Page 282 of Valentino

“Did you sort the flash drive?”

“I ended up finding one,” I lie, I’ll take what I saw today to the grave.

“Did you see your parents yet?”

“On my way now.”

“Let me know how it goes.”

“Alright, I’ll call you later.”

The car weaves through the traffic and comes to a stop outside the restaurant I am meeting them at. “Thank you.” I smile as I get out of the car.

“We’ll park the car and come back and wait at the doors for you.”

“Ah….” I frown. “Actually. Can we not do that today?”

“What do you mean?”

“I don’t want my parents to know that you’re here as my bodyguard. Would it be possible for you to wait around the corner for me?”

Tomasso opens his mouth to protest.

“Please?” I wince. “I’m here to tell them about Val and me and….” I press my lips together so I don’t blurt out what I’m afraid of.

“They don’t know?”

“No…and.” I shrug. “It’s complicated.”

His face softens and in that moment I know he understands.

“You will call me if anything seems off?” he asks.

“Instantly.”

“Alright.”

“Thank you.” I walk into the restaurant and up to reception.

“Hello, can I help you?” the waiter asks.

“Yes, I have a booking for Russo.”

He looks over his sheet. “Ah yes, the other party members are already here. This way, please.” I follow him through the restaurant and catch sight of my parents sitting at a table in the back.

They both stand with excitement. “Anna.”

“Hello.” I laugh as I kiss them both. “I missed you.”

Mom holds my two hands in hers as she looks me over. “You are glowing, my darling.”

That’s all the orgasms.

“Thanks.” I nervously take a seat.

“So.” My father smiles. “Where are you working this week?” He fills my wineglass. “Obviously somewhere local.”

“Um.”