“I don’t think you are. I just think you refuse to tell me what’s on your mind. But if you really don’t have a problem with me dancing with another woman, then I’m going to join her back on the dance floor. I’d like to spend the rest of my wedding day having fun.”
“You go do that.”
He takes a moment to see if I’ll say more, and when I don’t, he turns and walks back into the party.
I remain in the hallway, reflecting on what just happened. Why didn’t I tell Matteo that seeing him dance with someone other than me made me feel … What? Upset? Uncomfortable? I’m not sure even how I feel.
All I know is that Matteo knows how to get under my skin, and I can’t let him.
I go back into the party and pause in the doorway. Matteo is slow dancing with the same woman. She looks a little older than me with ice-blonde hair. She’s smiling up at him, and he’s returning it.
I clutch at my chest, feeling hot all of a sudden. I could go over there and make Matteo dance with me again. I was impressed with his dance skills earlier. But something stops me. I don’t want to be seen as petty. I told Matteo one thing, and I’m going to stick to it. I can’t go back on my word now.
Matteo catches my eye over the top of her blonde head. He lifts an eyebrow in a silent question. He’s giving me a chance to take back what I said. I know he wants to be with me.
Why can’t I feel the same way?
My eyes land on Matteo’s friend from earlier—the one who hugged me and guzzled the champagne. I walk over to him and hold out my hand. “Do you want to dance?”
“With the bride? Of course!” He takes my hand and spins me around.
“What’s your name?” I ask.
“Carlo. And you’re the beautiful Adelina who my Matteo just married. Congratulations on the wedding. You make a stunning bride.”
I blush a little at his compliments. “So, you work for Matteo?”
“I’m his second in command.”
“Is Matteo a good boss?”
“The best.” He spins me out and back in. I can’t believe I’m letting a biker touch me, but something about Carlo feels effortless and easy. Unlike Matteo, who drives me crazy.
My eyes flit to Matteo and the blonde woman. He’s looking at me, a frown on his face. I turn back to Carlo. “Does Matteo normally flirt with other women?”
Carlo tips his head back and laughs. “Matteo has been with many women. They tend to flock to him.”
That’s … not reassuring.
Carlo seems to realize what he’s said because his eyes widen. “Sorry. Maybe I shouldn’t be saying that to his new bride. Matteo is also very loyal. If he’s made a promise to you, he’ll stick to it.”
“That’s good to know. Thank you.”
“You’re welcome.” He takes my hand and kisses it before I can pull away.
I extract myself from his arms. “Well. I’m going to take a break.” I turn and come face-to-face with Matteo, who’s frowning.
“What was that?” he asks, nodding toward Carlo, who’s grabbed another bottle of champagne to chug.
“What was what?”
“You and Carlo. Flirting with each other. You find my touch repulsive, yet you gladly dance with him?”
It’s because Carlo isn’t my husband. He’s harmless. Whereas Matteo has the power to break me.
“Am I not allowed to dance with other people?” I ask.
He sighs deeply. “Yes, of course, but …”