Page 77 of Promise Maker

Both give me a questioning stare.

Perhaps Mrs. Martelli was asked the same thingbefore marrying Mr. Martelli. I wonder if she’s ever regretted her decisionbecause she lives in fear now.

Pushing that aside, I consider her questions.

It is dangerous. But my dad is right. The only wayto be safe is with Martelli. My heart is thrashing without a doubt for me toleap with Domenico.

Lifting my chin, I say with certainty, “Yes. Ido.”

Francesca snorts. “You’ll be saying that in twodays.”

“Hm.” I proceed to eat breakfast with them,thinking how the wedding is right around the corner.

I’m anxious, sad that Jazmine won’t be here, andespecially heartbroken that Dad isn’t alive to walk me down the aisle. Neitherof my parents is here.

At noontime, Francesca’s girlfriend arrives with ashitload of white dresses. I like that they’re all minimal and elegant, verycontemporary.

Mariella splays them on my bed, and I select theones that appeal to me the most.

The ladies provide feedback as I try them on. Atmy third dress, a strapless maxi style, an intense sensation immerses my body.

I beam at myself in the floor-length mirror,admiring the intricate floral details, the way the dress accentuates my curves,and how flowy and light the fabric feels.

Above all else, I’m surprised by the burst ofexcitement for Domenico to see me in this dress.

“Your eyes,” Mariella remarks in her thick accent.“They spark so much.”

“It is true,” Francesca adds. She smiles at mewhen I twist from the mirror. “You genuinely want to be with my brother.”

A smile tugs at my lips as I shyly admit, “Isuppose I do.”

“Ah!” Mariella dashes to the smaller bag shebrought. “I almost forgot jewelry.”

“Nico says no jewelry,” Francesca tells her.

I snort and motion to the dress. “I think a chokerwill go well with this style.”

“Trust me,” she insists. “No jewelry.”

I roll my eyes. “Fine.”

Mariella starts gathering the dresses on the bed.“You’re a beautiful bride.” She flicks to Francesca, affection in her gaze.

I smile at them.

“You must pack a bag as well,” Francesca informsme before leaving the room.

Pack a bag?

I didn’t even consider a honeymoon. Is Domenicotaking me somewhere? Will it be safe?

I pivot back to the mirror. Regret sets in at thethought of Jazmine. Perhaps Domenico will at least give me the chance to sharethe news with her.

Even if she can’t be with me, I want her to knowI’m getting married.

23

I’m checking numbers for the clubs with Fatherwhen someone knocks on the office door.

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