Page 83 of Savage Vows

“Mother’s right. You need to rest.” I shoot a glance at Nico.

His expression holds compassion, and he nods.

“Promise me, Matteo.”

The machines tracking his heartbeat begin to speed up, their rhythm becoming erratic.

My mother lets out a plaintive sob.

I open my mouth to respond, to give him the vow he needs to hear, but before I can speak, alarms shriek and?—

CHAPTER NINETEEN

Alessia

“Will you marry me?”

Stunned, I frown. I’m not really sure I was ever given a say in it.

I arrived at the hospital a few minutes ago and was escorted to the family’s waiting room.

The moment Matteo saw me, his eyes brightened, making my heart skip. Then his expression changed, becoming somber. He strode over to me then drew me into a private corner.

The morning sun slants through the windows, highlighting streaks of raven in his dark hair.

“Alessia.”

Confused, I shake my head. “I don’t understand.”

“Today.Now,”he clarifies.

“Today?” I’m struggling to process his words. “Matteo.” I search his features. “Are you serious?”

“My father…” His voice trails off, and for the first time since I’ve known him, I see real vulnerability in his expression. The mighty Matteo Moretti, heir to an empire, looking at mewith something that might be hope, might be need, might be something else entirely.

“Is he…?” I’m trying to understand what’s happening.

“He’s alive.”

I exhale my relief.

“He’s requested we marry now.” He pauses, his eyes meeting mine. “In case.”

A million emotions roll through me. I hadn’t planned on marriage, and especially not to Matteo. Ever since I met him, I’ve been plotting my escape.

“I wouldn’t rush you if it wasn’t important.”

I think of the Don in the ICU, fighting for his life. I think of Gina’s quiet strength and how she’s shown me nothing but kindness. I remember the chocolate cake she made just for me, the way she included me in family discussions as if I already belonged. I think of my art studio, the perfect sanctuary Matteo created, proof that he sees me—really sees me—even when I’ve tried so hard to keep myself hidden.

“Please say yes, Alessia. This matters to the Don.”

This is my perfect opportunity to refuse.

And yet…

I remember last night, after we arrived home…the stark, haunted look in his eyes, the way his shoulders were slightly rolled forward when he didn’t know I was watching.

When he joined me in bed, he didn’t make love to me. Instead he wrapped his arms around me tight, as if he was afraid I’d vanish.