Page 80 of Chicago Sin

Josie snatches up the certificate that came with it. “Eighteen carat gold with a conflict-free VVS diamond.” She looks up at me. “Dayum. He definitely likes you.”

I can’t stop the stupid smile that plasters my face.

He likes me.

It’s a thoughtful gift. It fits me. It’s not some stupid diamond heart necklace or other cliché jewelry. He bought something that I’d like and wear. I slip out my plain gold ring and put in the diamond. “How’s it look?”

Josie grins. “It’s perfect.”

“Yeah, it is.” Of course he would’ve ordered this a couple days ago if it arrived today, so it’s no guarantee he’s still into me, but I suddenly feel much more hopeful that we have a chance.

I definitely want us to have a chance.

But I shouldn’t start assigning meaning to things. This is how every relationship goes wrong for me.

I look over at Josie, thinking this would be a good time to talk to her about how her working here could use some adjustment. Now, while we’re comfortable and close.

“Listen, Josie…”

“Hm?”

“Um, I was wondering… how do you like working here?”

She peers at me, a touch of alarm on her face. Butterflies flap their wings wildly in my belly. Up my esophagus. Into my throat.

“I like it, why?” Is it me, or does she sound nervous?

“Oh, um, I…” Christ! I’m a stammering fool! “Good. I’m glad. Just checking.” I turn and flee to the workshop.

Great. That went well. Gah. I’m so not cut out to run this business on my own!

I need a breath of fresh air and step outside into the alley. I see Marco leaning against the wall, scrolling through his phone.

“Hey, Marco,” I say, feeling both odd and protected that he is here. “Armando told me one of your men would be here today. I wasn’t expecting you.”

“I don’t mind.” He glances up from his phone and smiles. Marco looks a lot like Armando—the bloodline visibly thick between the two. So much so that I’m missing him already and hoping he’ll call me soon. “I like feeling out the situation first.”

“Oh yeah?” I lift an eyebrow and ask, “What do you feel about the situation?”

“My cousin likes you. A lot.”

My heart flutters, and my breath hitches. “He does?”

“He does.” Marco tilts his head and seems to scrutinize every inch of my face. “He’s never taken anyone to church before.”

I didn’t know that, but I like hearing it.

“I’m assuming the feeling is mutual?” he asks.

My face feels as if it’s a hundred degrees. My palms are sweaty, and I suddenly wish I had a cigarette. I don’t smoke, but at least I’d have something to do, so I wouldn’t feel so awkward simply standing in the alley with a man I barely knew.

“It’s mutual.”

“And do you know what that means?”

I look up and lock eyes with him.

“You understand the life Armando leads, right?”