Chapter 79

Althaia

“You’re leaving?” Cara asked. Her words made my stomach knot, and a lump formed in my throat at the way she looked at me.

“I... just need to be alone for a bit.” I muttered to her. She bit down on her lips as her eyes glistened.

“I understand. Take care of yourself.” She embraced me in a tight hug, and this time, I hugged her back just as tightly before saying goodbye.

I took a deep breath and made my way outside. Arianna was standing next to an SUV, waiting for me, but she wasn’t alone. Antonio, Giovanni, Luca, and more men were outside as well.

“Ready?” Arianna asked, and I gave her a small nod before she opened the backseat door, waiting for me to get in.

Before sliding into the backseat, I couldn’t help but look around, and a pang of sadness hit me even more when I didn’t see him anywhere.

“Damiano is... busy.” Arianna said, noticing my gaze.

“I’m never too busy when it comes to you.” His words echoed in my