DISRUPTIONS
LUCA
I can’t say that I was surprised that Mindy agreed to go out with me. She can’t hide the lust that sparkles in those onyx pools of hers. That look alone had me wanting to barge in her cousin’s place and have my way with her.
However, I’m not an animal. If there’s one thing I’m an expert at, it’s compartmentalizing emotions. It’s easy for me to keep my composure and meet Mindy’s cousin before whisking her into the car.
I would normally drive, but I wanted my full attention to be on Mindy. She looks gorgeous in her off-the-shoulder purple dress. The smooth, dark brown skin of her shoulders looks soft to the touch. It’s funny that with all my normal self-control, I find it hard not to touch her. It’s like the essence of her calls to me every time I’m near her.
I know she’s not ready for the intensity that I bring, but there’s no stopping this train from moving forward. I will do whatever it takes to make her mine and to keep her that way. I’m not her asshole ex. I won’t mistreat or abuse her. But I can’t say that I’m any better than he is because I don’t want to let her go either.
“This is a really swanky place. I never knew there was authentic Italian so close by,” Mindy says before taking another bite of her vodka pasta.
“If you really want authentic, I’ll take you to meet my parents. My Mama’s food is the best you will ever taste. You’re going to meet them soon anyway.”
Mindy looks up at me in surprise, but I don’t break eye contact. I know it’s fast, and she doesn’t know me, but she might as well get used to the idea. Whether she realizes it or not, tonight is the first of many nights together.
“Oh, wow. Ummm,” Mindy nervously clears her throat. “So, I already guessed you’re Italian, but you did promise to tell me where you grew up,” she says, changing the subject.
I smirk, but I don’t push her to talk about her future in-laws. If she wants to change the subject, then I will allow it for now. Mindy will come around. I just have to remember that most people don’t think the way I do. She may need a little more time to get used to me.
I can’t help but chuckle, “My family is from Palermo. Have you ever been?”
“No. Unfortunately, I’ve only ever been to Jamaica and Mexico. But I bet it’s beautiful.”
“It is a very beautiful place. Not as gorgeous as you, but…” I let my words hang as I take in Mindy’s beautiful face.
“Thank you.” She dips her head again, and I know she’s blushing.
The woman is gorgeous. Her round face and big, dark brown eyes make her look innocent. It’s one of the reasons I call herconigliaor rabbit in Italian. She also has a way about her that tells me that innocence is skin deep. I know she’s been through some shit, but she’s definitely a survivor.
She’s perfect for my lifestyle.
Our conversation is effortless as we share a Tiramisu. I have plans for us after this, so Mindy can continue to get to know me better. I know everything there is to know about her, of course, she doesn’t know that. Besides, it’s better to get to know someone personally and not through reports and files.
So impersonal.
“Mindy? Girl, where have you been?” A woman’s voice breaks into our conversation, and I frown.
“Talia? What’re you doing here?” Mindy’s surprise is written all over her face.
Mindy stands, and the two women quickly embrace before the woman steps back and looks Mindy up and down. She smiles at Mindy, then she shakes her head, her face morphing into a stern expression.
“No, what areyoudoing here? Your number was disconnected, you haven’t been posting on social media, andyou haven’t sent me any messages. Like what is happening?” Talia rushes out.
I keep my face neutral even though Mindy’s friend is asking inappropriate questions in a very public space and loudly asking at that. Obviously, she doesn’t know what has happened, but she could still have a little decorum.
I know who Talia Gates is and that she’s a party girl who’s always on the scene. I didn’t look into her too close because she and Mindy don’t really hang out much. But from what I gathered, she’s pretty harmless.
“I’m sorry I haven’t been in touch, that’s my bad. But I would rather not talk about any of that right now.”
“Well, obviously something bad happened…” Talia’s words trail off as she seems to finally notice me.
Talia’s eyes narrow slightly before she looks away. She smiles at Mindy, but I can see tension in her shoulders that wasn’t there before. I study her a little closer as she begins to fidget.
“I should tell you that Ross came by looking for you. Of course, I didn’t tell him anything.” Talia’s eyes slide nervously in my direction again before she quickly looks away. “Um, we should really talk when you are alone.”
“We can talk later, I’m in the middle of something now, though,” Mindy says, looking at her friend with a small smile.
