Chapter 7

Matteo said something and Giovana smiled - the words got lost in the noise. In the background, over her shoulders, only a few people could be seen walking along the sidewalks. Matteo’s presence brought so much peace that Giovana had even forgotten she was pregnant.

Damn, I’m pregnant! She remembered. This fact almost ruined everything else.

“What did you say?” She really hadn’t heard his words.

“If you’d like me to accompany you home.”

It seemed like an irresistible offer to Giovana, but too risky.

“I don’t want to seem intrusive,” he smiled, “but I really want to be kind and make sure you get home safely.”

Was that real? Giovana wondered. Who would encounter such a handsome and romantic man wandering the streets? Matteo was surely married, and Giovana was running away from problems.

“I appreciate your concern, Matteo,” she sighed, “but it’s not necessary.”

She carefully assessed Matteo and noticed he wasn’t wearing a wedding ring.

“Okay,” maybe he realized she was looking at his hand