Page 132 of My Italian Love Affair

He chuckles, shaking his head.

“Eh, maybe we should hire you as the new manager.”

“Tempting,” I quip. “But I think I’ll stick to my current job. Less running. More coffee.”

Matteo honest-to-godchucklesat that and tilts his head slightly, studying me in a way that makes my skin heat.

There’s no challenge in his gaze tonight.

No smugness, no irritation.

The moment stretches just a second too long, and I force myself to refocus.

“Looking ahead, the league final is getting closer. What’s the mentality in the squad right now?”

“Determined. We’ve worked too hard to let it slip now.” He exhales, his expression turning serious. “This win was important, yes, but there’s still a lot to do in these last few games.

“Good answer,” I say, clicking my recorder off. “Almost media-trained.”

His lips twitch.

“Almost.”

I hesitate for just a fraction of a second before adding, “Congratulations, by the way. On your goal.”

A flash of surprise flickers across his face, though it’s there and gone before I can really place it, replaced instantly by something far too smug for my liking.

“What can I say? I knew you were watching me.”

I scoff.

“Don’t flatter yourself, Rossi.”

His grin only widens.

“Too late.”

And maybe it’s the post-match high, or the fact that for once, he’s not being an unbearable ass, but I find myself dangerously close to smiling back.

Which means it’s definitely time to go.

I shake my head, turning away before he can see the way my lips threaten to curve upwards.

Heaven help me - that man is dangerous when he’s in a good mood.

Chapter Thirty-Seven

Daphne

After what feels like hours, I finally slide into my rental car, the cool leather seat offering a brief moment of relief after the energy of the stadium.

I take a deep breath, letting the quiet hum of the engine soothe my nerves as I start her up.

The game went well, Mark was nowhere to be seen, Matteo had been surprisingly civil, and I’m happy with my work for the night.

All-in-all, it's been a success, and I’m pleased at how much lighter I feel as a result.

But then I reach into my bag, and my stomach drops.

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