Chapter 76

Genevieve froze in Matteo’s arms the moment they stepped into the hushed, cool sanctuary of his office. Without a word, he guided her toward the large window and gently lifted her onto the smooth surface of his desk. Instantly, he turned his back to her, deliberately shielding his face from her view. Yet, there was no mistaking the tension in his movements as he ripped off his suit jacket and tossed it carelessly onto a nearby leather couch. He then rolled up the sleeves of his crisp dress shirt, exposing his forearms, and began rotating his shoulders with a tight, restless energy.

“She needed to be put in her place,” Gen said bluntly, her gaze sweeping across the dimly lit room, taking in the dark blue walls and the deep brown leather furniture that contrasted starkly with the glowing quartzite desk beneath her. The atmosphere was heavy, almost suffocating, yet elegant in its austerity.

Matteo didn’t answer. Instead, he busied himself with opening and closing the cabinets on the far side of the room, where a few bookshelves stood. His office was a far cry from the bright, modern space at Accardi Industries or the sleek decor of his apartment. Here, everything was muted and shadowed, save for the desk that seemed to emit a golden light from within, casting a soft glow on Gen’s legs.

Despite his back being turned, his movements were stiff, hesitant.

“She came after Leo,” Gen pressed on, feeling an odd need to justify herself to the man who had caused far worse pain. “I don’t understand why you’re so angry.”

Matteo pivoted sharply, his arms laden with first-aid supplies. “Angry? You think this is anger?” His voice was low, almost disbelieving, as he strode purposefully toward her.

“Well, what else would you call it?” she asked, turning to face him as he circled the desk.