HIS

Chapter 10

Domenico's POV

We drifted off together on the couch last night—or rather, she slept peacefully on my chest while I kept her close in my arms. I can't remember the last time I felt this kind of calm, this level of contentment in my life. Somehow, everything felt like it was finally aligning, even if it meant challenging the person I've become over the years.

Yesterday showed me just how starved I've been for someone as real and sincere as her. She doesn't mask who she is, doesn't bend herself to fit expectations. She simply exists—authentically—and it's a rarity I hadn't realized I was searching for.

It's as if something inside me shifted. The way I see relationships, the way I perceive women—it's changed. For the first time, I feel like there's hope. That not every woman is a mirror of past hurt or betrayal. That maybe, just maybe, I was wrong to let one experience shape the way I viewed them all.

She's gentle and kind—a soft-hearted soul who grew up with nothing and no one truly looking out for her. But now, at least she has Marco... and she has me. I'll make sure she's protected.

When Marco told my parents about her, my mother immediately set her heart on Olivia being my wife someday—much to Marco's annoyance. My father, quiet as he is and often mistaken for being mute, also took a liking to her. That alone speaks volumes.

I'm not sure I'm ready for marriage, but one thing is clear: no one else will ever have her. She's one-of-a-kind, the kind of woman you don't find twice in a lifetime.

But before I even consider making a move, I need Marco's blessing. I'm not letting her go, and I won't disrespect the only person who's ever truly been in her corner. He's stood in the gap where her own father failed to show even the bare minimum of love.

She's made it clear she doesn't want me interfering with her family—but if they ever cross my path, how I respond will be my decision alone.

First, I'll convince Marco. Then I'll convince her to let me in—for real. Because if anyone is worthy of being loved right, it's her.

She was still deeply asleep. Honestly, I don't know how someone who slept for two full days can still be this out of it. Carefully, I shifted out from under her, making sure not to wake her, and gently pulled the blanket over her before heading upstairs to freshen up.

It was still early, so I squeezed in a quick thirty-minute workout, followed by a shower. I checked on Olivia before starting breakfast—she hadn't stirred, still lost in dreamland.

I made us a simple spread: bacon, eggs, sausages, and toast. Everything was plated and waiting on the kitchen counter when I wandered back into the lounge and spotted her finally waking up, eyes squinting and hands rubbing the sleep away.

"Morning, sleepyhead," I greeted with a soft smile.

She looked up, returning the smile. "Good morning to you too. What time is it?"

"Eight-thirty. And breakfast is ready," I said, reaching for her hand and pulling her into a hug. No idea where this sudden need for affection came from—but I couldn't help it. Something about her just drew it out of me.

"When did you wake up?" she asked, gazing up at me.

"Almost two hours ago," I teased, "but I had to shower after you drooled all over my chest."

"You're joking, right?" she asked, cheeks flushed with a soft pink tint, embarrassment written all over her face.

I shook my head, offering zero mercy. "Negative," I said, grinning.

Loosening my hold, I added with a smirk, "Don't worry about the drool—you're welcome to use me as a pillow anytime. But first, we need food in you so you can take your meds."