Page 123 of Abandoned Oaths

I sighed and typed out my last message, letting them know I would before dropping my phone back into my purse.

There was nothing for me to do. I had no cameras or mics, not that I would set them up here. Maybe this could be a break. A few days off. A chance to catch my breath and gather my strength for what came next.

I was in a mansion on the beach in a stunning country.

It would be a waste not to enjoy this unexpected gift.

Rude even.

I might as well relax and take advantage of the peace while it lasted. It was easier to pretend here.

Maybe it was the distance from the guys. Maybe it was Maria. It didn’t matter.

The guys could keep working from their end.

I had a role to play.

Alessio’s girlfriend.

The bed was piled with fluffy blankets and pillows. A solid choice.

Maybe a bath?

I turned and noticed a pair of silk robes hanging in the bathroom. The temptation was too great. I undressed, grateful to get out of the tight dress I made the mistake of choosing to travel in, and slipped on the smooth fabric.

While debating my best option, I walked back into the room. One entire wall was made of glass. Curtains covered most of the view, but I caught glimpses of the ocean and crossed to the French doors leading out.

The balcony overlooked the pool and ocean beyond. I couldn’t resist, and I had no reason to. I went outside and leaned my elbows on the ledge, soaking in the sunset. I’d never forget the view. Pinks and purples washed over the sky as the sun set on the horizon.

Minutes passed as my brain emptied of the spiraling thoughts constantly threatening to pull me under.

All that mattered was here and now.

The breeze danced over my skin, taking my stress and responsibilities with it.

When was the last time I felt peace like this? When was the last time I allowed myself to?

As the sun sank over the horizon, Alessio stepped outside and stood behind me. He pushed my thin silk robe down my left shoulder, nearly baring my chest to the world, but his arm wrapped around me, cupping my breast while his other arm encircled my waist. I gripped his arm and leaned back, relishing the moment while he kissed a slow trail down my neck.

“I think I love it here.” I quietly admitted, as if our voices would break this moment.

“We don't have to leave,” he offered, no teasing in his words. “I’ll move back in a heartbeat if it’s what you want.” He wasn’t lying. “I can picture us here. Ruling the world together.”

I smiled. “You can rule the world. I just want more of this.”

He kissed my shoulder once, then rested his cheek on my head. “I’ll give you it all, Millie. Whatever you want.”

“What about your employees? All your businesses? So many people depend on you.”

What if he said he’d give it up? What if he told me he’d step down and let someone else take over? He would be safe and off the Velez radar.

Then what?

I could stay with him?

This could be my life, my reality.

No. I’d lied too much. Could I keep up the ruse forever?

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