Page 23 of The Billionaire's Destiny

I spotted my tote from New York, and a wave of panic took me.Was the birth control in there?“Be right back, Isla.”

I left the closet and carried the handbag with me to the bathroom.Should I take three? Probably not, I’ll just take one and be more vigilant from now on.I poured a cup of water and took the pill, placed the box in the drawer, and headed out for the night.

My dress was a black Atelier Versace masterpiece. Its sculpted bodice hugged my curves, with black organza swirling around me and crystals shimmering in the lace. I spun before the three-paneled mirror, admiring the dramatic train trailing behind. “I love it. It’s gorgeous, but how do I keep people from stepping on it? And what if I need the bathroom?”

Isla smiled. “It’ll be fine, I promise you. I’ll carry it when you need it and style it for photos. As for your other concern…” She walked behind me, unfastened a hidden panel, then lightly tugged the top of the full-bottomed skirt. It came off, and she helped me step out of it, revealing a wide, long silk skirt that was just as incredible as the dress.

My jaw dropped. “Wow. That’s so cool.”

“Yep. Before the dinner, we’ll change your outfit so you can relax.” She motioned to the makeup artist and stylist, who sweptin to perfect my hair and finish my smoky eye and glossy retro look. I caught my reflection. A Gothic princess come to life, and I adored it.

“Would you like a photo for Cassidy?” Isla offered.

“Yes, I would. Thanks,” I said and posed with my hands on my hips. “Do you know anything about the event?”

Isla took a few pictures, then typed on her phone. “Sending it to you… It’s a private event that’s only for top fundraisers. This year’s theme is the Emotions of Art: Crafting Emotions.”

I held the fabric steady as she refastened it. “Hmm. That does sound intriguing.” Painting had always been my secret language, a way to pour out feelings when words failed me.

“I believe so, and it helps support the museums. This one tonight will start with a viewing ofDavid. There’ll be a small chamber orchestra that’ll perform Puccini. Oh, and Rocco’s cousin’s wife, Bianca, an opera singer, will perform, I believe, the prime minister’s favorite, Puccini’s ‘Musetta’s Waltz,’ fromLa Boheme.”

“Oh, that’s one of my favorites, too. So, what are they like?”

“Bianca? Stunning, strong, and unfiltered. She’s very gifted. There are three of the most gifted sopranists: Maria Callas, Diana Damrau, and Bianca Rossi. Every time she sings, I get chills,” Isla gushed, and it was so nice to see her express herself; it was clear Isla was a fan. “What about Lorenzo?”

Her cheeks pinked. “He’s a beloved conductor. Kind, flirtatious, but in a teasing way. So, nothing to worry about.”

I blew out a breath in relief. “Thanks for the heads-up.” Having Isla as an insider gave me something that I knew Rocco would dismiss if I asked him. Rocco as a celebrity would need to shine tonight, and as Rocco Marini’s wife, the pressure was even greater. He was still a popular celebrity, and the press loved to write stories about him.

Isla stepped back and scanned over me, smiling. “Perfect. We must go.” She handed me my phone to add to my handbag. There was already a message from Cass.

Cassidy: You look stunning, gorgeous. My God, that dress is to die for.

Adelina: I love it!!! But I’m nervous about the press.

Cassidy: Just smile. Rocco will never let anyone upset you, and Isla will move you on as she did for us last week. You got this.

I hoped she was right. Digging through my bag, I searched for my favorite gloss to tuck into my tiny clutch, needing a little extra confidence for the night ahead.

“We have to go, Adelina. The Tourism and Arts Board only has a short window of time to film at the museum.” She then motioned to her assistants. “Magda will be upstairs shortly.”

I closed my bag and followed her out the door.

We descended the stairs, and at the end of the hall, Rocco stood talking with Zane. When he turned, my breath caught. He was always handsome, but in his tuxedo, he was breathtaking. My heart raced as I neared him, his hand reaching for mine. I slipped my fingers into his, and he bent to kiss me. Our lips lingered, smiles blooming as we parted. “You look stunning, Bella. But something is missing.”

I blinked. “What’s missing?”

Isla came to stand next to him with two of the velvet cases from earlier. Rocco opened one of the cases and revealed large diamond earrings.

I shook my head. “This is too much.”

“Not at all.” His fingers brushed my earlobes as he placed them in my ears. Our gazes fused. “It’s not possible to make you more beautiful.”

My face flushed warm. “Rocco,” I drawled out.

“I speak the truth,” he said, then opened the large box, and I was speechless. He held up a stunning, two-tiered diamond and pearl necklace. Isla lifted my hair, and he placed it around my neck, his fingers infusing his touch into every jewel and on my skin. “You’re more precious, my wife. Nothing can harm you. Nothing can stop you. I won’t allow it.”

My heart swelled, and I leaned up and pressed my lips to his, whispering, “I love you,” against them.