I walked out the glass doors and hailed a car from the Family's fleet. Only when I reached for my wallet did I realize I'd left my handbag inside.
I turned back.
Through the lobby windows, I could see him still standing there.
In his arms was a bouquet of roses—blood red, twice the size of the lilies he'd offered me.
Massima Gallo walked through the entrance, her designer heels clicking against the marble like a victory march. He moved toward her immediately, drawn like iron to a magnet.
They embraced.
He stroked her hair, tender and familiar, the gesture of a man reuniting with something precious. Something chosen.
"Mr. Volpe, for your new property acquisition, please follow me this way."
The attendant's voice carried across the lobby, professional and accommodating.
"You mentioned wanting an estate? Now that the brownstone has been transferred out of your name, you meet the purchase requirements again."
A pause. Then, with poisoned sweetness: "Mrs. Volpe, do watch your step."
Massima rested her head against his shoulder, her smile visible even from where I stood frozen.