Page 28 of Sinful Pleasure

In his place were two older men, even less friendly than he was.

I took a deep breath, adjusting the long red dress that clung to my body, as one of the waitresses led me to the table where Angelo was already waiting for me.

The dress was chosen exactly ten minutes after we entered the first boutique. I saw it, I liked it, I bought it. Simple as that.

Somehow, I didn’t want to spend a lot of time and money looking for the “perfect dress” for a date with my future, arranged husband.

Well, technically, Maddox was the one paying for it, but I guess that was Angelo’s order. I specifically asked him for his opinion on my choice of dress. He eyed me a couple of times, and even though it was a simple act, I don’t know why it made my cheeks warm under his intense gaze.

He mumbled a quick “Yes,” which was the closest to affirmation I could get from him.

While I was lost in thoughts of Maddox, I reached the table where his brother was waiting for me.

Angelogot up from his seat, adjusting his tie. He was dressed in an expensive black suit, his hair freshly cut, and his beard neatly shaved.

“Allyn,” he greeted me, kissing my hand. “You look stunning tonight.”

“Thank you.”

Angelo pushed the chair out for me, and I sat down while he returned to his place. I looked around.

“That’s a lovely restaurant.”

“My favorite here.”

No wonder why.

“I’ve already ordered food, I hope you don’t mind.”

“It’s okay.” I simply replied. “I’ll trust your choice.”

“You won’t be disappointed.”

He leaned back in his chair with a small grin, enough to show his nice white teeth. Angelo is a handsome man, but behind that beauty, something else is hidden—something much darker than he lets on.

The waitress came shortly after, pouring us white wine and bringing water as well. Her gaze stayed fixed ahead as if she dared not look at either me or Angelo.After the waitress left our table and we were alone again, he turned his attention to me.

“So, Allyn, tell me more about yourself. ‘’

“Not much to tell,” I shrugged.

“I find that hard to believe.”

Angelo took a sip from his wine, stroking his chin with his fingers as if trying to read me.

“I remember when you were little, you loved to dance. Is that still the case?”

The question instantly brought back memories of my father, and the taste in my mouth turned bitter.

“No, I’m not dancing anymore,” I said quietly, gulping my water.

“So, what do you like to do in your free time, then?”

“I used to help out at the dog shelter back home.”

“So, you’re an animal lover, huh?” I nodded. “I can tell Maddox to take you to the shelter downtown. I’m sure you’d love it.”

My face lit up. “You would?”

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