Chapter 2 - THE BLOOD ON HIS WEDDING SHIRT
Leo Costa did not move.
Not at first.
He simply stared at Norah.
Then at the blood on his hand.
“My brother?”
His voice was barely audible.
Norah swallowed.
“Yes.”
It wasn't true.
At least, she didn't know if it was.
She'd seen a man near the docks.
A dark coat.
A silver watch.
A familiar profile.
Someone who looked like Matteo Costa.
Leo's younger brother.
But she'd been bleeding.
Terrified.
Half-conscious.
Now the lie had escaped.
And she couldn't take it back.
Leo looked toward the edge of the dance floor.
Matteo stood near the bar.
Laughing with a group of men.
Leo's expression hardened.
Then he looked back at Norah.
“Can you walk?”
She nodded.
He didn't believe her.
“Bruno.”
His security chief appeared immediately.
“Clear the ballroom.”
The music stopped.
Conversations died.
Guests stared.
Leo lifted Norah into his arms.
She cried out.
Pain exploded through her side.
His face changed.
“Jesus Christ.”
He carried her toward the private elevator.
Blood stained his shirt.
His jacket.
The white silk of her dress.
Norah gripped his shoulder.
“Don't hurt him.”
Leo looked down.
“Who?”
“Matteo.”
His jaw tightened.
“Norah.”
His voice was cold.
“Stay awake.”
The elevator doors closed.
And the last thing Norah saw before darkness swallowed her was Leo Costa's face.
Not angry.
May you like
Not ruthless.
Terrified.
