"I can handle it."
"I believe you." Stefan's expression softened. "If you ever need to talk, I'm here. I know what it's like to navigate a relationship in this world. It's complicated. But it's worth it."
I worked with Stefan for the rest of the afternoon. Going through financial records. Organizing data. Building the case against my father.
But my mind kept drifting to tonight. To Elio's apartment. To whatever would happen when we were alone together again.
***
Around four, Sandro appeared in Stefan's office doorway.
"Julian. Can I borrow you for a minute?"
Stefan gave me an encouraging nod. I followed Sandro to his private office.
It was impressive. Expensive. Everything carefully curated to project power and success. Sandro gestured to a chair.
"Sit."
I sat. Tried not to look nervous.
Sandro leaned against his desk. Studied me for a moment.
"I'm going to ask you a direct question and I need an honest answer."
"Okay."
"Is Elio treating you appropriately?"
The question surprised me. "Yes. Of course. Why would you—"
"Because I've known Elio for fifteen years. I've watched him maintain perfect distance from everyone. Never let anyone close. Never show personal interest in anyone." Sandro's voice was calm. Matter-of-fact. "And now suddenly he's looking at you like you're something incredible. Something he wants to keep. That's a significant change. I need to make sure it's a change you want. That you're comfortable with."
I realized what this was. Sandro was protecting me. Making sure Elio wasn't taking advantage. Making sure I had a voice if I needed it.
It was touching. Even if it was completely unnecessary.
"There's nothing inappropriate happening," I said carefully. "Everything that's happened between us has been mutual. Wanted. By both of us."
"You're twenty-one. Elio's thirty-five. That's a significant age gap."
"I know. I don't care."
"And the power dynamic? He's responsible for your security. You're living here under our protection. That creates an imbalance."
"I'm aware of the complications." I met Sandro's eyes. "But I'm also an adult making an informed choice. Elio hasn't pressured me. Hasn't used his position to coerce me. If anything,he's been trying to maintain distance and I've been the one pushing."
Sandro was quiet for a moment. Then: "What do you think about age gaps? Generally speaking."
The question was clearly a test. I thought about it carefully.
"I think context matters. If both people are adults making informed choices, age is just a number. But if there's coercion or manipulation or one person taking advantage of the other's vulnerability, that's different. That's wrong." I paused. "Elio isn't taking advantage of me. He's been careful. Respectful. He checks in constantly to make sure I'm comfortable. The only thing he's guilty of is caring too much about doing the right thing."
Sandro smiled slightly. "That sounds like Elio. Overthinking everything. Trying to protect everyone from himself."
"Exactly. So if you're worried he's taking advantage, don't be. If anything, I'm the one who had to convince him this was okay."
"And you're sure this is what you want?"
