Page 112 of Gin & Trouble

“Grazie. We owe you and your family our lives.” I rested my hand on my heart.

She waved me off and left the room.

Frankie stood and filled two glasses with water from the pitcher by the window. “What did Marco say?”

“He and Leo are on Alicudi. Leo’s coming to get us tonight.”

“Tonight?” Her face fell. “How on earth will he find us in the dark? Wouldn’t it be better to wait until morning?”

“He’s being cautious. Less chance of us being seen. I don’t know what’s happened with theFratellanzasince we’ve been here, but it doesn’t sound good.” I hesitated to tell her the rest, but if we stood a chance in hell of making it, I had to be honest. “Giancarlo called for retribution because he should have been on the yacht, not me.”

“He isn’t wrong, but we both know I was the real target. Giancarlo was the bonus.” Frankie dipped her chin. “Dante, I hate to say it, but I think Mia and Ari were involved.”

“I had the same thought, but if I’ve learned anything since being with you, it’s not to assume the worst until you know the facts.”

“Funny, I could say the same thing.” She flashed me a devastating smile. “We should eat before Maria comes in and scolds us.”

33

Frankie

My first yearof boarding school in the United States had been tough. Everything was different. To make myself feel better, I’d close my eyes and conjure up every detail I could remember about home. The aromas of garlic and spices cooking in the kitchen, the soft texture of my well-worn quilt, the warmth of my dog curled against my legs.

Lying there, with Dante, all of those sensory memories came back. Other than curling up with a warm man instead of a Maltese, the tiny house by the sea reminded me of home—or maybe it wasn’t about the food or the quilt. Maybe it was Dante’s strong arms keeping me safe.

“I forgot to ask you what you wanted for Christmas.” He kissed the top of my head.

“Besides running water, I have everything I need.”

Chuckling, he whispered, “Public utilities aside, what do you want?”

“That’s it.” I propped my chin on my elbow. “Nothing personal, but we’ve only been able to do sponge baths. You stink.”

A slow lazy smile spread across his face. “You don’t smell like roses either, babe.”

“I’m serious.” Giggling, I plugged my nose.

He pulled me against his chest. “Kiss me.”

“It’s almost nighttime. Leo will be here soon.” I tried to pull away, but he held me in place.

“Kiss me.”

“No way. I’ve been brushing my teeth with baking soda for days.” I squirmed, trying to free myself of his grasp.

“I don’t care.” He rolled over, tucked me beneath him, and brushed his lips over mine.

As far as kisses went, it was chaste, but perfect for my anxious mood. “Happy now?”

He shook his head and did it again, only there was nothing sweet about the lip lock he laid on me. I felt it all the way to my toes.

Dante whispered, “I love you.”

I smiled though my chin quivered.

He rolled off me and ran his hand up and down my arm. “Did I hurt you? Are you okay?”

“I was so scared…”

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