POV: Emilia Conti
The room was already arranged for a decision.
That was the first thing I understood as I stepped inside. Chairs angled toward a central space. People positioned not for comfort, but for visibility. No one stood beside anyone else by accident.
This wasn't a meeting.
It was a verdict waiting to be delivered.
Luciano didn't lead me forward. He didn't need to. The space parted on its own, bodies shifting just enough to create a clear path. I walked it without hesitation, heels steady, posture controlled.
Every eye followed.
Alessio remained half a step behind me. Close enough to signal alignment. Far enough to make a point.
They wanted to see me alone.
Gianna stood near the center, her presence anchoring the room. She didn't smile. She didn't frown. She simply watched, as if I were a variable she'd already factored into a larger equation.
"Thank you for joining us," she said.
The phrasing mattered. Not welcome. Not we called for you.
Joining us.
