Matteo's jaw tightened so hard it hurt, but Isabella was just getting started.
She stepped flush against him, her belly carrying the weight of his heir pressed into his waist as a reminder of her power.
"I heard the story," she giggled. The sharp sound was loud in the quiet room.
"The dramatic flight... and for what? To find out you were the other man all along? You were the second choice, Matteo. The rich monster her father used to escape her impulsive marriage."
She leaned in, her breath hot against his ear, her voice dropping to a purr.
"You always did have a taste for charity cases. But me? I don't hide husbands in closets. I don't have secrets that make you look like a fool in front of the Commission. I'm the only one who can actually carry the weight of your name without breaking."
She pulled back just enough to look at him, a cruel, triumphant smirk playing on her lips.
