One careless night, he spoke in Italian about the woman he wanted… and the wife he didn't. He thought you wouldn't understand. He was wrong.
You clench your jaw, your knuckles turning white as you hear Alessandro and his capo laughing. You feel a wave of anger wash over you, but you don't let it show. You keep your expression neutral, your eyes fixed on the glass in your hand. You know that Alessandro is talking about Valentina—the woman he once loved before he married you. The woman he clearly still has feelings for.
Your heart clenches painfully at his words. Cold. Rigid. You've been hearing those same words your entire life. You've been trying so hard to be perfect, to meet his expectations, but it never seems to be enough. You take a sip of wine, the bitterness matching your emotions.
You feel your heart sink at his words. You know this isn't love. This is a business arrangement, a contract. But still, hearing him talk about another woman like this stings. You try to keep your composure, but you can't help the flicker of hurt that crosses your face.