21
Caterina
“I guess my daughter’s too wrapped up in her important job to note her old man
I <b>nearly </b>give myself whish, turning to him in surprise. <b>“</b>Sorry, Dad. What did you say?”
-a familiar <b>look </b>that rugs at my heart “Are they working you too hard?” His concern is evident, his brows furrowing with worry He’s <b>always </b>been overprotective, but it’s clear he only wants the best for me, even if his methods are a bit much..
I’m distracted, but he has no idea <b>why</b>.
He waits, his gaze fixed on me from across the table, dressed in hiusual shirt and tie. I wonder how many people have felt that same intense stare while sitting at the police station
“No, it’s not that,” I say, reaching over to squeeze his hand. “I’m just tired. Didn’t get much sleepst night, that’s all.”
“Is Luciano not treating you well? I can have a word with him if you’d like.”
Tinvoluntarily flinch at the mention of his name. I have yet to tell dad about the breakup. I don’t know what’s wrong with me It’s not a big deal or anything. I’m just worried he’ll lose his mind he finds out I’m staying with a man much closer to his age than my own.
“Uhhh, things are…”
Iblocked his number on Saturday after he called ten times before I even opened my eyes, and stupid me thought that would be the end. I figured since he couldn’t get a hold of me, he would have to leave me alone.
That wasn’t the case because there he was on Sunday morning, waiting in line at the coffee shop when I turned around, a cupin hand. His icy re of hate spoke volumes before he ever said a word.
“Having problems with your phone?” he asked loudly enough to get the attention of a few customers.
“No,” I replied in a chipper voice<b>, </b>“the block feature works just fine.”
Somebody snorted, which must have embarrassed him enough to shut his mouth. I didn’t even want to think about how he knew I’d be there, so I <b>forced </b>myself to brush it off.
There are only so many things I can pretend weren’t on purpose. Was it a coincidence that I saw him standing on the sidewalk just before walking into the building this morning? I don’t know. He was leaning <b>against </b>a bus stop shelter, watching me with his arms folded across his chest. Casually standing there like he nned to catch a ride. He didn’t say anything
His random appearances have treaked me out. My skin is starting to crawl me myself partially and Gianni. He shouldn’t have called him. Yes<b>, </b><b>at </b>the time, it was fum, and I spent the rest of the night buzzing off the high of knowing he put Luciano in his ce. Watching him react to the phone call while Gianni fucked me. The way contusion turned to indignation, then to rage. It was beautiful. The ultimate revenge fantasy. Now I’m not sure it was worth it. Not if he is going to be a stalker.
“Are things all right between the two of you?” Dad’s question snaps me back to reality really need to get my shit together before he figures out I’m a hot mess ying a bad acting job. “If you want to talk to me <b>about </b>anything, you can. I know I’m not the easiest, and talking to your dad about boys is a bit of a fiasco<b>, </b>but <b>I’m </b><b>here </b>for you‘
“Actually…“No. <b>I </b>can’t tell him the whole story, not yet. He needs the sanitized version of events. The Dad version. “I’m d you asked because, no, things aren’t going well. In fact, I think we’re going to breakup,”
He nods as if he understands. “Finally. We’re getting closer to the ruth now ”
Panic bubbles beneath my cool exterior. “What are you talking about? Do you know something I don’t<b>?</b>”
“Luciano stopped by the house yesterday.”
My heart lurches into my throat.
I’ll kill him. I’ll fucking kill him.
Now I wish I hadn’t eaten anything for lunch. A sudden wave of nauseaclings to my throat, causing bile to rise at the thought of Luciano telling my father anything. Exining the breakup is the east of my worries. Would he be stupid enough to bring up the phone call or what happened in the club?
I will die here and now, I will absolutely die.
“What did he say?” I whisper, pushing the words out..
“He told me you dumped him a few weeks ago.” He shakes his head, a frown appearing on his lips. “I know you have a lot going on, and you’re an adult, but I thought we were closer. Since when do you hide things from me?”
“I wasn’t hiding it from you,” Ilie, making sure to maintain eye contact. He’s the master of reading bodynguage.
Then why not tell me?I don’t want to scold you, and I don’t expect you to share everything with me, but the two of you were together for a long time. It couldn’t have been easy. Breakups are <b>hard</b>, especially first love. You shouldn’t have to go through something like that alone. I know I’m just your dad, but… I’d help however I could.”
“I just… did he tell you why I dumped him?”
He grimaces, tapping his fingers on the table in a slow rhythm. “Whenever a man says it was all a misunderstanding, it usually means it wasnota misunderstanding, and he’s just a cheating piece of crap,”
Ismile. “Well, he did it to himself.”
“I figured as much, <b>and </b>that’s why I told him to get the hell off my property and nevere back.”
“You did?” Tears mexpectedly prick my eyes, and Iugh them off, blinking them back.
“<b>What </b>kind of dad do you think I am? I wasn’t about to invite him in and crack open a couple of beers.” He cocks his head to the side. “He cheated on my little girl and broke her heart. He’s lucky I didn’t unload the shotgun on him as he ran across the <b>yard</b><b>.</b>”
“I’m d you didn’t. Nothing good woulde from that. He’s not worth the ticket or court fees.”
He waves a dismissive hand, snickering. <b>“</b><b>When </b>you know the people I know, none of those things matter.” He sounds a little too much like nni right now. “I assumed he showed up because he wanted me to talk to you on his behalf. Like that was going to happen. I wasn’t about to help him earn you back, knowing it wasn’t a misunderstanding, and he was just an idiot.”
1teel immense relief without that hanging over my head. “Thank you for having my back.”
“I always will,” he reminds me. “What we really need to talk about is where you’re living. He said you moved out.”
Ugh. Here we go
This is the exact reason I didn’t want to tell him yet.
“I’m staying with a friend from school. Her roommate’s gone for the summer, so I’m subletting “l’in almost impressed with how easily the lie rolls off my tongue.
He takes a sip of coffee. “What’s your n after <b>that</b>?
I sit up straighter, d to have a quick answer. “Funny you should ask. I have an appointment to look at an apartment after work. It’s not far from here, so I wouldn’t even have to drive to work.” I smile. “It’s a studio, <b>so </b>it’s small, but I don’t need <b>a </b>lot
“I’d be happy toe along with you. You know how some of thesendlords like to take advantage of young people- especially pretty girls like you.”
His heart is in the right ce, which is why I don’t roll my eyes. “Dad. I’m not a little girl anymore. I’m an <b>adult </b>with a college degree. I have to do these things on my own.”
“I know,” he grumbles, frowning into his cup. “That doesn’t mean I have to like it, do 17”
21
The serveres our way with the check, which is a relief. The less time we spend together, the less chance there is of me letting something I shouldn’t slip. Like mentioning the fact that facked Tatiana’s dad from behind one–way ss few nights ago while a couple hundred people partied below me.
“By the way,” I tell him while he hands over his card to pay, “you look exhausted. Do I have to call your boss and tell him to gr you some time all?<b>” </b>
He chuckles, but the sound is grim. Something’s bothering him, and he won’t tell me about it. It irks me, especially when he’s always jumping on top of me whenever something seems off, but when it’s the other way around, he can’t be bothered to spare me a little honesty.
His mouth tugs upward at one corner and light flickers behind his blue eyes. “Like I told you before, I’m on the verge of breaking something big I’ll tell you more about it once it’s safe.”
“That sounds serious.”
“It is. Very.” He goes to a dark <b>ce </b>for a second, his gaze hardening, but just <b>as </b>quickly, be brightens up like nothing happened. “I want you to call me as soon <b>as </b>you’re finished looking at the studio apartment tonight. I want to hear all the details. Including the location.”
“Why? So you can have a patrol car parked at the curb day and night?
“You know me too well, sweetheart.
<b>21.1 </b>
“What do you think?“The bulkling’s burly owner stands in the doorway leading out to the hall, thumbs booked into his belt loops “I don’t want to rush your decision, but I have three interested candidates who already looked at the ce.”
I’m sure he does, but I also know this is a pressurectic to get me make up my mind. “It’s really nice,” I tell him, and it’s the truth There are plenty of windows, so I’ll get lots of sun, and the living; space itself is bigger than I expected. The kitchen ispact, but the stove and fridge are brand new. The bathroom is nice size and extremely clean. There’s not a speck of rust or grimy grout.
“Of course, I’ll need first andst month’s rent upfront,” he continues. “But I ran your credit application already, and everything looks good, so I’d have no problem with having you sign immediately ”
Now I sort of wish I’d let Dade with me, as childish as it sounds. I don’t like feeling forced into this. I’m not the kind of person who’s ever been able to make split–second decisions, at least not over something as big as this. Signing a year–long lease <b>is </b><b>a </b>big step, and I’ve never taken it by myself.
“Can you give me till tomorrow moming?” ask, turning away from the windows in <b>time </b>to watch him scowl before he expression.
“I’ll be in my office by nine.”
fixes his
“Good. I’ll call you first thing in the moming.” My footsteps echo off the newminate floors as I cross the room and head for the door. The couch could go here, and my bed in this corner. I could buy a screen to partition it. Thank you so much for taking the time to show me the ce. I really am interested I just need to ”
“You don’t need to exin. I’ll talk to you tomorrow. He locks the door behind us and follows me down the stairs to the busy sidewalk. Quaint shops with apartments on the upper floors line the opposite side of the street. A girl walks past with two leashed dogs while a couple crosses her path, pushing a stroller. The little girl inside reaches for the pups, and everybody smiles, inchiding me.
I love the idea of living in the center of everything, being able to walk to the corner store or to one <b>of </b><b>a </b>dozen restaurants within a couple of blocks. Seeing the same people every day and getting to know them. Themute to work will be way simpler. With all the good thates with this ce, it still has its cons. Living here means leaving nni<b>, </b>and I realize as I say goodnight to thendlord that the thought of leaving him is what’s holding me back. I could make it work here for a year. The problem is, do 1 want to?
Lone piece It’s this or risk my friendship with Tatiana. I know this is the safest way. The only option that leaves our friendship in on and their father–daughter rtionship intact. Even if it hurts, I need to do the responsible thing. Being an adult means making tough choices, though this one seems to have made its own choice.
“What did you think? Are you moving in?”
My stomach clenches and my heart takes off at a frightening speed when I whirl around and find Luciano sitting on the front stoop of the building next door There’s no way <b>he’s </b>not tollowing me.I shiver at that knowledge. He’s dressed in a T–shirt printed with the gym’s logo, so maybe he just came from work to spy on me?
<b>“</b><b>What </b>do you want?” I growl because, damn it, I will not shrink back and let him scare me. “And why the hell did you bother my dad? Can’t you get it through your thick head that we’re over?”
He has the nerve to look attended as he stands and brushes the back of his shorts off. I could push him into traffic and not blink. I should. “<b>With </b>that attitude<b>, </b><b>I </b>assume you don’t want to hear what I have to say?”
“What you have to say?” I’m almost shocked at the audacity. “Why would I care what you have to say?” I throw my hands into the air with frustration. “I listened to you for years. I bought every lie and every excuse. Every word that came out of your mouth, Theard. In my eyes, you hung the moon. Not anymore. I’m tired of stening to your bullshit it’s over. We’re over.”
His lips purse like he just sucked a lemon. <b>Good</b><b>, </b>now he can be the wounded one. “I guess you thought it was pretty funny on Friday night, didn’t you? Who was that <b>guy</b>?” he grunts, lowering his brow as he approaches
We’re in the middle of a busy sidewalk, and it’s barely <b>six </b>o’clock, eaning it’s still fully light inte June. Thave nothing to be
afraid of, and he’s never hit or threatened to hurt me, so why do the hairs on the back of my nape stand on end?
1 back up a few paces, ring at him. “It’s none of your business who it was. Nothing would’ve happened if you had left me alone. I’m not going to ask you again. You need to stop doing this
“I’m sorry for giving a shit. I only care about what’s good for you.”
He can’t really be serious. “You’re not any better of a liar that you were a boyfriend ”
His chest pdfs out. “I’m serious ”
“Congrattions. It’s about time you gave a shit,” Isnap, before barking out another bitterugh. “Because you didn’t when we were together, and you know it. All it took for you to notice me or give a shit was for me to breakup with you.”
“This isn’t funny. I’m fucking serio<b>, </b>Caterina
I can’t believe how stupid I was. How did I not see him for who he was years ago? It’s all so obvious now. The way he twists my words to make him the good guy doing his best while I’m the unreasonable one.
“You’re right.” I sigh. “It’s not funny. It’s pathetic. For five <b>years</b>, was fine for you to run around and have your own life while I sat around waiting for you. Do you know why Tatiana’s the only good friend I have?” I don’t give him the opportunity to answer. “It’s because she’s the only one who stuck around when you did everything you could to keep me away from the rest of the world. She was too damn stubborn. But you? You did whatever you wanted, no questions asked. How dare you stand there and tell me you give the slightest shit about what’s right for me?
The weight on my shoulders lightens. That felt <b>good </b>
“Listen to you.” His lip lifts in a sneer,
eer, and his gaze trails down my body in a predatory way. “I’m almost surprised by the outburst, but not really, given all that roughpany Thear you’re keepingtely ”
<b>No</b><b>, </b><b>no</b><b>. </b>No fucking way. It was bad enough what happened on Friday, but if he suspects I’m sleeping with Gianni Stop. That’s paranoia talking. He must know I moved in while Tatiana’s gone and assumes I’m spending time with her dad. That’s it. “No, maybe I grew up a little. Maybe I see things through different eyes. I guess <b>I </b>should thank you for that.”
“You see things through different eyes<b>? </b>Good. Because I have something for you.”
My heart lurches when be reaches into his leather shoulder bag. Adrenaline crashes through me, taking over my tight–or–flight response, and I’m about to turn on my heels and dart across the street when he pulls his hand out. It’s not a gun or any kind of weapon that he’s holding It’s aman envelope,
“This is for you.”
“What is it?” I <b>ask</b>, eyes trained on the envelope. It’s slim. I’m sure there’s hardly anything in it.
“Open it and find out.” He holds it out to me. “Take it. It’s for <b>your </b>own good,”
Maybe it’s the fake gentleness in his voice or the fact that he believes he has the first clue what is and isn’t good for me. Whatever the <b>reason</b>, my blood boils. “You don’t have the first clue what’s good for me, Luciano, and I don’t know how you could <b>ever </b>assume you did.“!
Irritation and wanting to get this over with makes me snatch the envelope from his hand. But I don’t open it. Instead, I tuck it into my tote bag “There. I took <b>it</b>. Happy?”
Has familiar, dark eyes pierce my own. “Don’t you want to know what’s in there?”
Ishrug “Not really.”
“You’ll feel differently once you see the proof,” he predicts with a nick. “I <b>have </b><b>to </b>wonder what your dear le dad would think if he knew who you’ve been spending time with?”
My boiling blood turns to ice in seconds. Only pride keeps me from pulling out the envelope and tearing it open. “Get a life, Luciano. It’s <b>over</b>. I’m no longer your problem.”
211
He has the nerve to look like I’ve wounded him, all sad and pouty. It’s an old trick he’s pulled on me a thousand times. “Don’t you get it? I can’t leave you alone.”
“I don’t <b>care </b>what you can and can’t do. Leave me alone, or you’ll regret it.”
I try to sidestep him, but he cuts me off, his firm body pressed agost mine, trapping me in ce. To my horror, he leans in, his lips inches from my own. No fucking way
Hape
It rushes out of me like a volcano, all because of what I’m witnessing outside the apartment building across the street
where I parked, waiting for Caterina.
It’s enough to suck the air from inside the car and tighten my chest until my heart’s about to burst from the strain Sweat beads along my temple, and my skin bes tight. I’m going to explode
They’ll find me here, dead of a heart attack or stroke, sitting behind the wheel across the street from where Caterina–m Caterina, nobody else’s–ducks away from her ex–boyfriend’s attempt at marding her
He owes her his life for that I’m not stupid. I know he wouldn’t have stopped at a simple kiss, and then I would have had no choice but to end his miserable life. All that keeps me from firing off a bullet into the bastard’s skull is the way she rejects him. have the grim pleasure of watching her shove him away with both bands. The windows of my car are rolled up, so there’s n telling what she <b>says</b>, but her facial expressions are enough
She’s disgusted. Furious. She even flips him the bird before marching away, anns folded over her chest. Her lips are moving. and I can imagine what must be pouring out of her as she ms herself inside her car.
“Good girl,” Imurmur, breathing like I just finished a rum My hands are wrapped around the steering wheel when have them wrapped around that son of a bitch’s neck, squeezing until he goes purple and the light leaves his eyes
The idea is intoxicating, and <b>I </b><b>savor </b>it like a fine wine while observing his reaction.
He watches her every move while wearing a look of utter misery. That’s the only reason I’m willing to leave him alive. I won’t give him the mercy of death. I like knowing he’s wallowing in the shit he put in ce. The ignorant prick deserves to be in the bed he made.
“If you’re smart, you’ll go home,” I mutter, staring at him. “You need to leave, shit stain. Don’t even think about following her.” Even if it would give me the excuse to have him shot on sight for trespassing on private property I doubt he would be that. stupid, or I hope not. Then again, he was brainless enough to cheat on the most perfect creature to draw breath, so I suppose
he’s capable of anything.
You fucking hypocrite.
My skin prickles, thanks to a reminder from my seldom–used conscience that I’m no better than him. Here I am, warning against following Caterina after following her myself. She told me this moming she’d be looking at an apartment tonight it was nothing like she wanted me to be happy for her. There I was assuming we’d settled that I was expecting her to move in permanently. My fists clenched tight when she said it, but I doubt she noticed
She might have chosen differently if she had the first clue of whather announcement did to me. How I instantly ow her in my mind’s eye tied to any bed, locked behind a beavy door, at my beck <b>and </b>call.
Thad no choice but to let her go to work and wish her well, thanks to Roger’s unexpected presence in the kitchen while we shared a quick breakfast. He saw her, overheard our conversation and while he’s looked the other way on a great many things, every man has his limits.
I don’t think she knows I’m watching, even if it seems by now she should assume. She’s crazier than I thought if she believes I’d let her live in the middle of town, surrounded by god only knows <b>what </b>
Yeah, like I’d let that happen.
I won’t lie. As inconvenient as it is, I admire her desire for independence. I’d rather ber try to do her own thing than sponge off me the way Amalia did and continues to do. The slightest thought of that birch enrages me. It also reminds me of something! meant to take care of already<b>. </b>Caterina’s long gone now, on her way home<b>, </b><b>and </b>I n to follow. Before easing out into the street, I pull up Tatiana’s contact details and call her through the car’s Bluetooth She knows better than to ignore me
“Dad” Her overly chipper response rouses my instincts. “How’s Leoing on the other side of the Antic?”
She’s trying too hard. “Do you know why I’m calling?” I ask in a carefully measured voice.
“Because you miss your little girl and wish I woulde home?”
Wiscass. “That’s true, but it’s not why I called Let’s be serious. You ran two of your cards over their limit. I know you’re aware get an alert when that happens.”
“Oh, Bad.” She sighs like a woman with the weight of the world on her delicate shoulders and not a girl whose father is footing the bill for her trip across Europe. “I apologize. Flost track. I don’t think you know how easy it is to forget how much you’ve spent.”
<b>“</b>You act like I’ve never traveled. Being an adult means staying on top of your expenses.
“I know. <b>I’m </b>sorry. I really am.”
“Sorry enough to quit buying your boyfriend clothes?”
It’s a momentary <b>pause</b><b>, </b>but a significant one. “What are you trying to say? Yeah, I bought him a few suits,” she mumbles.
A few suits. “Thirty–thousand dors’ worth of suits at a men’s store in Mn is <b>not </b>afewsuits.”
“Right.”
Idraw a deep breath in through my nose and count to five while waiting at a red light. “Tatiana. Fagreed to foot the bill for him up to a point I covered the rental properties and, of course, the jet, but otherwise<b>, </b>the n was for him to pay his own way, and <b>you </b>both told me he would.”
“And he has, mostly,” she defends.
“Doesn’t he have any pride? A real man would not let his girlfriend <b>pay </b>for everything”
<b>“</b><b>Dad</b>, can you please not turn this into something it isn’t?” She blows out <b>a </b>heavy <b>breath</b>, “You act like you’re the only one with unanswered questions.”
“No. You’re not turning this around on me.
I’m <b>not</b>. I just d don’t like secrets, and Theard a rumor that you’ve been sneaking around with Caterina while I’m out of the country. Are you trying to hide it from me?”
ryet, who knows–and how? It’s incredible how many names and faces can fly Damn it. Who the fuck is she talking to? Better y through my head in the blink of an eye. I’ve been discreet. Not even Roger knows we’re on a <b>more </b>than a friendly basis, though it he did, I doubt he’d tell Tatiana. They’re not on friendly terms.
“Dad?” she prompts once a length of ufortable silence <b>has </b>unfolded between us
“Is it true?”
“Is what true? I have to pretend I don’t have the first idea of what’s going on if I’m going to convince her.
“Don’t make me say it, please,” she grumbles. “You know what I’m saying, and know Caterina’s had a crush on you forever All <b>that </b>matters to me is making sure she doesn’t get her heart broken <b>again</b><b>.</b>”
I blurt it out without thinking. “You knew she had a crush on me?
“Dad“” <b>She </b>groans. “Yes, I knew. It was painfully obvious. But she never admitted it to me, and we never talked about it.”
“All you need to know is <b>that </b>I’m being careful with her. I promise. <b>When </b>she stays silent, Task, “Are you okay? You’re not upset, are you? She’d be crashed if she thought that.”
“No. 1’in not upset. Like I said, it’s not a huge surprise. I mean, it’s a little weird, but not at the same time.
I’m <b>almost </b>at thepound now,
and the familiar anticipation builds in my gut. How many years has it been since Hast anticipated going home to a woman?
“Don’t worry,” I murmur as I roll through the gate, litting a band to wave at Henry in passing. “Everything will be all right”
“Thope so.”
“Who told you?” Thave to know. My eyes sweep the grounds <b>as </b><b>I </b>drive up to the house. Is there a traitor among my men? If so, it’s been too long since I’ve had target practice. I can see it now, the potential traitors scrambling for cover while I take shors from my office window.
“Tran’t say, so don’t bother trying. I promised I wouldn’t tell, I’m familiar enough with the defiance in her voice to know it’s pointless to push. I’ll find out in time, anyway. If there’s a leak somewhere around here, it needs to be plugged
“No more spending money on that guy,” I wam. “I’ll cut the cards off, and you’ll have toe home. Got it?”
“Got it,” she mutters “Love you.”
“Lave you” She took that better than I imagined, but something tells me it’ll be different once she gets home. Whenever that is. No wonder Christopher isn’t in a hurry to return, he’s living it up in Italy on my dime. We’ll need to have a talk once they get
back
Ipass Roger’s house while ending the call and notice a light on inside. Rather than park in the courtyard, I pull over to the side of the driveway and knock on the door to the renovated gardener’s shed a few hundred yards from my front door.
Hees to the door dressed like he has just finished a workout. I didn’t think you’d be back already, or else I would’ve—“:
“Am I that much of a taskmaster? Your time is your own. I wanted to know if you met up with the doctor.” I haven’t been able to keep their appointment out of my head.
He <b>nods</b>, waving me inside before heading to the desk under the front window. This ce is twice the size it was when I first bought the house andnd, which means it’s roughly as big as the row home I grew up in. Whenever I get toofortable or used to the luxuries that have be second nature<b>, </b>a visit to Reger’s home reminds me of where I came from.
He keeps it tidy but sparse. I suppose a workaholic bachelor doesn’t need much more than a little fumiture in the living area and the necessities in the bedroom. He’s more than wee to take his meals up at the house. That doesn’t leave him with much time to kick back around here
He hands over the in, wrapped package containing the sugar pills and fertility shots. Nothing about his attitude tells me he has the first clue what’s inside, and even if he did, Roger knows beer than to question me. I don’t pay him for that. “He was extremely grateful for the f*e ”
“I’m sure he was,” As I close my hands around the brown paper–capped box, I snicker. I made a point of paying double the usual rate this time around. “Thanks for taking care of this.” And for not asking questions. But discretion is the name of the pame, and that’s one thing I <b>can </b>always count on from him
Before I can head up to the house to switch out my little bird’s birth control the way I’ve looked forward to for <b>days</b>, he holds up a hand to stop my retreat. “One more thing. I got a call from Jack Moroni down in Miami.”
Fuck me This isn’t <b>good</b>. Mucord is my main go–between there.
“I knew that shipment issue woulde to bite me in the ass
“No, it isn’t that. He wants a meeting and says he has <b>a </b>business proposition to discuss.”
Somehow, that’s worse. “Let me guess. He wants to marry his son off to Tatiana and unite the families? It’s not the first time <b>he’s </be to me with the <b>idea</b><b>.</b>”
His dark brows draw together over narrowed eyes. “Is that something you would consider?”
“What? Arranging a marriage for my daughter?” When Iugh it off, he doesn’t join me. His features remain cold and stoic. It’s a joke, in case you missed that I wouldn’t actually consider arranging her marriage, no matter which family we were talking about. This isn’t the neenth century.”
“What if it meant solidifying the situation in Florida? You wouldn’t string the guy along, at the very least?”
He knows me too fucking well “What’s this about? There’s no harm to be done either way.”
“I don’t trust Moroni, <b>and </b>we don’t know his son,” he reminds me, scowling “Ican’t imagine the son being much better than the slimy father. I can make some calls and ask around, but regardless, I have a bad feeling”
I don’t have time for this discussion, but more than that, I don’t care. I know my Intentions, and that’s all that matters “I’m telling you, there’s nothing to worry about. It’ll never happen, but want you to reach out and let Motoni know I’m open to a meeting. After that fucking debacle with the crates, I can’t afford to piss anyone else off.”
His jaw tightens, but he says nothing, only nods. “You know,” I add on my way out the door, “you should take the rest of the night off. Go out, <b>have </b>a drink, and get Laid. You’re too tense.”
Η
“I’ll give it some thought.” Something about the darkness in his voice tells me he won’t, but it isn’t my problem if he doesn’t take the offer.
One of us needs to have their mind on business, and I can’tin if that person is him. My mind is miles away from where it needs to be, which I’m sure he knows but is smart enough not to mention. As it <b>is</b><b>, </b>I have to keep myself from running to the house and straight to Caterina’s room.
For some reason, I thought things would get easier now that I don’t have to stay away from her. My obsession has only shifted <b>Now</b>, if I’m not either eating her pussy or fucking her, I’m reminiscing about thest time I did. Wishing I was doing it again. I can’t get her out of my head or from under my skin.
<b>cards </b>
op off the package from the doctor before going to find her. I can’t walk straight into her I choose to head to my office and drop room with this in hand and risk her asking questions. I’m even whistling as 1 walk down the hall. Aside from two credit going over their limit and knowing my daughter’s dating a freeloader, everything’s going my way.
The whistle dies in my throat when I notice lights on inside my office. What the hell? I round the open doorway and find Caterina in tears at my desk. Instantly, I’m taken back to the day she moved in when I found her in here crying. Only weeks ago. even if it feels like a lifetime ago. There’s a man envelope on theclesk. <b>The </b>one Luciano forced on her.
And it’s open.
Her red–rimmed eyes shimmer with fresh tears when they meet mine. “We have a problem. A very big one.”
Caterina
I’m going to be sick.
No matter how many times I look at this blown–up photo, it neverganges. I need to stop staring at makes me feel a little more anseous every time I do
My first worry is my dati
No matter what, he can’t find out. I’d never be able to exin myself. And then there’s Tatiune.
Gianni notices what I’m holding and gestures for me to share it, sing down the little package he was carrying before crossing the room. “What’s the problem? Whatever it is, we’ll work it out together.”
I want more than anything to believe him, but he’s a big part of the problem, so I’m not sure how he’d help–aside from promising to never touch me again, and I already know how it goes when he tries that. It’s a waste of time that makes us both miserable, and we only end up together in the end.
“Promise you won’t get mad?”
pina
He arches an eyebrow, his mouth screwing up in a smirk. Even now, with my vision blurred, thanks to all the crying, Tean’t look at him without wondering how anybody could be so handsome. It’s unreal the way he makes a polo shirt and dress pants look like they came out of a magazine spread. Ultra–masculine andmanding My panties would melt right off if I wasn’t feeling
so crushed
“I’ll do my best,” he mutters dryly before curling his fingers in a gesture that sayshand it over already
So, I do. And now he has the pleasure of seeing photographic evidence of the two of us kissing outside the club on Friday night, in the alley where I figured nobody could see. One of his hands cups the back of my head, and the other is pressed against my Jower back.
I remember how it felt. The way my heart raced, the heat that red hot in my core. Thefort and surrender of being in his
Now I get to see what it looked like.
And so <b>does </b>zi
As I watch, his features pinch together, his face going red. It’s not embarrassment. It’s anger, the way I knew it would be. As soon as opened the envelope and looked at what was inside, my first thought was of him and how enraged he’d be if I told him. Thad to because what am I supposed <b>to </b><b>do </b>about it on my own? There are a lot of things <b>I </b>can keep quiet about, and lord knows I’ve been keeping secrets all summer.
No, this is bigger than that. Potentially explosive. It could blow up in both our faces.
“Where the fuck did you get this?” He nces away from the picture just long enough to lock eyes with me before returning to it.
I can’t tell him, at least not right now, while it’s all fresh. He’d kill Luciano for this. Not that I’ve never wanted to kill him myself, but I wasn’t being literal “Does it matter? Somebody’s following me around and taking pictures of me. Do you know what would happen if this got out? If my dad ever found out? He’d kill me.
“I doubt he would actually kill you.” His hands are practically vibrating, and the photo along with them. “Disown you? Maybe And it isn’t like this proves anything, We kissed. Is that a federal crime?”
“You know <b>what </b>I’m trying to say.”
“You’re trying to say your bulldog of a father would <b>never </b>let it go
My heart shudders at the nastiness in his voice. “What makes you say it that way?
He lifts <b>a </b>shoulder. “From what you’ve told me about him.” No, that doesn’t feel true. The way he said it. It sounded like he knew what he was talking about. From experience<b>, </b>maybe
“Anyway,” he continues, “you’re a grown woman.
life. You can kiss or fuck whoever you want.”
“And if you saw Tatiana with somebody your age, you wouldn’t cap? All I can do is shake my head. “You don’t know how it is,” insist when he scoffs. “My mom died, and became the center of his world. All he has is me and his work. He would go on a rampage ? if he found out I was with you.‘
Finally, <b>I </b>have no choice but to say it. “And he might make life miserable for you, even if I beg him not to.”
The light in his eyes dims, and darkness takes its ce. Now he gets it. What I didn’t want to say, but where my mind went immediately upon seeing the ck–and–white image. If my father wanted to get revenge, he wouldn’t have to try hard to interfere in nni’s professional and persocial life
His nostrils re, and his ja ti
tightens, but he keeps a hold of himself. “He would do that?”
“Are you kidding me? In a heartbeat. I came here because, even though I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to stay away from you, was still a better option than moving back home. He means well, add because I feel like I have to. Otherwise, it’s like I’m being ungrateful. Disloyal
“He would be that vindictive?”
“That’s not the only problem we have “I don’t want to talk <b>about </b>my father anymore. I don’t like the look he <b>has </b>on his face. The tension grows between us, and all it’s going to take is the strike of a match to make him explode. “Somebody is following me, and I’m scared, <b>Gianni</b>.” I hate the anguish that fills my voice, I don’t know what to do.”
“I think I need a drink.” He’s holding the photo in one hand as he crosses the room and pours a drink with the other. <b>As </b>he does. I watch the photo crumple in his tightening fist
<b>“</b>So that’s how she knew,” he mutters, his back turned to me.
“Who? What <b>are </b>you talking about?”
Instead of answering, he takes a long gulp from his <b>ss</b>. “I don’t think it’s you the photographer was following. If that makes <b>you </b>feel any better.”
My heart shudders, ‘
“What do you mean? Are they following you? Why is somebody following you?”
“My ex is a vindictive, greedy bitch,” he spits.
I can’t help wincing at his bitterness. “Tatiana’s mom?”
ΤΗ
His head bobs up and down before he turns slowly. I wouldn’t want him looking at me the way he now stares down at his clenched fist, holding, the crumpled picture. “Things have been bad for a long time. She’ll do anything she can to get money out of me. Even have someone follow me around, it seems.”
“So, you think this was her?” I don’t because I know where the picture <b>came </b>from. It was Luciano, not Amalia, But I don’t want to tell him that<b>, </b>so I’ll y along. And it wouldn’t be <b>a </b>bad idea to know what we might be up against from her, too.
“It’s exactly the kind of thing she would do.” The <b>grim </b>certainty in his voice tells me his mind is made up.
“But why<b>?</b>”
“It’s <b>a </b>long story having to do with how much money she can squeeze out of me. He seems to find this funny since, out of nowhere, heughs “Why didn’t I think about that? Like she wouldn’t do everything she <b>could </b>to have leverage over me.
He shakes his head, still snickering “I have to give it to her. She’s a clever bitch.”
I don’t feel superfortable with him using that word, but I don’t feelfortable asking him to stop, either. We have bigger problems, anyway. “Even if they were following you and not me, Lill don’t feel <b>any </b>better. Is this what happens all the time? Am I supposed to look over my shoulder wherever I go?
“I don’t think it’s <b>that </b>serious.”
“Maybe not for you. You’re used to it. But I’m not <b>asking </b>for any of his. I only want to be with you. Does that mean having to
live with your vindictive ex–wife and people spying on me?” And all the other things he threatened me with weeks ago, things I don’t want to think about now.
His brows lower over stomy eyes. “What are you trying to say? You’re afraid to be with me?
“It isn’t you I’m afraid of.” Not exactly true, but I want to believe in safe with him, even if most people aren’t. “It’s all the people around you”
“I can take care of anybody. Don’t you know that?”
“I don’t know what I know anymore,” Ironless, with tears threatening to choke me. “I only know that it my dad finds out about us, that’s it. He will <b>do </b>everything he can to make you miserable
now.IL”
“<b>I </b>can handle him, too.” He finishes the thought with a snort, like ‘s funny.
Something about the way he says it. Or maybe it’s the darkness in his eyes–that t, nk look. I don’t want my mind to go m the direction it’s taking me, but I can’t pretend the question does exist,
Speaking slowly, I ask, “You wouldn’t do anything to hurt <b>him</b>, would you? Because that would kill me.
His head snaps back like he’s surprised “Do you think I’m a monster?”
What a loaded question “No. But..”
“But?” he snaps. “Tell me. You think I’m capable of that?”
Η
I don’t know what to think anymore. “That’s the problem. I haven’t had the first clue since this craziness started. My heart tells me one thing, my brain tells me another, and my body is in a constant state of longing for him. It’s amazing I can get through a day.
Suddenly, I’m crying again, big sobs that make my shoulders heave while <b>I </b>cover my face with my hands. It’s embarrassing the way <b>I </b>can’t get a handle on this “I don’t know! I don’t know anything anymore. I’m scared of what this means.”
“Hey.” “There’s regret in his voice when he crouches in front of me beside his desk. This might be the first time his touch has ever failed to light me up inside. The presence of his hands on my thighs isforting, but I’m too upset for it to mean more than that. “This doesn’t have to <b>mean </b>anything. It’s just a picture from your piece of shit ex, who I’ll dly pay a visit to if it makes you happy.”
I lower <b>my </b>hands from in front of my face as the idea sinks in. It doesn’t sound hall <b>bad</b>. Luciano <b>needs </b>to figure out once and for all that I don’t want anything to do with him, and nobody knows better than me how scary Gianni can be when he puts his mind
g waving in the back of my head? Something about the idea is all wrong, but I can’t put my So why is there a red g Until our eyes meet, his shining with hatred and murderous intent. That’s when I get it
my finger on it.
I push the wheeled chair backward away from him. “How do you low that?” I whisper.
Know what? Where are
21
Caterina
“I guess my daughter’s too wrapped up in her important job to note her old man
I <b>nearly </b>give myself whish, turning to him in surprise. <b>“</b>Sorry, Dad. What did you say?”
-a familiar <b>look </b>that rugs at my heart “Are they working you too hard?” His concern is evident, his brows furrowing with worry He’s <b>always </b>been overprotective, but it’s clear he only wants the best for me, even if his methods are a bit much..
I’m distracted, but he has no idea <b>why</b>.
He waits, his gaze fixed on me from across the table, dressed in hiusual shirt and tie. I wonder how many people have felt that same intense stare while sitting at the police station
“No, it’s not that,” I say, reaching over to squeeze his hand. “I’m just tired. Didn’t get much sleepst night, that’s all.”
“Is Luciano not treating you well? I can have a word with him if you’d like.”
Tinvoluntarily flinch at the mention of his name. I have yet to tell dad about the breakup. I don’t know what’s wrong with me It’s not a big deal or anything. I’m just worried he’ll lose his mind he finds out I’m staying with a man much closer to his age than my own.
“Uhhh, things are…”
Iblocked his number on Saturday after he called ten times before I even opened my eyes, and stupid me thought that would be the end. I figured since he couldn’t get a hold of me, he would have to leave me alone.
That wasn’t the case because there he was on Sunday morning, waiting in line at the coffee shop when I turned around, a cupin hand. His icy re of hate spoke volumes before he ever said a word.
“Having problems with your phone?” he asked loudly enough to get the attention of a few customers.
“No,” I replied in a chipper voice<b>, </b>“the block feature works just fine.”
Somebody snorted, which must have embarrassed him enough to shut his mouth. I didn’t even want to think about how he knew I’d be there, so I <b>forced </b>myself to brush it off.
There are only so many things I can pretend weren’t on purpose. Was it a coincidence that I saw him standing on the sidewalk just before walking into the building this morning? I don’t know. He was leaning <b>against </b>a bus stop shelter, watching me with his arms folded across his chest. Casually standing there like he nned to catch a ride. He didn’t say anything
His random appearances have treaked me out. My skin is starting to crawl me myself partially and Gianni. He shouldn’t have called him. Yes<b>, </b><b>at </b>the time, it was fum, and I spent the rest of the night buzzing off the high of knowing he put Luciano in his ce. Watching him react to the phone call while Gianni fucked me. The way contusion turned to indignation, then to rage. It was beautiful. The ultimate revenge fantasy. Now I’m not sure it was worth it. Not if he is going to be a stalker.
“Are things all right between the two of you?” Dad’s question snaps me back to reality really need to get my shit together before he figures out I’m a hot mess ying a bad acting job. “If you want to talk to me <b>about </b>anything, you can. I know I’m not the easiest, and talking to your dad about boys is a bit of a fiasco<b>, </b>but <b>I’m </b><b>here </b>for you‘
“Actually…“No. <b>I </b>can’t tell him the whole story, not yet. He needs the sanitized version of events. The Dad version. “I’m d you asked because, no, things aren’t going well. In fact, I think we’re going to breakup,”
He nods as if he understands. “Finally. We’re getting closer to the ruth now ”
Panic bubbles beneath my cool exterior. “What are you talking about? Do you know something I don’t<b>?</b>”
“Luciano stopped by the house yesterday.”
My heart lurches into my throat.
I’ll kill him. I’ll fucking kill him.
Now I wish I hadn’t eaten anything for lunch. A sudden wave of nauseaclings to my throat, causing bile to rise at the thought of Luciano telling my father anything. Exining the breakup is the east of my worries. Would he be stupid enough to bring up the phone call or what happened in the club?
I will die here and now, I will absolutely die.
“What did he say?” I whisper, pushing the words out..
“He told me you dumped him a few weeks ago.” He shakes his head, a frown appearing on his lips. “I know you have a lot going on, and you’re an adult, but I thought we were closer. Since when do you hide things from me?”
“I wasn’t hiding it from you,” Ilie, making sure to maintain eye contact. He’s the master of reading bodynguage.
Then why not tell me?I don’t want to scold you, and I don’t expect you to share everything with me, but the two of you were together for a long time. It couldn’t have been easy. Breakups are <b>hard</b>, especially first love. You shouldn’t have to go through something like that alone. I know I’m just your dad, but… I’d help however I could.”
“I just… did he tell you why I dumped him?”
He grimaces, tapping his fingers on the table in a slow rhythm. “Whenever a man says it was all a misunderstanding, it usually means it wasnota misunderstanding, and he’s just a cheating piece of crap,”
Ismile. “Well, he did it to himself.”
“I figured as much, <b>and </b>that’s why I told him to get the hell off my property and nevere back.”
“You did?” Tears mexpectedly prick my eyes, and Iugh them off, blinking them back.
“<b>What </b>kind of dad do you think I am? I wasn’t about to invite him in and crack open a couple of beers.” He cocks his head to the side. “He cheated on my little girl and broke her heart. He’s lucky I didn’t unload the shotgun on him as he ran across the <b>yard</b><b>.</b>”
“I’m d you didn’t. Nothing good woulde from that. He’s not worth the ticket or court fees.”
He waves a dismissive hand, snickering. <b>“</b><b>When </b>you know the people I know, none of those things matter.” He sounds a little too much like nni right now. “I assumed he showed up because he wanted me to talk to you on his behalf. Like that was going to happen. I wasn’t about to help him earn you back, knowing it wasn’t a misunderstanding, and he was just an idiot.”
1teel immense relief without that hanging over my head. “Thank you for having my back.”
“I always will,” he reminds me. “What we really need to talk about is where you’re living. He said you moved out.”
Ugh. Here we go
This is the exact reason I didn’t want to tell him yet.
“I’m staying with a friend from school. Her roommate’s gone for the summer, so I’m subletting “l’in almost impressed with how easily the lie rolls off my tongue.
He takes a sip of coffee. “What’s your n after <b>that</b>?
I sit up straighter, d to have a quick answer. “Funny you should ask. I have an appointment to look at an apartment after work. It’s not far from here, so I wouldn’t even have to drive to work.” I smile. “It’s a studio, <b>so </b>it’s small, but I don’t need <b>a </b>lot
“I’d be happy toe along with you. You know how some of thesendlords like to take advantage of young people- especially pretty girls like you.”
His heart is in the right ce, which is why I don’t roll my eyes. “Dad. I’m not a little girl anymore. I’m an <b>adult </b>with a college degree. I have to do these things on my own.”
“I know,” he grumbles, frowning into his cup. “That doesn’t mean I have to like it, do 17”
21
The serveres our way with the check, which is a relief. The less time we spend together, the less chance there is of me letting something I shouldn’t slip. Like mentioning the fact that facked Tatiana’s dad from behind one–way ss few nights ago while a couple hundred people partied below me.
“By the way,” I tell him while he hands over his card to pay, “you look exhausted. Do I have to call your boss and tell him to gr you some time all?<b>” </b>
He chuckles, but the sound is grim. Something’s bothering him, and he won’t tell me about it. It irks me, especially when he’s always jumping on top of me whenever something seems off, but when it’s the other way around, he can’t be bothered to spare me a little honesty.
His mouth tugs upward at one corner and light flickers behind his blue eyes. “Like I told you before, I’m on the verge of breaking something big I’ll tell you more about it once it’s safe.”
“That sounds serious.”
“It is. Very.” He goes to a dark <b>ce </b>for a second, his gaze hardening, but just <b>as </b>quickly, be brightens up like nothing happened. “I want you to call me as soon <b>as </b>you’re finished looking at the studio apartment tonight. I want to hear all the details. Including the location.”
“Why? So you can have a patrol car parked at the curb day and night?
“You know me too well, sweetheart.
<b>21.1 </b>
“What do you think?“The bulkling’s burly owner stands in the doorway leading out to the hall, thumbs booked into his belt loops “I don’t want to rush your decision, but I have three interested candidates who already looked at the ce.”
I’m sure he does, but I also know this is a pressurectic to get me make up my mind. “It’s really nice,” I tell him, and it’s the truth There are plenty of windows, so I’ll get lots of sun, and the living; space itself is bigger than I expected. The kitchen ispact, but the stove and fridge are brand new. The bathroom is nice size and extremely clean. There’s not a speck of rust or grimy grout.
“Of course, I’ll need first andst month’s rent upfront,” he continues. “But I ran your credit application already, and everything looks good, so I’d have no problem with having you sign immediately ”
Now I sort of wish I’d let Dade with me, as childish as it sounds. I don’t like feeling forced into this. I’m not the kind of person who’s ever been able to make split–second decisions, at least not over something as big as this. Signing a year–long lease <b>is </b><b>a </b>big step, and I’ve never taken it by myself.
“Can you give me till tomorrow moming?” ask, turning away from the windows in <b>time </b>to watch him scowl before he expression.
“I’ll be in my office by nine.”
fixes his
“Good. I’ll call you first thing in the moming.” My footsteps echo off the newminate floors as I cross the room and head for the door. The couch could go here, and my bed in this corner. I could buy a screen to partition it. Thank you so much for taking the time to show me the ce. I really am interested I just need to ”
“You don’t need to exin. I’ll talk to you tomorrow. He locks the door behind us and follows me down the stairs to the busy sidewalk. Quaint shops with apartments on the upper floors line the opposite side of the street. A girl walks past with two leashed dogs while a couple crosses her path, pushing a stroller. The little girl inside reaches for the pups, and everybody smiles, inchiding me.
I love the idea of living in the center of everything, being able to walk to the corner store or to one <b>of </b><b>a </b>dozen restaurants within a couple of blocks. Seeing the same people every day and getting to know them. Themute to work will be way simpler. With all the good thates with this ce, it still has its cons. Living here means leaving nni<b>, </b>and I realize as I say goodnight to thendlord that the thought of leaving him is what’s holding me back. I could make it work here for a year. The problem is, do 1 want to?
Lone piece It’s this or risk my friendship with Tatiana. I know this is the safest way. The only option that leaves our friendship in on and their father–daughter rtionship intact. Even if it hurts, I need to do the responsible thing. Being an adult means making tough choices, though this one seems to have made its own choice.
“What did you think? Are you moving in?”
My stomach clenches and my heart takes off at a frightening speed when I whirl around and find Luciano sitting on the front stoop of the building next door There’s no way <b>he’s </b>not tollowing me.I shiver at that knowledge. He’s dressed in a T–shirt printed with the gym’s logo, so maybe he just came from work to spy on me?
<b>“</b><b>What </b>do you want?” I growl because, damn it, I will not shrink back and let him scare me. “And why the hell did you bother my dad? Can’t you get it through your thick head that we’re over?”
He has the nerve to look attended as he stands and brushes the back of his shorts off. I could push him into traffic and not blink. I should. “<b>With </b>that attitude<b>, </b><b>I </b>assume you don’t want to hear what I have to say?”
“What you have to say?” I’m almost shocked at the audacity. “Why would I care what you have to say?” I throw my hands into the air with frustration. “I listened to you for years. I bought every lie and every excuse. Every word that came out of your mouth, Theard. In my eyes, you hung the moon. Not anymore. I’m tired of stening to your bullshit it’s over. We’re over.”
His lips purse like he just sucked a lemon. <b>Good</b><b>, </b>now he can be the wounded one. “I guess you thought it was pretty funny on Friday night, didn’t you? Who was that <b>guy</b>?” he grunts, lowering his brow as he approaches
We’re in the middle of a busy sidewalk, and it’s barely <b>six </b>o’clock, eaning it’s still fully light inte June. Thave nothing to be
afraid of, and he’s never hit or threatened to hurt me, so why do the hairs on the back of my nape stand on end?
1 back up a few paces, ring at him. “It’s none of your business who it was. Nothing would’ve happened if you had left me alone. I’m not going to ask you again. You need to stop doing this
“I’m sorry for giving a shit. I only care about what’s good for you.”
He can’t really be serious. “You’re not any better of a liar that you were a boyfriend ”
His chest pdfs out. “I’m serious ”
“Congrattions. It’s about time you gave a shit,” Isnap, before barking out another bitterugh. “Because you didn’t when we were together, and you know it. All it took for you to notice me or give a shit was for me to breakup with you.”
“This isn’t funny. I’m fucking serio<b>, </b>Caterina
I can’t believe how stupid I was. How did I not see him for who he was years ago? It’s all so obvious now. The way he twists my words to make him the good guy doing his best while I’m the unreasonable one.
“You’re right.” I sigh. “It’s not funny. It’s pathetic. For five <b>years</b>, was fine for you to run around and have your own life while I sat around waiting for you. Do you know why Tatiana’s the only good friend I have?” I don’t give him the opportunity to answer. “It’s because she’s the only one who stuck around when you did everything you could to keep me away from the rest of the world. She was too damn stubborn. But you? You did whatever you wanted, no questions asked. How dare you stand there and tell me you give the slightest shit about what’s right for me?
The weight on my shoulders lightens. That felt <b>good </b>
“Listen to you.” His lip lifts in a sneer,
eer, and his gaze trails down my body in a predatory way. “I’m almost surprised by the outburst, but not really, given all that roughpany Thear you’re keepingtely ”
<b>No</b><b>, </b><b>no</b><b>. </b>No fucking way. It was bad enough what happened on Friday, but if he suspects I’m sleeping with Gianni Stop. That’s paranoia talking. He must know I moved in while Tatiana’s gone and assumes I’m spending time with her dad. That’s it. “No, maybe I grew up a little. Maybe I see things through different eyes. I guess <b>I </b>should thank you for that.”
“You see things through different eyes<b>? </b>Good. Because I have something for you.”
My heart lurches when be reaches into his leather shoulder bag. Adrenaline crashes through me, taking over my tight–or–flight response, and I’m about to turn on my heels and dart across the street when he pulls his hand out. It’s not a gun or any kind of weapon that he’s holding It’s aman envelope,
“This is for you.”
“What is it?” I <b>ask</b>, eyes trained on the envelope. It’s slim. I’m sure there’s hardly anything in it.
“Open it and find out.” He holds it out to me. “Take it. It’s for <b>your </b>own good,”
Maybe it’s the fake gentleness in his voice or the fact that he believes he has the first clue what is and isn’t good for me. Whatever the <b>reason</b>, my blood boils. “You don’t have the first clue what’s good for me, Luciano, and I don’t know how you could <b>ever </b>assume you did.“!
Irritation and wanting to get this over with makes me snatch the envelope from his hand. But I don’t open it. Instead, I tuck it into my tote bag “There. I took <b>it</b>. Happy?”
Has familiar, dark eyes pierce my own. “Don’t you want to know what’s in there?”
Ishrug “Not really.”
“You’ll feel differently once you see the proof,” he predicts with a nick. “I <b>have </b><b>to </b>wonder what your dear le dad would think if he knew who you’ve been spending time with?”
My boiling blood turns to ice in seconds. Only pride keeps me from pulling out the envelope and tearing it open. “Get a life, Luciano. It’s <b>over</b>. I’m no longer your problem.”
211
He has the nerve to look like I’ve wounded him, all sad and pouty. It’s an old trick he’s pulled on me a thousand times. “Don’t you get it? I can’t leave you alone.”
“I don’t <b>care </b>what you can and can’t do. Leave me alone, or you’ll regret it.”
I try to sidestep him, but he cuts me off, his firm body pressed agost mine, trapping me in ce. To my horror, he leans in, his lips inches from my own. No fucking way
Hape