“You’re a great catch, sis. It’s Rowan’s loss if he doesn’t see it.”
“You’re my brother. You’re biased.”
“I’m not your brother, and I agree,” I say, raising my voice before adding, “Rowan is an idiot.”
“I heard that.” Rowan frowns as he jerks his head up and looks over at me.
“Good. I meant for you to hear it.” I drain the rest of my red wine in one go. I hadn’t planned on drinking much, preferring to drive rather than be driven, but this day is testing my sanity. One of my men can drive us back home if need be.
“You get out of bed the wrong side today or something, DiPietro?” Rowan asks, sliding his arm around the back of Sloane’s chair.
“It’s Don DiPietro to you,” I snap. “And learn to read the room, Mini Mazzone.” I’m being petty, but I can’t help it. I pointedly stare at Sloane as Valentina silently watches while spoon-feeding Armani.
Elio has long since given up sitting. He’s currently under the table racing some of Armani’s toy cars, chattering away to himself and hopefully oblivious to the painful conversation around the table.
“I need the bathroom,” Sloane blurts, rising so suddenly her chair almost falls to the floor. Her cheeks are inflamed as she strides out of the room.
“So much for having a lovely meal with family and friends,” Valentina says, imploring her husband with her eyes.
“What’s a meal without some drama?” Fiero jokes.
“Keep an eye on Elio, yeah?” I ask as I stand.
“Sure thing. Go. I’ll try to offer some words of wisdom to the young and dumb.”
I ignore Rowan as I leave the dining room and head toward the downstairs bathroom to check on Sloane. I lean against the wall outside as I wait for her to emerge. When the lock turns a few minutes later, I straighten up, meeting Sloane’s eyes when the door opens. Her hand flies to her chest. “Shit. You startled me.”
I seem to do that a lot. Either I’m too stealthy or Sloane has a jumpy disposition. “I wanted to make sure you’re okay.”
“I’m okay,” she lies. “It’s just a little awkward.”
I move toward her, drawing her slowly into my body. “It’s more than a little awkward. I’m sorry. I thought we’d have a pleasant afternoon with my friends, but Captain Oblivious ruined that.”
Sloane giggles, circling her arms around my neck. “I can’t work out if he’s actually oblivious or only pretending. Either way, I don’t like it. He seems like a nice guy, but he’s way too similar to other guys I’ve met his age. Cocky to the point of ignorant arrogance.”
“Is that so?” I tighten my arms around her back and nuzzle my nose against hers.
“I prefer older guys. They’re sexier and more mature.”
“Older guys plural?” I say, dropping a slew of kisses along her jawline. “Or anyone in particular?”
“Are you fishing for compliments, Don DiPietro?”
Blood rushes to my dick hearing her say my name. “What if I am?” I purr, grabbing her ass and pulling her flush against me so she feels what she’s doing to me.
“You don’t need to fish for them, Cristian. You’ve already reeled me in. Hook, line, and sinker.”
Our mouths meet in a fiery kiss that hardens my dick to steel behind my pants. I can’t get enough of her, kissing her hungrily as I push her up against the wall and ravish her skillful mouth. Sloane whimpers, opening her lips and letting me in, as I continue kissing her like my life depends on it.
“Now it all makes sense,” Rowan says, interrupting the moment.
I hold Sloane close as I angle my head and stare at the younger man. “It should’ve made sense an hour ago,” I reply, sliding my arm around Sloane and tucking her into my side. “Like I said, learn to open your eyes and read the room.” He seems genuinely oblivious to Tullia too, which sucks for her.
“You should’ve said something.” He walks up to us. “If I’d known you were together, I’d have toned it down. I hope you can forgive me.” Sincerity bleeds into his tone as he stares at Sloane.
“It’s not me you should be asking forgiveness of,” Sloane cryptically replies, and Rowan frowns. For a smart guy, he sure is clueless when it comes to Tullia Maltese. Does he honestly not see it?
“We’re keeping it under wraps for the moment,” I explain.
