“I know you love movies,” he continued. “What’s your favorite one?”
Annika stood up straighter as she felt a smile tug at her lips. She’d never pass up a chance to talk about her favorite film! She’d even thought about joining a film discussion group at the library but had backed out every time because of her clothes and appearance.
“Breakfast at Tiffany’s! It’s the best movie ever made. Have you seen it?”
“A long time ago. I think. Is that the one with Katharine Hepburn?”
“AudreyHepburn,” Annika corrected him.
“Right. They were sisters, huh?”
She shook her head. “Actually, they weren’t even related.”
“Huh. Sort of a unique last name. But really no connection?”
“None.”
“Oh. Well, I think I’ve seen the movie.”
“You’ll have to watch it with me sometime! It’s amazing. One time, the Vista was showing it and I was able to sneak in and watch it on the big screen!” Guilt stabbed at her insides and she averted her eyes to the floor. “I got some money the next week and went and left it on the box office counter to pay for my ticket. I’m not a bad person, Sir. I wouldn’t steal from anyone.”
Did Matteo now think less of her because of what she’d done? The story was true—she’d paid for her ticket. Justafterwatching the movie.
Matteo’s hand appeared under her chin. He gently tilted her head up until their eyes were locked.
“Honey, I know you’re not a bad person. You don’t have to worry about that.”
She felt like crying, and it wasn’t over the guilt of sneaking into the movie.
It just seemed so perfect there at the mansion. Annika couldn’t remember a time when she’d felt so valued and accepted.
Fighting the tears, she turned her thoughts back to the movie. “The lead character is named Holly. She’s amazing! So elegant and beautiful. I… It’s silly… but sometimes I dream I’m her.”
She couldn’t help but smile, even though she realized how pathetic it all might sound to Matteo.
“I can’t wait to watch this movie with you. But right now I need to help with dinner. And I bet you could use a nice, relaxing bubble bath. I have a surprise for you, too.”
“I can help with dinner, Sir,” she said.
“Oh no you don’t, little girl. I said you’re going to take a relaxing bath so that’s exactly what you’re going to do. Start the water and I’ll be right back.”
Annika giggled a little as she watched Matteo leave the room. Then, she went into the tub in the attached bathroom and turned it on, getting the water started and finding the right temperature.
She was glad she obeyed. Matteo had sounded a little stern. Would he take her over his knee had she protested?
Why give him the chance? She didn’t want a spanking! A hot bath would be much better.
A moment later, she heard a squeaking noise. Turning around, she saw Matteo wheeling in a TV stand with a flat-panel television atop it.
“You, little girl, are going to watchBreakfast at Tiffany’swhile you soak in the bath. And if you don’t finish it now, you can watch the rest after dinner.”
“Daddy!” she said with a giggle.
But she quickly covered her mouth with a gasp.
“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have called you that.”
It was too late. Matteo was standing closer to her now, wearing a wide grin, with what looked like a combination of affection, joy, and desire burning in his dark eyes.
