The Second Chance for A Matashunway thrice
“And you?” Lorenzo shot back, his voice sharp. “You’re the noble protector now? Or is this just another one of your games? Admit it, Santoro. You’re only using her to get back at me and my family.”
My stomach tightened as the words hung in the air. I looked to Matteo, searching his face for a reaction. “That’s rich, coming from you,” Matteo said smoothly. “You’re grasping at straws, Corvino. Whatever you had with Aletta is gone. You lost her. Accept it.”
“Or did you take her?” Lorenzo countered, stepping closer. “You’re the Emperor, aren’t you? The King of Kings everyone whispers about. You used her to get to me, to weaken my alliances. Don’t deny it. You cheated because you’re a coward!”
Matteo’s jaw tightened, a flicker of something dangerous passing through his eyes. “Think carefully about your
next words, Corvino.”
I stepped between them, holding up a hand. “Enough. Both of you. I’m not some prize to be won or pawn
in your
games. You want to talk about truths? Fine Let’s start with this: I know who Matteo is, Lorenzo. I’ve known for a
while now. And he didn’t use me to get on you. Satisfied?”
Lorenzo’s eyes widened slightly, shocked that I wasn’t surprised with his news.
“And you know what, Lorenzo? It doesn’t matter to me if Matteo kept his identity a secret. Because unlike you, Matteo has never made me feel small or disposable. So, whatever conspiracy theory you’re trying to sell, I’m not
buying.”
Lorenzo looked at me, his expression somewhere between shock and despair. “Aletta, I…
“Save it!” I snapped, my patience wearing thin. “I’ve heard enough for one night”
Matteo’s hand brushed against mine, grounding me. His voice was calm but final as he addressed Lorenzo “You’ve overstayed your welcome. Leave. Now”
Lorenzo hesitated, his gaze lingering on me one last time before he turned and walked away
“You didn’t have to intervene,” I said after a moment, my voice quieter now.
Matteo’s lips twitched into a faint smile, “And miss the opportunity to remind him what he lost? Not a chance.”
I couldn’t help but laugh, the tension in my chest easing slightly Matteo’s hand slid into mine, his grip warm and
steady.
“You’re not doubting me, are you?” he asked, his voice softer now, tinged with concern.
I looked up at him, my heart steady for the first time all evening. “No,” I said firmly. “Not even for a second.”
