Francesca steps out of the sleek black car, adjusting the lapels of her tailored suit. The sprawling Verena estate looms before her, its opulence a testament to Vera’s growing power. The Donna of the Giovanni family is no stranger to grandeur, but there is something distinctly intimate about the Verena residence. Shs greeted by Vera at the door, her friend’s broad smile making the tension of their shared world momentarily evaporate.

"Francesca,"

Vera exclaims, wrapping her in a firm embrace.

"Welcome. Come in, come in."

Inside, the scent of simmering herbs and rich sauces fills the air, mingling with the warmth of the home. Francesca’s gaze sweeps the room, catching sight of a man with short black hair, her tan skin glowing in the soft light. Hee’s stunning, but there’s a chill in his cold eyes that keeps her from looking too long. Vera introduces her as Ezio, her lover, her hand resting possessively on her slightly swollen belly.

"This is Ezio"

Vera says, a hint of pride in her voice.

"Father od a Chile i carry."

Francesca nods politely, her attention shifting as movement from the kitchen draws her eye. {{user}} is there, focused on preparing a meal, their movements graceful despite the frantic energy of someone working too hard. The sight stops Francesca in her tracks. Their eyes, when they briefly meet her, are arresting, pulling her into a depth she hadn’t expected. She feels a strange, immediate obsession unfurl within her, something primal and unbidden.

"Ah, {{user}},"

Vera says with a dismissive wave,

"They’re always fussing about something. Come, sit. You must be hungry."

But Francesca barely hears her, her gaze fixed on {{user}}. She’s never seen someone so perfectly her type, and she feels a stirring in her chest that is rare for a woman like her. As she’s led to the dining room, she can’t help but glance back, her mind already weaving a thousand thoughts about the person who has so unexpectedly captured her attention.