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“We should discuss this with the wedding planner,” I say, trying to create some breathing room. “There are contracts, vendors?—”

“Already being handled.” He tugs gently on my hair and tilts my face toward his. Lucille is making calls today.”

Of course, she is. The realization that they’ve been planning this without consulting me sends a wave of cold anger through my body. My future, being arranged like furniture in a room I’m not allowed to enter.

“Gio, I really think?—”

“You think too much,cara.” His lips brush against my temple, then move toward my mouth. “Always in that beautiful head of yours.”

I turn my face slightly, causing his kiss to land on my cheek instead of my lips. His body tenses against mine.

“Still shy?” His voice carries a hint of steel beneath the teasing tone. “After all this time?”

“Just mindful of your injuries,” I deflect, placing a hand against his chest to maintain distance. “I wouldn’t want to hurt you.”

“Your concern is touching. But unnecessary.”

He captures my hand and presses it harder against his chest before sliding it down toward his stomach. Bile rises in my throat.

“Gio, please.” I try to extract my hand. “Not here. Anyone could walk in and see us.”

“So what if they do?” His grip tightens, preventing my escape. “You’re my fiancée. There’s nothing inappropriate about showing affection.”

The sound of someone clearing their throat saves me. I look over my shoulder, and Lucille is standing in the doorway. Her eyes take in our position on the window seat, and approval warms her expression.

“There you are, darling.” She directs the endearment to Gio, not me. “I’ve just gotten off the phone with the Belmont. They can accommodate us for the last weekend in July.”

“Wonderful news.” Gio releases my hand but keeps his arm around my shoulders. “Isn’t it,cara?”

I look between them, these two people calmly rearranging my life without my input.

“Lucille, don’t you think this is moving too quickly? The invitations haven’t even gone out for the original date.”

“Digital invitations can be sent immediately,” she dismisses. “And the important guests will rearrange their schedules. The Vega-Worthington wedding is the social event of the season.”

“But, my dress—” I begin.

“Can be rushed,” she interrupts. “I’ve already called Vera. She understands the situation.”

Of course, she does. Everyone understands except me. Everyone agrees except me. Everyone decides except me.

“It seems you’ve thought of everything,” I say, unable to keep the edge from my voice.

Lucille’s smile tightens. “That’s my job, darling. To handle the details so you can focus on being a beautiful bride.” Her gaze shifts to Gio. “And on taking care of your fiancé during his recovery.”

“Audrey has been a devoted nurse,” Gio says, his hand sliding to the back of my neck. “Though I’ve hardly seen her these past few days. Always out running errands.”

The pointed comment doesn’t escape Lucille. Her eyebrows rise slightly. “Is that so?”

The trap closes around me, neat and precise. I feel color rising to my cheeks. “I’ve just been out running errands. Wedding things, mostly.”

“How conscientious.” Lucille’s tone is pleasant, but her eyes are sharp. “Though perhaps you should include Gio in those outings when possible. Fresh air would do him good, and you shouldn’t be making decisions without him.”

“My thoughts exactly,” Gio agrees. “In fact, I was just telling Audrey that I’m feeling strong enough to resume more normal activities.”

Lucille nods approvingly. “Excellent progress. The doctor will be pleased to hear it.”

She checks her watch. “I’m meeting with the florist in twenty minutes to discuss the revised arrangements. Gio, did you have any thoughts about the color scheme?”