“No.”Then I admit the truth.“He left a dress for me.And heels.”
“And you were thinking strategically.”
We both know what she means.
Then she shakes her head.“I’m so sorry.You have no idea who I am.I’m Bella.”
“You’re married to Nico.”Nico, who’d I’d met in Vegas at the Four Corners Alliance.And she’s the family’s communications specialist.
“You’ve done your research.”She grins.“I’ve heard you’re a great asset to your father.”
Was.
Iwasa great asset.Until I fell into Dante Moretti’s carefully laid trap.So stupid of me.
She gestures to the table with its elaborate spread.
“I figured you might need a friend since Dante has been hiding you away.”She adds the barest splash of OJ to each glass of champagne, then offers one to me.
“Thank you.”I wish I could say I’d be as thoughtful as her if I learned that my brother Giovanni abducted an enemy and decided to marry her.
She angles her glass in my direction.
Despite myself, I like her.Smiling, we clink our rims together, and she takes a sip.
I hadn’t expected to find an ally here, and I appreciate her offering of friendship.Even if I’m stolen from the cathedral before the ceremony happens.
The door opens again, and a woman bustles in holding a Bonds tablet.
“Mrs.Henderson,” Bella explains.
Even though Moretti said she was in charge, I finally am able to piece together who she is.
Without me needing to say anything, Bella nods.“Jaxon Mills’s mother-in-law.”
Mrs.Henderson has become quite renowned in Houston society for planning weddings and events.The first ever was for her daughter’s whirlwind marriage to the infamous, loud-mouth podcaster who holds millions spellbound every day.
After we exchange greetings, the efficient woman brings me up to date.
The ceremony will begin precisely at ten.Following the exchange of vows, the certificate will be signed, and pictures will be taken.
Her focus and professionalism are perfect, and if she thinks the bride showing up barefoot and in sweats is unusual, she says nothing.
“Hair and makeup are standing by whenever you’re ready,” she informs me.
I glance over my shoulder at the dress again, at the soft sweep of silk waiting patiently on the back of the door.
Then I look down at myself.
“Shall I give you a few minutes?”
Despite everything, the corner of my mouth threatens to twitch.I do my best to suppress it, but Bella notices.
Her own grin widens.“Why don’t you give us ten minutes, Mrs.Henderson?”
I’m thinking that the Moretti women might be far more dangerous than the men.And that’s something I appreciate.
When we’re alone, Bella drags a hot pink duffel bag from under the skirted table.She unzips it and pulls out a silk robe.“I knew no one would think of this.It will make getting ready much easier.”
