Matteo's POV

For what feels like a solid minute, I stare silently at her, trying to convince myself that I heard her wrong. But we both know I didn’t.

Her face turns red, as if she’s embarrassed. “What?” I growl quietly.

Tempest looks away, turning to fuss with the lock again. “Nothing,” she mumbles. “I…I didn’t mean that.”

I cross the distance between us, grabbing her by the chin and turning her to face me.

“Yes. You. Did.” My pulse thuds as I peer into her face. ...