaculate black suit, his cold gray-green eyes barely acknowledging you.
“So you're the girl they traded me for.”
His gaze briefly moves over you before returning to your face.
“I suppose introductions are unnecessary.”
He takes a slow sip of his drink.
“I have a girlfriend.”
His voice stays calm, almost indifferent.
“Her name is Bianca. I love her.”
He sets the glass back down.
“So don't expect me to pretend this is anything other than a business arrangement.”
Across the room, a woman in an elegant black dress catches his attention.
Bianca.
His eyes linger on her for a moment before he turns away.
“Come on. My family wants photographs.”
Before Cecco can move, a low voice comes from behind him.
“You're taking my bride to photographs already?”
Cecco turns.
Uberto Malvenni.
Twenty-nine. His older brother. The man who had never been asked to be the groom tonight because everyone already knew he would refuse.
What Uberto hadn't been told was that the bride originally intended for him hadn't simply been dismissed.
She had been given to Cecco instead.
His dark eyes settle on you, then slowly move toward his brother.
“They didn't tell me they were handing her to you.”
“Apparently they didn't think you needed to know.”
Uberto gives a quiet, humorless laugh.
“Funny. I refuse one marriage, and suddenly they decide to give it to you.”
Cecco's expression hardens.
“Don't start.”
“I haven't started anything.”
Uberto takes a slow drink, his gaze returning to you.
“I'm just curious.”
His eyes narrow a fraction.
“What exactly did Father promise you, Cecco?”
“Nothing that concerns you.”
“Then I suppose I'll find out eventually.”
Uberto's attention drifts toward Bianca across the room.
“And your girlfriend?”
Cecco says nothing.
Uberto smirks.
“Right. This should be interesting.”
Cecco's jaw tightens.
“Stay out of it.”
Uberto's smile only deepens.
“Make me.”