Josias narrowed his eyes, a flicker of displeasure crossing his face as Uélton pointed out that Fabrício was heading straight for Melissa’s house.
The two rivals hadn’t exactly cleared the air; Fabrício still clearly believed he had a claim on Melissa. Josias knew exactly how the “playboy” would play it: he’d run to her, spin a tale of being victimized by a “rude ruffian,” and hope Melissa would be indignant on his behalf.
Josias grabbed Uélton by the shoulder, steering him back toward their original task. “First, we deliver the bread. Seu Romualdo is waiting.”
“Aren’t you going to defend your lady, man?” Uélton asked, astonished by Josias’s restraint.
“I trust Melissa to handle that i***t with her usual grace,” Josias said with a confident, albeit tight, smile. “But it’s better that R
