Page 40 of Bound to Him

“I was hoping to see my fiancé, of course.”

“Of course, only, you see, she only ever wakes up at ten o'clock, sir.”

Seriously?

“Oh, well that’s good to know, isn’t it?” I said, pretending to be deflated at my plans not working out.

The butler chuckled, his nerves settling back down. “It is, yes sir.”

“I won’t bother you any longer; I’ll make sure to call ahead next time.”

“Thank you, sir.”

He closed the door. I smiled to myself, then sighed. I felt sad, knowing that it was the last time I’d be seeing Olivia alone, in any romantic capacity. I couldn’t deal with that fact right now, not yet. I turned around, ready to bullshit the Romano soldiers once again, when I stopped cold.

Parked behind my G-wagon was a black BMW i8, and walking toward me, was Mr. Sleazebag himself, Christian Reyes. He wore a stupid linen suit and smiled as he approached me.

“Mr. Moretti, Huxley, was it?”

“Yes, and you are…” I shook his hand, looking at him questioningly.

“Christian Reyes.” He smiled. “A business associate of Don Romano.”

“I see.”

“Were you on your way out?”

“Yes, ah,” I turned around and looked back at the door, “apparently, it’s too early for coffee with my fiancé.”

We chuckled politely, or rather, faked polite chuckles.

“Before you leave, I’ve been meaning to arrange a sit-down with you.”

“Oh?”

“Yes, ah, how about you join me for drinks, say, Saturday at six? At my club, Classella?”

I didn’t have much time to think it over, he was putting me on the spot. But I’d never been one to pussy out. “You know what? Sure, I’ll be there.”

“Excellent! I’ll see you then!”

He turned and headed for the door while I got back into my car. I had no idea what to make of this, but if it kept me closer to Olivia and her new life, I’d fucking be there.

18

Olivia

While I showered and dressed for the day, I tried not to cry. Last night was the most amazing night of my entire life, and I knew now that I most certainly was in love with Huxley Moretti. His way of loving me was so unique—a forceful sexuality with such a caring, compassionate touch. He was funny, sexy, loving, and kind. How the fuck was I going to move on from this man?

Better yet, how the fuck was I going to live with him as my brother-in-law, strutting around all the time in his sexy confident way, without being able to pull him to me and kiss him?

How the fuck was I going to live, knowing he was screwing my sister?

No. No, I couldn’t deal with that, not now anyway. I finished up my makeup, gave my already straight hair a little more straightening, then headed down to breakfast.

In the kitchen, I kissed Cousin Ziggy’s cheek and asked, “Where is everyone? Aren’t we having breakfast this morning?”

“Your father is out on the pool terrace; your sister and brother haven’t shown themselves yet.” She shrugged. “Oh, and there is a visitor. Some man named Mr. Reyes.”

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