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"Did anyone see you dressed like this?"
She shakes her head. "No one, sir. I had Marialena help me pick out the clothes. We brought them in here. She and Gino escorted me, because I didn't want to disobey the rule about not entering the club. I figured if I were with them… and didn't look at anything… I was technically not actually in the club. I mean…" She trails off, as if she's worried that I'm going to lose my temper.
She's never seen me lose my temper, and I'd like to keep it that way. She nervously picks up where she left off. "I mean, technically I know I'minthe club, but you told me that you didn't want me in here…"
"Eden. Stop."
She closes her mouth and meets my eyes.
"Good girl." Love the way her cheeks turn pink when I praise her. I bend and lift her off the floor, carrying her to the huge bed that’s sitting in the corner of the room. But I don't lay her on the bed. I sit on the edge of the mattress with her on my lap, running my hand up and down the length of her back.
She rests her head on my shoulder, her arms coming around me. I don't know how many people would know what it took for her to do this. Dressing like this goes against everything she's ever been taught. Even taking the risk, not knowing how I was going to react.
My chest swells with pride. "You’re so brave. I know this isn't easy for you. I'm proud of you for coming in here, and trying to put everything that's in your past—”
She kisses me. I freeze, startled by the feel of her lips on mine. Her delicate hand brushes across the stubble on my jaw and then both of her hands are on my face, framing it as she continues to kiss me.
I'mthe one that initiates. I'm the one that takes control. But I know this is her way of thanking me, and if she can be brave, and if she can try new things, so can I.
When she pulls away her eyes are wide, as if her behavior startles even herself.
“I—didn't mean to do that."
"Kiss me? Are we going to apologize for kissing?”
When she gives me that grin that splits her face wide open, I hold her to me and squeeze.
"I know this is hard for you. And I am so honored that you did this.” I smile at her. “I like you in your simple clothes. And you’re beautiful in these, too.” I stroke her cheek.“I have plans for you tonight.”
My phone rings.
For some reason, Eden’s eyes dance at me. “It’s okay,” she says gently. “Answer it.”
“What’s so funny?”
“Youhatethat phone.”
“It’s annoying.” I glance at the screen.God.“I have to take this.”
“One of your brothers?”
I sigh. “My mother.” I swipe the phone angrily. “Hello?”
“Sergio.” Just the sound of my mother’s voice makes me clench the phone harder.
“Yes?”
“Are you coming to dinner tonight?”
“Tonight? Timeo said tomorrow.”
“I can’t trust that boy to relay one goddamn message.” I hear her blow out a breath and can imagine the billow of smoke from her menthol-flavored cigarette billowing around her. “Tonight.The Rossis are here, and they’re here foryou.”
“I know, I just didn’t know it was tonight.” I pinch the bridge of my nose. “Yeah, of course I’ll be there.”
Tonight was supposed to be my night with Eden. I promised to show her what the club has to offer.
If I’m honest, I was eager to see whatshehad to offer.
