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“You wouldn’t believe that I just wanted to get away from the hustle and bustle of the office?”
She shook her head. “You’re just like my brother. You both thrive on the chaotic energy of business. Without it, I think you’d both be bored. In fact, I know it.” Her beautiful eyes studied him as though if she stared long enough, layers would peel back, and she’d be able to see what truly made him tick.
Roberto glanced away. Under her gaze, he felt exposed and vulnerable. That was a first for him. He’d sat through a lot of tense meetings with some of the toughest businessmen. They’d all sized each other up for the other’s weakness, but none had made him feel like an open book.
He cleared his throat. “Actually, I’m here at my grandmother’s request.”
The twinkle of surprise showed in Stasia’s eyes. “Your grandmother is on the ship?”
He nodded. “So are a number of my family members.”
“That must be so nice.”
He remained quiet. He knew Stasia only had her brother these days. She didn’t know what it was like to have a bunch of well-meaning but intrusive family members delving into her personal life.
“It must be something special to get you out of the office. I hope you have a great time.”
And then he realized there wasn’t any reason to be secretive. “We’re here for my grandmother’s eightieth birthday celebration and my cousin’s wedding in Venice.”
“Wow. That’s a lot to celebrate.”
He nodded and then glanced around to make sure none of his family were within listening distance. Once he was sure the coast was clear, he leaned closer to Stasia and lowered his voice. “I should probably tell you that my cousin and her fiancé applied to Infinity Island but were turned down.”
Stasia’s brows rose but she didn’t say anything.
“I just wanted to forewarn you because this ship isn’t that big, so you’re likely to run into them.”
“No problem. Thanks for the warning.”
He nodded. “I just wonder if it’s a good idea for them to get married.”
“Why? Don’t you like who your cousin is marrying?”
“It’s not that.” If anything, he really liked Anthony. “He’s a great guy. But Xander told me a little of how the system works on Infinity Island. Do you know how the process works?” When she shook her head, he continued. “It seems pretty involved. The legend or folklore or whatever you call it says if you don’t pass the test, it means you’re ill suited for each other.”
“Really? Do you think it’s true?”
He shrugged. Weddings were never of interest to him. “I just don’t want my cousin to be hurt. She’s a great person. Loving and caring.”
“I’m sure it’ll all work out for her.”
This was his turn to study Stasia. It definitely wasn’t a hardship. He could stare at her all day. She was beautiful in a very classic and stylish way. Her dark hair was straight and cut in a sleek bob that brushed over the tops of her shoulders. Her makeup only emphasized her vibrant eyes and her high cheekbones. She went for more color when it came to her lips. They were a deep rose shade. Her lips were pouty and inviting.
“Roberto?”
He jerked his gaze back to her eyes. He’d been busted staring. He cleared his throat and glanced away. What had they been discussing?
It took him a second to recall the conversation. “I’m not normally one to give in to such superstitious kind of stuff, but this is my cousin. She’s the closest thing I have to a sister.”
Stasia reached across the table and squeezed his hand. “I wouldn’t worry. There’s also this saying that love can overcome everything.”
“I sure hope you’re right.” And then he had a question for her. “If it were you, would you take the test? Would you want to get married on Infinity Island?”
Her eyes didn’t give away anything. “That’s not a fair question. After all, I’m related to the owners of the island. And as such, I’ve spent quite a bit of time there. It’s a gorgeous place.”
“And you still haven’t answered my question.” It was only then that he realized he was asking a widow about getting married again. He inwardly groaned at his thoughtlessness. “Never mind. I shouldn’t have probed. I guess it’s just a side effect of my job, always digging for information.”
