Page 26 of Christmas with the Mafia
He sips his brandy, the amber hues of the alcohol reflecting against the fire in his dark eyes.
“I mean, it’s a great story, isn’t it? There I was shivering on the red carpet after having been majestically extractedfrom the ball, only to run into Prince Charming on the way in. You just couldn’t make that shit up?”
He raises his eyes. “I would prefer it if you didn’t swear.”
“Excuse me.”
He leans forward, and my heart is giving me palpitations as his gaze burns into mine.
“If we are going to pull this off, you must be a lady. No swearing, no excessive drinking and polite manners on all occasions.”
“Oh.”
I’m taken aback a little, and his gaze sweeps over me like the x-ray machine at the airport security, scanning me for concealed weapons that I could use against him. At least, that’s how it feels.
“My family is very discerning and at no point must believe this is a fabricated relationship. They must believe you are in love with me for this to work.”
‘’Of course.”
I wish there were another shot of brandy to steady my nerves because suddenly my agreement is biting back hard.
“Tomorrow we will head to Harry Winston to purchase your engagement ring, and after that, to Bergdorf Goodman on Fifth Avenue to select your clothing and accessories. You will require enough outfits for seven days covering all social occasions. Gifts will need to be purchased for all of my family and the servants.”
“Servants?”
He nods, gazing thoughtfully into my eyes, his darkened gaze lazily caressing every part of me as it slides the length of my body. Coupled with the fire burning insideme and the one in the grate, I am almost hyperventilating right now.
He adds, “Then we will return to New York in the new year and our mission will be accomplished.”
“Our mission?”
My voice is husky, a little breathless because it’s only now that I understand exactly what I have agreed to.
“Mission, contract, call it what you like. First thing in the morning, you will complete the necessary paperwork before we head off to secure the items needed.”
“Paperwork?”
“The contract. I will pay you for your time, and you will sign a non-disclosure agreement and accept the role as offered.”
My mind is racing, but one thing is worrying me about this, and I ask nervously, “I’m not sure I can spare a whole day tomorrow.”
He raises his eyes. “Why not?”
“My business, Nico. There are several orders to fulfill, not to mention the ones from today and those that will land in my inbox in the morning. When you are a successful influencer and entrepreneur like I am, it’s set up twenty-four seven. There are no days off, or closure signs placed on the proverbial door because my business is open every hour of the day and week. I have responsibilities, and taking off for the day shopping isn’t really an option right now.”
He says nothing and merely stares at me with a blank expression before shrugging as he sets his glass down.
“Give me the key to your condo. The password to your computer and necessary apps that bring in the orders. I will arrange for someone to fulfill the orders onyour behalf.”
“No.”
My eyes widen with alarm at the thought of anyone else delving into my world.
“No?”
His eyes raise to the heavens, and I say fiercely, “It’s my business, Nico. Would you allow the same if anyone asked that of you?”
I fix him with a fierce glare, and he nods. “You make a good point. We will stop at your apartment first and deal with the issue before heading to Harry Winston for our ten o’clock appointment.”
