Mila's eyes widened slightly in surprise.
She had never seen Max react so rudely toward anyone before. Before she could say anything, the middle-aged man scoffed lightly.
"Are you sure you don't need me?" he replied calmly. "I could hear your argument from outside. Clearly, you can't handle her."
"None of your business," Max snapped. "Please leave."
The playful look on the man's face disappeared instantly. "I want to speak to Miss Mila privately," he said in a serious tone. "It's important."
Something about his voice left no room for refusal.
Max hesitated briefly and glanced toward Mila. He had tried to persuade her, to calm her, but nothing had worked.
Maybe his father could succeed where he had failed. Without another word, he finally walked out of the room.
Silence settled heavily afterward.
Mila stared cautiously at the unfamiliar man standing before her.
"I'm Luke Bellini," he introduced himself calmly. "Max's father."
