Page 86 of Deceptive Desires (The Syndicate #2)

Roman

I look down to see Matthias calling me.

I’ve been avoiding my family since reuniting with Cecilia. When I told them she ran away, they were furious. Not only because I almost started a war, but mostly because they love her, and I drove her away.

“Hey, Matthias. What’s up?” I greet him dryly, already wanting to get off the call.

“‘What’s up?’ What the hell do you mean, ‘what’s up?’ I’m getting married in two days, and you’ve been MIA since Cecilia came back. What the fuck?” he snaps at me.

Oh shit. I completely forgot about their wedding.

“I’m sorry, man. We’ll be there. Just tell us when and where.” I wince even as I say it, knowing I’ve severely fucked up… again.

I hear muffled noises from the other side then the phone being handed to someone.

“ROMAN FRANCIS MONTCLAIR! YOU SON OF A BITCH. No, sorry, Evelyn’s done nothing wrong.

YOU ASSHOLE! HOW FUCKING COULD YOU? I TOLD YOU SHE’D BE UPSET WHEN SHE FOUND OUT!

YOU’RE THE WORST! YOU’RE FUCKING LUCKY YOU’RE STILL INVITED TO THE WEDDING!

AND IT’S ONLY BECAUSE WE WANT CECILIA THERE.

” Margot yells at me. The fury in her words cuts me but also brings a smile to my face.

Knowing she’d choose Cecilia over me warms me.

I love Margot like a sister, but so does Cecilia. I’m glad she’d have her.

“Speaking of which, how is she?” Margot continues, softer at the mention of Cecilia. “We want to see her. She probably hates you! I would too. You’re the fucking worst.”

I can tell she’s about to ream into me again, but Matthias must calm her down, because she changes the topic.

“Your tux and Cecilia’s bridesmaid dress will be delivered to your apartment today.

Make sure they fit the same as two months ago at the appointments.

You are to be at the library courtyard by noon.

Cecilia is exempt from helping me get ready due to having an unfortunate fiancé.

Unless she wants to, of course. Do you have any questions? ” she orders me like a drill sergeant.

“No ma’am,” I don’t bother correcting her on the whole fiancé thing nor do I ask about snacks. I’m scared to set the bride off again.

With that, she ends the call.

And I head to my wife to tell her the good news.