Page 22 of Influence

“Hey, could we get a dog like this for Cali? She loves animals and having one might bring her a sense of security without overwhelming her.”

“Yes, I think that’s a wonderful idea. I’ll take care of it,” he agreed. “You’re such a wonderful sister. Cali is lucky to have you.”

“We’re lucky to have each other,” I replied, feeling tears well up in my eyes.

The weight of guilt clung to me, a constant reminder of Cali’s kidnapping. As her older sister, I’d felt it was my role to shield her, and the thought that I had failed gnawed at my insides.

Niko lifted my hand, and his warm lips brushed against the back. As he smiled, a silent understanding passed between us, his thumb tracing delicate circles in the softness of my palm. An electric flutter coursed through me, awakening every nerve at the intimacy of his gesture, while the unwavering confidence in his gaze sent my heart racing.

But then, like a shadow creeping in, doubts about our upcoming marriage crashed over me.

What was I getting myself into?

Niko exuded self-assuredness, his touch and kisses flowing so effortlessly that they unsettled me. I felt like a fish out of water, unsure how to mirror his affection. Each moment was an uncharted sea, and my inexperience loomed like a storm, threatening to capsize my heart.

I abruptly pulled my hand back, casting my eyes toward the dogs, longing for some distraction.

“One more thing,” he said, in a playful lilt. “We have an appointment coming up.”

“Where?” I asked, my curiosity piquing.

“I arranged some private time with my favorite jeweler.”

“Jeweler?” I echoed, my eyes widening with surprise and anticipation.

“Of course.” He shrugged. “I can’t make you my wife without giving you a proper ring, don’t you think?”

I felt my cheeks heat up. “Niko, I hope you understand that nothing extravagant is necessary. Perhaps just a simple gold band…”

“A simple gold band would be completely unsuitable for my bride.”

“Niko, no, I?—”

“We’ll leave in an hour. I hope that’s enough time for you to settle in. If not, I can reschedule the appointment.”

His firm stance left no room for debate, so I refrained from arguing. Instead, I expressed my gratitude and decided to find Cali to introduce her to our new furry companions. I discovered her relaxing on the stone patio behind the mansion, just under the terrace. She was lounging on a chair, enjoying the sunshine. In the yard, the leaves of Niko’s oak tree, Dryad, danced and created shadows on the grass below.

When Cali saw the dogs, she squealed with delight, confirming my choice. She buried her face in their fur and hugged them tightly. The dogs, in response, wagged their tails even more vigorously and squirmed with joy, completely taken by her affection just as she was by them. This was the happiest I had seen Cali in a long time. Maybe, just maybe, everything would work out well after all.

Two hours later, Niko drove me to a luxurious home nestled several miles away from our estate, its grandeur evident even from the driveway. As we stepped out of the car, I glanced around, unsure.

“I thought we were heading to a jeweler,” I remarked, curiosity tinged with confusion.

“We are,” he replied, a playful glimmer dancing in his eyes. “I never claimed it was a store.”

When the door swung open, an older gentleman appeared, eyes sparkling with delight at the sight of Niko. Without hesitation, he swept Niko into an exuberant embrace, his laughter echoing through the entryway.

“Spiro!” Niko exclaimed, returning the hug with equal warmth.

“My boy, Niko! It’s such a joy to see you!” Spiro exclaimed with genuine affection.

I stood close by, a smile breaking across my face as I witnessed the energy of their joyful reunion.

“You too, Spiro.” Niko pulled back, his gaze locking onto Spiro’s brilliant azure eyes with an intensity that spoke volumes. “Thank you for having us.”

With his wild gray curls framing his beaming face, Spiro wore tailored trousers that complemented his forest-green shirt. A plaid vest added flair, and a jeweler’s loupe hung around his neck like a badge of honor.

“Are you kidding? I was overjoyed to receive your call, dear Niko. I’ve been eagerly anticipating that you’d need my expertise for such an important milestone in your life.”

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