We doze for a while. Content in each other’s company. Happy in our new house. This place is already worth the wait. I sense it in my bones, it feels likehome.
Cian eventually breaks the silence. “You should know, I have to go out of town next Saturday.”
I glance up at him. I wish we could stay in our little space, wrapped up in each other forever, but the outside world always seems to demand attention.
I sigh. “But that’s Sophia’s engagement party.”
“I’m so sorry,broc meala, I forgot to put that on my calendar. I can move the meeting.”
“Is it important?”
“I’m meeting with a supplier in Florida, but I can reschedule.”
“Is this the new supplier you’ve been trying to find a time to meet with for the past two months?” I prop myself up on one elbow, and he nods. “Then don’t cancel. It’s fine. Sophia’s party will be small. Just family and close friends. There’s no real reason for us to go together. However, the wedding is a different story. You have to come with me to that.”
He smiles up at me. “I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”
“Promise?”
“I swear it.” He flips me over, peppering open mouth kisses down my chest, across my ribs, and on my hip bone. When he glances up at me, I part my legs, giving him access to what he wants. A wolfish grin on his lips, he dives in.
Oh dear God, this man knows how to use his tongue.
CHAPTER 34
Ravenna
Sophia’s engagement party is not anything like I expected. Half the city must be in attendance tonight, there’s enough food to feed an army, and the entire house is decorated to show off the Pontrelli family’s vast wealth. It’s garish. Embarrassing even. I’m so glad I’m not in the spotlight of tonight’s festivities.
Poor Sophia. What are the Russians going to think of all this? Will they be impressed? Doubtful.
Though as I question that, already intoxicated Russians stumble into each other, speaking loudly, all throughout the room. They seem delighted by all the free booze.
To think, if Papa was still alive, Elena would be the soon-to-be bride on display this evening. The thought makes me cringe. My sweet sister wouldn’t survive these brutes. I’m sorry Sophia has to deal with them, but my cousin and I are much more alike. She’s no wilting flower.
I’ve seen her a couple of times tonight, from afar through the thick crowd. Once most of them have cleared out, I’ll have a moment alone with her to chat. Though, I’m not sure if I should be offering my congratulations or my condolences. Nik never did warm up to her and their wedding’s right around the corner.
I spot her a third time as she weaves through the crowd. She does look stunning in that red dress. It compliments her deep brown hair. Hopefully her fiancé appreciates what and who he’s getting—once he gets to know her.
Most of all, I hope he’s kind to her and treats her with respect. That hasn’t been the case so far, but maybe he’ll change after they’re married. Cian has changed so much in the past year. It can happen. He’s proof.
“There you are!” Ginevra appears at my side, Arianna close behind her. “We thought you went home early.”
“I’d never leave without saying goodbye. I’m hoping to catch Sophia alone for a second, but she’s been completely swamped all evening.” I grab a glass of champagne from a passing server. “Cheers.”
Ginevra and Arianna clink their glasses to mine. They’re both technically underage, but at home our family has always bent the rules. Especially during celebrations.
“Come on. Let’s get out of this crush.” I lead the way upstairs to the landing that overlooks the massive foyer. It’s much less crowded up here.
Arianna leans against the railing. “I know it hasn’t been easy for my sister, but I hope this ends up being a good match between Sophia and Nikolai. Her wedding will set the tone for the rest of us. I’m up next, and surely Papa is already scheming. The aunties told me they think he’ll want to connect us to the Baron family next, but I hope that’s false gossip.”
“The Barons.” I frown. “I hope your father knows that’s a terrible idea. Blake Baron’s an anomaly in our world. Mysterious and untouchable. You’d do much better marrying an Irishman.”
Arianna scrunches her face, and Gin laughs.
I pretend to be offended. “What’s that look for? The Irish are perfectly attractive men.”
“They’re big and scary.” Arianna shudders. “Somehow you managed to get the biggest, scariest of them all, yet you’re happily married. I don’t think I’d have that kind of luck.”
