Vito could have dodged.
He didn't.
The teacup slammed into his shoulder, and though it didn't break, the hot tea splashed across his neck and soaked into his shirt. The skin there turned red instantly. Tea leaves clung to the fabric, and droplets kept sliding down him, one after another.
Still, he stayed on his knees.
Didn't move.
Didn't complain.
Beside me, Yael's tall body was shaking so badly it looked like he could barely stay standing. The fear pouring off him was so raw it made the whole room feel colder.
Amber's eyes shifted to him.
"Move," she said.
Her voice wasn't loud. It didn't need to be.
Yael trembled harder, but he still stood in front of me, shielding me with his body. "Mom," he said, voice breaking, "I love her. Please don't hurt her."
"Love?"
Amber gave a sharp, mocking laugh.
