“He’s really making an effort,” Mia says before turning to regard me. “What?”
I’m still looking at her with wariness. “I know you two are up to something,” I tell her. “But I want to thank you for checking in on me.”
“How did everything go?” she asks, settling on one of the high stools that I have at the counter for customers. “Is Marco gone?”
“Yeah, he left a couple of days ago. Thankfully, he’s been good about it. I think knowing me all my life has given him a soft spot for me.”
“Are you sure this is over? Marco seems like a man who is intent on doing whatever he wants to get his way.”
Nodding, I sigh when I recall his admission. “Yes, he’s actually never wanted to marry me. When my father offered me as consolation for business dealings gone bad, it was Marco who refused. He’s actually been good to me. So, in actual effect, I’m lucky to have him on my side.”
“And you told him about Rome?”
I can’t help smiling at the mention of his name. I never thought I would be here, in Portland, laying down roots. And I definitely never considered being in love, but Rome has done something to me.
“I did. It was like talking to an older uncle about boys, though. Strange. But enlightening, because he said if Rome ever hurts me in any way, he’d send some guys over to sort him out.”
This admission has us both giggling like we used to do in college. The lightness I feel in my chest is new to me. It’s good having a friend to talk to, especially when I need advice on guys.
“I have to ask you something.” I lower my voice even though the shop is empty. “What am I meant to wear tomorrow night?”
“Oh, we’re going shopping!” Mia exclaims excitedly. She claps her hands together. “I know exactly where to take you. Come on.” She’s on her feet, and the bubbling excitement is infectious because I glance at the time and realize it’s just after five. Time to close up and go shopping.
Chapter 28
Rome
I’ve been nervous all day. I don’t know why, but the need to impress Elisabet has taken all my focus. She may be giving me a chance because she feels the same way I do, but I have a feeling if I mess this up, there’ll be no more chances. And that’s something I cannot come to terms with.
It’s almost time to leave the office. Mia and Camden have assured me that everything has been set up like I requested. I’m thankful they were willing to help me. I guess it was a good thing my groveling skills with Mia had been successful because she’s the only one who would understand what I wanted. And Seduction is a beautiful venue. Perfect for what I have in mind for tonight.
Shoving away from the desk, I stand and grab my jacket, shrugging it on before I shut my laptop. Picking up my keys and wallet, I head out the door toward the elevator. My mind is still on tonight’s dinner when my cell phone vibrates. Elisabet’s name lights up the screen with a message, which only has my gut-churning.
I’m convinced she’s going to cancel on me, but when I open it, I can’t help but smile when I find a photo with two pairs of shoes—red or black. The smiley face she’s added eases the tension that’s got a hold of me, and I grin.
Rome: Put those red ones on because after dinner, those will be the only items you’ll be wearing . . .
Locking my phone, I head to the car and slip into the driver’s seat. The engine purrs to life as I pull out of the lot and make my way directly to her apartment. I’m anxious, and I need to see her. But mostly, I’m aching to be inside her, to claim her as mine, and to ask her to move in with me. It’s a big step, but if she wants to keep her apartment, I wouldn’t mind, as long as she’s beside me every night and with me every morning.
It doesn’t take me long to reach Elisabet’s apartment, and by the time I’m standing outside her door about to knock, the twisted knots in my gut tighten. My knuckles rap three times against the cool wood.
The moment Elisabet appears on the threshold, my breath is stolen. Her long, dark waves have been pinned loosely, causing tendrils of chocolate brown to frame her apple-shaped face.
Her luminous eyes shimmer, and the black liner only accentuates the color. Plump lips are shining with gloss. Her dress ends mid-thigh, and the soft, satin material seems to hug every fucking curve.
My mouth waters when I take note of the thin straps over her shoulders that show off the fact that she’s not wearing a bra. I’m speechless for the first time in my life. And it’s all because of her.