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“Does her father know?”
I feel so bad for him, and Serena grins. “He will be the one leading the charge. I almost pity the poor bastard who did this. He’s about to discover that hell is a place on earth and it’s heading straight for his island.”
The sound of chattering voices sounds in the hallway outside, and Serena smiles ruefully.
“I should leave you to settle in. Dinner is at seven. Be late at your peril. If you need anything, come and find me. My room is the one at the end of the hall.”
She makes to leave, and I say quickly. “Thank you.”
“For what?”
“For making me so welcome and, well, bringing me up to speed with what’s happening.”
It could be my imagination, but she appears almost guilty as she glances quickly away and mumbles, “You’re welcome. See you at dinner.”
As the door closes behind her, I think of Apollo and the search for his lost love. It all makes sense now and I’m happy to discover that, far from being angry and upset, I only want him to be happy. He’s a good guy. I already discovered that for myself and I suppose I must prepare myself for a trip home in the not-too-distant future. Hopefully, not until I’ve spent a few more days on this paradise island with these amazing people.
CHAPTER 27
MELISSA
Serena’s story consumes my thoughts, and it’s only later I remember something about a disagreement between our families. What the hell does that mean? I’d be surprised if Troy even knew these people, let alone had dealings with them, and I wonder if I should ask Serena about it later at dinner. Perhaps I can make things good between us if I learn the facts.
I settle in and change for dinner because I’m guessing they expect that and as I make my way downstairs, I’m nervous. It’s weird being in a stranger’s home, let alone this fortress, and I wonder about Phoebe hidden away on another private island somewhere else entirely. Is it her? I sincerely hope it is because more than anything the romantic in me is desperate for them to have a happy ever after.
As I wander into their family dining room, it’s as if I’ve walked into another life. Their lives. Mafia lives.
They are all dressed formally and sitting at a glittering table that could seat a small army.
The table is groaning under the weight of the food, and I stare in wonder at the candles burning in candelabras, beautiful tropical flower arrangements and wines gleaming in crystal decanters. I am nervous as they all look my way and my mouth dries when Serena says loudly, “Come and sit by me, Melissa. Don’t mind the company, we don’t bite.”
I am so grateful to Serena Vieri. She has been extremely kind, and I gladly sink into the chair beside her and watch as she fills my glass.
There is a hint of mischief in her expression as she points to a man who makes my heart stop beating. “Have you met my brother, Shade?”
He stares at me with a wicked smile, and I note his arm draped along the back of Allegra’s chair. I can’t even speak, he terrifies me, and Allegra says loudly, “I was sorry to hear that Apollo had to leave. It must suck being left here on your own.”
I shrug. “I’m sorry to impose on you. It’s a bit embarrassing, really.”
Purity speaks up and I register the dark stare of the man beside her and decide on the spot he is now the scariest monster in my nightmares.
“You don’t need to be embarrassed, honey. The men around here take off at a moment’s notice with vague explanations. He’ll be back before you know it. If you like, I’ll show you around the island in the morning. It’s truly beautiful.”
She is so sweet, and I note the way Killian Vieri is stroking her neck, saying nothing at all, just taking in the situation. He is definitely the strong, silent type, who gives nothing away, and then I jump as a husky voice interrupts the silence from the head of the table.
“Make Melissa feel welcome. She is a guest in our home and will be treated accordingly.”
I catch Ariana’s eye and she smiles sweetly, and I wish I had the courage to ask about their disagreement with Troy. However, I’m not brave and just sit quietly instead and soak up the atmosphere because the air around here may appear cozy and comfortable, like any other family dining together, but I can almost taste the subterfuge in my food.
I eat and listen for most of the meal and am glad when the men head off to discuss business and the women are left to relax on the terrace. It’s so beautiful here. I love the fairy lights that mix with candles that burn on every surface. There is a gentle breeze and not even the sound of a night bird disturbs the serene silence.
Serenity indeed. This place is paradise, and I’m the lucky one who gets to glimpse into the world of a private family.
Allegra pushes up closer and whispers, “It’s scary, isn’t it?”
“Just a bit.” I pull a face, which makes her grin.
“I was terrified when I first came here. You’re doing way better than me because I swear I tried to hide in my room most of the time.”
