"You need to understand something," he began, his voice low and raspy. "I worry about your safety every second of the day. That is the only reason you are in here. It’s not to trap you. It’s to keep you breathing."Ortensia looked up into his dark eyes. She saw the genuine fear hidden beneath his usual cold mask. She didn't argue or complain about the isolation. Instead, she offered a soft, reassuring smile, letting him know she truly understood the weight he carried."I know, Vito," she murmured. "I know you're just trying to protect me."Vito let out a slow breath, reaching out to cup her cheek with his hand. "Tonight, we leave the stress behind. You should relax. We are going to have a great dinner, just the two of us."Relief washed over her, bright and sudden. Ortensia wrapped her arms around his waist, burying her face against his chest. "Thank you," she whispered, squeezing him tight. She stepped back, her eyes sparkling with excitement."There is this Italian restaurant downto
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