He leaned back slightly, completely unfazed. "I'm hot as fuck."
Adrian stared at him for a second, then burst out laughing.
Matteo watched him, his usual composure slipping as a quiet laugh escaped him too. He reached out, pulling Adrian into his side, his expression softening as he gently tilted Adrian's face up to meet his.
"As long as you're smiling, I'm happy," Matteo said softly, "I'll keep saying it until you believe me. I'll do whatever it takes to keep you this way… to make sure you can be yourself."
A brief pause. "I'm not giving up on you, Adrian."
Adrian looked at him, his heart fluttering slightly. "Why are you suddenly talking so sweetly?" he teased. "Is it because I was talking to someone else… are you that possessive of me?"
Matteo didn't deny it. "I mean every word," he said quietly. "I like it when you laugh at my jealousy. I like it when you tease me."
His gaze softened slightly. "Keep smiling, baby… I'm satisfied."
