I know I told Ravenna that I’d figure this out on my own, but right now the entire situation with Maximo seems too real. Too complicated. I’m relying on Mrs. Rizzo to get me out of this, but what if she falls through? I don’t have a backup plan. And at this point, she’s cutting it close.
“Miss Pontrelli?” Skye approaches me to get my attention.
“I’m sorry, what was the question?”
She gives me a polite smile. “Do you have a wishlist for your dress? What’s your favorite style?”
Style? How about costs? Though I suppose that topic doesn’t matter since I wouldn’t be here if I had a limited budget.
Once again, I’m reminded that I don’t have access to my own money because Maximo took it away. He’s paying for this, he’s paying for everything.
With a forced grin, I tell her, “Never mind the style, I’ll take the most expensive one you have. My… fiancé’s paying and he told me to get the best of everything.”
She studies me with a curious look before grabbing a dress from the rack. “This is my most expensive one in this collection, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best one for you.”
The gown is pretty, but not to my taste at all. Way too much tulle.
Skye looks me up and down. “However, given your coloring and build, I think this is your true match.”
The dress she pulls for me is absolutely stunning in a soft off-white to compliment my warm complexion. Fine pearls and lace detailing decorate the neckline, sleeves, and the waist. The cut would make my curves look fantastic.
“Why don’t you try it on?” she urges.
Before I can stop myself, I’m nodding as I follow her to the fitting room.
Her workplace and retail store is in an adorable old building, open by appointment only. It’s just the two of us here today.
Sophia and Gin would have come with me, but I didn’t invite them or anyone else. I don’t need any witnesses, and at times I’m afraid I might slip up and they’ll know I’ve been coerced into this engagement. I don’t want their pity, or their help. This situation I need to navigate on my own.
She helps me into the gown. As soon as the smooth silk glides across my skin, I feel like I’m in heaven. Then I turn to look at myself in the mirror.
Oh. My. God. This dress is a dream.
It hugs my curves, then opens into a full skirt. The color makes my skin glow and my hair shine. I look like a princess—no, a queen. A regal bride.
At that moment I change my mind about a few things. I want this dress, I want to be married in it, but Idon’twant my groom-to-be. Why can’t Maximo be someone other than himself? He’s ruining my entire wedding fantasy.
“What do you think of it?”
A grin touches my lips. I like the fact that Skye isn’t showering me in praise to try to get me to buy the dress. She honestly seems to want to know my opinion. This is about me, not about her making a sale.
“I love it,” I breathe out the words.
Her face lights up. “I thought you might. I love it for you. You’re radiant.”
“This is the one. I’ll take it. I’d like a veil, shoes, and all the works. I trust your judgement, what do you recommend for accessories?”
“I’m so happy when one of my designs finds its perfect match. Just so you know, this wedding gown is one of a kind, no one will ever wear this exact same dress. It’s unique and special to you. The fit is even great, almost perfect. I’ll make a couple of small adjustments the week before the wedding. As for accessories…”
We spend the next two hours going over different options until my bridal ensemble’s complete. I charge the entire purchase to Maximo’s black card along with a generous tip for Skye.
Riding the elevator up to the penthouse, it opens into the foyer. As soon as I step through to the main room, my gaze catches on glistening, wet, bare flesh. He’s standing in front ofthe refrigerator, back on full display with a towel wrapped low on his hips.
I’ve never seen this much of Maximo’s skin, and the sight’s alluring. Damn near pornographic. He’s covered in ink. Even though there are many interesting designs to look at, my attention’s drawn to the portrait of a woman on his shoulder.
Jealousy tightens my throat. Who is she? She must be dear to him. Is it an ex-girlfriend? If so, why hasn’t he had her face removed?
Without meaning to, I step closer for a better look.
