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He seems like he’s in a good mood, but there’s always a chance he could lose his shit. He turns to me, expression expectant.
“Carlo told me about the building his family wanted to buy from you. The one in Bayside,” I start. My dad’s expression doesn’t waver so I continue. “And I was wondering if you had changed your mind about selling it to them.”
“Did he put you up to this?”
“No,” I immediately dispute. “He has no idea. He only mentioned it to me in passing once and I thought I’d ask you again on his behalf.”
“That building’s for my future son-in-law,cara.”
“I know that. But Carlo’s my boyfriend. And we’re not planning to get married anytime soon—”
“Tell that to your mother.”
“Anyway, the D’Angelos need the building now. Waiting seems like such a waste. You know them and you know they’d use it well. I’m sure they’d be willing to meet any price. So could you please, please, just sell it to them?”
He doesn’t speak for several seconds. Then he shrugs. “I’ll think about it.”
My eyes widen. “Really?” I ask excitedly.
“I didn’t say I’d sell it to him. I said I’d think about it. There are several things I’d have to consider. That building’s a big asset. And it has sentimental value to me.”
“I know, Daddy. But I’m sure the D’Angelos will take care of it.”
This is going surprisingly well. He’s either in a really good mood or he’s finally comfortable with my relationship with Carlo.
“You’re the best,” I tell him, getting to my feet. “I’ll be back. I just need to go get changed.”
He nods. “You can tell me all about your day when you get back. And Astoria,” my dad calls, making me stop. “If things don’t work out with D’Angelo, Dante Marino called me a few days ago to tell me he was still interested.”
I don’t turn to face him but I do grit my teeth. For the love of God.
“Okay, Dad,” I say before walking away.
* * *
The next day after work,I head to Carlo’s apartment. Thankfully, he’s home—I didn’t call or text him in advance. But I ring the doorbell and a few seconds later, the door is opened.
“Hey,” he says, surprise clear in his expression.
His hair is damp, strands hanging over his eyes in a way that makes him look really fucking attractive. He’s wearing black joggers and a black tank, and the sight of his exposed muscled arms causes my mouth to dry. I’m immediately reminded of the dream I had.
I quickly dispel the thoughts before he sees them on my face.
“Hi. Can I come in?”
He gestures for me to enter and I do so. Then the door shuts and there’s silence for a few seconds. I look around the living room, taking in his space. This might be the last time I get to come here.
“Astoria,” Carlo says, and I turn to face him. “Why’d you come without letting me know in advance?”
“I, um—I…” My jaw tightens. Seriously, one look in his eyes and I’m a blundering mess. “How’s Cara?” I blurt for lack of anything better to say.
As soon as the question leaves my lips, I regret it. Especially when I catch sight of the shadow that crosses his face.
“Really? That’s why you’re here?”
“No. I mean, not really.”
He crosses his arms over his chest, the action causing his muscles to flex. Can he stop being so distracting for one second?
