Page 127 of Crazed

She turns to Tristano. "You didn't tell me your brother was such a grouch in the morning."

"Not everyone can be as chipper as me. It's a good thing we're here to make sure they get their shit in order," he replies.

Pina motions to us, claiming, "You two are lucky you have such a devoted wedding party."

"Wedding party?" Massimo questions.

She nods. "Yeah. You can't get married without a best man and maid of honor."

"Says who?" he asks.

She scoffs. "Don't be ridiculous."

"Yeah, and it's not like I'm not your favorite brother," Tristano declares.

"Is that so?" Massimo replies.

"Anyway, time to get up," Pina repeats, tugging on the blankets again.

Massimo and I grip them tighter. He orders, "Get out and let us put our clothes on."

"Come on, Pina. Let's grab one of the mimosas Dekel left on the breakfast tray," Tristano suggests.

I sit up straighter, clutching the sheets to my chest. "Dekel was here? While we were sleeping?"

"Yep. That cat's more like a mouse. He's sneaky and quiet," Tristano claims.

Pina lifts the silver platter in the corner of the room then calls out, "Want me to butter you a piece of toast for the ride over to the spa? Or maybe add some jam?"

"No. I'm okay," I answer.

"Take the cart on the deck and make me a plate. I'm starving," Massimo orders.

She spins and puts her hand on her hip. She bats her eyes and says in a sugary voice, "You didn't say please. And I was asking Katiya. I'm not on the clock. It's Saturday."

Arrogance fills Massimo's face. "Really? Since when aren't you on the clock? Dante know that?"

She rolls her eyes and spins. She steps onto the deck and adds, "You have ten minutes to get ready."

Tristano grabs a piece of toast, bites into it, then drops it on the plate. "Needs butter." He wheels the cart outside and disappears.

Massimo lies back on the pillow.

"What are you doing?" I ask.

He flips me on my back and rolls over me.

My butterflies take off. I hold my breath.

His grin widens. "They can wait."

"I heard that, and no, we can't," Pina sings.

He groans and drops his head on my chest.

I kiss his forehead and laugh. "We should get in the shower."

He sighs then rises, holding out his hand. I take it, and he pulls me up. He studies me a moment then says, "I meant what I said. You're beautiful. Don't let them talk you into anything you don't want."

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