Page 23 of Reign of Fate
And he’s gone, leaving me standing in the entranceway, staring at the closed door.
Sleep did not come easy last night. A million thoughts ran through my brain, everything from finding a dress to planning a menu for the wedding, but mostly, Ivo’s kiss. I knew that when he kissed me, it would be memorable, but this was more. That moment will be forever sealed into my soul.
After tossing and turning most of the night, I finally drifted off, only to wake again at four in the morning. Staying in bed wasn’t an option, so here I am on my second batch of muffins, watching the sun come up. It’s not like I can call Evangeline at this hour or even make arrangements with a florist or caterer, so baking is my therapy.
I pack the muffins into tins and clean my kitchen, then take them out to the guards that Ivo has assigned to watch over the house. He wasn’t pleased that Ruggero showed up that day, and although he’s never been back, Ivo insists upon a man being on duty day and night.
“Thank you, ma’am,” Ciro says when I hand him the tin. Ciro is young but fierce. We’ve talked a few times, and I learned that his father and brother were killed when he was only seven. His father was a soldier, and his brother was only twelve when they were hit by a semi that skidded out of control on the highway. He’s become the man of the house and looks after his mother and younger brother. He can’t be more than twenty-one, and yet he’s experienced more tragedy than any young person should. His rounded face still holds a boyish look, with a head of wild, untameable curls, but his eyes tell a different story. They say he understands suffering. He graciously takes the muffins from me. “These will be gone in an hour once I get home. The cookies you baked last week didn’t make it to the kitchen,” he tells me.
“I’m glad you enjoyed them,” I say. Letting him continue his work, I go back to the house and begin making lists. My to-do list is on the second page when my cell phone rings. Evangeline’s name lights up my screen.
“I’m sorry to bother you so early. It’s not too early, is it? I couldn’t wait to talk to you. Ivo said that you set the date for three weeks from Saturday and might need my help. I’m so excited to help and thought I’d reach out,” Evangeline says quickly before I even get my hello out.
“I was going to call you, but didn’t want to disturb you this early either.” I laugh. “Imagine that, we’re both losing sleep, and both of us are up and about.”
Evangeline laughs along with me, then says, “What’s first on your agenda?”
I groan. “A dress.” I’m not looking forward to dress shopping. No matter what I choose, someone will come up with a snide comment.
“Well, you don’t sound thrilled about shopping.”
“I’ve never been much for parties, and at this one, I’ll be part of the main attraction,” I tell her honestly.
“And you’re going to be beautiful,” Evangeline insists. “Raffaele has arranged for Francesco and Massimo to accompany us while we go hunting for the perfect dress. We’ll have to find one for Adriana as well.”
“That’s right! She’ll want a poofy princess dress.”
“And a tiara!”
“You can’t be a princess without a tiara,” I joke.
“We’ll get you sorted out first, then look for Adriana. I can call ahead to a few shops and make appointments for us. Raffaele prefers it that way, and it’s easier on Francesco and Massimo,” she says. Evangeline is the capo’s wife and is most certainly a target for the enemy. Raffaele is protective and extremely careful, especially since she was almost abducted by a gang. The story was never openly discussed, and there have been plenty of theories as to why they would come after a member ofUltimo Mortesince there have never been dealings with this gang prior to that point.
“I don’t want to put you out. I can do that,” I respond.
“Please let me help. Get ready and have the list handy, and we’ll get to work. We’ll pick you up by ten,” she says in a cheerful voice.
“Thank you. I have to admit, I was looking at this list and beginning to panic.” I sigh.
“No worries. Help is on the way.” Evangeline makes me feel so much better. We say our goodbyes, and I go get ready for our shopping trip.
As I’m putting on my lipstick, my phone buzzes with a text.
Ivo: Museum booked. Reception at 1 p.m.
Holy heaven almighty! How did he pull that off? It’s nearly impossible to get the venue, let alone with it being only a few weeks away.
Me: I’m impressed! You must be a miracle worker.
Ivo: More like the devil that doesn’t take no for an answer.
I’m sure I don’t want to know what Ivo had to do to get our venue. Some things are better left unknown. Instead, I write back,My hero,with a smiley face. To which he responds with a thumbs-up emoji.
We’re at the second boutique on the list, and I’m already frustrated. All these dresses are too much. Too many sequins or too much lace. They’re not me!
Eviva, the owner must know Evangeline well, because as soon as we arrive, she greets us at the door, then promptly locks it behind us.
“We’re making sure you have all the privacy and time you need to find what you like,” Eviva says, clasping her hands together. She turns to me. “I hear you’re the lucky bride. Shall we get started? I’ve got a fresh pot of coffee and scones for you while we browse the dresses.” And then she guides us to our own private room, with cozy chairs. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air. “Now tell me, what kind of dress are you looking for?”
