“Mrs. Vitale?” Veronica calls out from the other side of the door. “I’m sorry to disturb you, but Mrs. Scarcello requested that I ask if you’re up to having breakfast with her this morning.”
“Natalia’s here?” I turn toward the door, wondering if I heard her correctly.
“Yes,” Veronica answers, not offering further explanation. “What shall I tell her?”
“I’d like to have breakfast with her,” I agree. “Can you let her know I’ll be down in thirty minutes?”
“Of course. Do you have a preference for the menu, or would you like the chef to prepare a selection of foods?”
“The chef’s selection would be great,” I tell her, even though my stomach revolts at the thought of eating.
“Perfect. Mrs. Scarcello will join you in the al fresco dining area on the main deck when you’re ready.”
“Thank you, Veronica.”
“Is there anything else I can do for you, Mrs. Vitale?”
I hesitate for a moment. “Can you tell me where An—my husband is?”
“He’s in a business meeting in his office,” she says.
“Okay.” My head dips against the door. “Thank you. I think I’m all set.”
Her footsteps fade away, and I splash some cold water on my face, hoping to wake myself up and reduce the swelling. A quick rummage through the drawers confirms they’ve already been stocked with all my things.
I grab a hair clip and secure my hair on top of my head. Glancing over my shoulder at the mirror, I get my first peek of the tattoo beneath the transparent film. But as I examine the crest bearing the Vitale name, it’s impossible to miss the addition underneath.
Per Sempre.
Those words send a shiver down my spine. I guess he decided to leave me a permanent reminder of the promise I made to him. A vow of love and loyalty.
He couldn’t know it was my love and loyalty that made me walk away. I did it for him. And now, we’ve come full circle. Right back to where we started with the same looming problems.Angelo doesn’t yet know it, but I do. In the light of day, it’s hard to forget.
Setting those thoughts aside, I prepare for the day. Applying some light makeup, I avoid the most tender parts of my face. Then I slip on my favorite black bikini and a matching crochet dress, accessorizing with big sunglasses and an even bigger hat.
When I step outside, the sun is high in the sky, and it’s a beautiful day. We’re somewhere off the Italian coast, with sparkling blue water in every direction. I don’t know where we’re going, but if I had to guess, this is Angelo keeping up appearances.
People would talk if he didn’t take me on a honeymoon.
I make my way down to the main deck, passing a few of my new guards and several stewardesses along the way. They all greet me formally with my new last name and then go on with their day.
I find Natalia curled up on a lounge chair on the aft deck, reading a book. When I sit down beside her, I unintentionally startle her, and she clutches her chest before her shoulders shake in silent laughter.
Sorry, I sign.I didn’t mean to scare you.
She sets her book aside and shakes her head.Not your fault. I was so relaxed I almost forgot where I was.
I smile at her because it’s been a while since I’ve seen her out of mom mode. She deserves a little relaxation.Where are the kids?
Downstairs with the nanny,she signs.It’s weird to say that. I was the nanny, and now I have one. Alessio insisted I have a break and spend some time with you while he’s busy with Angelo.
Alessio’s here too?
Yes. He and Angelo have some business that apparently couldn’t wait. I hope you don’t mind that we’re here. Angeloinsisted we come today and said you’d probably like the company. We flew in this morning on the helicopter.
I completely forgot there was a helipad,I admit.But I’m happy to have you here with me. How long are you staying?
We’ll leave this afternoon and spend some time in the Mediterranean before we head home.
