"Ok.A lot," I admit.
"Just smile.We will be ok."
His phone comes on."What's your passcode?"I ask.
"Guess."
I start to laugh after I enter 7474, and it unlocks."You got it bad for me, Sugar Bare."
"Yes, I do.Don't forget that.No matter what happens this weekend.You and I are unstoppable."
I lean over, and he meets me with a quick kiss.His lips feel soft and wet and make me feel safe and warm.When I look down at his phone, my eyes sweep the message on the screen, and I freeze.It is a text from Ann.My poker face slides down and locks itself in place.
Ann:
Be warned, Bro.Mom is pissed at you!She's hurt.She found out from the News that you have a girlfriend.
Don't sweat it.She'll love Siri once she meets her.Bee and I will be in late Friday night.See ya Saturday.
I'll be there in time to help you get ready for the battle.Don't replace me!
Maybe you won't draw Quintus.
Just kidding.Love you, Big Bro!Ciao.
Oh...Zita is pissed.I hit the back button, afraid to read what else is there but knowing I need to be prepared.
Bob:
Son.Your mother is upset with you.Be prepared.
Yes, Sir.
Ann said she was really sweet.We didn't tell Zita.Maybe we should have.
No, Sir.Not your place.I got this.
Ok.Love you, son.Out here.
Aurei cuts his eyes at me."Need some help?"
I glance at him but don't give him eye contact."Nope."
Zita:
I've been bombarded tonight with questions from my friends about an American woman you were seen with.
Why didn't you tell me you have found someone and that you were bringing her to Rome?
According to my friends, she is from Vegas.I thought you were still in Alabama?
Are you bringing her to the Villa, too?
I have.I was.I am.
Ok, Son.Looking forward to seeing you again and meeting her for myself.Love you, dear.
Love you too, Zita.Out here.
