Chapter 171

"I—" Samantha's heart clenched as if something had lodged itself in her throat. Just as she struggled to form an explanation, a warm, strong hand enveloped hers. Leonardo's hand was large enough to encase her fingers and made her feel secure. Leonardo replied calmly, "I asked her to handle something for me last minute. Didn't I already explain?" Laura's eyes narrowed slightly, though her smile remained intact. She was determined to press further. "What matter is that?" "Private matters between husband and wife. Since when do you oversee those, Mom?" The atmosphere turned tense. Laura hadn't anticipated that Leonardo, who was typically so indifferent to romance, was now behaving as if he was possessed. He was so protective of Samantha. Her gaze lingered on Samantha, scrutinizing her. The woman was striking—delicate arched eyebrows, lips like rose petals against fair skin, features so finely carved they bordered on dazzling. But it was her eyes that truly were captivating. They