Tangled Alliances

09

As we drive toward the party, Matteo's grip on the steering wheel tightens. His focus remains on the road, but his tone is sharp.

"There's going to be a lot of people at this event," he says, glancing over at me briefly. "And paparazzi. We need to put on a good act, so don't mess this up."

I open my mouth to retort, but he cuts me off before I can speak.

"I'm not in the mood for another argument," he snaps. "I've had enough for today. Just do what you're supposed to, and let's get through this night."

I sit quietly for a moment, absorbing Matteo's directive. Finally, I nod. "Alright, fine. I'll play along."

Matteo glances at me, his expression still tight. "Good. Just remember, we need to look like the perfect couple tonight. We can't afford any mistakes."

I give a resigned nod. "Got it."

He lets out a sigh of relief. "Julian and Sabrina aren't coming with us anymore. They left earlier. It's just you and me now."

"Great," I mutter, focusing on the road ahead. "Less drama, I guess."

Matteo's grip on the steering wheel tightens. "Yeah, and let's keep it that way. I don't want to deal with any more mess tonight. Just follow my lead and try to enjoy yourself."

I nod, feeling the weight of his words. "Okay."

I look out the window, taking a deep breath as we approach the event.

As Matteo pulls up to the event venue, the scene outside is chaotic. Paparazzi swarm the entrance, their cameras flashing incessantly, capturing every moment.

The noise is deafening, and my anxiety spikes instantly. My heart races as I see the sea of flashing lights and hear the barrage of questions being shouted at us.

Matteo, on the other hand, remains utterly composed. His expression is calm, almost indifferent, as he steps out of the car.

He takes my hand and pulls me closer, wrapping his arm around my waist with practiced ease. The touch is meant to convey confidence and unity, though I can't help but feel overwhelmed.

The paparazzi immediately zero in on us, their questions coming fast and furious. "How long have you two been together?" one asks. "Are you happy with the arrangement?" another inquires.

Matteo responds smoothly, his voice steady and authoritative. "We're doing great, thank you. We're here to enjoy the evening and support our families."

I try to keep my composure as we navigate through the throng of flashing cameras. Matteo guides me with a reassuring hand, leading us towards the entrance of the banquet hall.

Inside, the atmosphere is more serene but still elegant. The banquet hall is lavishly decorated, with soft lighting casting a warm glow over the guests.

Tables are adorned with pristine white linens and sparkling crystalware, and the air is filled with the hum of polite conversation and soft classical music.

Matteo leads me to our reserved table, where his parents are already seated. I offer a polite greeting, shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries. His parents seem welcoming, though I can't shake the feeling that their approval is always on the line.

We reach the drink station, and I grab a glass of champagne, hoping it will help steady my nerves. Just as I take a sip, I feel a hand grip my shoulder.

The fuck?

I turn around to see Daniel, a former friend with whom I had a major falling out. His expression is a mix of anger and surprise.

"Valentina," he says coldly, "I didn't expect to see you here."

I tense up, trying to maintain my composure. "Daniel. What are you doing here?"

"I could ask you the same thing," he retorts, stepping closer. "But I suppose it makes sense you'd be here, playing the role of the dutiful partner."

"What's that supposed to mean?" I ask, trying to keep my voice steady.

"You know exactly what I mean," he snaps. "You were always willing to throw people under the bus for your own gain."

Asshole.

"Get over yourself," I say, trying to push past him.

Daniel grabs my arm, his grip tight and painful. "Oh no, Valentina. We're not done. You owe me an explanation."

I wince and try to pull away, but his hold is firm. "Let go of me!" I demand, my frustration growing.

Just then, Matteo appears by my side. His expression is a mix of anger and confusion. "What the fuck do you think you're doing?" he snaps at Daniel.

Matteo is gonna be so mad at me after this.

Daniel looks at Matteo, his grip on me tightening. "And who the hell are you?"

"I'm her boyfriend," Matteo growls, his voice low and menacing. "So I suggest you let go of her, or I'll make sure you regret it."

Daniel's eyes widen in surprise, but he doesn't release his hold. "Boyfriend? Really? You think you can just waltz in and act like you own her?"

Matteo's face darkens further, his anger boiling over. "I don't care who you are. I'm telling you to back off. Now."

Daniel scoffs, still holding onto me. "Or what? You'll make me?"

Matteo steps closer, his voice dripping with venom. "Yeah, that's exactly what I'm saying. If you don't let her go, I'm going to make sure your life is a living hell."

Daniel hesitates, looking between Matteo and me with a mix of defiance and hesitation. Then, without warning, he tightens his grip on my arm and pulls me roughly, causing me to stumble. The pain makes me gasp.

Matteo's fury erupts. "Get your fucking hands off of her!" he roars, shoving Daniel hard.

Daniel shoves back, but Matteo, his face twisted with rage, pushes him again, this time with more force. "Back the fuck off!" Matteo yells.

In the scuffle, Daniel's rough grip leaves a bruise on my arm. Before the situation can escalate further, Matteo grabs Daniel by the collar and yanks him away from me.

"Do you think you're tough, huh?" Matteo spits, his voice icy. "You touch her again, and you'll regret it."

Daniel, now visibly shaken, backs off. "Fine," he mutters, rubbing his arm where Matteo had grabbed him. "I'm done here."

Matteo, still fuming, turns to me. "Are you okay?" he asks, his anger now mingled with concern.

The only thing I'm thinking about right now is the way Matteo defended me. But it's cause he had to right?

I nod, trying to hide the pain from the bruise on my arm. "Yeah, I'm fine. Thanks."

Matteo's jaw clenches as he watches Daniel retreat. "Let's get out of here," he says, his voice tight.

We head back to the table, where I try to steady my breathing and calm my nerves. The night had turned from a simple social event into a reminder of the complicated mess that my life had become.

AUTHORS NOTEEE
Matteo's protective side??
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