Page 73 of Promise Maker

“No,” Father answers with a scowl. “He’s gonequiet.”

My stomach clenches. “Santehas never gone quiet before.”

“Something’s happened,” he voices my thoughts.“I’ll have Vincenzo retrace his path and figure it out. In the meantime,everything will be ready for your wedding in three days.” He straightens fromthe chair and pats my shoulder. “It goes against my late friend’s wishes, butif it is what Solari wants, then I won’t stand in the way of your union.”

“Grazie, Padre.”

He gives me a warm smile before leaving the patio.

Now that I have my father’s blessing, all that’sleft isSolari’sdecision.

She’s remained scarce all morning, even eatingbreakfast in her room. It’s now noontime, and she still hasn’t shown herself.

I have the urge to seek her out, make that sweetlittle pussy squirt all over my face as I devour her repeatedly. But I promisedher space to think.

I just hope she agrees to marry me. If not, I maylose my mind and force her to the chapel.

Pouring another glass of whiskey, I throw theliquid back and head from the patio. There’s a ring and wedding gift that needspurchasing.

21

Are you turning in the grave?

Will your spirit haunt me?

Over and over, I ask Dad those questions in myhead. My heart tells me to go through with it, but I’ve always feareddisappointing him.

“Ugh!” I ruffle my curls for the umpteenth timeand wander to the balcony, glimpsing Domenico just as he gets into one of theSUVs.

He agreed to give me space today. But I feel sostrange when our paths don’t cross. As if going through withdrawals.

When the car leaves, I veer back into the bedroom.

I wish Dad were here so I could discuss it withhim. Then again, if he were alive, I wouldn’t be marrying Domenico forprotection. I’d probably never even learn of his discussion with Dad and wouldhave still resented him for breaking his promise to me.

Thinking about the refusal reminds me of Dad’sletter.

Going into the closet, I retrieve the envelopefrom its hiding place and return to the bed.

I inhale and exhale deeply, slide the letter out,and unfold it. My eyes start to water immediately upon seeing my dad’shandwriting.

“You can do this,” I whisper to myself.

Fighting for strength, I begin to read his words,hearing his voice in my head.

Sol,

If you’re reading this, sadly, I’m no longer withyou. For that, I hope you’ll forgive me.

I tried to create a safe environment for you. Butit’s hard to leave the kind of world I was part of without repercussions. Ihave a feeling someone in my camp is betraying me. I’m not sure who. But I’mcertain Emanuele and Domenico will uncover the traitor’s identity and keep yousafe.

Sol, I have something to confess.

Domenico asked for my blessing to marry you twoyears ago. He told me he’d made a promise and assured me he’d take care of you.

But I refused him.

Not because I didn’t think he could keep you safe.It was more so because I wanted you to live a life free of danger. You have abeautiful heart. You deserve peace.

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