The Matthews family villa had never looked more immaculate, which was saying something for a house that always seemed prepared for a magazine spread. The long driveway had been lined with fresh flowers, and the grand entrance glowed with warm, golden light as the Sorrentino cars pulled up to the front steps.

Inside, the dining room was a picture of deliberate elegance. Expensive china, crystal glasses, polished silver, and candlelight arranged just so. The table could have seated twenty, though tonight it was set for a more intimate gathering of the two families.

Edward Matthews stood near the window, hands clasped behind his back. He looked as composed as ever, but there was something in the way he kept glancing toward the door that suggested this was more than an ordinary dinner.

Julia was seated already, smoothing the hem of her dress and checking her reflection in the back of a polished silver spoon. She looked up at the sound of voices in the hallway and schooled her expression into something pleasant.

The front door opened, and the Sorrentinos stepped inside.

Giovanni led the way, tall and imposing in a dark tailored suit, Francesca at his side with an easy, warm smile despite the formality of the evening. Behind them came Vincenzo, his presence impossible to ignore even in a room full of powerful people. Miriam followed, bright-eyed and already glancing around at the decorations.

Edward moved to greet them, his hand extended.

The greeting was polite, but the air in the room was thick with the history between the two families. Years of rivalry didn't disappear with a handshake and a compliment.

Vincenzo's gaze swept the room with practiced calm, lingering briefly on you before shifting away. If he was unhappy to be here, he didn't show it. He simply looked like a man who had better places to be.