Page 19 of The Vendetti Soldier

I nod because I do know. Papa has always done his best to give us whatever our hearts desire, within reason, of course. He didn’t want us growing up completely spoiled and taught us to work while being good to us. He’s been the best father anyone could wish for; I know we’re lucky, and it’s something I don’t take for granted. He and Mischa mean everything to me, as they always have. Now, I get to add Luciano to the mix, as well as Santino, should he allow it.

“You looksohandsome.”

I offer a bright smile in return. “And you, beautiful. I still don’t know how Luciano talked you into that cut and understated design for your wedding dress. It’s positively elegant on you, though.”

She blushes, obviously remembering something I’m not privy to. “He’s not an easy man to argue with.”

“You mean manipulate,” I call her out with a brow raised. Being around him for a few days and I’ve already learned so much about the man in question. Mischa, however, has always had a way with stirring up trouble. It’ll be amusing to see her on such good behavior with the Vendettis.

She smirks, “That too. I’ll have to work on him.”

With a snort, I shake my head, “Good luck with it. Do us a favor and don’t hold your breath while waiting.”

She rolls her eyes. “Thank God for Papa walking down the aisle with me today so I can hold on to him for support. I think these are the highest heels I’ve ever worn. Luciano is trying to break my ankles already.”

Chuckling, I circle her, taking in the shoes. They look dangerous, but her legs are insane in them. “It has every muscle on display; your calves are perfection. You look like a babe, and the label on them? He spent a lot of money to make every person take notice today, trust me. He did Santino a favor; not sure I’d have been so kind if my favorite person was marrying someone who wouldjeopardize my time with them. At least with us under the same roof, I have no reason to worry.”

“You think Santino will be pleased? I have a feeling he’s expecting a big fluffy dress, and he’s getting…”

“Understated elegance.” I cut her off. “He’s getting classical beauty.Refined. A woman demanding his attention who will make him look like an important man. He’s lucky to have you, Mischa, and he will be enchanted with you.”

She releases a breath, her shoulders dropping a bit. “You always know what to say. I’m so glad you’re staying with me. I would’ve been devastated if we’d been in separate countries.”

“Same, and me too. We’ve been together for our entire lives; I’m beginning to think my heart would stop beating if we were forced to be apart for too long.”

“It’s never going to happen. Not since we’re marrying the Vendettis; they’re crazier about family than even we are. We’ll get to grow old together, next to our sexy, powerful men.”

I nod, reaching for her hand and giving it a quick squeeze. “Were you able to eat? Don’t want to get dizzy in those shoes.” Not only are they super high, but they’re covered in needle-sharp black spikes and black gemstones. They had to be a custom pair at the boutique and just happen to be in my sister’s size. Luciano knew what he was doing when he had my sister pick this to wear for the wedding. It’s nothing like we planned when we discussed our weddings, but at the same time, it’s everything she shouldbe wearing. It plays up all her assets, commanding attention while somehow looking so appropriate and timeless that she will be the envy of any woman staring at the wedding photos. I’m jealous my suit is boring in comparison, but it’s not the green evil sort of jealousy, more like I’m ridiculously happy for her.

“Yes, I ate a ton this morning. Nerves and excitement probably. I was afraid my dress wouldn’t zip.”

I can’t help but laugh loudly. I shouldn’t be surprised, as she’s not like other women. They’d be starving themselves and tossing up anything in their stomachs, whereas knowing Mischa, she was probably asking for cheesecake-filled crepes and mimosas when she woke up.

“You really don’t mind wearing that color of shirt under your jacket to get married in? I chose green for me, but I didn’t expect you to wear it too.”

Hers is mint, whereas mine is darker, more like hunter. I actually love the color. I was afraid I’d look washed out, and I probably would if we hadn’t been on a mini vacation a few weeks ago at the beach. My tan is fading, but thankfully some of it has stuck around—enough so to make the green look good enough that I’m happy with it.

“I meant it when I told Violet I’d be fine with whatever you decided. I have a feeling Luciano was the one who chose this color for me, though; he seems to be very particular when it comes to clothes.”

“Good thing you’re already used to me picking your clothes, so you won’t mind him taking over.”

Shrugging, I stay quiet. I don’t know if it’s something he’ll want to do for me or not. He’s a busy man, working with Santino all the time under the Capo. I can relate, as I’m used to working with Papa, but I know it’s nothing like what he does. He gets his hands dirty, whereas I’m more of the sit-in-the-office type or work from behind a screen. Papa wanted to keep me safe growing up, so most of my tasks have been the type I could complete from the comfort of home.

I excuse myself to the ensuite connected to the room we’re using to wait in. It’s located next to the main ballroom for special occasions and is set up so we have plenty of space to get ready or whatever, so no one bothers us until it’s time to exchange vows. I use the restroom, wash my hands, and swish some mouthwash, again, aware it’s almost time. My teeth are extra white today as I’ve scrubbed them five times since yesterday.

I haven’t seen the ballroom yet in its finished glory. We peeked in last night, but everything wasn’t complete yet. Today we were shooed away to finish getting ready and try to relax. I don’t know how anyone relaxes before such an important occasion. To me, getting married is one of the most significant things you can do in life. Tying yourself to another for the remainder of your years is a huge commitment, and if done the right way, could be the best decision you ever make.

When I return, it’s to a sight I never thought I’d see. At least not inside the Vendetti Estate. A man stands next to Mischa, gun pointed at her, nearly resting the barrel against her skin. Everyfiber of my being screams inside for me to tackle him to the ground, wrestle the weapon away, and save my sister just as I was trained to do.

“Don’tfeckingmove,” the man orders with a thick Irish accent. “I’ll put a bullet in ‘er, and you’ll never be seeing ‘er again.”

My hands fist, blunt nails digging into my palms as it takes every ounce of self-restraint to hold back and not lunge at him. I don’t know his state of mind; he could be a loose cannon and kill her without a second thought, or he could have a bigger plan. I have to wait it out a bit to find out which fits so I know how to proceed. Mischa’s safety is the only thing that matters right now.

“I said, don’t move! Let me see yer hands,” he demands, and I instantly raise my arms, palms open towards him so he can plainly see I hold nothing. He’s crazy if he thinks I’d jeopardize my twin’s life.

“What do you want?” I find myself asking, suddenly feeling as if I’m having an out-of-body experience.

“Me? I’m doing a job, but I wantjustice. Your kind killed my family.”

---