Chapter 245

But my suspicion of more lies didn't kill my curiosity, for right now, we were on the balcony eating dinner, or rather, HE was eating dinner.

Sitting opposite him, I couldn't take in anything.

Although the aroma wafting past her nose was promising, my stomach thought otherwise. But he didn't seem to notice, cutting through his venison and vegetables, working his Adam's apple to swallow mouthfuls. Time and again, a butler refilled his cup.

His hair was a mess; his body didn't have the tension it did in Umbria. He looked relaxed, in tune with this environment. He looked like he was made for this.

He dropped his cutlery and pushed his plate away. Grabbing a napkin from the table, he dabbed at his lips. Finally focusing on me, he leaned back and asked, "You don't like the food?"

I shook my head, my voice hoarse. I replied, "I'm sure it's wonderful. You seem to enjoy it very much."

"I am," he nodded, then turned to gaze into the compound, specifically at the