He didn't even have to raise his voice. His mere presence was enough.
I felt her grip loosen on my arm, but before I could pull away, she shoved me lightly in frustration.
My balance gave way, as I stumbled right into Matteo.
His arm moved instantly, catching me before I could fall.
For a brief, uncomfortable second, I was pressed against him, and his scent, that mix of expensive cologne and something darker, hit me.
He steadied me and guided me to sit beside him on the couch as he maintained a decent pace between us.
My mother's eyes widened at the sight.
She snapped, her voice rising again. "Elena! Don't tell me this is your new lover? What's wrong with you?" My eyes widened as I stared at her with disbelief.
Did she think that Matteo is my...God. I have to tell her now.
"Mom, please, it's not what you..." I tried to explain how she had misinterpreted the idea of us when she again shouted.
