SHADOWS BENEATH THE MOONLIGHT

as a fortress disguised as paradise, with high walls and armed guards patrolling the perimeter.

nursing a glass of whiskey. She didn't flinch as

" the woman whispere

lentina sa

de. Valentina leaned forward, her voice softening. "Yo

panic flickering in her expression. "I

ur name?" Va

er brow furrowing. "Mi

down, studying her. Mira

ething unfamiliar in her chest-a strange mix of protectiveness and curiosi

iberate. "Do you remember anything else? Why you

. It's all...blank. Just flashes. Water, darkness, fear." Her voice broke, and

r the other. "That's a problem. People don'

h both confusion and defiance. "Do you think

entina said, her tone sharp yet calm. "And if you did

let herself feel guilty. Instead, she poured another glass

rushing Valentina's. The touch was electric, and Valentina

Mira said softly a

angers from drowning was an everyday o

hy

r below the villa. Valentina didn't answer immediately, swirling the amber li

tinct," she

rtably perceptive. "Instinct doesn

e herself. "You're sharper than you

act for someone who just s

hing more magnetic. Valentina leaned forward, resting her elbows on

aint, almost teasing smile.