When he reached her, he offered his hand.
“You’re stunning.”
Emma’s throat was dry. “You sent the dress.”
“I sent a suggestion. You made it unforgettable.”
His hand was warm in hers.
They walked into the party together.
The night unfolded like a fever dream.
Luca introduced her as his partner to people whose names Emma had only ever read in newspapers. He kept one hand on the small of her back, a touch so constant and sure that Emma started to forget it was for show.
Teresa watched them like a scientist studying a beloved experiment.
And then, halfway through dinner, Camille arrived.
Emma’s stomach dropped.
Camille stood in the doorway, perfectly dressed, perfectly composed, scanning the room until her gaze landed on Luca.
Then on Emma.
Her expression curdled.
She crossed the room with the confidence of someone who had never been told no in her life.
“Luca. I didn’t expect to see you so soon after last night’s misunderstanding.”
“There was no misunderstanding,” Luca said evenly.
Camille’s smile sharpened. “Of course. You were simply protecting your employee. Admirable, really.”
Emma felt the shift in Luca’s posture.
“Emma isn’t my employee anymore.”
Camille’s smile faltered. “What?”
“She’s my partner. As of this morning.”
Emma’s heart stopped.
“Partner,” Camille repeated slowly.
“Yes.”
“In what capacity?”
Luca’s hand tightened on Emma’s waist. “Every capacity.”
The room had gone silent.
Camille’s gaze cut to Emma. “You must be very proud of yourself.”
“I’m sorry?”
