Page 7 of Dangerous Intent

He looked down, giving me a glimpse of his broody, dark side. If we were anywhere else, I would have goaded him into telling me what he was thinking. But deep down, I wasn’t sure I wanted to know.

“You’re the most gorgeous man I’ve ever met, but I can see where you get it.” I winked. “Daddy Accetti can wear Armani.”

“That’s a little disturbing.” He smirked. “But it’s the first glimmer of you I’ve seen in days, so I’ll take it.”

“I’ll get back to normal soon.”

“You take all the time you need.”

“I know how much you’ve needed your father. I’m happy he’s finally home.”

“Hmm…” He glanced at his feet again. “Yeah.”

“Aren’t you?”

“Yes, of course. I’m just surprised that he would come here.”

“I know he and my dad were enemies, but like he said, we’re engaged. We’re going to be family.” I draped my arms over his shoulders. “You must be so relieved.”

“I am.”

“Does that mean he figured out what happened to Miguel? Is that why he came back?”

“I’d rather not discuss my father’s business here,” Marchello said.

“I get that, but can he stay?”

“I haven’t had an opportunity to speak to him about any of that. This is the first time I’ve seen him since he came home.”

That was odd. Why would Nico show up without letting Marchello know he was coming or that he was in town?

“Let’s get you something to eat.” He stroked my hair. “Then we can go home.”

Was he pushing me to eat so he could change the subject? Did I want to know what was going on?

“How about we make a platter to take home?” I asked. “I don’t feel like eating with all these people staring at me. It’s been a long day, and I’ve seen enough people. I just want to take off my dress and shoes and get into our bed and cuddle. I could probably sleep for two days.”

“That sounds like a solid idea.” He kissed me softly. “We can go to the kitchen and make a plate. They have tons of food in there, and no one will bother you.”

“Can you do it?” I asked. “I need to use the restroom.”

“Sure.”

“Can you also tell the staff they can take food home to their families? We have so much. I don’t want it to go to waste. We should pack up some for the guys too.”

“Whatever you want.” He ran his finger along my bottom lip. “I’ll see you in a few minutes.”

“Thank you.” I smiled. “You’re taking such good care of me.”

“I always will.”

“Bye.” I waved as he went to the kitchen.

As sad as today had been, I got through it because Marchello had been with me. He was attentive and protective, making sure no one got too personal or said anything offensive. People offered a quick word and moved on. Most of them seemed afraid to approach me with him standing next to me.

I didn’t know many of the people here today, but my father had been in this business a long time. He had many associates. Allies, acquaintances, and enemies.

Speaking of which…