Feeling smaller than an ant, I whisper, “I’m sorry.”
 
 “It’s fine,” his voice rumbles. He sounds agitated with me.
 
 My heart sinks, and gathering the meager strength I have left, I lift my head and meet Mr. Vitale’s dark eyes.
 
 Instead of firing me, he says, “Take a moment, and once you feel better, go home. I’m leaving with the other men, so you’ll be alone.”
 
 I nod, and as he gets up from the chair, I blurt out, “I’m really sorry for today.”
 
 “It’s okay, Miss Blakely. We’re all entitled to a bad day once in a while.” He pauses, and his eyes drift over my face. “Get some rest tonight.”
 
 I nod and watch as he leaves the office.
 
 “How is she?” I hear Dario ask.
 
 “Better. Let’s go,” Mr. Vitale grumbles.
 
 Hey, at least I’m not the only person he growls at.
 
 Letting out a sigh, I cover my face with my hands, and then disappointment washes over me.
 
 I’m not making any progress.
 
 But why am I okay with my mystery man?
 
 It takes a moment before I realize I also didn’t freak out when Mr. Vitale was touching me. Instead, he managed to calm me down.
 
 Okay, so maybe it will take a little longer before I’m okay with touching random, strange men.
 
 Chapter 16
 
 Franco
 
 After having dinner with Renzo and Dario, I stop atParadisoto check on things.
 
 Once I’ve changed into my uniform, I take a moment to send Samantha a message.
 
 MMM: How are you?
 
 While I wait for her reply, my thoughts go back to the panic attack she had. It was fucking bad, and it’s clear our meetings haven’t helped as much as I thought.
 
 My phone vibrates in my hand, and I quickly read the message.
 
 Samantha: Honestly?
 
 MMM: Yes.
 
 Samantha: Not so good.
 
 MMM: Do you want me to come over?
 
 Needing to be there for her, I whisper, “Please say yes.”
 
 Samantha: Please. I’d really appreciate it.
 
 “Thank fuck.”
 
 MMM: I’m on my way. Open the window.