Page 115 of Sweet Deception

"Mom, just because I'm with Luca now doesn't mean I won't have time for you guys. He's happy for you to drop by anytime."

"Honey, you'll be surprised how little time you'll have with the new job and maintaining a relationship. While I'm glad he's tolerant of our visits, we also want to give you space. Working across the street from each other will allow me to get more time with you." Mom sneaks a peek behind us before turning back to me with a gleam in her eye."If he isn't already in love with you, he's on his way. The way he looks at you … it's like you've hung the moon. I couldn't be more happy for you, honey."

My stomach flutters at her words. He's already confessed his love, but I could hear it everyday for the rest of my life and it wouldn't be enough.

I lean my head on hers. "Love you, Mom."

"Love you too, baby." She pats my arm before turning away and running a finger under her eye.

My face hurts from smiling so much. The joy of this day and the people I love surrounding me is more than I could've ever hoped for. I kiss mom's cheek before Dad leads her to their car. I turn to Joseph who stands by the Escalade holding the back door open.

"Congratulations, Kylie." Joseph nods respectfully.

He'll learn just like Rafael. I step into his space and hug him.

"Thank you, Joseph."

He hesitates before patting my back. When I step back, his cheeks are tinged pink, but at least he's smiling. I stifle a giggle and duck into the car, sliding over to make room for Luca.

Once he settles next to me, I wrap myself around his arm and lay my head on his shoulder.

Luca's breath tickles my forehead when he asks, "Are you happy?"

"I'm filled to the brim, babe." I tip my head, giving him access for a kiss. "Thank you for today."

"I've not done anything yet."

"Yes, you have. And, tonight, I'll thank you properly," I whisper, so Joseph doesn't hear me. Luca's smile turns roguish.

***

Luca went all out for my graduation party. He didn't just reserve the back room; he closed the whole restaurant down for it. As we walk in, my jaw drops in awe at the beauty of the place. The restaurant is decorated with fairy lights and real cherry blossom trees. I tear up, knowing he remembered our conversation.

I hope we can take them home with us after the party.

Tables line the whole right side of the room with food set up buffet style, servers ready to dish out plates. Next to it is a portable bar with three bartenders already serving guests. With the drinks free flowing, everyone is in high spirits, laughing, and having a good time.

This is more than I could have asked for and once again, I have Luca to thank for that.

***

As I ready myself for bed, I reflect on the night. My cheeks are sore from laughing and my voice is hoarse from talking so much. It was a great night and one I'll remember forever.

I was surprised by how many people showed. Men from the force, including the Chief came. Mom's fellow teachers, who I can't wait to get to know better, and even Talia and her sugar daddy made an appearance. I bit my lip to keep from laughing as she introduced him to my mom as her boyfriend. She blushed like a schoolgirl with a crush, and the way he hovered over her reminded me of Luca. I was happy to learn he took care of Talia after our rescue. Who knows, maybe she's found love in an unconventional way, like I did.

The biggest surprise for me was the appearance of Luca's cousins. Luca will always be the hottest guy in the room where I'm concerned, but when he introduced me to Rome, I'll admit I got a little tongue tied. And maybe a little scared now that I know who he truly is. I've always thought Luca was intense, but Rome is on a whole other level. He has an energy about him that demands attention. Even Dad's cop buddies stood straighter when he entered the restaurant.I was worried about a confrontation, but they respected each other's space.

Luca warned me who he was when he first arrived. After introductions, Rome took my hand and stooped to kiss the back of it, causing Luca to growl. A beautiful smile graced his lips as he released me—pleased he ruffled Luca's feathers.

I blush again, remembering his words to me."Congratulations, Bella. I am pleased for my cousin to have found such a beautiful and smart woman. I look forward to getting to know you and welcoming you into the family."

Luca seemed conflicted, as if he was pleased, but also leery. Rome patted Luca's arm, nodding before turning to the food table.

Despite how I met Leo the first time, tonight he reminded me more of Gio in personality. He's a charmer like Gio. He proved that later in the night when I witnessed my mom blushing from his attentions. I don't know what was said, but I'm grateful Gio intervened and dragged him away before my dad could storm over.

I can't help but giggle, thinking back on that. My dad looked ready to kill after that encounter.

Rome and his cousins left soon after that, but not before getting Luca to agree to dinner soon. Tension still permeates the air between them, but nothing like the encounter with Leo that first night.

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