Page 18 (1/2)

‘Alessandra’ He took a breath and fisted his hands into balls ‘Will you stop putting words intoassumptions’

Her shoulders hunched before she flopped her head back and took a long breath ‘I’ told what to do’

‘I had already gathered that’

She cast a sideways glance at him and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear Her very pretty ear

‘As well asbossed around, I also have a tendency to get gru,’ she admitted, her tone now rueful

‘You’re worried about Rocco’s reaction to our news?’

‘Aren’t you?’

He reached for her hand and squeezed it

‘Whatever happens with your brother, nothing will change You and I will still , then that will be beneficial, but if he doesn’t then ill handle it together Okay?’ he added when she didn’t answer, sied her hand free from his clasp

She nodded slowly, and absently rubbed at the top of her hand where his fingers had rested ‘Rocco is very protective ofwill change that’ Christian was doing his best to project a positive frame of mind for Alessandra’s benefit but was under no illusion about how hot-headed her brother could be He knew that if the forthco was badly handled, their friendship would be ruined

Alessandra’s lungs had closed up