Page 84 of Promise Maker

And I seriously cannot wait.

After cleaning me up, Domenico unties the bindsand whispers, “Goodnight,tesoro. You will sleep wellnow.” I tingle all over from the sensual kiss before his presence retreats asdiscreetly as he first appeared.

I finally remove the blindfold.

A pleased smile curves my lips, realizing mynerves have calmed. Indeed, I can sleep now.

26

It’s considerate of Francesca to find a blackstylist from Sicily who knows how to manipulate curly hair and do my makeupflawlessly.

I beam at my reflection once she’s through, lovinghow she styled my hair into neatfrenchbraids andadorned them with silver accessories that compliment my dress. She keeps mymakeup subtle for the warm summer weather, with a light bronzer on my cheeksand eyes and a soft gloss for my plump lips.

As Francesca and the skillful stylist leave theroom, Mrs. Martelli enters, carrying an antique box.

“I know it must feel bittersweet. You have nofamily on this day, and you’re not in your home.SoIwanted to give American traditions.” She sets the box on the dresser and opensit, taking out a classic white satin veil with crochet designs. “This issomething old and also something borrowed. My grandmother’s.” She secures theprecious fabric in my hair without disrupting my style.

“Thank you,” I say, deeply moved. “That’s so kindof you.”

She gently brushes my cheek, then retrieves a tinypowder blue ribbon from the box. “Something blue. I made this.” She ties itaround my wrist and holds my hand lovingly. “You are a beautiful bride,Solari.”

Tearing up, I lean forward to embrace her tightly.“Thank you. You’ve been so welcoming.”

“Oh.” Mrs. Martelli chuckles. “Because I know youare special to Nico.” She eases back and nods over her shoulder. “He’s anxiousto see you.”

The organ in my chest starts to thump even faster,and I anxiously wait as she opens the door, leaving when Domenico steps intothe room.

I press my hand at my heart as he bites offmassive chunks of it.

He’s more handsome than ever in his fitted graytux. Dark hair slicked back.

Heat pricks my most intimate part as he carrieshis enchanting gaze over me in amazement.

“Miodio,” he marvels onan exhale.“Sei così bello. Mi togli ilrespiro.”

I take his breathaway?

He’s doing the same damn thing to me.

The sincerity exuding from his presence fans melike a light breeze, causing me to lower my head shyly. “I’m guessing you likewhat you see.”

A nervous shiver rocks my body when he drawscloser, hooking his index beneath my chin and lifting my head.

“I love what I see,tesoro,”he grates hungrily and presses a soft kiss at my cheek.

My smile widens when he offers me the peach andpink bouquet. “For you.”

“Grazie.” I accept theflowers with a shaky hand and bring them to my nose, inhaling the fresh scent.

Domenico retrieves a small box from the inside ofhis jacket. “Alsofor you.”

“Oh wow,” I murmur when he opens it, revealing aglistening diamond necklace. “That’s so beautiful.”

“But not as beautiful as you.” His sweetcompliment stirs butterflies yet again. “This is something new,” he adds,putting the necklace on for me.

I shudder at the delicate touch of his fingersagainst my bare shoulders. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. Are you ready to become my wife,tesoro?”

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