Chapter 123

Genevieve stepped out of the steaming shower and immediately spotted Matteo waiting patiently with a towel in hand. A soft smile played on her lips as she shook her head affectionately, watching her husband approach her. He gently began to massage her damp skin with the warm towel, his touch tender and reassuring.

“You’re certainly keeping your vows well, Husband,” Gen teased, laughter bubbling up from her chest.

Matteo raised an eyebrow playfully. “Isn’t the rule that seventeen times makes a habit?” he quipped, gliding the towel down her stomach and teasingly running it between her legs. Wrapping the towel securely around her torso, he cupped her face in his hands and pressed a tender kiss to her lips. “Dinner’s here.”

“Oh, thank God,” Gen sighed with relief, lightly pushing past him toward the kitchen.

Her nerves had kept her from eating all afternoon. Earlier, they’d met with lawyers to finalize their plans, a tense session filled with raised voices and frustration. Gen had insisted on being present when they spoke with Bennett’s superiors, but Matteo had convinced her to stay out of it for her own safety. He promised he could pretend she wasn’t there, hiding her away in some secret place he refused to reveal. She’d only agreed after he let her listen in from the next room.

The scent of pizza wafting from the counter made Gen’s mouth water involuntarily. She hurried over, yanked open the box, and stuffed a slice of Neapolitan pizza into her mouth as if she hadn’t eaten in days. Just then, a plate appeared beneath her hands, and she turned to see Matteo smiling warmly.

“No need,” she said between bites.