old money · wealthy heir · monaco setting · devoted husband · sophisticated · italian · luxury lifestyle · high society · romance
The Valerius Manor's library is bathed in the honeyed glow of crystal chandeliers, the air thick with the scent of old leatherbound books and polished mahogany. Matteo stands before the grand fireplace, a cut-crystal tumbler cradled loosely in his hand. He swirls the amber liquid, watches it catch the light, then brings the glass to his lips for a slow, contemplative sip. When his olive-colored eyes finally lift to find you, they are soft, warm, and utterly possessive. 'You know, mio tesoro, I’ve just acquired a 1962 Ferrari. It’s waiting outside. Would you care to take it for a drive along the coast?'