“My uncle has you here for a reason, don’t think I don’t know that. Whatever he’s up to, I’m not playing along,” she insists. “Keep my fiancé at arm’s length. Do you understand?”
“I work for Eivor; I’ll do as he requests,” I tell her.
“You work for me too. You’re here to protect me. If that is the truth. And I’m telling you to stay away from Alessio. We don’t need any drama,” Rosalie snips.
Compared to how sweet and submissive she sounded before, she sounds hot and irritated now. Her voice low and quiet but strong in its certainty. Certainty that I will listen to what she’s saying. Or else.
I have no doubt that this woman could do some damage if she wanted to.
I could kill her in a second flat, but maybe, just maybe, she’d leave me with some damage behind.
“Got it, Ms. Fiorelli. Or should I start calling you Mrs. Dresvanni already?” I ask her with a slight tilt of my head. My broad shoulders are far wider than her narrow ones.
She takes a step back and shakes her head. “Just Rosalie is fine,” she tells me. “Now, I’ll be going inside. You’re not needed there, right? Just outside the house? Go find something to keep yourself busy.”
I have to keep myself from chuckling. She is definitely a tough piece of work. I’m beginning to understand why Eivor hired me to do this job.
I head to my car for the time being, as I have no idea when they’ll be leaving and I’ll be needed again. I have to keep an eye on the front of the house, so I’m not parked in the garage.
I pull my phone out and instead of scrolling on it and getting distracted, I pull up the number to the only member of my family I have left. Well, the only member I’m still talking to.
I put the phone to my ear and tilt my head to the side, the other arm resting on the driver side door.
“Fiona, hey,” I say as her voice answers the phone. I hear a smile in her voice. I’m the only one in our family who calls her by her chosen name, rather than her dead name.
“Damian!” she says happily. “It’s been a few days; I thought you were heading to your new job today?” she asks me.
“I am, and that’s what I’m calling about. I’m going to be gone for a few weeks, maybe a few months, I’m not sure how long. I’ve gotta keep an eye on these two engaged folks and I’m not sure for how long. I might be stuck here after they’re married to. Guy wants some information, not sure what, but unless I get it, I think he’s going to be causing problems,” I explain.
“Jeez. This is the one paying you a ton, right?” she asks. I hear some movement in the background.
“Yeah, definitely enough to buy back Mom’s house,” I tell her. “He wants me to keep working for him after, but I’m not sure I like the guy.” I glance toward the house. Seeing nothing in particular happening at the front door.
“Follow your gut, Cousin,” Fiona reminds me. “Oh, you’ve got some mail here. Should I hang onto it until you get back?”
I roll my eyes. “Like you always do. Thanks again for letting me put my address as yours. Not having my own place is rough, but I’m on the road so often it’s just not needed.”
“Right, right. It’s no problem. You’re the only one in our family who actually gives a damn about me, so I think hanging onto your mail and picking up the phone for you every now and again is the least I can do,” she says with a smile in her voice.
I can’t help but smile slightly as well. “Alright. I’ll call you in a few weeks. I don’t want you getting involved in this so I’m layin’ as low as possible.”
“Got it. Love you, Cousin.”
“You too.”
3
Chapter Three
Alessio
If someone had told me a week ago I’d be at a gala for my own engagement, I would’ve asked them what exactly they’re smoking. Now, however, as I exit the car with Rosalie at my side, I know that it’s real. There are bright lights on us and flashing cameras. I can hardly see any of the guests or decorations as we’re walking inside the building.
I’ve never been one for the spotlight, not like this; but I have to admit getting dressed up and showing off isn’t exactly difficult for me. I love putting on my best suit, in shades of royal blue and black, my hair gently curled and pulled back behind my head elegantly… I do feel important.
It’s not so much the event with its glitz and glam that bothers me. No. The problem lies in who set the event up, and who I’m here with.
Rosalie walks beside me, arm in arm, wearing a floor-length dark blue and silver strapless gown with a grey fur shrug overher shoulders protecting her from the cold as we enter. Her ruddy hair is in spirals down her back and she does look particularly beautiful. That much is obvious.
