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“Yes,” I lie, swallowing the lump in my throat.
“I’ve arranged for your first dress fitting this afternoon.”
Suddenly my appetite dies. “What dress fitting? I haven’t even picked one?”
“I picked for you, remember?”
“But—”
“But, nothing, Rosa. I’ve told you you’re going, so you do as I say. Take your sister. She looks like she’s been bored without you.”
I massage the back of my neck, taking a calming breath in.
“You’ve seen Eva? I thought you were away?”
He chuckles, raising the hairs on my arms.
“I have eyes on her all the time. The second you slip out of line, you know what happens to your innocent little sister.” He emphasizes the last few words, and it makes my stomach tighten.
Panic starts to grip me. If he has eyes on Eva, is he watching me? Has he seen Luca?
I lean back in my seat, rubbing at my temple. No, he can't. Because he wouldn’t be able to control his anger, he would punish me.
“Ok, fine. I’ll be at the dress fitting. Text me the time and address.”
“God, you’re learning fast. See how much easier it is when you don’t fight me?”
I want to fight; I just need time to work out a plan.
I hear loud voices in the background. “I have to go. I’ll see you later. Say ‘hi’ to Eva for me.”
He cuts the call, and my tears erupt. That little glimmer of happiness that remained from my time with Luca shatters.
* * *
Maddie catchesmy hand before we walk through the doors to the bridal shop. Luca must have given her my new number. She texted me a few days ago, telling me she’s also coming on the Italy trip.
“You don’t have to do all of this, Rosa,” she whispers.
I turn to face her and nearly bump into her expanding stomach. A chill runs down my spine. Have we been too careless? Who else knows?
“What do you mean?” Throwing up my eyebrows, I try to give her the best innocent look I can muster.
“Rosa, I know you’re in love with Luca. There’s still time. Call it off and have your real fairytale. With the man that loves you.” She offers me a sad smile.
I wish I could.
“I do. I will always love him. But, it’s not meant to be. I’m marrying Dante. You know how this life works, Maddie.”
Even saying the words brings bile up to my throat. I swallow it down and straighten my back.
A blonde smiley woman thrusts a champagne flute in my hand. Without a word, I hand it to my sister.
“Welcome, we’re so excited for you to try on your gown. Although, it’s very unusual for the groom to pick the dress without the bride knowing. What a fun change.”She gives me a practiced pat on the arm.
I fake a smile, and Maddie furrows her brow at me.
“Yep, that’s Dante. He’s very particular about this wedding.”
