Page 139 of Cara & Gian: The Guzzi Duet

“Then what would you call it?” he roared back. “What would you call the things you did and how you lied to me?”

Elena’s eyes watered, but that sight didn’t affect Gian like it once had. “You knew what he was like to me, the things he did to me. Don’t pretend like I had a choice, Gian.”

He believed that, but very little else that came from his wife’s mouth.

“So be it, but here we are, because of it,” Gian replied. “I have an image to maintain, rules that need to be followed, the agreement to uphold between our families, and we can continue on like we have been for the past three years—”

“You mean where it’s fine and great for you to fuck any whore that glances your way, but I have to sit pretty and quiet in the corner, not bringing you any shame, right?”

“Cara is the first and only woman I have ever been in a relationship with beyond sex, not that it’s any of your fucking business. And you know that, or you should, considering this is the first time you’ve ever brought it to my attention that you knew I was involved with another woman. I have always been careful as far as other women were concerned, for your sake, Elena, not mine. My status demands I remain married to the woman I spoke my vows to—‘til death do us part—but it says fuck all about remaining faithful to you. But I would have, had you given a single shit about me. And don’t pretend that you’ve ever held fidelity in high esteem, where I was concerned. What was his name, the last one, Matteo?”

Elena barely blinked. “Cara, that’s her name?”

Gian cleared his throat. “You want me to confirm it, but I think you already know exactly who she is. I’ve never said anything to you about who you’ve been seen out with, or the things I know you have done. I have only asked that you be mindful of your affairs because of your father, certainly not for me. As long as you’re careful about whoever you—”

“Go to hell, Gian.”

He barked out a laugh. “Surprise, sweetheart, I’ve already been living in hell for years. It started with you, and I have a feeling that isn’t about to change anytime soon.”

He hated her for that, too.

Much like she hated him, he knew.