Page 99 of The Ruin I Chose

I opened it. Marcello stood there, stunned. I was wearing a yellow and orange skirt set, the dupatta draped like a shrug. The neckline of my blouse dipped low, revealing the top of my breasts, just enough to tease. My waist was bare.

His eyes dripped with lust. I swear I saw a glint of hunger at the corner of his mouth—like he was starving and I was the feast. He was undressing me—no, tearing my clothes apart with his eyes.

His lower lip was caught between his teeth like he was seconds from committing a sin on my skin. And instantly, electricity shot down my spine to my core.

Focus Roxanne. Focus. Don’t give in.

I cleared my throat.

His emerald green eyes met mine. Damn you, Marcello, for being so handsome.

“Umm… just wanted to know the schedule for the functions.”

“Why, you have somewhere else to be?” I mocked.

“And miss seeing you all dolled up? No. Need to make a few calls to Santino and Martin; didn’t want to do it in the middle of the ceremonies.”

I turned towards the mirror, adjusting my dupatta and hair.

“Haldi’s now. Mehendi’s in the evening—not much for men to do there. Tomorrow’s the Sangeet, and the day after is the wedding followed by the reception.”

I didn’t bother diving into the details. I’m sure my mum would gladly explain to him if he were so interested.

“That shirt of yours is gonna get stained.”

He glanced down at himself, then at me, with a cocked eyebrow.

“Since you’re here, I’m assuming you’d like to partake in the ceremony. While applying the turmeric paste on Priya and Sahil, some of it will definitely be applied to you.”

“I think that should be okay.”

He walked up behind me, eyes locked on my reflection in the mirror. He slowly grazed the tip of his finger up my arm. My body lit up like it had missed him more than my heart ever admitted. I felt the heat rise between us.

“Pare na dea… hai rubato il mio respiro.”

(You look like a goddess… you’ve stolen my breath.)

He pushed my hair to one side, tracing the now-covered hickey.

“You’ve covered it well.”

I elbowed him.

“Don’t try that stunt again. Or the next punch will be between your legs.”

I wouldn’t do that though.

I was in two minds about wearing his mark proudly, but knowing Kyra, she would get her detective hat on and question away. He bent down, lips near my ear. His warm breath sent shivers and made the hair on the back of my neck stand.

“You’ll have to bear the consequences of what comes next—and I’ll enjoy the struggle.”

I met his dark gaze in the mirror. My heart was beating like a drum—wild, reckless, ready to leap out of my ribcage into his hands and beg to be wreaked.

I may have been upset with the man, but I sure as hell desired him. Anger and desire were kissing cousins—and Marcello made them sleep in the same bed.

A knock on the door broke our moment.

“Roxanne? Sahil’s looking for you,” a voice called out.