Page 71 of The Empress

I push against his shoulder while I turn my head away from him. “No.”

I’m surprised when Leo doesn’t force things, keeping the promise he made.

He rolls onto his back and tucks his other arm beneath his head again. “Be ready at six tomorrow evening for our first date.”

Feeling like I’m playing with fire by lying beside him, I sit up and cross my legs under me. Staring at the moonlight reflecting on the ocean, I say, “It’s going to take a hell of a lot more than you being nice to me for one day and taking me on a date.”

“I know.” He sits up as well, and reaching past me, he picks up the can of soda and takes a sip. Holding it out to me, hesays, “I have an entire lifetime to win you over, Haven. You don’t become the head of the mafia by giving up quickly. I’ll wear you down.”

“Wow,” I mutter. “Just what every girl dreams of hearing.”

He chuckles, the corner of his mouth lifting into the dangerous smirk that makes me forget who he really is.

Climbing to my feet, I say, “I’m going to bed.”

“Okay.”

Looking down at him, I ask, “You’re not coming in?”

He shakes his head. “Night,principessa. Dream of me.”

“Night.” I walk across the beach and head up to the veranda. When I step into the living room, I glance over my shoulder, and even though it’s dark, I can make out that Leo’s looking at me.

Great. He’s just seen me glance back at him and will probably take it as a win.

I walk to the kitchen and pour the rest of the soda down the drain before putting the tin in the correct recycling bin. Heading to my bedroom, I shut the door behind me and stare at the key in the lock.

Leo could’ve overpowered me easily at any time tonight.

He didn’t kiss me when I said no.

Not locking the door, I decide to take a chance. If this mansion is my home for the rest of my life, I want to feel safe in it. I’m going to give Leo the benefit of the doubt and trust that he won’t hurt me.

I grab a pair of shorts and a cami and head to the bathroom. Not in the mood for a bath, I quickly shower.

When I’m ready for bed, I crawl beneath the covers and pick up my phone from beside the bed.

Seeing a text from Mom, I click on it.

Holy crap, she wrote a lot!

Mom: I hate to admit this, but it’s much better at Martina’s place than staying with Nicolo. She saidwe should call each other by our first names, seeing as we’re family, whether we like it or not. We spent some time bonding over our discontent regarding the wedding. She didn’t want an arranged marriage for Leo, but seeing as he’s the boss, no one dares go against him.

Mom: It was really lovely having dinner with you, even if Leo was there.

Mom: God, the man is so stubborn, he infuriates me.

Mom: But I heard what you said. I’m going to try to make the best of this shitty situation.

Mom: As long as he doesn’t hurt you. If he does, all bets are off.

Mom: I can’t wait to see you tomorrow.

Letting out a chuckle, I shake my head while I type a response.

Haven: I’m glad you bonded with Mrs. Toscano. I’ll see you tomorrow morning at nine. Sweet dreams, Mom. Love you!

I set the device down on the bedside table, then turn onto my side and snuggle into my pillow.