25 • Falling For A Stranger

• Florence, Italy •

◆ MAXIMILIANO ◆

"Grand Luxoria," I mumbled the words to myself as my bodyguards led me inside the spacious, floral-scented lobby.

Similar to the canopy design by the front entrance, the golden embossed letters above the front desk flaunted the name of our family's second biggest hotel. The mostly black and gold-accented lobby furniture and decor must be worth at least two hundred grand.

Two years ago, our hotel chain was on the verge of declaring bankruptcy. But this one didn't seem to be running with only its skeletal workforce left on the payroll. The reception area looked polished and elegant, matching the marble columns and shiny floor.

"Buonasera, Signore." [Good evening, Sir.] The uniformed staff on night shift looked smart and poised, welcoming us with big smiles.

"Hi." I faked a smile for them when Alessio gave them a slight nod. "Maxim Falco. Here to see Ms. Sutcliffe."

"Ah. Yes. Ms. Sutcliffe is in the Finance Office on the third floor, Signore."