Page 23 of His to Destroy

Gaspare breaks the silence.

“You were magnificent today.”

I keep my eyes on the window. “Don’t.”

“I’m just telling the truth.”

“You were watching me like you were memorizing me.”

“I was.”

I turn slightly, surprised by his honesty.

“You made people believe,” he says softly. “Even the ones who wanted to doubt us.”

“I didn’t do it for them.”

“I know.” His tone changes. “You did it for him.”

He gestures to Luca, still sleeping peacefully.

“Yes,” I whisper.

“I get it now,” he adds. “What he means to you.”

I glance at him. “Do you?”

“I do. Even if I had doubts, watching him these past weeks... watching you... I clearly see it.”

He doesn’t say more. And he doesn’t have to.

But then he tries again. His voice takes on a warmer edge.

“You looked beautiful, Almeria. Like a painting. An angel.”

I tense, trying to stop the twitch on my lips that wants to curl up in a small smile.

But then, Luca stirs on my lap and the twitch is completely gone.

“Mama...” he moans, trying to find a more comfortable position.

I run a hand through his hair until he stops moving.

“You should stop,” I say sharply.

Gaspare looks at me. “Me?”

“Yes.”

“Stop what?”

“Whatever this is. The flattery. The words.”

He blinks. “Why?”

“Because he’s awake. Because I don’t want him confused. And because this isn’t real.”

His jaw flexes.

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