Page 160 of The Devil's Fire

“I wasn’t feeling well.” Her eyes slightly furrowed at my reply. “Did something happen since you’re back so soon?” I asked quickly before she could question me about it.

“No.”

“Then what?”

My mother let out a sigh before placing her mug on the coffee table.

“I didn’t like the way we left things. It’s unlike us to be fighting like this.”

“I know.” I gave a faint smile. The closest we would come to a fight would just be minor disagreements but would always put it behind us minutes later.

“However, I still stand by what I said.”

“Why?” My voice came out in a shaky whisper, feeling a lump forming in my throat.

“Non mi fido di te.” She said. I looked at her in shock for a split second when hearing that she didn’t trust me, then followed her gaze.

Damiano stood right at the entrance to the living room, sending a chilling glare towards my mother.

“Neanch’io” Likewise. He replied.

The air in the room grew heavy with tension as their eyes remained fixed on one another.

“Mom, please… you can’t mean that.” I was trying my best not to cry, as I felt my heart aching once again.

“To be with him will always put you in danger, and bringing a child will only make it worse. Not only would his enemies want you, but also the child. Is that what you want?” My mother replied harshly.

“Why is that the only thing you can think about?” I snapped in frustration.

“Because it’s reality.” She stated, rising from the couch.

“You don’t think I will keep her safe?” Damiano’s voice was almost threatening.

“Safe?” She scoffed. “Worked great for you last time, didn’t it?”

The sight of him suddenly storming towards my mother with a murderous look on his face made my eyes widen in horror. I quickly stood in front of him, preventing him from getting closer.

“You don’t know shit.” Damiano sneered, his body tense as he spoke.

“Oh, I know enough.” My mother slowly approached us, not fazed by his actions.

“What are you talking about?” I asked.

“You haven’t told her?” She made a tsking sound and shook her head.

“Tell me what?” I looked at Damiano, but he continued to ignore me. I clenched my fists tightly, feeling my frustration bubbling.

“What are you doing in my house?” My mother snapped at him.

“Taking care of your daughter since you’re failing to do so.” He retorted.

“Who do you -”

“Stop!” I shouted while trying to keep them apart before they killed each other. Both of them had me going through a new emotion every two seconds, something my body couldn’t handle right now.

I hunched over slightly when nausea overwhelmed me.

Damiano cursed and pulled me into him to look at him.

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