Page 124 of Sinful Sacrifice

On my way toward the front door, I run into Riona.

We’ve never met in person.

I only know what she looks like because Julian Googled her to see what my future wife looked like.

Riona isn’t bad to look at.

She just isn’t Pippa.

That’s the ultimate turn off.

There are similarities between them.

If we marry, all I’ll think about is Pippa.

“Hi, Damien,” she says. “My father never formally introduced us.”

I run a hand through my hair. “Yeah.”

“Do you want to stay for dinner?”

“I have a tight schedule.” I walk away and yell, “Maybe another time,” over my back.

We do need to have a chat.

Get her pregnant within six months.

Yet another sacrifice I have to make.

43

I swear, it’s Mafia wedding season.

And I’m ready for the damn finale.

Today is Antonio and Gigi’s special day.

While they’re already married, Gigi wanted a real wedding. The first time she and Antonio said their vows was when he was holding her hostage and she had no choice.

For a while, there was uncertainty if there’d ever be a formal wedding since Gigi said she wouldn’t have one unless Cristian walked her down the aisle. Somehow, Antonio convinced Cristian to agree. From what I heard, it wasn’t with violence but with guilt-tripping.

Only a few months ago, Cristian Marchetti wanted to kill Antonio for taking Gigi hostage. One would’ve expected nothing but bloodshed if the Lombardis and Marchettis were within the same space. But here we are, commemorating love.

I’m sure Cristian still wants to kill Antonio, but he’s refraining for the sake of his daughter.

I’ve met Gigi a few times during Amara’s dance classes. Her curly and dark hair, beauty, and olive complexion bring the image of a Mafia princess to life. Antonio met his match with her, but I can tell he enjoys it.

Genesis is my plus-one. I tried to RSVP no, but telling Antonio no doesn’t mean no.

“Amara wants you there to see her flower-girl walk, so you’ll be there,” he said.

I’m almost positive Damien also had a hand in my mandatory attendance.

Since his visit to the studio, he’s called and texted relentlessly.

I’ve ignored him.

So, he keeps calling and texting.

---