Page 112 of Brutal Heir

Sebastian stayed close. "Sabrina, this is my brother Arcangelo."

"It’s a pleasure to meet you, Father Arcangelo."

"Strictly speaking, it’s The Reverend Monsignore Arcangelo Diamanti."

His grasp was firm and lingering.

When I tried to pull away, he didn’t let go. "My apologies."

"There is nothing to apologize for, Sabrina. Unless, of course, you’ve been a bad girl and want me to take your confession." He winked.

I stared, shocked, just as Sebastian stepped between us, breaking the contact.

"Brother, remember my warning," he said in a low growl.

Sebastian led me into the dining room.

The briny scent of shellfish and warm olive oil filled the air. Servants entered with silver-domed platters as Sebastian pulled out a chair for me.

He leaned in. "I hope you like Tagliolini ai Frutti di Mare. If not, I’ll have something else prepared."

I placed the linen napkin on my lap. "Please don’t trouble anyone. It smells wonderful."

Sebastian took the seat at the head of the impossibly long table. Arcangelo sat across from me.

His foot brushed mine—I think. I pulled my legs back, just in case.

"I hope you don’t mind being served a single course," Sebastian said. "I forgot to inform my chef I was returning. We’ll have a formal meal tomorrow."

Thank God. I wasn’t sure I could stomach more than a few bites with these two.

Sebastian poured wine into my glass.

I didn’t touch it.

My hands shook, so I clutched them in my lap and watched a servant dish out the pasta.

The sheer number of servants unsettled me.

I’d grown up with staff, yes, but not like this. This wasn’t comfortable money. This was old-world, dynastic wealth.

I stabbed a shrimp but didn’t lift it.

Arcangelo twirled noodles, sipped his wine, then turned to me. "I understand you’re about to be the newest member of our little family."

Sebastian’s fork hit his plate with a clang. I jumped.

He wiped his mouth, his eyes blazing.

Arcangelo kept smiling. "By that I mean your future employment at the House of Diamanti…of course."

I reached for the wine. The crisp acidity steadied me.

"Yes. I’m to be their new fashion stylist. One-month trial."

"That sounds exciting. Are you looking forward to working under Sebastian?"

I caught the double meaning.