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“I wish it could’ve happened sooner. You’ll never know how sorry I am that things happened the way that they did. For all of you.” She looks around the table to ensure we understand her meaning.
“And Matteo, don’t worry. I won’t push. I know you had a mother. In fact, I’m truly sad that I can’t thank her for raising such an accomplished young man. The little information I’ve been able to gather over the years tells me that she loved you and protected you like you were her own flesh and blood. I couldn’t have asked for a better choice for you.”
“Thank you. I appreciate that. It actually makes me feel surprisingly more comfortable with potentially getting to know you, knowing you respect her place in my heart. Even more so that you know where things stand with Alessandra.”
“Okay, well what can I feed you all? Is Lasagna good for everyone? I’ve got a fresh batch coming out of the oven in five minutes.” She rushes out and when we all nod our confirmation, she swiftly walks away, wiping her eyes as she goes. I think this could be the beginning of something really good.
Chapter Twenty-Four
Alessandra
By the time we leave the boys’ mom's restaurant, it’s late. Ren had to head back to work so I let him go a few minutes ago, everything inside me screamed to hold him closer and not let him go. I just didn’t feel right about him going back “to work” after his story. It put me on edge and I couldn’t shake the bad feeling.
I kissed Ren within an inch of his life because I didn’t really want to say goodbye, but I knew he couldn’t get out of this. Raffaele Gavino doesn’t accept call ins or sick days. So, I told him I love him and sent him on his way.
We stayed behind a few extra minutes, because once Arianna started asking Matteo questions, it didn’t look as though she’d stop. Her excitement was palpable throughout the whole conversation and ‘Teo did a really good job of keeping up with her questions.
I’d even venture to say that he enjoyed the onslaught of maternal love and affection she so naturally gave all of us. It’s a true wonder that woman came from Raffaele. She’s delightful and he’s like a walking, talking, nightmare come to life. Oh my god, he’s the present day Freddy! I really gotta find a way to take that guy out.
We get in our chauffeured car to head back to the docks and when the driver closes the door I’m instantly on edge. Something is wrong.
“Your Majesty… Is it just me, or was our driver blonde earlier?” I take a look around to see if I can notice any other differences.
“Yeah, he was. Why?” He pulls himself out of whatever internal debate he was having with himself now that he’s noticed I’m on edge.
“Because the guy that just tucked us intothiscar has black hair. And take notice, the seats have navy detailing, not black on black. This is definitely not our car. Something is wrong with this. Send a text to the guys and SB. Let them know my necklace is on please, because it’ll take some time for the boys to get off the island, and Ren is working so he may not even have his phone turned on still. Don’t touch or drink anything. Just hold me like you’ll never let me go and we’ll make the best of our time together. Whatever’s about to happen is going to happen, but for now, it looks like we are going for a little ride.”
* * *
Our car driveslike it’s going to the docks, but we pass the exit we’d need to get back to our boat. Matteo is nuzzling my neck, like he isn’t watching everything like a hawk, but I know he’s preparing himself for the worst.
No one messaged him back after his message went out, but we didn’t expect responses. Everyone will jump into action as needed. I’m not worried about that. I’m worried about the unknown variables.
Who has taken us. What do they want? Blah, blah, blah… Am I going to have to listen to some inane villain speech? How do I keep Matteo safe? This likely has nothing to do with him and everything to do with me. Especially if this is his dad’s doing.
Lorenzo is a selfish, narcissistic shitbag, but he needs his legacy to live on and Matteo is his only known heir. He wouldn’t hurt him. At least, that’s what I’m hoping. You never really know with psychopaths.
I lean into ‘Teo’s sweet kisses along my neck. He traces some of the marks left behind by the guys with his tongue, and it causes shivers to run down my spine. His touch is keeping me grounded. His warmth is keeping me sane.
My mind is moving a million miles per minute with thoughts of what’s about to go down, but his touch brings me clarity and peace. It doesn’t matter what’s about to happen. I will stay calm and I will destroy anyone who tries to hurt Matteo. Period.
“Whatever is about to happen, good or bad, just know that I love you. I know what you’re willing to do to keep me safe, but I want you to play this smart. Don’t react to anything, especially if it has to do with me.”
“It’s okay, beautiful. I’m not worried. I love you too. Just remember how brutal you are when you want to be. When we get where we’re going, you’ll show them all. Did you bring your weapons?” I nod my head in response and he chuckles darkly.
“You’re nothing if not my savage queen. I pity anyone who fucks with you or anyone you love. Don’t underestimate anyone, but always remember who you are. Be a queen. Stay a savage. No one can take that away from you, though many will try.” He kisses and bites my ear after his deep gravelly voice resonates through my entire being. Fuck he’s damn hot when he wants to be.
Be a queen.Stay a savage.
I like that.Pulling his face up to meet mine, I kiss him. It’s not one of those over the top extra kisses. It’s simple and sweet and says “I love you always” with a light touch of my tongue against his. I savor the taste of our wine from dinner on his lips and sigh happily when the kiss stops.
“How did I get so lucky? I hope you never leave me.” I whisper my fears into his neck, taking my time to return the favor with the kisses and caresses while nuzzling into him like he’s my safe space.
* * *
It’spitch black wherever we are. The only lights, I imagine, are coming from the headlights on the car, but I can’t even see that. The drive took us about an hour beyond where we were supposed to be but turned into long stretches of backroads at some point so it’s safe to say we are in nowheres-ville USA.
The bulletproof separation partition has been up the entire drive, so we can’t see or speak to the driver. The doors and windows appear to have the child’s lock enabled so we can’t get out unless we are let out.
