Page 23 of Vincenzo's Promise
I opened the door, and a large bouquet of flowers and a smiling delivery man greeted me. “Delivery for Ms. Lombardo.”
“That’s me,” I said, enthusiastically reaching out for the flowers. I’d gotten used to receiving flowers from Vincenzo, and it was quickly becoming the best part of my day. “Thank you.”
The delivery man turned and made his way down the walkway, meeting Vincenzo on the way. I smiled, and he smirked, placing a kiss to my cheek when he made it to the door.
“Hey, sweetheart, you are as beautiful as I remember.”
“Thank you, Zo,” I said. “Come on in.”
“Those are beautiful. Who are they from?”
I looked at him warily, not sure if he was joking. He was the only person who sent me flowers. Who else would they be from?
“They aren’t from you?” I asked, closing the door and walking into the living room.
“No.” He shook his head. “The ones I got you are on the plane.”
“Really?”
“They’re not from me, Bella.”
Disappointed despite the beautiful arrangement of flowers in my hand, I pulled the card from the bouquet.
My smile quickly faded.
My beautiful Isabella,
It was great to finally see you again after such a long time. The few times I’d been able to see your beautiful smile made my heart grow fonder. I’ve longed to see you.
While I felt we needed some time apart so you could come to terms with your feelings for me, I’m back now. Well, I’ve been back for a few months, but now it’s time we take our relationship to the next level.
After I get rid of this man who seeks to take my place in your life and heart, I’ll make you love me, one way or the other. I’m tired of waiting for you to choose me and our love! I don’t understand why you continue to deny what’s between us.
I know you want to spend the rest of our lives together, just like I want to, in this life and the next. I’m not going anywhere, and he can’t keep you from me, no matter how much protection he places around you. I will see you very soon, my beautiful Isabella.
Very soon.
Love you always.
My heart stopped.
It couldn’t be.
I shook my head, and the vase of flowers slipped from my trembling hands onto the hardwood floors, shattering into pieces.
“Oh, my god. No…no.”
Vincenzo quickly wrapped his arms around me, pulling me into his body. Panic and anger filled his voice. “Bella, what’s wrong?”
“He found me,” I whispered against his broad chest. “Zo, he’s going to kill me this time.”
There was no way this could be happening.
Vincenzo took the card from my trembling hand. His eyes darkened as he read it, but he kept one arm tightly around me and pulled out his cellphone with the other.
“Angelo, meet me at the airstrip.Now!”
He slid the card into his pocket, body shaking in anger...or maybe it was mine quaking in fear. At this point, it was hard to tell.
