Chapter-15 Dinner (Part 1)

Gianna

“Well, don’t you think it’s a bit weird?” Teresa demanded over the phone. I had called her to spill about what happened with Maximus earlier. Like me, she seemed a bit skeptical too.

“I did think that,” I nodded, eyes glued to the proposal I had been working on for two hours now.

“And?”

“But then when he said that I had to go through a proper process of evaluation, it didn’t seem so weird. I mean he did hear my and Leo’s conversation last night.”

“Hmm…” Teresa muttered. “Well, what’s the worst that can happen if we give it a try?”

“Exactly!”

“If you’re in then so am I. But listen—you have to go to this meeting alone tomorrow. I already promised Nonna I would take her to this thing—wait…what was that thing? Well, whatever it is, I can’t cancel on the old bird. She is just starting to forgive me for coming back home after being away for so long. And I want that expensive, antique diamond necklace she owns once she dies so I need to be in her good graces, Gi.”

I giggled at the mention of the antique diamond necklace. She has been after that since she was a kid. But I knew Teresa adored her grandmother, and that was just her way of showing that she didn’t care that much.

“It’s okay, Tess,” I said, typing away furiously. “I can handle it on my own tomorrow, don’t worry. You stay with Nonna,”

“Are you sure?” she asked, sounding concerned. In all honesty, I wasn’t sure. I wasn’t sure how I felt about meeting with Maximus Vanucci for some reason. He made me… somewhat uncomfortable. But I didn’t say that out loud.

“Yes, I’m sure,” I said. “Now listen, I gotta get this proposal done before Nico comes home. We are going out for dinner so I have to finish before then. I will fill you in on what happens, okay?”

“Okay,” she said. “You got this girl! Let me know what happens, okay? Love ya!”

“Love you,” I smiled before cutting the call and taking a deep breath.

One look at the clock and it showed half past seven. Nico should be here anytime. I quickly rushed upstairs to do some last-minute touch-ups before he came home. After all the intensity last night and this morning, I wanted this dinner to be more light-hearted.

The last thing I wanted was to overwhelm him. I dressed the part too, wearing a white high-waisted A-line skirt featuring a button-down front and a thigh-high slit that revealed a bit of my legs. I paired it with a nude ribbed crop top and did my hair in soft waves, adding a touch of nude pink lipstick to complete the look. It was elegant but also laid back, nothing over the top.

“Perfect,” I smiled, quickly spraying some perfume as I scampered back downstairs to complete the remainder of my work.

I had no idea how much time had passed, but suddenly, a deep, masculine scent drifted around me—rich, intoxicating, and unmistakably familiar. Before I could turn, a low cough broke the silence. I blinked, momentarily disoriented, then twisted around—only to nearly stumble off the barstool. Nico stood behind me, his dark eyes unreadable. Watching.

What the hell? When had he gotten here?

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you,” he muttered, looking a bit embarrassed. Has he been standing here long?

“I didn’t hear you,” I said, trying not to sound startled and add to his guilt.

“Yeah, you were quite focused,” he muttered, glancing at my Mac. I nodded in response, and then it finally registered me that he was home. I missed him since the moment he left, as pathetic as that sounds.

“You’re home!” I smiled brightly, trying my best to simmer down my excitement. “Welcome back.”

Nico looked a bit surprised at my reaction and there was that lost look in his eyes again. Of course, he didn’t expect I would be happy to see him. Or that I’d be waiting for him.

“Thanks,” he finally muttered, after probably going through a million responses in his head. “Ready to go or are you busy? We can cancel, no problem.”

“Oh no,” I shook my head. “I am ready. By the time you’re changed, I will be done in.”

"I’m not going to change, so… take your time. I’ll wait," he said, pulling a bottle of water from the fridge.

I stared at him blankly, my gaze trailing over him in a quick once-over. He was dressed in a sharp black Armani suit that probably cost a fortune, with a gun tucked inside his waistband, just barely visible. I was pretty sure that wasn’t the only weapon on him. The word that came to my mind was: deadly.

“You are going to dinner wearing that?” I demanded, unable to hide my surprise. Nico stopped sipping from the bottle and gave me a blank look.

“Anything wrong with this?” he asked, raising a brow.

“No but you look like you’re going to murder someone any moment,” I said, trying to fight my smile and failing miserably.

“Yeah, that’s the point,” he nodded, his expression deadpan.

“Not always,” I said and Nico blinked, looking startled when I took his hand and threw him an excited smile. “Come with me!” I was waiting to give him the gift I bought until later but it seemed like now was the best time.

“Gianna, we’re getting late for our reservation,” Nico protested as I dragged him upstairs to our bedroom. And even though I was the one holding his hand, his grip somehow tightened on mine—as if he wanted to make sure I didn't trip or anything. I scoffed inwardly.

Way to be delusional, Gianna.

“It won’t take long, I promise!” I assured him. Eventually, Nico stopped protesting and followed along like an obedient child to the bedroom. He gave me a questionable look as I finally halted inside and turned to him.

“Wait here!” I grinned and then almost ran to our walk-in. I grabbed the two shopping bags from the chaise and headed out quickly. Nico was still patiently waiting, his expression troubled. He didn’t trust me, I realized bitterly.

“Here…” I said, handing the bags to him.

“Wh…what is this?” he asked, peeking inside with curiosity.

“I…it’s a gift,” I said softly. “Will you wear this for dinner, please?” He blinked at me and I met his gaze with an eager look. What I got for him probably was not his style at all. But the moment I saw the outfit displayed in the glass case I knew I had to get it for him.

“Gianna I…” Nico mumbled, looking uncomfortable but also surprised.

“Please?” I pleaded. “Pretty please? If you don’t like it, you can take it off and go ahead with your 007 outfit. I won’t mind, I promise. Please?” I could see he wanted to protest but then another look at me and something in his stance shifted. His eyes softened a bit. Or maybe I imagined that.

“Fine,” Nico sighed. “I’ll be right back,”

“Thank you!” I exclaimed and I couldn’t hold myself back from giving him a quick hug.

But I moved back just as quickly, remembering my boundaries. He looked equally startled and thankfully quickly dashed to the walk-in, allowing me to finally release the breath I didn’t even know I was holding.

After what felt like an eternity, Nico finally walked out, standing there, looking like he was debating whether to turn around and change back. His shoulders squared, jaw tight as if wearing something out of his usual style was an actual battle. But I couldn’t focus on that.

Because he looked…dashing.

The white short-sleeved button-down was slightly sheer, just enough to hint at the toned definition of his chest beneath. The delicate pattern in the fabric softened his otherwise sharp presence, making him look a little more… effortless. The top two buttons were undone, revealing just enough of his tanned skin to make my breath hitch.

And then there were the black trousers—fitted at the waist, relaxed down the legs. They were nothing like the usual tailored suits he wore, but somehow, they still screamed power. Casual, but commanding. He ran a hand through his dark hair, slightly tousled from changing, and his lips pressed into a tight line. It was funny.

“Well?” His voice was edged with uncertainty, like he was waiting for me to laugh. I swallowed, forcing myself to keep my expression neutral despite the way my pulse had picked up.

“You…” I cleared my throat. “You look great.”

His brows furrowed slightly. “I feel ridiculous.”

I rolled my eyes. “You look the farthest thing from ridiculous, Nico.”

I wasn’t going to say what I was really thinking—how, for the first time, he looked… approachable. Less like a man ready to command a room with a single glare and more like someone who could sit down for a quiet dinner without his guard up.

And maybe that was why he looked so uncomfortable.

I forced a small smile, hoping to ease whatever tension he was feeling. “Now, can we go? Or do I need to beg again?”

He sighed, rubbing his jaw before muttering, “Let’s get this over with.”

It took effort not to look smug as I caught a glimpse of us in one of the ornate hallway mirrors. We looked good together—undeniably so. His outfit matched mine perfectly, and for once, we actually looked like a couple heading out for a casual dinner.

Outside, Nico’s jet-black Cadillac Escalade ESV was already waiting, its sleek frame gleaming under the dim lights.

And, of course, a small army of bodyguards stood at attention—including my own three. I noticed the way everyone’s gazes flicked to Nico. Amusement flashed across their faces before they quickly masked it, bowing once again. The driver then quickly hurried to open the rear passenger door but Nico halted him.

“Not tonight, Marco,” he muttered. “I will be driving.”

Oh.

“Of course, signor,” Marco nodded, looking surprised as he handed the keys to Nico. Muttering an inaudible thanks, Nico walked over to open the passenger side door for me. Ever the gentleman.

“Thank you,” I smiled, scooting inside the gigantic SUV.

I wasn’t sure why we needed a car this massive, its inky black windows shielding us from the outside world. But as Nico slid into the driver’s seat, I had to admit—his larger-than-life presence demanded a vehicle just as commanding. Anything smaller simply wouldn’t suit him.

The Cadillac rumbled to life, purring like a beast as we eased onto the road and the crisp spring evening. I didn’t miss the second black SUV slipping into formation behind us—our ever-watchful guards, trailing us like shadows.

I hated it.

“Th…thank you for…the gift,” Nico muttered after a beat.

“You don’t like it,” I said. It was amusing to find his ears turning red at that.

“It’s not like I don’t like it…it’s different,” I murmured. “Not my usual style.”

“I get it, Nico. Thank you for wearing it nevertheless,” I smiled. “I appreciate it.”

He gave me a nod, his eyes focused on the road. And I tried not to gawk at his biceps and all the ink decorating it or how they bulged as he handled the wheel with his right hand. How could a human being be so sexy and irresistible? I wished things were different so I could reach out and hold his hand.

“Did you have a good day today?” I asked. Nico gave me a sideways look, again surprised.

“Just the usual,” he shrugged. “I met with your brothers to discuss the shit that’s going down. Brought a new luxury car dealership and a vineyard…yeah, that’s about it.” I blinked at him. How did he just say all that so casually?

“And that’s a usual day for you?” I murmured.

“More or less,” he nodded. “It’s boring. Nothing interesting.”

“Much more interesting than my usual day,” I made a face. “How is your hand now? It doesn’t hurt anymore, does it?”

“No. It’s much better. Thank you,” he said, eyes still glued to the road.

“Were my brothers any help? With the matter?” Nico shrugged again.

“Not really. But it was still helpful to talk to them and warn them, just in case,” he said. “But don’t worry about anywthing. I will deal with it.”

“That’s exactly what I am worried about,” I muttered under my breath. Nico gave me a look in response but thankfully didn’t counter. And with that, the usual silence fell between us. But thankfully, it wasn't as suffocating anymore.

After what seemed like an eternity, Nico pulled into the parking lot of Saporé, one of the most popular fine dining restaurants in the area and one of my favorites. It was chic and cozy and very sexy with rouge red and beige interiors, Turkish chandeliers and all the jazz. Nico opened the door for me again and then held out his hand.

“Thank you,” I smiled, placing my hand in his.

His grip was firm but gentle, his eyes giving nothing away as he gazed into mine. This mysterious aura about him was what made him so attractive. And even if he was wearing casual, comfy clothes, he still looked every bit the mafia boss he was. Probably because of the way he carried himself. And the stoic, I-will-kill-you-if-you-talk-to-me expression on that beautiful face. I almost expected he would leave my hand but he didn’t as we took the private elevator.

“I hope you like this place,” Nico said as the elevator doors opened and we walked out. And surprising me, he took my hand again.

“This is one of my favorite places,” I said nevertheless.

“I own it,” there was a hint of pride in his voice even if his expression was impassive as I gazed up at him.

“I had no idea,” I murmured, impressed.

“I will have my lawyer walk you through my assets,” he said. “In case anything happens to me…” He stopped at that part as I gave him a dark look. I didn’t comment, though, as we turned down the hallway and through a corridor at the end of which a man dressed in a sharp black suit and two waitresses stood outside closed double doors.

“Signor,” the suited man nodded. “Signor Rizzo called us earlier to book the private dining for tonight and make the necessary arrangements. It’s all done.”

“Thank you,” Nico murmured, and I managed a smile as they bowed and then walked away.

“Your money is not what I want or am interested in when it comes to you,” I muttered glumly and even if he didn’t comment, I did hear his sharp intake of breath. Nico opened the double doors and ushered me inside, and the moment I stepped inside, I blinked.

Oh my.