CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND THREE – THE HEIGHT OF OPULENCE

Weeks passed, and Joan found herself caught in a whirlwind of secret rendezvous. One sunny afternoon, she boarded Alessandro's yacht, the "Aurora." "Welcome aboard," Alessandro said, helping her onto the deck with a strong, steady hand. Joan gasped at the opulence surrounding her. "This is... incredible." Alessandro's lips twitched in amusement. "I'm pleased you approve. Shall we set sail?" As they glided across the water, Joan felt a sense of freedom she'd never experienced before. The wind whipped through her hair, and Alessandro's arm was a comforting weight around her waist. "Tell me something," Joan said, leaning against the railing. "Why me? You could have anyone." Alessandro was quiet for a moment, his gaze fixed on the horizon. "You see me, Joan. Not the name, not the reputation. Just me. It's... refreshing." His vulnerability touched her deeply. She turned in his arms, kissing him softly. "You're an enigma, Alessandro Fratelli," she murmured against his lips. He pulle