Page 47 of Deception

“Just lucky you found your way here. And that your little rental car made it.” Adriano smirks.

“I'm grateful. I have no clue how I’ll get it back to town.”

“Oh, I'm sure we'll find a way.” Something about the way he says it makes me tense up.

“I do appreciate everything the two of you have done for me. It's definitely something that I don't know how I'll ever repay.” I glance to the side, the sentiment feeling as hollow as my excuses. I mean, I am thankful they let me stay.

“Well, I'm sure you’ll think of something.” He looks at me, watches me lock up. “I’m kidding, of course.”

I join him laughing, even if mine is a lot more nervous.

“Well, I’ll see you around, I guess,” I offer.

“Likewise. I’m sure we’ll talk again.” I can’t decide if it’s a statement of goodwill or a threat.

“I understand if not, you like your privacy. And I don't blame you. We're kind of in close quarters here, unable to escape.”

“Right. Still, I suppose I should’ve been a better host in my own home. Even so, if you wouldn’t mind?” He points toward the door, inviting me to leave.

“Ah, um, yes. Sorry again.” I shuffle awkwardly toward the entryway.

“I don’t want Aless to get upset with you, that’s all.”

It’s an excuse for getting me to go and I take it gladly.

“Right. Thank you, Adriano.” This time, I mean it. The last thing I want to do is piss off Alessandro Diamante.

“No worries. It will be our little secret.”

And like that, he ushers me out and shuts the door. A strangled sigh escapes me as I hurry back down the stairs toward the landing, turning the corner.

Where I run smack dab into Alessandro.

10

ALESSANDRO

Ibite my lip to avoid making a sound as Isabella turns the corner, looking back over her shoulder. She yelps as she runs right into my chest, bouncing back.

I catch her, gripping her arms to keep her from falling back.

“Alessandro! You scared the shit out of me.”

“What were you up to?” The shocked and nervous expression almost makes me think she just got caught doing something she wasn't supposed to be doing.

“I was just…” Her eyes narrow, catching the smirk on my lips. “You’re messing with me.”

“Maybe a little.”

Her gaze turns heated, a little anger, a little sass.

“You are?—”

“What?” I love the way her lips stay parted, ready to snap back at me with a scathing remark.

Our eyes lock, our bodies inching closer to one another.

I almost lose myself, leaning down, tilting her head up with the crook of one finger just below her chin.

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