Page 107 of Casanova LLC

“I don’t know why he wants to marry me.”

In the ensuing silence, she drank. And when she was done, I still hadn’t said anything.

“I believe it’s your turn to speak. Please?”

“You won’t want to hear what I have to say.”

We stood there, a smiling game of chicken playing across our lips. I let my eyes drop to hers. I didn’t have to act the little groan that escaped me. I shook my head slowly. “You have a mouth meant to be painted.”

“Spoken like a true artist.”

“That’s not the artist talking.”

“Well, my mouth is hardly a reason to marry me, Mr. Vianello.”

“Okay, fine. What do you want me to say?”

“You don’t have to say anything. I’m sorry I brought it up.”

“But what if I want to? You should know how special you are. Even if you don’t know it yourself.”

She smiled so wide, I heard her cheek make a noise. “Flattery will get you everywhere.”

I moved imperceptibly closer and the most decadent flush crept up her cheeks. “I believe you. You know why?” I tapped a finger against the pink crescent of skin. “You’re blushing.”

“I’ve had too much champagne.”

“And not enough of something else.” Her eyes flickered and I thought I’d pushed too far. So I quickly covered with, “Do you need more food?”

She gave the smallest shake of her head. “No. But we should go. Unless you have more flattery to offer?”

“I thought you’d never ask. He’s smart, but you’re smarter.”

“Yeah, well, he’s the billionaire. All I have is an Art History degree.”

“And yet you managed to reel him in.”

“He pursued me. I pushed him away for years.”

“See? One smart cookie.” She grinned. “You have a dimple.” I pointed at it. “And you’re goddamn gorgeous. That doesn’t hurt.”

“I’m pretty.”

“And you’re delusional.” Another laugh. “And you’re kind.”

She paused. “How would you know that?”

“You radiate it. And you’re passionate.”

She chortled, “No, I’m not!”

“Yes, you are!”

“Oh, what do you know about that?”

“About women’s passion? A lot, actually.”

She regarded me. “Really.”

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