"You would say that if I wore a trash bag."
"You'd make it couture."
She mutters something in Italian I can't fully hear, then steps into the doorway.
My pulse jumps.
Her red sundress has thin straps, daintily placed over her shoulders, a fitted bodice, and a soft, loose skirt brushing her thighs. Her hair hangs in waves, her glossed lips match her dress, and her expression radiates steady confidence and happiness.
There were days I wondered if I'd ever see her this way.
I straighten, wiggling my eyebrows. "Wonder Woman better look out."
She lifts a brow. "It's a dress, Brax."
"It's criminal."
She snorts and reaches for her clutch. "Let's go before you start trouble we don't have time to finish."
I chuckle and offer my arm. She slips her hand into the crook of my elbow, and together, we take the elevator down and step into the warm summer evening.
Our driver pulls up. I open the door for her. She pauses beforeclimbing in, her gaze sliding over me in a slow inspection. She says, "You're being suspiciously calm."
"Just enjoying my wife."
She narrows her eyes. "Hmm. I smell danger."
I laugh and pat her ass. "Get in, Minx."
She settles into the backseat, I slide in beside her, and the city moves past the windows as we head toward the restaurant.
We arrive within minutes and go directly to the rooftop, reserved for our party. My fingers graze the box in my pocket. My stomach tightens, not from nerves but from raw anticipation.
Valentina leans against me, shoulder to shoulder. The doors open, and everyone is already here. She tilts her head up at me. "You didn't tell me what this dinner is actually for."
"You'll see."
"That's vague."
"It's specific."
She side-eyes me. "Suspicious."
I grin. "Always." I place my hand on the small of her back. "Come on."
She steps into the open air, and the city stretches in every direction under a deep-gold sunset. Hanging lights zigzag overhead, glinting off wineglasses and polished cutlery. Cocktail tables line up near the edge of the roof. Long tables covered in satin gold linen, floral arrangements, and place cards fill the rest of the space.
Zara has the twins on her hip. Kirill holds a very pregnant Fiona close to his side. Sean gives a chin lift. Finn wears a crisp navy suit, and Luca's in a charcoal one with a cautious smile.
I scan the Marinos and O'Malleys. Everyone who's anyone to us is here.
Hugs and cheek kisses start. Zara squeezes her until she squeaks. Luca holds her a beat too long, quiet but steady. Finn kisses her on the cheek and teases her.
My wife's overwhelmed but glowing, and she's never looked so happy or beautiful.
When the greetings settle, I slide my hand into hers. "Come with me."
Her steps falter. "Where?"
