Page 59

‘A dick?’ He frowned. ‘There is nothing wrong with my dick.’

‘No! It means…’

‘I am pulling your leg. I know what it means! You thought I was a dick?’

‘Only when we first met.’

‘Scusi.’ His face fell and now I wondered if I was the one who had offended him. Maybe calling him a dick was a bit strong. Especially considering the fact that he’d been helping me out all week.

‘Just before you arrived I got the news that Biscotti, my family’s dog, was ill and was about to be operated on. They were not sure if she would make it so I was upset. I know that might sound dramatic because she is a dog and not a human but…’

‘I’m so sorry.’ I reached out and rested my palm on his. As soon as my hand connected with his skin, my whole body lit up like a fireworks display.

‘I get it. We had Tyson, our dog, for years. He was part of the family. And when he passed I was so cut up. I loved him more than I loved most people.’

Romeo’s eyes widened.

‘That is exactly how we feel about Biscotti. She is so much more than just a pet. We adore her. She gives us so much love.’

‘How is she now?’

‘She is better,grazie. It was close, but she is a fighter.’

‘I’m so happy to hear that.’

Romeo looked down at my palm on his and embarrassment washed over me.

‘Sorry.’ I pulled my hand away. ‘I didn’t mean to… I just… I hate hearing about any animals suffering and I could see you were upset and…’

‘It is okay. You do not have to explain. I appreciate your concern. It means a lot. I hope to visit Biscotti this weekend when I go to see Mamma.’

My heart fluttered and a wide grin spread across my face.

Earlier, I’d thought my interest in Romeo was purely because of his looks, but we hadn’t even started eating yet and I could already see that there was more to him than just a pretty face.

‘What?’ Romeo’s brows furrowed.

‘Nothing!’ My grin widened. ‘You’re just full of surprises.’

‘Why?’

‘The grumpy Love Alchemist who has a soft spot for animals and goes to visit his mamma? How are you still single?’

‘I told you, I do not date.’

‘Oh yeah, I forgot.’

That was a lie. I knew he’d said that in Matera but my stupid brain brought it up anyway.

The waiter delivered our starters and we both thanked him before getting stuck in.

‘By the way, how old are you?’ I asked.

‘Thirty-three. Why?’

‘Just curious. And what do you do when you’re not working?’ I asked.

‘I go to the beach to swim. I love the water. I have a boat that I take out sometimes,’ Romeo said.