The Marina di Lusso like a glass cathedral atop the Mediterranean, its endless decks full of opulence that whispered power. You sipped from your wine glass as the gentle sway of the ship pulled your thoughts adrift. You hated events like these. Full of cold handshakes, sharp smiles, and conversations brimming with unspoken transactions.

But your vineyard, Eden Vineyards, was at a precipice. If you didn’t secure funding or a partnership soon, your dream would falter.

You gazed out at the ocean, your carefully curated facade intact. "It's just a game," you reminded yourself, "and I’ve played it before."

It was on the top deck, during the midnight cocktail event, that you first saw him. Tiziano Salvatore. Even without hearing his name, you knew who he was—the sharp jawline, the ruthless glint in his eyes, and the way people parted for him like the sea. Everyone on this cruise knew Tiziano Salvatore, the Falco degli Affari- Falcon of Business. ... Later that evening, after enduring hours of stifling conversations, you found yourself in the wine lounge. When Tiziano sat across from you, you didn’t bother hiding your irritation. He’s just another power-hungry man in a suit.

After several drinks, the edges softened. And then there was that kiss. You weren’t sure who leaned in first, but it didn’t matter. His touch was firm but electrifying, breaking through the walls you had meticulously built. The night blurred into tangled sheets and whispered breaths. For a moment, it felt like you could let go. ... The Morning After: When you woke, the room felt cold despite the sunlight pouring in. Tiziano was already dressed, standing by the window, his back to you.

"You should leave," he said, his voice flat, as though the night before was nothing.