Chapter 17 I stared out the window of the Honda as we pulled away from Antonios estate , my mind racing . The tears Id been holding back finally broke free , at single drop sliding down my cheek . I shouldve just disappeared somewhere … died quietly . My voice cracked . Now theyre after you because of me . The car jerked to a sudden stop , tires crunching on gravel . Lorenzo shifted in his seat , his hands coming up to cradle my face . His thumbs brushed away the wetness on my cheeks . Look at me , cara . His voice was soft but firm . Did you hear what Antonio said in there ? Ive had the entire underworld in my grip for years . Dominic and Camilla ? He scoffed . Theyre playing games they dont understand . His fingers tightened slightly . You survived them once . Now you have me . And I promise you , theyll learn exactly what happens when someone tries to take whats mine . The intensity in his green eyes made my breath catch . There was something both terrifying and comforting in the way he said mine like a shield and a sword all at once . I cant bear the thought of them hurting you , I whispered . Lorenzos laugh was dark and rich . Oh tesoro , they wont get the chance . But I love seeing this protective side of you . His thumb traced my bottom lip . Youre stronger than you know , Valentina . Stop thinking you should have died . Start thinking about how were going to make them pay . I nodded , letting his words sink in . The drive back to his estate passed in comfortable silence , his hand resting on my knee , a steady warmth that kept me anchored . The house lights welcomed us home , casting a golden glow across the circular driveway . Before I could reach for the door handle , Lorenzo was there , opening it for me . His hand found the small of my back as we walked up the Step Inside , the quiet wrapped around us like a blanket . I turned to face him , my heart racing at his proximity . Thank you . For everything . Come here . He pulled me close , one hand tangling in my hair . The scent Chapter 17 of his cologne mixed with leather and something uniquely him filled my senses . You dont need to thank me . Just stay . My fingers curled into his shirt . Im not going anywhere . His lips brushed my forehead . Because Ive never felt this way about anyone , Valentina . The thought of you disappearing … His chest rose with a deep breath . It would destroy me . I lifted my face to his , surprised by the vulnerability in his eyes . This powerful man , who commanded respect with a single look , was letting me see beneath his armor . My hand came up to trace his jaw . I feel safe with you , I whispered . Like I can finally breathe again . Lorenzos fingers tightened in my hair , tilting my head back further . You are safe . And loved . Never doubt that . The word loved sent a shiver through me . His lips found mine , gentle at first , then with growing intensity . I melted into him , letting the kiss wash away the fear and doubt that had plagued me for so long . When we broke apart , both breathing heavily , he pressed his forehead to mine . I love you , Valentina . Lorenzos words brushed against my lips , making my heart skip . I traced my fingers along his jaw , looking into those intense green eyes . I love you too . His arms tightened around me , and in one fluid motion , he swept me off my feet . I let out a small gasp , wrapping my arms around his neck as he carried me up the marble staircase . The house was silent except for our breathing and his measured footsteps . He pushed open his bedroom door with his shoulder , not breaking stride as he headed straight for the ensuite bathroom . The massive shower took up one corner , all glass and gleaming chrome . Lorenzo set me down gently , his hands sliding to my waist . The heat in his gaze made me shiver despite the warmth of the room . His fingers found the hem of my blouse , pausing . Are you sure ? I answered by reaching for his shirt buttons . The fabric whispered as it fell to the floor , followed by the rest of our clothes . Steam filled the air as hot water cascaded over us , turning everything dreamlike and soft . Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!