Later that evening, a sleek black sedan pulled up to the gates of Prince Ruben's private estate on the outskirts of the city.

The residence was an exquisite modern villa surrounded by manicured lawns and subtle, warm exterior lighting. Selina stepped out of the car, adjusting the cream cashmere coat wrapped around her shoulders, and walked up the wide stone steps to the front entrance.

Before she could even reach for the knocker, the double doors swung open.

Ruben stood in the doorway, dressed casually in a dark charcoal sweater and trousers. The moment his eyes landed on Selina, a look of pure, unscripted delight illuminated his handsome face.

"Selina!"...