Adrian walked closer, carefully taking her hand out of respect. Without a word of warning, Matteo's mother wrapped her arms around Adrian and pulled him into a warm embrace.
When she finally pulled back, she gently took his arm and guided him over to the couch, sitting him down right beside her.
Adrian sat rigid on the cushions, his mind spinning in absolute confusion as he stared at her, a deeply bewildered look filling his face.
Charles noticed the intense tension between them and quietly stepped away, leaving the two of them completely alone in the spacious living room so they could talk in private.
Adrian had no idea what to say, so he just sat there, waiting for her to speak first.
Matteo's mother let out a soft sigh, remaining silent for a brief moment before she finally broke the quiet. "I never knew I would see you this soon," she said. "I'm genuinely glad to meet you in person."
Adrian's throat felt dry, and he found himself unable to form words.
