Monica, the young heiress of Carluccio's-a world-renowned wine empire-has always lived with a shadow of fear. From a young age, she's felt like a dagger is constantly pointed at her back. To others, she's a walking jackpot, a perfect target for abduction. As she grows older, the threats become more real, her life constantly at risk, surrounded by people she can't quite place-friend or foe, real or fake.
Born into a family of celebrated winemakers in Italy, Monica grew up amidst vineyards and legacy. Despite the power and prestige her family name carries, she chooses to remain humble and out of the spotlight, avoiding media attention and the chaos it brings.
Then she meets Francis.
Monica finds in Francis something she's never allowed herself to want: someone who sees past her name, who understands the burdens she hides. A man willing to stand beside her, not because of what she represents, but because of who she is. Francis becomes her anchor in a world full of masks.
But Monica is torn. She's spent her life standing on her own, never leaning on anyone. She's built walls around her heart-strong, unbreakable walls. Depending on someone, even someone like Francis, feels like weakness. And Francis? He's caught in the lie he's living, torn between duty and growing love.
Neither of them expects what comes next.
Their bond deepens, forged in secrecy and shared vulnerability. But love built on lies is always fragile.
Pride will clash. Trust will shatter. And hearts-perhaps both of theirs-will break.
Person, places, businesses, events and other incidents are just a mere thought and imagination of the author. If there's a coincidence of resemblance to any of it are just pure imagination.
*This story contains graphic depictions of violence, sexuality, strong language, and/or other mature themes. Readers below 18 is not suitable for this work. So I suggest that you must read at your own risk*
