More Than a Pretty Face (Vincitore Academy 1)

The Only Way to Cure an Itch is to Scratch It

The Vincitore's beach villa in Sharm El Sheik, with its harmonious blend of modern elegance and coastal charm, boasted panoramic views that stretched endlessly across the azure expanse of the Red Sea. Ivory walls, adorned with cascading vines, framed expansive windows. The soothing rhythm of the waves slowed the perception of time.

Sam stretched his arms at the facade. "Can't believe it's been a year already!"

Apparently, the Easter trip was a tradition. Margherita knew that Re's dad was Egyptian—not like that explained the villa, given that the House of Vincitore boasted properties all around the globe, but his family had roots in this country.

"Let's get settled." Re led the way through a private courtyard, where fragrant desert rose blossoms tinted the air, and a mosaic pool mirrored the cloudless sky.

Margherita had never wanted to be rich; she'd hoped one day to live a life in which her family wouldn't struggle to make it to the end of the month. This extravagant luxury was almost offensive to her, a fierce sense of unfairness mounting. She considered it might just be envy.

The local staff included two people: a butler, who doubled as chef, and a maid, who was in charge of service and cleaning. Re liked to keep the staff at a minimum whenever possible; fewer people in his way, and fewer possible spies to report back to his mother. He never knew whom to trust; hence he trusted no one.

The butler bowed. "Welcome home, Signorotto."

Chiara and Marghe exchanged a glance. Apparently, you could pay people to be obsequious.

Inside, a grand living space with plush furnishings in hues that echoed the ocean's depths opened seamlessly to a terrace with potted plants, a fire pit, furniture, and a hot tub.

Giuliano, gallantly, gestured for Gemma to go up the stairs ahead of him. Chiara was a bit disappointed.

She addressed Sam, "How come you came alone? That's highly unusual."

Sam grinned. "Wanna keep me company?"

"Not even in your nightmares," Chiara answered going up the stairs with Margherita.

Lorenzo followed with the model, Graziana.

At the top of the stairs, Luca showed Chiara and Margherita their room. Chiara went in. Two full beds faced a big garden window.

Luca said, "Pescatore, come with me, I want to show you something."

He opened a door across the hallway where, on the other side of a king bed, a huge window glowed with sunshine. Luca walked to the balcony, sliding open the glass door and revealing a view of the beach, right below.