Page 30 of Broken

“I mean it. I made space in my closet; it’s large enough for both of our wardrobes. I just didn’t have enough time to get everything in here because I was working on the nursery.”

“This means so much to me, Damon.”

“I can have Susie bring everything in if you like.”

“I can do it.”

“Okay, but I don’t want you overexerting yourself.”

“I won’t.”

“I think Susie has prepared some lunch if you are hungry.”

“I am, actually.”

We exited the room, and I saw Matteo sitting outside of what I assumed was Olivia’s room and I approached him. “Matteo, what are you doing?”

“I’m looking out for her. I feel like I can’t leave her side.”

Turning to face Damon, I asked him, “Can I meet you downstairs? I’ll only be a moment.”

He smiled. “Sure.”

I lightly knocked on Olivia’s door. “It’s just me.”

“Come in,” she yelled.

“Hey.” She was laying on her side in bed, looking out the large window. “Is this overwhelming?” I got in bed and laid on my side next to her.

“Yes. It is. It seems like everything is so perfect now. I’m just waiting for the other shoe to drop.”

“Honestly, you couldn’t be safer than you are, in this house or in Matteo’s care. Do you know he’s sitting outside your door right now?”

“He is?”

“Yes. Haven’t you noticed the way he looks at you?”

“I thought it was just in my head.”

Reaching out, I gave her a light, playful shove. “Girl. He’s really into you.”

She smiled. “He is?”

“It’s quite pitiful how he’s sitting out there. I know he doesn’t want to overcrowd you, or overwhelm you. He wants to give you space but he also feels so protective over you. Why don’t you come downstairs and eat something? Susie made lunch. And she is a great cook.”

“Okay,” she said as we lifted off the bed.

Once we were out of the room, with my arm around Olivia’s shoulders, I said, “Come on, Matteo.”

He jumped up and trailed behind us, and I smiled wide.

Chapter Eighteen

DAMON

“Is everything okay?” I asked when everyonecame into view.

Kara put her arms around my shoulders. “Everything is fine.” She kissed my cheek and took a seat to my left.

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