**Lucia’s POV**

“What did you just say?”

The words didn't come out as a shout; they were a low, vibrating growl. Before I could even blink, Raffaele lunged. His large, calloused hands clamped around my throat like iron bands. He shoved me backward until my spine slammed into the arm of the sofa.

I knew I messed up. I let my emotions get the best of me.

Air. I needed air.

I gasped, but nothing came in. My vision blurred at the edges, dark spots dancing in front of my eyes. I clawed at his ...