The sunlight streaming through the large windows of the breakfast room seemed brighter than usual, but Annabelle couldn’t bring herself to enjoy it.

She had spent the last ten minutes trying to dodge Mikhail’s relentless teasing while becoming uneasy with Antonia’s curious, unreadable expression.

Mikhail leaned back lazily in his chair, his grin as irrepressible as always.

He wore a navy blue button-up shirt with the top two buttons undone, revealing a hint of tanned skin and a silver chain glinting against it.

His dark hair was slightly tousled, giving him a roguish air, while his eyes sparkled with mischief.

“I’m telling you, Annabelle and I go way back,” Mikhail...