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It is just confusing. I haven’t had that many lovers, but there is an intensity about sex with Connor that feels emotionless, like the damns are about to smash open and let it all out.
There are moments when it almost scares me.
But he notices every nuance and will soften a little and bring me back to him. His fingers will slide through mine, or he’ll cup my face with anI’ve got you.
I’m not sure it was meant to be like this. It is more intimate than either of us acknowledges.
Even now, despite my furious rejection of being owned, I feel like IamConnor’s. Forget labels of fiancé, girlfriend, or wife. I belong beside this man.
I just don’t know how to work that out logically.
“Sit,” my father says, waving a hand around the enormous living room.
This is the house where I spent most of my life growing up. We would go to Manhattan for periods of time, but this is my home.
Technically, it’s a mansion with three levels, thirty bedrooms, as many more bathrooms, five living areas, an enormous yard with a lap pool, bar, hot pool, and entertainment area. The kitchen is a chef’s dream, which is handy as there are three on staff.
The huge glass doors to the outdoor area are wide open, letting in a cool breeze after a warm June day. Mack and the other two men position themselves nearby as we sit on one of the sofas.
Father sits in his usual large armchair and waves at me. “Mia, go find your brother. I told him to be down here at seven.”
I go to stand, but Connor puts his hand on my arm. I sit back down, not unhappy after Cade’s actions last night, but I shoot Connor a look, wondering if he is going to defy my father at every point.
Joe Mancini isn’t a patient man. Sooner or later, he’ll snap. I don’t want anyone getting hurt over my desire for freedom. That isn’t a price I am willing to pay.
My father stays silent as a tray of drinks is handed out. They offer the men whiskey, while I accept a vodka dry.
“Now you are pushing my patience, Mr. Barrett,” Papa says, nursing the crystal glass in his hand.
And there it is.
“Your son accosted Mia while she was out having drinks with her friends last night,” Connor says without flinching. “I initially thought it was at your instruction, but something tells me he was acting alone.”
My father stares at Connor for a long moment and then glances at me. “Is this true, Mia?”
I nod, then let out a sigh.
I suddenly want to know the truth. Was it him, or was it Cade who decided to come and interrupt my night.
“Yes. It was horrible, Papa. Guns were drawn, my friends were scared, and I know you don’t care about the life I’ve created, but theyaremy friends, and I never wanted them to see any of this,” I admit, feeling my shoulders sag.
He glances back at Connor. “Who drew first?”
“Mancini men,” Connor replies. “However, Mia’s personal security detail did need to intervene as your son went to grab her by pushing him aside.”
My father’s brows lift, and then he’s back looking at me.
I feel like this entire thing is my fault. If I hadn’t said I was engaged to Connor, I could be...Well, I’d be packing my bags, knowing I’d be moving home.
I’d be told I was being married off to Salvo Vitale.
Ugh.
I wish my mom was here. It all catches up with me now that I’m sitting in front of my father. I blink away the emotion, and he notices.
“I don’tnotcare about your life, Mia. But you belong in the family. It is just how these things are. In saying that, I did not order anyone to bring you home. Least of all your brother.”
I’m relieved.
