Page 37 of Dark Breaker

“You’re not so bad yourself,” I reply.

He gives me a suspicious look. “Thanks. I think.”

I flash an impertinent grin. “Don’t mention it.”

“The ring looks good on you, too,” he comments.

That spoils the mood for me entirely, and I look away. To think, I was just starting to have fun.

Still, I can’t resist taking a peek at his hand. I spot his own engagement ring sitting on the appropriate finger. I’m not sure whether to be pleased, or pissed.

Stefano has abandoned me, leaving me to my fate. I spot him talking to a couple to my right. He’s still keeping an eye on me though, judging from the glances he continually shoots my way.

A young man comes to join us. He’s handsome in his own right, and dressed in a well-fitting black suit. I can see the resemblance to Fabio immediately. I think I remember him from Nunzio’s party, but I’m not really sure, as that night is mostly a blur in my mind.

“Nicolo, meet my fiancée Rosa,” he says by way of introduction.

“I’ve heard a lot about you,” Nicolo comments. “Nothing good.” He says that last with a wink.

I smile sweetly. “Really? Because I’ve heard fuck all about you.”

Nicolo glances at Fabio. “She has a bit of potty mouth doesn’t she?”

“Just a little,” Fabio agrees. “Rosa, this is my brother Nicolo.”

“So I gathered,” I tell him.

Nicolo grins widely. He pats Fabio on the shoulders. “I can see why you like her so much! I’m going to get me a drink. Where’s the cash bar?” He wanders off.

I’m thinking I could use another drink myself.

Before I can make my exit, the couple that Stefano was talking to approaches us.

“Fabio!” the woman gushes, holding out her hand. I’m getting used to this reaction from women around him. She’s about thirty, with straight blond hair that reaches to her shoulders. The guy with her is about twenty years older, and reminds me a little of the mayoral candidate. He’s a lot heavier, though, and his suit doesn’t fit all that well: it’s far too tight, the buttons straining as if they’re going to pop open at any moment. I actually recognize him. He’s a Palermo alderman.

“Gina,” Fabio replies, taking the hand. I almost expect him to kiss it, but he doesn’t.

Good decision, Fiancé.

“I heard about your engagement,” she says without sparing me even a glance. “How long have you been dating? I’ve never seen you with her before.”

“Long enough,” he replies coolly.

“Well, it’s been too long since we last talked.” She slips him a card. When she catches my eye, she winks. What the fuck is that supposed to mean? That I’m going to approve of her picking up my fiancé right in front of me? “Call me.”

To my disappointment he pockets the card. “Sure thing.” He turns toward the alderman. “And how are you today Pietro?”

“Va bene,” Pietro replies. Going well.

“You never did get back to me on the development offer,” Fabio tells him. “I’m still willing to share five percent of the profits.”

Pietro forces a smile. “Not tonight. We’ll talk about it another time.” He turns toward me and bows. “SignorinaMoretti.” He departs with Gina, who gives Fabio one last backward glance.

“Well, at least someone has some manners,” I mutter. “Who’s the eye candy?”

“No one,” Fabio replies.

I frown. “And what was that about a development offer?”