Page 41 of The Billionaire's Pact

“I’m fine. I’ve had a dress fitting for the wedding. Everyone has been very nice and accommodating.” I chewed on my bottom lip. “Nadia Crane just dropped off my dress, and a stylist will be here soon.”

“That’s good news. It’s good things are progressing,” he replied.

“So, I’ll see you tonight for the announcement party?” I asked.

“Uh, that’s why I called.” He cleared his throat. “Unfortunately, we won’t be able to attend tonight. Your grandmother has come down with a summer flu. We’ve already sent our regrets to Rocco and his family.”

In all the years I’d known her, Grandmother was never sick. She didn’t want to go. I remembered Mrs. Belfiore’s annoyance at Rocco’s grandfather, Luca Marini, being there. Why was he?

“I’m sorry to hear that.” I couldn’t hide my disappointment. He kept me at arm’s length most times, but I admired him greatly and was grateful for all he’d done for me. I wanted him to see me graduate with honors and marry well—both things he valued. Deep down, I wanted to see him pleased by something I’d done. I always have to keep working for his praise.

“I’m very sorry, too. I’m proud of the way you’ve maintained your decorum through these challenges. Rocco said he’s very pleased. He has already fulfilled some of our objectives.”

“That’s great,” I said. Seems like Rocco speaks to all of my family members about me and my behavior. It’s like having a keeper.

“Yes, it is, Adelina. You seem to be handling things well, and I hope you continue to do so. I expect your…obedience. You understand?”

“Not really. What do you mean?” I asked in a light tone. He was never one to hold back his words; he was always exact.

“I mean, obedience in every way,” he said quickly. “Forget what your grandmother told you. We have a great opportunity of joining with the Marinis. While I wasn’t exactly pleased at first, this marriage is a great way to restore our family legacy. I need you to make Rocco happy.”

I understood, but I could hear the struggle in Mr. Belfiore’s voice. It was nothing I hadn’t agreed to for our marriage; now my virginity no longer mattered, as long as they could get the financial benefits from the Marinis.

My face burned, and I drew in a breath. Indignities were something I always had to deal with, and this was no different.

“I see,” I said monotone.

“Good. Don’t worry. We won’t miss your wedding. That you can count on, no matter what.”

“Thank you,” I said and rubbed my sore neck. “But do you think Jacob can come—”

“I want him to come, but Jacob needs twenty-four-hour care. He has seizures so severe, they stop his heart. I’m not sure he’d make a flight or even get his doctors to approve it—”

“Well, maybe we can look into it. Or I can go there before I leave —”

“You’re leaving for Italy tonight, right after the party. That’s what you need to focus on right now. You can see Jacob later. I’ll arrange for more time on your calls.” Mr. Belfiore was trying to be accommodating, but he always came up with a reason to keep us separate. The boarding school was too far away, and my time off interrupted his care. College had too many responsibilities. My grandparents always had an excuse.

“I want to see him in person,” I said, my voice graveled.

“I know you’re disappointed, but this is last minute. I never stopped the FaceTiming or the money you sent for his art supplies that you tried to hide from me.”

Our call went silent. I had my drawings online and my books to pay for art supplies for Jacob because they didn’t find them necessary.

He finally said, “After you’re married, you can go without any interruptions. Okay? Did you get the flowers I sent to you?”

My eyes watered and my throat closed. I dabbed my nose with a tissue from a side table.

As if on cue, the doorbell rang. I walked over to the door with the phone and found three large bouquets of white roses there. “I see them now. Wow. They’re lovely. Thank you so much,” I said hoarsely.

“You’re welcome. We’ve also expanded your trust. You’ll get an update. Have a nice evening.”

“Thank you,” I said, and we ended the call. I still had twenty minutes before the stylist arrived, but even with the flowers, my heart ached. But I had something to look forward to. I went to my computer and there was a new message from Cindy and Jacob.

Hi Adelina!

I just wanted to send you a quick update on the message you sent. Jacob told me to tell you to paint them for him. He’s been asking me to print out the images to show his friends.

Talk to you soon,

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