Our bodies shiver against his big, strong frame. Clearly, we’re not over our trauma.
Krew and I wash for dinner, then help our chef place serving dishes on the table.
The sharp tap of stilettos echo on the tile, drawing nearer.
“Good evening,” a man greets.
I turn toward the voice as my father moves toward them.
“Good to see you, Nickulas and Azzura,” Dad says.
Glancing at the stands, I noticed Nico’s brother and sister were absent. They were probably away at college—Nick studying at Princeton and Natalia at Harvard.
I exhale, knowing Nico’s not coming to dinner because he’s at the pizzeria with his teammates.
Mom and Dad chat with Nico’s parents for a moment. I pick up my glass from the table and gulp down the water.
“Serenity dear, it’s good to see you again,” Azzura says.
I place the glass on the table. “It’s nice to see you, too.”
My eyes move to Nico’s dad. “Good evening, Mr. Pitucco.”
“Serenity, I hope classes are going well,” Nickulas smiles.
“They are.” I reply.
Nick and Nico inherited their father’s striking features. I don’t miss how Azzura always clings to him—she’s completely smitten, and it’s endearing. I recall whenever I visited their home, he was always by her side. He truly adores his wife.
Azzura exhales softly, “I thought you and our son made a beautiful couple.”
A deep voice responds, “We still do.”
My heart plummets.
Fucking Nico.
He’s wearing that cocky grin as he halts beside his mom.
“Stupido,” she grits out.
“If my son wouldn’t have fucked it up.” She smacks him upside the back of his head.
“Che dimine, Mom. What the heck, Mom?” Nico bites out.
I snicker under my breath.
Low laughter sounds around the room.
Hands behind my back, I inch closer. “Do you feel my punishment fits the crime, Nico?”
“N-,” he starts.
I raise a hand to silence him. “You planned to humiliate me in front of the entire school.”
“Serenity, you had my arm broken so I couldn’t play football.”
A smile lifts my lips. “Precisely.”
