~LAUREN'S POV~

The villa was a palace disguised as a home.

I leaned against the balcony railing, enjoying the view of the private beach as the waves playfully danced against the soft, golden sand.

The afternoon sun casts a beautiful glow over everything. I noticed some storm clouds starting to roll in from afar—a reminder to be on the lookout!

"Do you like it?" Alexandro's voice came from behind me, smooth as the expensive tequila he'd poured when we arrived.

I turned to find him leaning against the doorframe, jacket disposed of, the top buttons of his shirt undone. The casual stance did nothing to reduce his power.

If anything,...