Carmelo held his ground against Tina’s father, but he was terrified. The man clearly ruled his home with an iron fist, one he wasn’t afraid to swing. He was fairly certain Mrs. Vincenzo wouldn’t stand up to her husband for anything, and Tina shouldn’t have to.
Carmelo was raised to respect all people, regardless of who they were. His upbringing had never been tested as much as it was in that room, alone with Mr. Vincenzo, knowing if Carmelo didn’t say the right things, there was a good chance Mr. Vincenzo would make Tina pay for their time together.
“My daughter is not yours to touch,” Mr. Vincenzo growled.
“Yes, sir,” Carmelo said.
“She’s marrying Antonio.”
“If I may, sir?”
“No, you may not. We do not need to have this conversation, or any. I allowed you to come here tonight because
