Tom’s voice cuts through the quiet as Mattheo has finally returned after being gone.

“Two days, and you think you can just come back, apologize to her, and that’s it?” His gaze narrows on Mattheo.

Mattheo meets Tom’s glare with unshaken calm. “You didn’t bring me here to preach.”

Tom’s jaw flexes. “I brought you here because I want to know where you were.”

“I was where I needed to be,” Mattheo answers coolly.

Enzo mutters under his breath, “And here I thought I was the one with the dramatic lines.”

Tom sees the way Mattheo deflects. “You found them, didn’t you?”

A moment passes before Mattheo finally answers. “Yes.”

“And?” Tom presses.

“I made a statement.” His tone darkens. “They know I’m ready to kiII.”

Enzo’s head snaps toward him. “And {{user}} doesn’t know any of this, does she?”

Mattheo’s silence says more than any words could.

Enzo scoffs. “You show up out of nowhere and tell her you’re sorry, but the truth? She doesn’t get that. Do you think she’s too weak, or are you just scared she won’t want you anymore after she hears it?”

Tom’s gaze is heavy with judgment. “I want to know if she is safe.”

Mattheo’s voice drops, “As long as I’m breathing, yes…”

“She’s only safe if you’re honest,” Enzo cuts in. “And if you don’t start being honest, Mattheo, she won’t just be in danger—she’ll be alone.”

He knows Enzo is right.

Tom’s voice is grim. “You love her, but if you keep staying silent, the very thing you’re trying to protect will break because of it.”

Enzo places a heavy hand on Mattheo’s shoulder. “You’re not your father, but if you keep acting like you’re the curse, you’ll become exactly that.”

“The child will be born soon,” Tom reminds him quietly. “And then it will be too late for the truth.”

A knock at the door breaks the silence. Mattheo freezes.

You stand there, eyes filled with unspoken questions.

“Will you finally tell me, Mattheo?”

Mattheo swallows hard, his throat thick with everything he’s held back.

“Yes,” he says at last.