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“I’ve known you since we were nineteen. I’ve seen you with two men in all that time. One a blind date I set up for you that you chased away, and the other Kei. You went to Giovanni last night for more than sex. You like the man.”

“Like! I like him Fabiana. That’s not love.”

“Whatever you say. Remember we do plan to make Napoli our home. The man practically runs the entire region along the Amalfi coast. Your paths are going to cross, over and over again. Shouldn’t you get to know him outside of his bed?”

Suddenly, she felt thirsty. She reached for her water instead of coffee and swallowed down deep gulps.

“They aren’t men to dismiss lightly. Especially, if you’re having sex with them.”

She released a bitter laugh. “I know this. It wouldn’t hurt to get to know the man I’m sleeping with. And yes, I like him. Do you really think it wouldn’t matter to you one bit what Lorenzo does as long as you have him in your life? Especially if it’s illegal?”

“Are you saying that you’ll end this love affair with Giovanni without finding out if there’s something real there, because of your prejudices?”

“Now this is rich! I’m prejudice?”

“Of course you are.” Fabiana waved her off. “We all are in some way or not. Pre-judging people makes you prejudice. You even thought Kei was tied to something illegal because of his associations. If people don’t live up to the moral code your granny carved into you, you have no tolerance level for them. Everyone has to be perfect.”

The accusation cut deep. She was glad for the cover of her sunglasses. She double blinked away the glaze of tears blurring her vision.

“All I’m saying is you must give Giovanni a chance, like I will for Lorenzo.”

“A chance to what Fabiana? If these men are into illegal things, what chances are you suggesting we give them?”

“If? Let’s not pretend we don’t see who they are. The men with guns, the way they speak, dress, nearly bow when your sexy Don enters a room. I’m suggesting that we start our life by new rules in Italy. Take a chance to discover if who these men are matters more than how we feel when we’re with them. That’s all. Maybe we can be better influences on them. Who knows what the future could bring.”

“Dating criminals? I can’t believe you would even suggest it.” Mira shook her head. “You’re thinking about changing who Lorenzo is to make him fit into your life. I won’t play that game. You can’t change a man, and you know this.”

Fabiana picked up her mimosa and gestured in a mock toast.

“I get what you’re saying. I don’t want you to ever think that my support of you is on the condition that you are perfect Fabiana. I’m not perfect, and I don’t expect you to be.”

“Fine, neither is Giovanni or Lorenzo. They aren’t perfect. Let’s just enjoy the time with them and see what we see.”

“Right. I’m sure we’ll see plenty.”

After breakfast Fabiana excused herself to make a few business calls. Mira suffered a twinge of disappointment. Fabiana was far more sensitive than she. If her friend believed she was falling in love with Lorenzo then the blinders were on and her focus was singular. That could mean trouble.

A stroll is what she needed. The veranda had stone steps that led to a cobblestone path through a manicured garden. The cool serenity of the snug retreat made her feel welcome and safe. She shoved her hands down into the front of her jeans. A fresh breeze washed over her. Her oversized long-sleeve shirt, which she tied in the front and rolled the sleeves up on her arms, proved perfect for the day’s weather. Her hair was up in an untamed ponytail, and her sunglasses shielded her weary eyes from the sun. She was too restless to try again for sleep.

At the foot of the path, she stopped. Giovanni was there. He had his back to her staring off into the lake. He wore a dark shirt and slacks. In fact, since she’d met him, the man had worn no other color than black. His hair smoothed back from his face covered his lapel. A curl of smoke lifted from in front of his face before his hand lowered. She saw a half-smoked cigar in between two of his fingers. Her teeth caught the edge of her bottom lip, and she glanced around to see that they were alone. Should she disturb him? She was so excited to find him she ached to do so.

When did he return? Why was he out here smoking alone?

He turned in an instant, and his gaze fell upon her. No wonder she lost her head so quickly with him. One look into his eyes, and she was filled with nervous energy. Fabiana was right. Casual would not be their thing. It had gone beyond that point. “Hi,” she said.

“Morning, Bella. I thought that was you.” He extinguished the cigar with his thumb then dropped it into the front of his shirt pocket without a flinch.

“You knew it was me?” she asked.

“It’s a hidden talent of mine, eyes behind my head.” He approached her. “I had to perfect that skill years ago.” He greeted her with a kiss. She loved the height on the man.

“How tall are you?” Mira asked.

“Strange question,” he smirked.

“You’re tall, and so are your men.”

He chuckled. “Blame our fathers.”