Page 41 of Hired By the Consigliere

"Ciao?"

"Ciao, Aurora." His voice sounded strange, almost bored but with an uncomfortable undertone. “I was calling to see if you would be available to go dress shopping with my sister and some of the other women in the family tomorrow. They would like to get to know you and thought that shopping for dresses for the engagement party would be a good way.”

“Just the girls?” I clarified because with things as awkward as they were with Enzo, I thought it might be better not having him around.

"Sì.I know it's not what we discussed but it would seem suspicious if you turned it down. I will pay you our Tuesday night bonus for the inconvenience of the shopping trip. Plus, cover whatever you buy on the trip of course."

"Sure. I'll need a dress anyway so I might as well go with them.” I tried to keep my voice professional and upbeat.

“Oh. Okay.” There was a silence on the phone for a moment before he spoke again. “I expected more push back, so I was ready to try to convince you.” His voice sounded a little lighter.

“It's just part of the job, right?”

“Right.” His voice dropped.

“How will I be paying for the dress?”

“I will have Franco drive you and send my credit card with him.”

“Okay. What’s the budget for the dress?” I tried to keep my voice as business-like as possible.”

“There is none. Get whatever you want. The dress, shoes, a matching purse if needed. You could pick up a few more dresses, too, if you'd like. I'm sure we're going to have other events coming up as well.”

“You’re sure?” I couldn't hide the shock in my voice.

“Of course. If this was a real engagement I would be spoiling you with all kinds of dresses, jewelry, accessories, and whatever your heart desires so it would only seem natural for them to see you shopping uninhibited.”

“Alright.”

“And Aurora?” Enzo said before I could hang up the phone. I waited for whatever he had to say. “I'm sorry. For how I acted yesterday. I—"

“It's fine.”

"It is?"

"Of course, it is."

"I wanted to apologize in person, but I couldn't wait."

"Really, Enzo. It's fine. There's nothing to be sorry for."

"Okay. Great. So, can I take you out to dinner tonight?"

"Sure."

Chapter 17

Aurora

I put on a great show for the press at dinner and every other outing Enzo arranged. I was affectionate, attentive, laughing like nothing was wrong. I'd managed to keep my feelings about Enzo and our situation hidden very well.

We'd gone out for dinner and dancing the night before I was due to go shopping with the girls. He led me back to the car and helped me inside before joining me. He started the car and pulled out onto the road, seemingly in a good mood.

"I was thinking that you should spend the night at my place tonight."

"Of course." I kept my tone casual as if it was no big deal.

"Really?"

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