"Pack for a week," Marcus said.
Aria looked up from her coffee. "A week to where?"
"Venice. I have an acquisition meeting, but I want to extend it. I want to make it a proper trip." Marcus took her hand. "I want to show you the city. Properly, not just business."
"When?"
"Tomorrow morning. The jet's already scheduled."
Aria's mind raced. Venice meant leaving New York and leaving her investigation. But it also meant time alone with Marcus and away from Vera's constant pressure.
"That sounds perfect," Aria said, forcing a smile.
They spent the day packing. She was folding clothes when her phone buzzed. Vera.
The message was brief: Venice changes nothing. Two weeks. Find proof, or the deal ends.
Aria deleted it immediately. Her hands shook. How the hell did Vera know about the Venice trip?"
"I can't wait to have you in Venice," Marcus said. "Away from everything. Just us."
"Just us," Aria echoed.
