Chapter 30

**G R A C E**

The limousine comes to a smooth halt, and the driver steps out to open the door. The soft, luxurious interior of the car contrasts sharply with the lively, bustling atmosphere that greets us as I step out. The market sprawls out before us, a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful stalls and quaint boutiques. The air is thick with the scents of fresh bread, roasted chestnuts, and an array of spices that make my mouth water.

Matt steps out beside me, his presence commanding even in the chaos of the market. He doesn’t seem out of place here, despite the opulence of his tailored suit and polished shoes. The market is beautiful, a blend of the old world and the new, with antique shops tucked between high-end fashion boutiques. It’s the kind of place that feels both intimate and endless, like you could get lost in it for hours and still discover something new around every corner.

Matt’s voice breaks through my thoughts, sounding very unlike him all of a sudden. “Beautiful, isn’t it? They have a bit of everything—fashion, antiques, you name it. There’s something charming about how it all comes together here, don’t you think?” He gestures to the vibrant displays, his tone casual, almost like he’s trying to set me at ease.

I nod, taking in the sights. “It’s... unexpected,” I admit, my eyes darting from a stall filled with handmade jewellery to a boutique showcasing designer dresses. “I didn’t think places like this still existed.”

He smiles, a genuine one this time, free from the earlier tension. “That’s the beauty of it. It’s a hidden gem. You can find some amazing pieces if you know where to look.”

We start walking, our pace slow and unhurried. But as we move deeper into the market, I begin to notice something else—a subtle, yet constant presence around us. A group of men, dressed in plain clothes but unmistakably alert, keep a careful distance from us, their eyes scanning the surroundings. It’s not long before I realize they’re with us—Matt’s security detail, blending into the market crowd but always close by.

The unease I felt earlier starts to creep back in. “You travel with a lot of security,” I observe, trying to keep my tone light, though the question is anything but casual.

Matt glances at me, his expression unreadable. “Does it bother you? I’d think you’d be used to it being friends with Alex and all.” he says simply, but there’s a weight to his words that I can’t ignore. Especially the last part.

“Not really.” I echo, trying to decipher his meaning. “Haven’t seen much security with him, or maybe I haven’t been around him much.”

For a moment, Matt’s face reflects surprise, as if he expected me to already know something I clearly don’t. Then, he recovers, his smile returning, though it’s not as relaxed as before. “Well, I’m an important man, security is needed in our line of business.” he replies, his tone carrying a hint of humor that doesn’t quite reach his eyes.

I narrow my eyes, not entirely convinced. “And what kind of business would that be?” I pretend a chuckle at the end, just so he doesn’t catch my prying.

There’s a brief pause, just long enough to make me wonder if I’ve overstepped. But then Matt laughs, a low, easy sound that somehow puts me on edge even more. “Not the good kind,” he says, winking as if he’s just made a clever joke. But there’s something in his eyes, a flicker of something darker, that tells me there’s more to it than he’s letting on. That he’s not joking.

What irks me most is he said ‘our’ business, not ‘my’.

I decide not to push further, at least not for now. The market is too lively, too open, and I’m not sure if I’m ready for whatever answers he might give me. Instead, I let him guide the conversation back to safer territory.

“Why don’t we start over there?” Matt suggests, nodding toward a boutique with elegant window displays. “They have some unique pieces I think you’ll like.”

I follow his lead, letting the conversation drift back to fashion. As we walk, the tension between us begins to ease. Matt starts pointing out different shops, explaining what each one is known for, and I find myself slowly relaxing into the experience.

We enter the first boutique, a small, tastefully decorated shop filled with high-end clothing and accessories. The salespeople greet us warmly, and I can’t help but feel a bit out of place among the luxurious fabrics and glittering jewelry. But Matt seems perfectly at home, guiding me through the racks with a practiced eye.

“This place is known for its custom-made dresses,” Matt explains, picking up a dress in a deep emerald green. “The craftsmanship is incredible, and they tailor everything to fit perfectly. What do you think?”

I run my fingers over the fabric, appreciating the quality. “It’s beautiful,” I admit, though I can’t help but wonder how much it costs. The price tags are discreetly tucked away, but I’m certain it’s more than I’ve ever spent on clothes in my life.

Though when he asks me to try it on with his very easy and familiar looking smile, one that doesn't look like we just met and are practically strangers, I find myself wanting to go along. suddenly, not carrying about the pain in my feet that has almost numbed away, so ready to shake off the red dress and the memory of Alex off my skin and mind.