Page 40 of Dominance

His hand blurs toward my face faster than I can register.

And stops dead, an inch from striking my cheek.

“Take. A. Fucking. Step. Back,” Adriano growls, deadly menace in his stance, his dark eyes.

Dom’s expression shifts, from fury to disbelief as he looks at Adriano’s hand, gripping his arm.

“How dare you! Get your filthy paws off me!”

“No. You will not lay a fucking hand on her. Do you understand me? She is not your property. And you will not hit her. Ever. Especially not in my house.”

Dom’s jaw works silently for a moment, his hand shaking as he struggles to pull away.

Careful which battles you choose here, Diamante.”

“I was just going to say the same thing.”

“Is this the hill you want to die on? Because I won’t put up with insubordination.”

“This isn’t insubordination. I’m protecting your daughter. Fromyou.”

And just like that, a grin spreads across Dom’s stark and lined face.

“That’s what I’m fucking talking about! See, this is why I knew it was a good idea to put you two together! I’m sorry that I had to test you like that, Adriano. But you know, some things you gotta make sure of in the moment. Trial by fire. That way I know it’s real. That you’ll take good care of my girl.”

He may as well have slapped Adriano in the face.

“I’msoglad I passed thattest.” With a huff and a shake of his head he spins, storming into the bedroom and slamming the door.

“Crybaby. Do make sure he’s in a better mood by tonight, won’t you, Gloria?” Dom smirks, letting me lead him toward the door. I need him gone. Now.

“We’ll both be on our best behavior.”

“And make sure he wears a nice suit this time, and a tie. Kids these days don’t know shit about how to dress.”

“I’ll make sure. Now, let me get back in there, and I’ll let you know how things are going here in a couple of days.”

Dom raises one eyebrow, questioning the statement.

“You know, you gave me the idea the other night.” I lean in conspiratorially.

“What the hell are you talking about?”

“Doing this on my own terms will make Adriano think that itwasn’tyour idea. If he thinks it was your plan the whole time, he’ll keep his guard up and he won’t let me in.”

Dom’s eyes narrow as he looks me up and down.

“Go on …”

“I can keep an eye on him for you. It’s only wise considering who he is. Otherwise, you wouldn’t be keeping him on such a short leash.”

“I like the enthusiasm for sure. Even if you are full of shit sometimes.” He grins, chuckling softly.

“Just give me a little time. I’ll get to know him better. I’ll get him to open up. And then if there’s any question about his loyalty, we’ll know.”

“All right, I’ll allow it. For now. Just keep your head on straight.”

“Yes, Father.”

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