Chapter 16

Althaia

Damiano's intense eyes locked onto me, tracing my every step with an unwavering gaze, leaving me breathless in the magnetic pull of his captivating presence.

“You’re okay.” I said in relief. I didn’t want to admit it to Cara, but I had been worried sick about Damiano.

He risked his life for me.

Damiano remained silent, his expression unreadable, as he extended his hand for me. Without giving it a single thought, I went to him and placed my hand in his. A small gasp escaped me when he deftly pulled me onto his lap, positioning me in a straddle. My hands instinctively found their place on his shoulders, steadying myself from the sudden move.

“How are you?” He asked, and my body tingled when he caressed me.

“I should be the one asking you. You’re the one who acted like a bulletproof vest for me.” I chuckled. He let out a genuine smile, and my breath quickly caught in my throat. It was a rare, beautiful sight that had my stoma