Chapter 12

Emiliana

“Are you sure it's not too much?” I asked one last time as Oli handed me my handbag. 

“Too much?” He raised a menacing eyebrow at me. “When are you ever worried about something being too much?” He countered.

“True.” I giggled at my reflection, twisting and turning in the long line gold fabric. The dress hung off of one shoulder which clung to my every curve. It glittered and sparkled on every move, it was almost hypnotising. Every step I took, the light would catch and shine like stars in the night. I held a matching clutch bag and strappy heeled sandals delicately peeped through the long slit of material that rode up my thigh.

My hair was pinned up on one side, allowing my soft chocolate curls to fall gently over my bare shoulder and my make up was a discreet smokey look.

“Come on Cinderella, you don’t want to be late for the ball.” He chuckled. I threw a nearby pillow at his face causing his laughter to cease. 

I smacked my lips together one final time, checking my lipstick and teeth before I followed Oli out of the room. 

Giovanni was standing patiently beside the car, looking sexier than ever in a suit and tie. His green eyes stood out against his onyx suit, jet black hair was smoothed back effortlessly and I noticed the gold handkerchief that peeped out from his chest pocket. As I stepped closer to the car, I could just about discern his reaction. I was almost sure he had mouthed the words “Wow” as I approached but it was inaudible beyond the growl of the car’s engine.

“You scrub up well.” I jested to Giovanni as he opened my door. A brief smile kissed his lips but didn’t linger any longer than a second or two before it disappeared once again. 

It was a swift journey over to the other side of Manhattan. The car parked smoothly against the curb and Giovanni was ready at my side as I exited the vehicle. He held his arm out for me to take and I hooked mine through. The support of his strong biceps was all I needed - that and the comforting sensation that he would be by my side throughout the evening. It was this fact alone that made me dread the evening a little less. I knew with Giovanni by my side that I had an excuse to avoid certain people and he wouldn’t ask any questions. For once I was appreciative of his silence.

The tall wooden doors opened without hesitation and the rush of warm air greeted our faces. I gazed around at my surroundings. Extravagant chandeliers hung brightly from the ceiling while matching candelabras clung from the walls. Deep red carpet trailed through the room, cushioning the crowd’s feet. The red and gold theme shouted royalty and although there was none tonight, that didn’t detract from the fact that the multitude of people here tonight - were here for one person only.

My eyes scattered amongst the hoard of people, spotting my mother and father in deep conversation with some family friends. My mother waved me over from across the room, her smile brightened and gleamed through the already well lit room.

I stalked over with Giovanni still linking his strong arms with mine. 

“Mimmo! Giovanni!” My father embraced me first, placing a kiss on each of my cheeks before moving to my guard. My mother followed suit, whispering in my ear, “You look beautiful.” She pulled away, checking my dress out with approval before resuming her conversation with a distant ‘uncle’.

“Let’s get a drink.” I pulled Giovanni by the arm and walked him to the bar. 

Champagne flutes decorated the long dark oak surface of the bar. Waiters scurried back and forth, collecting full glasses to distribute to the attendees and swiftly returning with empty ones.

I picked up two flutes, handing one to Giovanni. “One won’t hurt, surely.” I rolled my eyes at his as I watched his stoic expression falter. “Cheers.” I saluted and he clinked his glass with mine. He watched me carefully as I took a gentle sip of my drink before he followed my action. 

I leaned my back against the cold pole that lined the edge of the bar, allowing the chill to seep through the material of my dress.

My eyes travelled the room, observing groups of people as chatter and laughter bounced above the soft music being played. Some couples were dancing where others were merely swaying. 

“Miss Magnone,” a voice stole my attention. A deep smoky voice that had the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end. My head turned to meet the face that belonged to the sultry tone. Mr Russo stood tall in his obsidian dinner jacket and trousers. His silk black tie reflected beautiful blue hues under the ambient lighting which matched his navy orbs.

“Mr Russo,” I acknowledged in a honey-like tone. He stretched his arm out, palm spread ready to take mine. I placed my fingers in his hand and he pressed a soft kiss to the back of mine. A slight flutter danced in the pit of my stomach as his deep oceanic eyes penetrated mine unforgivingly. 

“You look stunning.” He complimented me with a flirtatious tone. 

“You don’t look too bad yourself,” I countered, sending him a coquettish grin.

“Care for a dance?” He asked. “Or am I stealing you for your date?” His gaze flickered to my side briefly and I suddenly remembered my companion. 

“Sure,” I turned to Giovanni, placing my drink on the side. “I’ll be right back.”

With as little as a nod from my guard, Mr Russo guided me gracefully to the dance floor. It was a soft wooden platform that had been placed in the centre of the large ballroom, there was nothing particularly fancy about the decoration and it only served its purpose. Mr Russo twisted me into his reach, gently caressing my one hand in his while his other hand pressed into the small of my back, caging me in. 

The spasm of delight that washed over me was new to me. The way this man effortlessly glided across the floor with me in his embrace made me feel like I was floating on a cloud. Not once did he step on my toes and his eyes remained on mine the entire time. His moves had me in awe, he was smooth and elegant and led me round in wondrous circles.

“You’re a good dancer,” I affirmed as he spun me around. 

“You’re surprised?” He asked, raising an eyebrow at me while a lopsided smile etched across his lips. 

“Somewhat,” I tilted my head at him and mirrored the same incredulous look. “When did you learn, Mr Russo?”

“It’s Luciano,” he commented as he spun me around again. “My Nona made me take lessons when I was a teenager.” He pressed his body closer to mine as our footsteps moved as one with the gentle best of the music. 

“Nona’s hey?” I laughed. “So what’s it like to be a board member?” 

“I get so bored.” He chuckled at his own pun and I joined in. The way his mouth crinkled at the corners as he smiled did something to me. It took my breath away and his laugh was deep and meaningful. “How is the new job?” He countered, making conversation as we swayed to the romantic symphony playing behind us.

“Hard, tiring, stressful.” I listed off the abundance of emotions. 

“Well regardless, you’re doing a good job.” He squeezed my hand tenderly and my eyes met his for an intense moment.

“Just good?” I smirked.

“A great job.” His grin widened at me, displaying perfect platinum white teeth. I shied away at his compliment and he brought his finger to my chin, turning my gaze back to him. “You really are Emiliana.” 

Our bodies stopped as I considered his words. I could hear how convinced and sure he was of what he had said and I trusted that what he said was the honest truth. I felt myself drawn to him, his easy personality was refreshing and his words seeped with confidence.

A voice cleared their throat beside me, breaking the intense connection I was feeling towards Luciano. 

Giovanni stood with his broad shoulders and tall stature, holding his hand out for me. Confusion wavered across my face as I took his hold. 

“Save me another dance later.” Luciano winked as I left his warm embrace.

Giovanni tugged me into his arms and I gladly followed, enveloped in his hypnotic scent and protective clutches. We swayed carefully to the music and out of the corner of my eye, I watched Luciano disappear from view.

“I don’t suppose you’re going to tell me why you pulled me away?” I lifted my face to survey him. His dark brows were furrowed and his lips were turned down in distaste. “Giovanni?” I muttered his name, hoping the slight anger and frustration I was feeling could be heard. His emerald orbs trailed my face silently before turning away again. His silence was one thing, but to remove me from where I was enjoying myself was downright rude. 

I pulled away from Giovanni’s clutches, lifting my dress slightly to avoid scraping the hem. I stormed off of the dance floor, heading for the rear exit. I could hear his footsteps behind me - as usual following my every move. “I need to be alone!” I shouted over my shoulder as I pushed the patio doors open. The cold air hit me suddenly, but it was a welcome sensation from being around Giovanni’s hot body and steamy silence. 

Giovanni gripped my arm tightly and I yanked it back, trying to break free from him. “Let go of me!” I yelled at him angrily. His hand only tightened around my arm and I let out a light squeak as my back suddenly collided with the brick wall. Dark green eyes stared down at me, hot breath fanned across my face and I could smell his minty breath, enticing me. “What are you doing?” I whispered. His intimidating gaze forced me to melt and cower. A finger traced my cheek, tucking my hair behind my ear and forcing me to look up. My eyes followed the sharp jawline that was cleanly shaved and begging to be stroked. For moments we stood there, chest to chest, warmth laced with desire radiating from us both.

Giovanni had me pinned against the wall with one hand still wrapped around my arm and there was no escaping - if I was being honest, I wasn’t sure I wanted to. I listened as his chest heaved loudly, his breathing was erratic and his eyes flickered with something unfamiliar, it was like he was fighting for control. His face edged closer to mine and I could almost feel his lips. They were a kiss distance away, yet he never closed in any further. I closed my eyes, no longer able to focus on how close he was to me. 

Giovanni's thumb softly traced my lower lip, replacing the faint sensation of his hot breath, his touch made every inch of my body beg for more. The vague wonderment of how those lips would taste was etched in the back of mind.

His fragrance still lingered around my senses and he took a step back, pulling me out of a daze of lust and desire. Cold air replaced the space where Giovanni had encroached. My arm was freed from his tight grip and his breathing was no longer audible. I opened my eyes to find him adjusting his tie with precision. I let out a loud breath - one I didn’t know I was holding onto. 

“What the fuck?”