Page 73 of Savage Vows

“We need to start with your engagement party dress. You’ll need something spectacular since it will be your first official introduction to society as Matteo’s fiancée.” She gives me a considering look. “I’m thinking something in deep jewel tones. Emerald, maybe, or sapphire.”

Our server brings the bill, and before I can reach for the portfolio, Bella opens her purse and hands over a credit card.

“Really, Bella?—”

“Nico’s happy to pay.” She grins and waves away my thank-yous. “I mean it, that our men may be a handful, but they want us to be happy. Now, are you ready to shop? I know the perfect place for us to start. Rêve de Mode, a boutique in River Oaks.”

Since my needs are simple, I don’t carry designer bags or spend unnecessary money on clothes. Matteo has already been extravagant with my wardrobe.

“A friend of mine owns it,” she goes on. “I think you’ll like it.”

As we stand, I glance instinctively toward the exit where Chiara is standing, along with a man who is very possibly Bella’s bodyguard.

My urge to run isn’t as strong as it was even a week ago, but it’s still there, humming under my skin.

“It gets easier,” Bella says softly, following my gaze. “When you stop seeing the walls and start seeing the doors.”

We each take separate cars to the store.

Inside is a fantasy of designer labels and perfect lighting, so different from the vintage shops I frequented in London or the artist-run boutiques in New Orleans. A sales associate immediately appears with flutes of champagne. Maybe this part isn’t so bad.

“I texted Amelia on the drive over, and she was sorry to say she couldn’t be here,” Bella says. “She’s looking forward to meeting you.”

My eyes catch on a breathtaking gown in a deep, rich emerald color. It has a sweetheart neckline and off-the-shoulder sleeves. It’s timeless and elegant, but the price tag makes me gasp.

“Try it on,” Bella encourages.

“I couldn’t possibly?—”

“For your engagement party,” she insists. “You’ll need something spectacular for your first official introduction to society as Matteo’s fiancée.”

Despite the fact I’m sure there won’t be a party, the dress is stunning, and if Matteo thinks I’m following his dictates, I’m likely to have more freedom.

“Do it,” Bella encourages.

In the dressing room, the emerald silk whispers against my skin as it falls into place. The mirror reflects back a woman I barely recognize. She’s sophisticated, elegant, powerful. The kind of woman who could stand beside Matteo.

For a moment, I imagine someone else next to him, and the thought makes me slightly dizzy.

I shake my head at my ridiculousness.

It doesn’t matter to me who Matteo is with. A Mafia princess who wants to get married and step into a position of power is a far better choice for him.

“Show me!” Bella calls out.

Sighing, I scoop up the hem and exit the dressing room.

“Oh my God.” Bella gasps. “So gorgeous. Matteo won’t know what hit him.”

In the three-way mirror, all I can see is the price tag dangling from the bodice. No matter how stunning it is, I can’t justify the cost

“You have to get it,” Bella says.

“The price?—”

Over the rim of her flute, she scowls. “Did Matteo not give you a credit card?”

“He did. But I’m not planning to use it.”