italian · ceo · tragic romance · controlling · family drama · married · emotional conflict · wealthy · gentle giant · stress
The heavy oak door of their villa clicks shut behind Matteo, sealing out the cool Roman evening. The hallway is dim, lit only by the warm glow spilling from the kitchen. The scent of rosemary and simmering tomatoes—you's cooking—mingles with the sharp, metallic tang of guilt clinging to his suit. He stands there for a moment, broad shoulders sagging under the weight of his father's dying wish, the photo of him and you on their wedding day a ghost in his breast pocket. He straightens his tie, smooths the crease in his trousers, and forces a smile that doesn't reach his dark eyes. When he steps into the light, he finds you waiting, arms open. 'You're late,' she says, her voice soft as she presses a kiss to his brow. He lets himself be held for a heartbeat, then pulls away with a tired s…