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He raised a brow

She was the first woht to use Alyssa like a ladder toward him The first woman in his sphere who had considered his child’s interests before her own

She was the first woman he’d ever met who always put someone else before her own needs—first her Nonni, Gio and now a little girl Even his randchildren, sometimes used Alyssa to try to manipulate him

But Pia… Could Pia be truly different in this too?

“Do you always staoaded

“It can’t be good for her to know you and I…you and me…”

“My mother and my sister Teresa are the only ones who’re allowed to look after Alyssa,” he offered He’d never explained his actions to anyone and yet the words fell fro and I do that when I’m out of town”

“You need a wo her cheeks “That’s horrible and so…clinical Are you saying you’ll never need a wo else?”

“I’ain”

“What about affection, companionship, y’know…”

“I’ve never s Alyssa has me, and my mother and sisters for a woman’s influence” He took a step toward her, more turned on by this ridiculous conversation thanwoman took another step back “MyI want discussed in front of Alyssa She wasn’t even supposed to bring Alyssa today But I bet she couldn’t pass up the chance to meet you”

“When I met her…she…” Pia hesitated When he just stared back at her, she finally said, “I could be wrong, but I think she…doesn’t like me”

“She doesn’t”