Finally, a voice echoed gently through the hall, calling all the family heads and high-ranking members to the upper floor.
Only the men were allowed in that meeting—most of the wives, companions, and guests were expected to stay downstairs, enjoy the music, wine, and meaningless chatter until the real decisions were made behind closed doors.
Leonardo turned to Isabella before leaving, his hand resting on her lower back with just enough pressure to make her pause.
"I'll be upstairs for the meeting," he said, eyes narrowing slightly. "Don't run off."
His tone wasn't harsh—just cool and matter-of-fact, but firm enough to make her blink.
She nodded, putting on her most innocent face. "I'll just stay here."
He stared at her a second longer, clearly not trusting that wide-eyed women expression, before finally turning and walking away.
