“Stephano’s family are like some sort of bigshots in town,” she yells into my ear.
Okay then. I suppose that explains a few things. When we arrive in the lounge, there are several women and two other guys in there. Both cause the hairs on my neck to rise.
“Cara, Tori, this is my brother, Romano and his friend James.”
I instantly know which one is Romano. He and his brother share a strong resemblance to each other. They both have dark hair and dark eyes, but while Stephano seems able to at least fake warmth, Romano seems like nothing but arrogant, cold, and slimy. Like a snake.
His friend seems a little nicer, but the DeLuca brothers have me on high alert. I don’t buy for a minute that the other guy is anything but shady given the company he keeps.
Maybe I’m being judgy, but I spent a lot of years in the foster system. I also spent a few years training and in the ring. I’ve had plenty of experiences with people who pretend to be good people but are anything but.
Unfortunately, it seems Cara did not pick up the same trait. She hangs on every word that comes out of Stephano’s mouth. It’s a little more than unnerving to watch, and I have the very strong desire to get her away from him as fast as possible. I know I can’t. Those methods won’t work with Cara, but it doesn’t change my need to do it.
I sit back sipping on a drink as I watch women climb all over Romano and James. Romano leers at the women like they’re objects just for his own pleasure. While James looks bored. The women look suspiciously glassy eyed and most definitely not the type of women these two seem inclined to parade around too much.
My phone buzzes in my hand.
Zane: Missed waking up to you this morning
I bite my lip trying to hold back the wide grin that wants to split my face. I am so fucking happy when I’m with him, and it honestly scares me to death. His preseason has started now which means he will be busy from now until January at least. The thought of not getting to see him as often as I have makes me feel queasy.
Me: I missed fucking you this morning
I kind of hate when he’s being sweet, telling me how he feels, I always deflect with sex. I don’t know why other than the fact it keeps me from thinking or talking about what I’m really feeling. Because what I’m feeling? It makes me want to run to the other side of the planet.
Zane: Now I’m hard
I giggle eliciting stares from the people around me. “Sorry,” I apologize. Cara catches my eye her own lighting up with intrigue and excitement.
Me: I’m out with Cara and her new boyfriend.
Zane: Sounds like fun.
Me: Not really. He gives me a weird vibe. We met up with his brother and another guy. They are all giving me the creeps.
Zane: So, you’re telling me I don’t have to worry they may be competition?
I shake my head with another laugh.
Me: Absolutely none. I’ll call you tomorrow.
Zane: Tomorrow baby.
Cara waggles her eyebrows at me as I put my phone away. I shake my head, trying my best to discourage her. I don’t have to try long. Soon enough she’s dragging Stephano down to the dance floor.
“Want to go down for a dance?” James asks me.
Fuck nois what I want to say, but I try to be nice. No need to cause a scene. “I’ve had a long few days. Not really feeling dancing.”
“Ah. Just trying to relax then?”
I nod without looking at him. I search the dance floor looking for Cara. I spot her grinding herself on Stephano. I force myself not to cringe at the sight.
“Still fighting?” he asks.
I give him a questioning look. "With Cara? No. We're not fighting anymore."
He gives me a grin that makes my stomach sink with dread. "I meant in the ring."
