Page 39 of Wicked (Wicked Billionaires #2)

DANTE

We leave Tito to guard the castle, and I drive us to the villa in the old Ferrari.

I contemplate the theme park idea to save the castle, and I process the up and downsides.

There are many details to consider, but it may just work.

Attending the wedding will not burn too much of my time, and it’ll be good to see the family again.

As we get ready for the wedding back at the hotel villa, I dress in my suite as Raven readies herself in the bathroom.

I check the new navy suit prepared in Milan in the mirror, and it fits like a glove.

Five minutes later, Raven and I exit our rooms. She is wearing my sister’s golden satin dress and the matching high heels. She also has diamond earrings from my sister that I forced her to wear.

As I kiss the gorgeous woman in the hall, I’m stunned by her beauty. Her eyes are smoky now, and her hair looks spectacular. It’s gelled or slicked back, and her golden wet hair look matches the golden gown.

“You look amazing,” I say.

The humble beauty blushes, and I’m glad she caved and is wearing the earrings.

Raven was worried about losing one, but I told her they’re insured. Who knows if that’s true, and who really cares? I could buy her a thousand more, and at this rate, I may just do that.

I follow my hot, curvy student down the stairs, and I gulp. Her butt is beyond hot, and the satin shows it off perfectly.

“Not watching my ass?” Raven asks, glancing over her shoulder.

“Watching my own,” I growl, playing it flat.

“Good?”

“I dunno. Is it?” I ask.

“Oh, I’d bite it… again! Like a crisp, tasty apple.”

We stop outside, and I open her door to the Ferrari. Raven glides in, and she grins up at me. I don’t know what to say to her comment, and I’m reminded of the dungeon.

“What?” she asks as she catches me looking at her too long.

The woman has a unique skill and the ability to change energy fast. From being a hot temptress, to a bookish, hyper-dedicated nerd, to a graceful royal-like woman. And all within a heartbeat. She is a rare find, indeed.

“What?” Raven asks again.

“You,” I say, careful to not explain more.

“What about me?”

I climb into the Ferrari and start its powerful engine. Raven really has no clue she is drop dead gorgeous and unique. It’s starting to get bizarre.

“Nothing,” I say before telling myself she deserves more. Say it! “Actually… you look stunning.”

Raven squeezes my hand. “Really? Thanks.”

She holds my hand for a moment longer before she whips it back as if embarrassed. It was cute. She is cute.

“I just borrowed a couple of things, as you know.”

Raven is a rare and humble diamond. A million miles from the gold digger minefield I usually operate in. Having billions is a curse, a curse for finding anyone pure, uncomplicated, and real.

As we drive between the vineyards, and along the rural Tuscan roads, I get distracted.

I think about Raven and wonder why my mind is cloudy or suddenly so soft.

There is something about her that I cannot put my finger on.

If I ever do try the relationship thing, someone like Raven would likely be suitable.

It’s a shame it’s not me.

Not ever.

The rolling hills, horses, vines, and the setting sun are picturesque, and Raven sighs and takes it in. “Are you okay?” I ask from behind my Ray-Bans.

Raven leans over and smiles calmly. “It’s like home in Virginia. It’s a nice feeling.”

I look back at her, and for some reason, I’m smiling too. “I’m glad you’re happy.”

As we drive in silence, I think of the wedding and who will be there. I sent a wedding gift in advance, like last time, and again we have avoided the church, meal, and speeches. It may be rude, but I’ve always avoided formality, pomp, and ceremony. I am only here for family and old friends.

Not to be seen at all. Time is important, and I don’t have time for boring people.

As we drive along the coast and the golden light turns the Mediterranean Sea purple, I remember the weasel at the last wedding and how he’d tried to dance with Raven.

Today, I will make sure no one comes close to what is mine.

As I drive, I have trouble not side-eyeing Raven. My sister’s gold satin dress and Raven’s golden hair are a perfect match, and they challenge the world-class coastline for my focus.

The satin dress hugs every inch of Raven’s curves, and I cannot see a panty line. That takes guts, and that I respect.

Raven catches me looking at her, and she glances over. “Do not think about taking me now!”

I’m unused to such bravado, and I like it. “Why not?”

Raven grins, and I smile stupidly. Make it good, I tell myself.

“Just so you know, I’m planning a new class. And maybe after, a … feast.”

“Do not say feast,” Raven says, shifting in her leather seat. I shoot her a look, and it is dark like my soul.

“Do not make me wet! If you do, you’ll have to lick me dry. Understand?”

I try not to laugh, and I sigh. Lick. I check my inherited Rolex and realize we do not have time.

“What?”

“Just checking if we have time.”

“For what?”

“For me to pull over and make you come with my tongue next to the sea.”

As Raven side-eyes me, I see her squirm. “You son of a bitch.” I laugh loudly, change gears, and we blast along the Tuscan coast.

Minutes later, we drive onto the massive estate, and I find a perfect parking spot. I open Raven’s door, and she takes my hand.

As we walk towards the gathering and past the expensive cars and security, I get to see her curves again.

The high heels are elegant, and her gold gown shimmers in the sunset light.

How on earth had she not been hit on by half of NYC?

I shake my head, and Raven takes my arm. As I look down at the gorgeous creature, I tell myself to stop thinking about her. It’s just hard. So fucking hard.