Page 130 of Betrayed in the Dark
Madeleine pats Vin on the chest. “Don’t worry, dear brother. There’s nothing quick about the way we do it.”
He grimaces before dragging a hand down his face. “Alex!”
Alex strolls up casually. “Are we ready?” We all nod, and he gestures for us to follow him inside.
Madeleine steps after him, glancing over her shoulder at me. Her long, dark hair caresses her bare shoulders. The strapless black velvet dress hugs her figure, accentuating every part of her body that I just ran my lips over merely hours ago.
Vin and I follow closely as we walk through a sea of people.
We enter the main room of the venue, where the rehearsal dinner is being held, bypassing the gold curtains when Alex mentions, “By the way, the family just arrived.”
“The family?” Madeleine regards Vin with wide eyes. “You don’t mean our—”
“Cousins.” A gravelly voice comes from behind me, and I quickly turn to find five intimidating figures standing before us: Marco, Caine, Romeo, Cassio, and Marcello Marchetti. They’re cousins of the Alaries and currently reside in Italy when they’re not in the States for business.
“Family.” Vin takes a step forward, straightening his jacket. “We’re honored you could be here.”
Madeleine glances at Vin, arching a brow.
“They know the wedding is off, but they’re not here to witness your vows; they’re here as our backup, should we need it.” Vin clasps my shoulder. “I told you to trust me.”
“Anything for family,” Marco declares coolly, running his fingers through his dark hair. “Especially when someone tries to hurt one of our own.”
Alex takes a step toward Caine, eyeing his tactical gear. “You look ready for battle. Not a wedding.”
“From what I’ve been told, I dressed appropriately,” Caine responds with a shrug. He turns to Vin and adds, “I heard yougot everyone tanks for Christmas.” A sly grin pulls at his lips. “They must have loved that.”
Vin rolls his eyes, crossing his arms over his chest. “Some more than others.”
Leo walks up to Madeleine’s side and leans down to place a kiss on her cheek. “Scarlett and I thought it would be best for her to stay home today. Being in close proximity to the Vasiliev brothers might trigger old memories for her, given her knowledge of who their father was. Alina is keeping her company.”
“Of course,” Madeleine responds. She looks around the room. “Where’s Mauro?”
Alex adjusts his glasses. “Don’t know. He was here a few minutes ago. Maybe he went to get some air. You know Mauro has a hard time in crowds.”
Madeleine frowns. “With everything going on, I didn’t even think of that. He should go home if he wants. It’s not like this is real, anyway.”
“He wanted to be here for you,” Vin states. “Besides, we’ll need the numbers.”
“Oh, boys, there you are.” Mrs. Alarie appears, stepping around Vin and opening her arms to the Marchetti men, embracing each one in a hug. Vin had informed her earlier about the unfolding situation, and to say that she was upset with Alastor would be an understatement. Despite Vin’s objections, she insisted on being here at least for the start of the evening to present a united front for the Alarie family. Reluctantly, he agreed. “We’re always so happy to see you.”
“Some more than others,” Leo mutters under his breath. She gently smacks his shoulder and narrows her eyes at him.
“And how is my dear brother doing?” she asks.
“Enjoying retirement,” Romeo responds with a grin.
“Mrs. Alarie.” A woman in a chef’s coat appears. “Sorry to interrupt, but we need you in the kitchen. It seems there was a mix-up with the proteins; there’s too much fish and not enough steak.”
Mrs. Alarie sighs. “Of course.” She glances around at everyone before adding, “Well, if you’ll excuse me.”
“Mother,” Vin voices, stopping her. “Don’t forget our deal and to meet your driver outside in twenty minutes. I’d rather you weren’t here for the remainder of the evening in case things don’t go well.” He leans over and kisses her cheek. “I had the chef prepare a bag for you to take home.”
She pats his bicep and shows a small smile. “Always looking out for me.”
Everyone bids her farewell as she walks away.
Romeo turns toward the group. “So, what’s the plan?”
