A storm

DEIRDRE

I jolted as another shot rang out.

Now, it was evident to me that it was not a Roman candle definitely going off.

It sounded more like a gunshot. I stood by my door with Vittorio beside me. He hadn't left, and he was taking his promise to Matteo seriously. I didn't mind him being with me, especially since whatever was happening outside frightened me.

Yet, it seemed like I was the only one afraid. People were still partying. I could hear the music blasting from the old jukebox, but the gunfire was louder, and no one seemed to notice.

Suddenly, there was silence. The music was gone, and I didn't hear any screams of people running for safety. Frowning, I turned to Vittorio, my brows raised. "What's happening?"

"Can you stay here by yourself? Will you promise me not to leave the room?" he asked.

"I can't make that promise without knowing what's going on. And as for staying in the room, I can't say. Matteo is out there and..."

"Your husband is fine," Vittorio grunted.

I hadn't told