He runs his fingers through his hair in frustration.
“Michael, I don’t understand the problem here. We are separated. We are getting a divorce. We are free to see other people.”
“So you are okay with me being here with Laurel?”
“Yes,” I lie. And again, he can see right through me. The tension and passion between us is so thick the air is quickly becoming suffocating.
He doesn’t say a word as he walks to me with purpose, forcing me backward until I’m against the door. He’s got me trapped, his body pushing against mine. He’s breathing heavy, and I know he’s mad. “Damn it, Zaira.” He says under his breath, and before I can utter a word, his lips crash onto mine.
I try to resist. I try not to kiss him back, but I can’t. He’s everything I’ve ever wanted since I was young.I love him! So why can’t I get past all the lies and be with him?
I kiss him back, allowing him to devour my mouth. He deepens the kiss, and before I know it, we are breathless and he is tugging at the zipper on the back of my dress.
Breaking from the kiss, I whisper, “Michael. Please don’t do this.”
His hand stills at my zipper, but he doesn’t say a word.
“If we do this, my heart won’t survive it.” I know he can hear the desperation in my voice when he immediately backs away.
Turning his back toward me, he says, “Go, Zaira. Have a nice time with Spike.”
I walk toward him and rest my hand on his shoulder. He flinches at my touch. “I’m sorry,” I say. I’m not really sure why I am apologizing, but it breaks my heart to see him so conflicted and hurting.
“Just go, Zaira.”
I turn and walk out of the room, slamming the door behind me.
Michael returned to the party about fifteen minutes after I did and spent most of his time with the members of the MC, leaving the party only once more with Ice. Laurel remained at his side, but from what I could see, he never touched her again or paid any attention to her. I spent the remainder of the evening with Vince and Mia until it was time to leave.
We made our good-byes to Michael and the family, as well as the MC. All I have to do now is get through the omertà and I will be free and on a plane to Florence.
