Page 57 of Stolen Queen

“It’s fun to see how Hollywood depicts it.”

I think about that, and it brings my mood down.

“Hey? You okay?” He bumps my shoulder with his. I’m surprised that he noticed the change in me.

“This is a movie for men. Do you pay attention to Connie’s life?” She's abused by her husband, and while her family doesn't like it, they don't really do anything about it. Eventually, her brother beats the crap out of him, but then she unwittingly helps her husband kill her brother.

His jaw tightens. “I won’t let that happen to you.”

I look at him. Really look at him. And I believe him. I have an urge to kiss him, but luckily, I’m strong enough to resist it. But I do rest my head on his shoulder.

The next fewdays go much better than those before them. I wake up each morning to the smell of coffee brewing and the sound of Matteo moving around the kitchen. It's become a comforting routine. As I pad out to join him, I'm struck by how different this feels from my life before with my family. There’s no tension or conflict. In fact, there’s usually banter and laughter.

While Matteo's at work, I spend hours experimenting with recipes in the kitchen or working on my jewelry designs. There's a freedom in these simple activities that I never had under my father's watchful eye, even though I’m confined to the penthouse. I catch myself smiling more often, laughing at silly things.

Oh, sure, the days alone can get long. I’m often bored, but even boredom feels like a luxury. Before, my life was filled with expectations and tension. I’ll take boredom over that any day.

As the days go on, my walls start to crumble. I look forward to my evenings with Matteo, curled up on the couch watching movies. We've fallen into a comfortable rhythm, trading quips and inside jokes as we work our way through classic films. Last night, as we watchedCasablanca, I caught myself staring at Matteo's profile more than the screen. It's becoming harder to ignore my growing attraction and hold on to my doubt. Am I just latching onto Matteo because he's my only connection right now? Can I truly trust him, or am I setting myself up for heartbreak?

Two nights ago, when the movie finished, I leaned in and kissed him. Not a long or passionate kiss. He seemed surprised, and yet his smile suggested he was pleased. Not wanting to give in to my urges any more, I told him goodnight and rushed to bed.

It happened again last night. Movie ended. I looked at Matteo, and my heart swelled. I kissed him and then rushed off to bed, where I lay awake trying to sort out my feelings.The comfort I feel in Matteo's presence is both thrilling and terrifying. I want him, but can I trust him?

Tonight, I choose the movie, a romcom. I nestle next to Matteo on the couch as the on screen couple shares their meet cute, and hilarious antics ensue. When they tumble into bed, there’s a sweetness to the sensuality that stirs longing inside me.

Glancing over at Matteo, I catch him watching me instead of the movie. His blue eyes are intense. My breath hitches as I realize how close we are, how easy it would be to close the gap between us.

Before I can second-guess myself, I shift, straddling his lap and cupping his face with my hands. His eyes widen in surprise, but he doesn’t push me away. I lean in and press my lips to his.

The kiss is soft at first, hesitant. But as Matteo's hands loosely sit on my hips, pulling me closer, it deepens into something more. I pour all my confused feelings into that kiss, my gratitude, my fear, and the growing affection I can’t deny any longer.

I rock against him, feeling him thick and hard. Need like I’ve never felt before rushes through me.

"I… I think I'm ready. For more."

His jaw tightens. I see hesitation in his eyes. “Ava, that’s a big… you don't understand what you're asking. Once we cross this line?—"

I cut him off with another kiss. When I pull back, I look him straight in the eyes. “I want this.”

“Maybe you should wait?—”

“For what?” Suddenly, I’m filled with doubt. Does he not want me? Is he trying to let me down gently?

“For someone special.”

“If this goes badly, my first time will be Don Cardone.”

Matteo’s eyes darken. “I won’t let that happen.”

“You can start by showing me.”

His teeth grind together. “I want to, Ava. You feel that I do, but your virginity is?—”

“Is mine to give. It’s not a commodity as my father thinks. It’s mine. I’m offering it to you. If you don’t want it, just say so.” I move to get off him, but his arms wrap around me, holding me tight. With a low growl, he stands, lifting me with him. I wrap my legs around his waist, my heart pounding with anticipation. Oh, my God… I’m doing this.

Without another word, he carries me to his bedroom, kicking the door shut behind us. He sets me down next to the bed, his hands holding my face.

“You need to be sure about this, Ava. There’s no un-ringing this bell once it’s done.”

---