Page 33 of Dangerous Intent

“Don’t be crass. You’re my wife, not an associate.”

“I don’t know how else to refer to this.”

“We plan to use part of this place as a private club to entertain associates. There is a lot of potential downstairs to take meetings when we have to.” He glanced around the bar. “I trust Milo when he says he can turn a profit here.”

“What do you plan to do with this area?” I waved toward the sad dance floor. “We’re in the middle of the city that never sleeps. They should be lining up to get in here.”

“They will be.” He winked. “What would you do with this space?”

“I’d gut it and start over,” I said. “Lots of high-end lighting and granite—black, sleek, and sexy. I’d put in oversized booths with designer private curtains, and I’d add another bar to host private parties where people could still utilize the dance floor and music, but have that VIP feel. You know?”

No more bad juju.

“Anything else?” He smiled.

Is he amused or impressed?

“The possibilities are endless with your cash flow.” I pointed to the stage. “You could have celebrities up there headlining events, set up a section for important people, hire an expert mixologist to concoct expensive drinks that people think they have to get here to try, or bring in a famous chef to create cool bar food.”

“Keep going,” he said.

I gazed up at the landing that wrapped around the room. “Oh, you could have entertainment and another bar up there. Maybe charge another cover to get up the steps.”

“You’re hired.”

“What?”

“Milo and I are busy with the dealership. We’re going to need someone to oversee this project.” He placed his hand over mine. “I can’t think of a person more perfect.”

“Really?” I mean, he wasn’t wrong. I knew fashion and trends, and I loved spending money. This could be something I could get behind. Suddenly, my strange mood disappeared.

“I want you to do this.” He ran his lips along mine. “It will be good for you. It brings you into the family business.”

That idea really drew me out of my funk. He wanted me to be part of his business.

“I want to do it.” A project like this would give me a purpose. A new life, a husband, and a job. I could be a grown-up. “When can I start?”

“As soon as possible.”

I hopped off the stool and jumped into Marchello’s arms. He lifted me up and brought his mouth to mine.

When our lips connected, it was as if nothing else existed and no one else was around. He kissed me unapologetically. No one could stop us.

He deepened the kiss, and my heartbeat zoomed. I held onto him, never wanting to let go.

“I knew you would like this idea.” He set me back on my feet. “I’m sure you’ll find all the top designers and products.”

“I can do everything? Pick out the furniture and choose the color scheme?” I sat back down, trying to contain the excitement bubbling inside me. “Redesign the floor plan?”

“Whatever you want.” He picked up his glass of vodka and raised it to me. “You’re going to be amazing.”

“I can’t believe you’re trusting me with this.”

“Why wouldn’t I? You’re the most determined woman I’ve ever met.” He brushed his thumb along my arm. “Especially when you have an unlimited budget.”

Milo came to the bar and wedged himself in between Marchello and me.

“Did you tell her?” he asked.