Chapter 20

• Learning a Lesson
• Mandy’s POV
• We just left the gown shop, and now we are headed to the cake tasting. When we pull up, I see a familiar face waiting by the curb, it’s Matteo. I start to wonder ‘what in the world is he here? Have I done something to warrant his attention. I behaved at the boutique, or at least I think I did.’ I swallow the lump in my throat and try to hide the tremors in my hands. I was to late trying to conceal my horror, because mother reached over to me and spoke. “It’s ok dear, as long as I am around, I won’t let him hurt you. That is one promise I can make to you. I wish I had the power to halt any type of punishments that he will give you, but I don’t. Always remember that I am here for you no matter what. I have been in your exact shoes most of my life. If I am being honest I still am. Now put on a smile and greet your soon to be husband. So, excitement that he is here for the tasting. Make a big deal out of his presence. That way it will smooth over his anger.”