Vincent walked Raphael to the door, their conversation concluding in low tones that Gianna couldn't quite catch from her position at the bottom of the stairs."Keep me informed about the charity event," Vincent said quietly. "Any confirmation of her attendance, I want to know immediately.""Understood, Commander," Raphael replied with a slight nod. "We'll monitor the situation closely."The door closed behind Raphael, and Vincent turned to find Gianna standing in the foyer, her arms crossed and her expression curious."Who was that?" Gianna asked directly."Raphael," Vincent replied, moving past her toward the kitchen. "A business associate.""Business associate," Gianna repeated skeptically. "He called you 'Commander.'""A nickname," Vincent said smoothly. "From our military contracting days. Old habits."Gianna wanted to press further, but something about Vincent's tone suggested the topic was closed. Instead, she focused on what she'd overheard about the charity event."The charity

Gianna felt her entire body tense as Vincent's hand remained possessively on her waist.Part of her wanted to step away, to reassert the boundaries they'd established in their contract.But they were in public, surrounded by the city's elite, all watching for any sign of discord or weakness.Creating a scene by pushing Vincent away would only fuel gossip about their marriage being troubled.So she stayed still, allowing the contact, even as her jaw tightened with suppressed frustration.Vincent, reading her body language perfectly, chose that exact moment to press his advantage.He leaned down and planted a gentle kiss on her cheek—brief, affectionate, the kind of casual intimacy married couples displayed without thinking."You see, Kevin," Vincent said pleasantly, his lips still close to Gianna's cheek, "we really don't need you as a third wheel. My wife and I are quite content with just each other's company."Kevin's face flushed with anger and embarrassment. His hands clenched into

The cooking stations were arranged in a neat line, each equipped with professional-grade equipment and a fully stocked pantry. The challenge was announced: prepare a classic Osso Buco Milanese—a notoriously difficult dish requiring precise technique, timing, and presentation.The judges—three renowned food critics from Milan—explained the criteria: flavor, presentation, and speed. The chef who produced the best dish in the shortest time with the cleanest workspace would be declared the winner."Competitors, you have thirty minutes," the head judge announced. "Begin!"The Michelin-starred chefs exploded into action with practiced efficiency, their movements precise and confident. Chef Antonio from the Romano family moved with the fluid grace of someone who'd prepared this dish hundreds of times. Chef Marco from the Benedetti family barked orders at his assistant, his station already organized like a military operation.Vincent stood perfectly still for three seconds, his eyes taking in