Page 24 of Crimson Vows

Nico’s gaze softens, a glimmer of gratitude shining in his eyes. “You’d do that?”

A smile tugs at the corners of my lips as I gently squeeze Nico’s hand. “Consider it done. We’ll make tonight special for all of us.”

“What about Marco?”

“What about him?”

Nico furrows his brow. “Should we invite him too?”

I smile. “Baby steps.”

“Gotcha.” Nico nods.

“Awesome!” I squeal in excitement. “Then I’ll see you both around eight tonight?”

“It’s a date,” Nico confirms.

Chapter Eight

Gia

Iweave through the throng of people at the farmers market. The clamor of vendors hawking their produce fades to a hum in the back of my mind. Stalls burst with color, an artist’s palette of earthy greens, fiery reds, and sunny yellows.

A canvas bag swings from my arm, light now, but not for long. I pause at a stall where tomatoes glisten like polished rubies, and I pick one up; its skin is taut and promising. I press gently and the flesh gives just enough—ripe and perfect. Into the bag it goes, followed by its plump siblings.

Next are the herbs. I pinch a leaf of basil, rub it between my fingers, and inhale deeply. It’s fresh and vibrant. A few bunches join the tomatoes. I move on, my steps sure and silent as I add items to my bag for the intimate dinner I will prepare tonight.

My father loved it when I cooked for him. It was something that always came naturally to me. He used to tell me how he wished I would open a restaurant one day, but I have no desire to do such a thing. Cooking is a way for me to unwind from the expectations of my life. My father would have never understood having something that was solely for joy.

Sometimes it creeps up on me. The guilt I carry for what I did to him. I push the thoughts away and try to focus on the task at hand. Each selection I make today is a step closer to tonight. I can’t help wondering how Dante will feel about me. Based on his display at the restaurant earlier today, it’s clear that he views me as a threat of some sort. I’m hoping after tonight, perhaps we can put his concerns to rest.

As I move along, I notice my bag is now heavy. My phone buzzes. I slide it from my pocket, fingers brushing over the screen to reveal Nico’s message. A rush of adrenaline hits me as I read his message.

Nico: Dante confirmed he is coming tonight.

My heart leaps slightly, and a smile plays on my lips.

Nico: Looking forward to seeing you.

Me: Planning to make it worth your while.

I type, the corners of my mouth curling upward as I imagine his reaction. Flirtation is a language that has always come naturally to me.

His following message doesn’t disappoint, with a playful edge to every word.

Nico: I’ll make sure you’re adequately compensated. My cooking isn’t the only skill I’m hoping to get a chance to showcase.

I chuckle, shaking my head. I love that Nico can turn even the simplest conversation into a game of seduction. The more I get to know him, the more I can see we are going to get along better than I imagined.

Me: Your confidence is... intriguing. I guess we shall see if it’s warranted.

Nico: Challenge accepted.

His text is a virtual wink, sending a warm thrill through me.

Me: I’m not sure Dante would like the evening turning into a display of our carnal desires for one another. Perhaps it’s best to keep tonight to dinner and a movie.

Nico: Perhaps... or perhaps all three of us will decide the evening is better spent getting acquainted in all the ways.

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