Valentina tensed at Leonardo’s voice. Why did he always find her like this?
“Mr. Rossi, it is a pleasure to see you. I was just talking with my daughter. It is a wonderful event.”
“The best.”
“Will Mrs. Rossi have news soon?” her mother asked.
Valentina turned and offered a smile.
“Very soon, I’m sure.” His gaze was on her. “I think your husband wanted to talk to you.”
“I’ll take you inside, Mother,” she said.
“Don’t be absurd. I interrupted your peace and quiet, stay. Enjoy it while you can.” Her mother put a reassuring hand on her cheek before pulling away and leaving her alone with Leonardo.
“Mr. Rossi.”
He chuckled. “We were nearly family.”
“But we’re not family.” She bowed her head. “Are you enjoying the party?”
He raised a brow, and she waited.
“I always seem to find you alone. I don’t know if that is my luck or Romano’s failing.”
“Giovanni will be here any minute,” she said.
“You know, I’m aware that he’s not always home,” Leonardo said.
She watched him. “He is a businessman. He has a lot of work to do with Mr. Rossi, your father. I’m sure you’re aware.”
“Oh, I am aware of everything that goes on, Valentina. That is not in doubt, but I am curious about Giovanni’s … business.”
She tilted her head to the side. “You’ll have to talk to my husband about all of his deals. I am not involved in that part of his life. I’m a mere wife.” She clasped her hands together in front. The urge to slap him hard was so strong, but she kept it in check.
“Come now, we both know that Giovanni isn’t like other men.”
“You’re right,” she said. “I never thought being a married woman would be so…”
“What are we talking about?” Giovanni asked, coming to put an arm around her waist.
He promised her that no matter what, he would protect her. He swore to her he wouldn’t leave her alone at a function like this. All she had to do was wait for him to come, and he’d be there.
“I was telling Mr. Rossi how much I love being married to you, and that I am incredibly lucky you picked me.” She settled closer to him, and he tightened his hold.
“And I am a lucky man.” He looked at Leonardo. “It would seem I owe my thanks to you again. You’re always rescuing my wife from potential boredom.”
“I am never bored.” She kissed his cheek.
“Are you ready to leave?” he asked. “I have said our goodbyes.”
She nodded, wanting the chance to get away.
Giovanni held his hand out to Leonardo.
The two men shook hands, and before he could insist on shaking hers or kissing her, Giovanni was already leading her away.
“Are you okay?” he asked once they were in the car.