Izzy’s smile flattens and her big brown eyes portray sympathy. “I get it, I really do, Liana. But sometimes, fate puts people in our lives that will bring us so much more than the heartache we’re afraid of.”
I bring my eyes up to hers.
“Just try to remember that, okay?”
I give her a small smile and nod. Everything Izzy is saying makes sense, but I made a promise to myself years ago that I would never let my heart fall victim to a made man. I fear what could happen if I start opening myself up to Massimo, and that’s why I have to keep him at a distance. For as long as I can.
27
MASSIMO
When I woke up to an empty bed this morning, I almost marched my ass down to Liana’s store to drag her out of there, but then my dad called me to meet him at his office.
I can’t believe she fucking snuck out. Actually, I can, but apparently, I need to purchase a permanent bell collar to wrap around her neck because she doesn’t seem to understand the conditions of our marriage.
But soon enough. Soon enough, she will.
I know exactly what last night did to her, and I guess I should see her sneaking out early in the morning as a compliment.I’ve gotten to her.
Getting herself off while lying next to me would’ve done exactly what she was hoping, if I wasn’t so damn desperate for her. But I knew turning the tables would spark something else in her. A deeper desire that’s been begging to come forth.
Knocking, I open the door to my dad’s office. “Hey, Dad.”
“There’s the newly appointed don of the family,” he greets with a wide smile.
He stands to give me a hug, then I take my spot across the desk from him.
“Tell me, son, how’s it feel to finally be married?”
“Better than ever, Dad.”
“Good, good. I wanted to let you know, since I’m officially handing everything over to you, your mother and I are planning on leaving for Sicily tomorrow.”
“Tomorrow? I didn’t realize we’d be leaving so quickly.”
“Oh, no, you don’t have to come, son.”
“But I thought you wanted me to meet with the heads of some families over there? Strengthen our Sicilian alliances?”
“I did, but since you’re a newlywed, I don’t want to take you from your wife this soon. You need to make sure you’re establishing your relationship with her. Bringing you to Sicily wouldn’t be a good look for you right now.”
“Are you sure?” My dad has always explained the importance of alliances to me, so it surprises me he’d change his mind about me going to Sicily to meet with some contacts.
“Very sure. I just wanted you to come in because I have some things to give you for the business and to let you know of me and your mother’s plans.”
“How long will you two be gone?”
“Unsure, as of right now, but we’re planning an extended stay.”
“And you’re positive you don’t want me to come with you? I’m sure Liana would understand if I’m gone for the week. When’s the masquerade party you were telling me about? I can plan on attending that, then head home.”
My dad brushes me off. “No, no, son. There will be plenty of chances for you to come to Sicily. For now, just handle things here. Get acquainted with your new life and your new responsibilities.”
“Um, okay… yeah, sure, that works, Dad. Thanks. Is there anything else you need from me?”
“Nope, just handle everything like you have been and I know things will go well, son.”
After gathering the ledgers my dad has—he’s old school—I head to my office to take care of some business, still unable to get Liana off my mind. When I see her tonight, things will be changing for us whether she likes it or not. It’s time to woo this dear wife of mine.
