Page 46 of The Merciless King

“Just over a month,” he answers. “Gianna wanted to keep our relationship private, but my feelings for her are too strong, and out of respect, I wanted to meet you both.”

I smile up at him and my god; the love pouring from his eyes has me almost believing him.

But the thing is, my parents will only buy into so much of this. I need them to believe him. That’s all that matters.

I know my responsibilities to this family, and it isn’t marrying Braxton Rossi.

So they’ll entertain this fancy of mine.

“Braxton felt it was important.” I smile back at my mother.

“Well, it’s very nice to meet one of Gianna’s friends.” She smiles.

Friends.

“What business are you in, Mr. Rossi?” Papa asks, his beady eyes boring into him.

“Trade.” Braxton rests into his seat and picks up his wine. “I’m an independent contractor.”

He leaves it at that.

So I help this along. I need speed here or this gorgeous man is going to board a plane to Europe.

“We met through Mia,” I explain.

“Mancini?” Mama asks and Papa frowns.

“Correct. I did business with her father a couple of times,” Braxton says, then adds, “independently.”

He sips again, then places his glass on the table, studying it as he slowly spins the stem between two fingers.

“So you knew who Gianna was when you met?” Papa asks. “You were aware of the family she was born into.”

I start to get nervous.

I thought he would have eased up by now, but I was wrong.

“Yes,” Braxton answers. “She was up front with me. I have no issue with it. As I say, I’m not affiliated with any one family.”

My parents share a glance.

“Papa.” I press, reality kicking in. Regardless of how serious Braxton and I are, if he thinks he’s not to be trusted, I won’t be able to see him again.

This could really backfire.

“Quiet, Gianna,” he demands. “I take it James has your information, Mr. Rossi.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Send him in.” Papa waves out to one of his soldiers standing nearby.

They are always in the corner somewhere.

I barely notice, having grown up with them from the moment I was born. They’re like little armed statues that move about.

And kill.

Yes, I’ve seen people being shot.

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