He gives her an easy smile. “Pleasure is all mine.”
The security guard lets us through.
As soon as we enter the backstage area, my eyes scan the space for the blonde girl. My heart is swollen now and permanently lodged in my throat. Or at least that's what it feels like.
There's a flurry of activity all around us as people go in and out of the dressing room.
“How long will you be staying in Paris?” Nico asks.
“I don’t know yet,” I tell him. “But I’m here for business, not pleasure.”
“Not even a little bit?” Nico smirks. “Everyone saw the two of you sneaking in when Ivy’s show was about to end.”
“Okay, maybe a little pleasure.” I smirk.
When the door to the dressing room opens, all of us glance that way.
Grace’s hand tightens over mine.
“It’s her,” she whispers.
Ivy Blackwood walks straight toward the three of us. She gives Nico a warm hug, then smiles at Grace and me.
"I'm Dante Mancini,Caporegimeof theCamorra," I say, introducing myself. “And this is my wife, Grace.”
“I know who you are, Dante,” she says. “It’s nice to finally meet you. And it’s lovely to meet you as well, Grace.”
Grace is completely starstruck right now.
I know that Ivy’s schedule is packed today, so I get straight to the point.
“There’s something I wanted to discuss with you in person. It’s something I believe we have mutual interest in,” I say, glancing once again at the dressing room’s door. A few people filter out. They’re photographers and crew members.
"Continue," Ivy says.
"It's a sensitive topic," I say.
"Would you be more comfortable speaking in my private office then?" she asks. "I have ten minutes before I'm needed elsewhere."
I glance over at the door again. I can't leave. She could walk out any second now.
"No, this is fine," I say.
Ivy crosses her arms and tilts her head expectantly, waiting for me to speak.
I find myself wishing that Enzo were here. He’s better at talking. He performs well even under pressure. I can feel Gracelooking at me. When seconds pass without me saying anything, she comes to my rescue.
“I just wanted to say that the show was spectacular,” Grace says. “It felt like a childhood dream come to life.”
“That’s such a beautiful compliment, thank you,” Ivy says, pressing a hand to her heart.
“All of your collections are magnificent, but you’ve really outdone yourself with this one,” Grace says. “I especially loved the iridescent mermaid finale look.”
Ivy’s smile widens. “That dress was completely handmade. It took my team four months to finish the piece. It’s my personal favorite too.”
“Mine too,” Nico adds. “It would make the perfect gift for my wife.”
“I can have one custom-made for Luna,” Ivy offers.
