There’s nothing wrong with a harmless little crush, right?

And who better to crush on than the gorgeous man next door?

The one who would never look twice in my direction.

Except he does.

The first time he pins me in place with his dark gaze, I’m rendered speechless.  The first time he lays his hands on me, I melt.  And the first time he takes me, well…I fall to pieces, wondering if I’ll ever be the same again.

Everything about him screams danger.

And yet I’d be lying through my teeth if I didn’t admit that was part of the attraction.

Chicago is supposed to be a new beginning for me.  A chance to find my bearings and live again.  The man next door is the last person I should be getting involved with.

And yet, here I am.

A moth dancing too close to the flickering flame, hoping I don’t get torched.

Protecting What's Mine was created by Jennifer Sucevic, an EGlobal Creative Publishing signed author. 

Protecting What's Mine

Aren't Italian mothers supposed to be overly protective of their sons?


I've been so busy thinking about the family business and all it entails, that I didn't give much thought to whether they would even want me here.


She swiftly moves in my direction the second she sees me.   Without a word, she enfolds me in her arms as if we've known one another our entire lives.


"You're just as beautiful as my son claimed."


I glance at Matteo.  His lips lift as if he knows that I'm uncomfortable with this stranger holding me so close.  And yet there's something comforting about being held by a woman who's old enough to be my own mother.  Part of me wants to sink into her warm embrace and soak up the affection she's showering on me.  It's been so long since I've been held by another woman.


She grins broadly.  "I'm Teresa.  You may call me that or Mama."


Chapter 51: Grace