Dante’s expression was impenetrable as he watched Antonia's reaction to his sudden arrival.

Though Annabelle looked flustered, Antonia simply smiled as she turned to him.

“Hey, Tay. Didn’t see you there,” she said, a playful lilt to her tone as she tilted her head. “Are you sneaking up on ladies now? That’s not very nice of you, is it?”

Dante’s gaze didn’t soften, and his voice was as firm as steel. “I asked you a question.”

For a moment, she gazed at him innocently.

Then she glanced at Annabelle with a look of faint curiosity, as if Dante’s words had only just clicked for her. “Oh! I think there’s been...