Page 37 of Crimson Vows

I take a moment to consider, realizing this game might reveal more than we bargained for. But I push aside my hesitation; we’ve already laid so much bare tonight. “Truth,” I decide firmly.

Nico leans back, his gaze thoughtful. “Alright, spill it. What’s the biggest risk you’ve ever taken?”

I pause, the alcohol’s effects causing my brain to swirl a bit in my head. Finally, I draw a deep breath and speak, each word measured. “The biggest risk I’ve ever taken. I guess it was the night we went to save Eva.” The moment the words leave my mouth, even in my drunken state, I wish I could swallow them back. While going on Anthony’s boat that night was the riskiest thing I had ever done, it was the last thing in the world that Gia needed to be reminded of.

Her gaze darts to mine, her expression a mix of surprise and hurt. My answer casts a shadow over our lighthearted game. I can see the turmoil brewing behind her eyes.

Before she can respond, Dante interjects, “Maybe we should stick to lighter questions in the future, Nico. It’s your turn, man. Truth or dare?”

I’m thankful for Dante’s quick thinking when I see Gia’s features relax slightly as she shakes off the weight of my revelation.

Nico grins deviously, clearly relishing the opportunity to spice things up. “Dare,” he announces, looking around at the three of us.

“I dare you to...” Dante has an impish gleam in his eyes. “Perform your best dance moves to whatever song Marco picks.”

Nico’s eyes widen in mock horror as he looks at me, silently pleading for a merciful choice of music. I consider for a moment before settling on a sultry Italian tune that promises to be entertaining and embarrassing. I flip to it on my phone before pressing play.

As the music fills the room, Nico rises from his seat, his movements surprisingly fluid and coordinated. He spins and twirls with exaggerated flair, much to our amusement. Gia’s laughter rings out, a melody that lightens the atmosphere and eases the tension from my earlier confession.

Nico finishes his impromptu performance by thrusting his pelvis in each of our faces and then bowing theatrically amid our cheers and applause.

“I have a toast,” I announce at the end of the performance. Everyone at the table eagerly fills their glasses before looking at me. “Family comes in unexpected forms,” I toast, lifting my glass. And tonight, I think I may have found mine.”

“To family,” they echo, and we drink yet again.

Chapter Thirteen

Marco

The room spins gently in a carousel of shadows and soft light. Gia’s dark hair cascades down her back, a stark contrast against the cream cushions she sinks into. Dante’s sprawled out on the floor, his blue eyes twinkling with mischief. Nico sits in the chair across from us near the window, his glass catching glimmers of moonlight.

There is no family responsibility here. I am surrounded by Gia and consider these men friends. The weight of the world isn’t crushing me at this moment. It’s simple and easy, and I wish it could stay this way forever even though I know it can’t. In a couple days, Vincent leaves for Italy. Not only will I still be trying to figure out a way to address Vincent’s lies about Anthony, but I will be doing it while stepping into his shoes as head of this family while he is away.

“Okay, so truth or dare was fun and all, but I feel like I was the only one to bare their soul tonight,” Dante says.

“What truth did you tell?” Nico asks.

“Um, hello. That I fuck you,” Dante huffs.

Nico rolls his eyes. “Whatever. You can be such a drama queen sometimes.”

Dante flails his hands. “I’m just saying it would be nice if somebody else shared their deepest, darkest secrets. You know, mutually assured destruction and all.”

Even though I know he’s joking, I’m uncomfortable the moment Dante asks the question. Secrets, especially in a room full of these individuals, are plentiful and, more than that, dangerous. My eyes fix themselves on Gia, wondering if she is thinking about the secret I shared with her when I arrived earlier tonight.

“Nobody has any desire to share your truth, Dante. Quit worrying so much. Besides, not everyone has secrets,” Gia replies, and I relax a little.

“Bullshit! Every person has something they don’t want known. Come on,” Dante teases, turning his head to peer up at Gia. “Spill it. We all know you’ve got something juicy tucked away, don’t you?”

I watch as a flush creeps over her cheeks.

Gia laughs, a lilting sound that dances through the air. “You think I’m hiding something?”

“No doubt!” Dante exclaims.

“Maybe some secrets are better kept,” I remind her.

“Oh, you heard it, everyone,” Dante bellows. “Our boy Marco has a secret.”

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