Page 74 of Savage Vows

“Because…?”

“I can’t be indebted to him.”

“Why not? Because you’re planning to leave?”

I wring my hands together. “How did you…?”

“Because I’ve been in your place. But here’s what I learned—sometimes running away isn’t about escaping someone else. Sometimes it’s about escaping who we’re afraid of becoming.”

As I think about her comments, she takes another sip of her bubbly. She enters the dressing room and picks up my drink and gives it to me.

Then she goes on. “Have you considered that the credit card may be his way of wanting to take care of you?”

“But I don’t need to be taken care of.”

“Maybe not. But is it so terrible to let someone try?”

The clerk joins us, interrupting our conversation. “That isstunningon you,” she says.

Even though she’s right, that it seems made for me, I hesitate. “Let me think about it.”

“Yes, ma’am.” She helps me to change, and I continue shopping with Bella.

With a sharp eye, she plucks out another dress, this one a deep sapphire color. “You’ve got to try it,” Bella insists.

It, too, is gorgeous. I have to give it to her; she has amazing taste.

“So which one is it going to be?” she asks.

I know she won’t acceptneither of themas an answer.

Eventually I decide on the emerald, even though it costs more. There’s no doubt Matteo will love it.

When I go to pay, I hesitate.

“Use his card,” Bella urges. “That’s why you have it.”

Is that fair if I’m planning to leave?

If?

The thought catches me off guard. A week ago, I was certain. But now, having met his family and spending time with Bella, not to mention my studio and his lovemaking…

In the end, I relent.

Matteo will ask, and if I tell him I paid, he won’t be pleased.

And as he keeps telling me, it’s in my best interest to keep him happy.

Outside, Bella and I hug goodbye.

“Let’s do it again, soon,” she says.

“I look forward to that.” I like having a reason to get out of the house, and the companionship has been wonderful. And meeting with Bella is something Matteo has to agree to.

“Remember, build a community here. Maybe take a class. Don’t let that Moretti man swallow you whole, because he will.”

“Good advice.”