by Ella Jade
“Ahh.” I spread my legs. “Yes, just like that.”
Turning his head, he pushed his tongue deeper. Kissing me there. He squeezed my back side as he brought me closer to his face, greedily licking and sucking until my legs quivered.
Rocking my hips forward as I ran my fingers through his hair, I tugged on his dark locks. The sweat trickled down my back as my core tightened. Closing my eyes, I screamed out half his name in a faint voice before a rush of pleasure took hold of me.
My heart pounded inside my chest as he stood, taking my face between his hands and kissing me hard. Sharing where he’d been. I licked my lips when he broke the kiss. Lifting me up, he tossed me on the bed.
“Savage.” I giggled, spreading my legs for him.
“I’ll show you savage.” He shot me the most wicked smile. “I know how much you like it.”
He unzipped his jeans, revealing his fantastic erection. Taking off his pants and boxers, he kicked them to the side before joining me on the bed. Taking my ankles, he scooted me closer to him, draping my legs around his hips. With one jolt forward he was buried inside me as far as my core would allow.
“Fuck!” He clenched his jaw, holding still as he acclimated himself to me. “Have I thanked you for going on the pill?”
“Several times.”
“Good,” he breathed out as he thrust into me.
“Vincenzo...” I still hadn’t lost the high from the last climax but I was already on the cusp of the next one. “Harder.”
He obliged my request. Raising my legs in the air, he pushed inside me, moving faster and harder than before. Resting my ankles on his shoulders, he continued his furious pace as I delved toward total bliss.
Grasping the comforter beneath me, I elevated my hips to meet his forceful actions thrust for thrust. Up, down, in, out, over and over again. He gripped my hips, digging his fingers into my skin and roared out his pleasure, spilling into me. Hot, long, and ever so delicious. This...
“I can’t move.” I opened my eyes to find him staring at me. “At all.”
He slipped out of me, and gently removed my legs from his shoulders. “How about a hot bath?” He lowered himself onto to me, kissing my jaw and neck. “I’ll wash your hair.”
“Do we have time?” I kissed his shoulder, noting how well the scar had healed in such a short time.
“We have all the time in the world.” He brushed his lips along my breasts, kissing and licking my nipples. The tingling between my legs intensified when he slid his hand between them.
“What are you doing?”
“Nothing.” He circled his thumb along my inner thigh.
“It doesn’t feel like nothing.”
“It can’t be helped.” He bit down on my aroused nipple, tugging on it. “I can’t get enough of you.”
“We better take this into the bathroom,” I suggested. “We’re never going to make it to the winery if we don’t get out of this bed.”
“We could skip it.” He swirled his tongue over my breasts. “They won’t miss us.”
“Really?” I rocked my hips against his hand.
“Not really,” he murmured against my neck. “My mother will send someone for us.”
“I do want to wear that dress.” I pushed on his chest. “Come on, let’s get ready.”
“I’m being rejected for a dress?”
“I would never reject you.” I kissed him before hopping off the bed. “Let’s skip the bath for a shower.” I held out my hand. “We can get creative.”
“My creativity knows no bounds when it comes to you.” He took my hand and followed me to the bathroom. “Let me show you.”
VINCENZO
I ended the call with Dominick. His news wasn’t what I’d wanted to hear tonight but it couldn’t be helped. He assured me everything would be fine. I had to convince Nadia of that. I couldn’t keep her in a bubble forever but I’d be damned if I would ever let anyone hurt her.
As Nadia made her way into the foyer, I couldn’t take my gaze away from her. The dress was absolute perfection. It was made for her. The slit on the side accentuated her toned thigh but it was the low-cut back that revealed her flawless skin that stopped the show. The silver stilettos were higher than she normally wore but they complemented the dress. I was certain she’d have no issues maneuvering in them. She’d done her hair and makeup in record time, but then again, when a woman was as stunning as she was, she didn’t need a whole lot of extras.
“Well?” She twirled in a slow circle, allowing me to examine all of her delicate curves, her smooth skin, and the vibrant spark in her unique eyes. “What do you think?”
What do I think? I’m in love.
“You’re amazing.” I took her in my arms, bringing her close to me not sure this would be the right time to blurt out my latest revelation. I’d known for a few days that what I felt for her was more than devotion. More than a physical attraction. Now that the dust had settled from our initial meeting, there was no doubt in my mind she was my entire world. “I’m going to be the luckiest man there tonight. I’m honored you want to be my date.”
“The honor is mine, Vincenzo.” When she kissed my lips, a fire scorched through me. She’d created an awareness within me that I never knew existed. Had anything existed before her? “These last few weeks have been the stuff dreams are made of.”
Exactly. “It’s easy to make your dreams come true.”
“How come?”
“They’re the same as mine.”
“You’re so sweet.” When she rested her palm on my cheek and gazed into my eyes with a dreamy look in hers, I wanted to bare my soul to her. “Thank you.”
“For what?”
“Too many things to mention.” She kissed my cheek. “But I’ll start with the dress and shoes. It was very thoughtful of you to make sure I had something so incredible to wear tonight. It’s a special evening for your family.”
“I’m so proud of all of Sal’s accomplishments. He and my mother are quickly putting Boss Wine on the map.” I ran my hand along her back as I led her into the hall. “You’re a huge part of it.”
“I designed a few logos for the winery and updated the website. I was happy to help.”
“My mother won’t work with anyone else going forward.”
“She’s a riot. I love how she interacts with Sal. They’re very funny together.”
“She has a special bond with all of her boys.” I pressed the button on the elevator. “She enjoys you.”
As we stepped onto the elevator, I took her hand in mine. I had to tell her about my brief conversation with Dominick before we arrived at the winery. I didn’t want to spoil the evening before we got there but I couldn’t blindside her.
“Dominick called when you were getting ready,” I said. “He had some information that you should know before we get to the opening.”
“What is it?”
“It seems my father has extended the olive branch this evening and invited Antonio.”
“Oh?” Much to my dismay, the color left her cheeks and her eyes weren’t as spirited as a few minutes ago. That wouldn’t do.
“He didn’t accept until a few hours ago. That’s why we’re only finding out about it now.”
“Franco?” She tightened her grip on my hand. “He won’t be there.”
“No.” My family would never associate with him again. “Never him.”
She didn’t say anything as the doors opened and we entered the parking garage. Tommy was waiting for us in my designated spot.
“There’s going to be plenty of people there tonight. The chances of you interacting with your...” I cleared my throat. “Antonio are slim. I’ll be with you all night to run interference in case.”
“That’s very kind of you but eventually I’m going to have to face him.”
“It doesn’t have to be tonight but I wanted you to know he and his wife will be there.”
“Thanks for the warning.”
“If you’re too
uncomfortable we can skip it.”
“Of course not.” She kissed me. “I love your family. Nothing would make me miss this. Not even my mob boss father with the psychotic son who happens to be my brother. The one who shot you and kidnapped me.”
“That’s some description.”
“I know.” When she giggled, I couldn’t help but smile. “I’ll be fine. Do you know why?”
“Because you’re incredibly strong, brave, and wonderful?”
“Well, yeah. That goes without saying.” She took both my hands in hers and faced me. “I have you by my side.”
“There isn’t any place else I’d want to be.”
Chapter Twenty-Four
NADIA
No More Secrets
As we walked up the stone path to the opening of Marchelli Winery, my heart raced inside my chest. I was certain it was well above my normal resting rate. Having Vincenzo on my arm provided some comfort but my anxiety rose with each step we took forward.
“Vince,” a photographer called as we climbed the steps to the stained-glass double doors. “Can we get a picture?”
“Sure.” His charismatic smile had everyone flocking to him and before I knew it there were at least five photographers snapping quick photos. He wrapped his arm around my waist and leaned close to me. After a few moments, he held up his hand. “Thank you.”
“Just a couple more,” one of them shouted as we walked inside amid their flashing bulbs.
“They’re persistent,” I said.
“They always are but at least my family is in the spotlight for something positive tonight.” He took my hand and led me into the elaborate foyer. “Although some of them will spin it that the winery is a front and we’re laundering money.”
“Oh.” I had never thought to ask that question when they hired me to design the logos.
“Don’t worry, we’re not.” He winked. “I’ll be busy making calls to publishers having them retract their lies.”
“Your family keeps you on your toes.”
“Don’t I know it?”
“This place is incredible.” I gazed around the Old World Italy inspired theme. “I knew it would be amazing but this exceeds anything I could have imagined. Your mother is something else.”
The winery sat on several acres, nestled in a small suburb of New Jersey not far from the Marchelli estate. The quant venue was equipped to host weddings and private functions as well as trendy wine tastings every weekend. The mayor was thrilled for what it would do for the economy in the town.
“This has always been a dream of my fathers. My mom made it happen.”
“It’s gorgeous.”
“I was thinking the same thing about you.” I kissed her cheek. “I’m the luckiest man here.”
“You always know what to say and when to say it.”
“Are you still nervous about seeing Antonio?”
“Do you think he’ll show up?” Maybe I worried for nothing. This was such an important night for Vincenzo’s family. I didn’t want to ruin it for him.
“It doesn’t matter.” He squeezed my hand. “You don’t owe him anything tonight.”
“Okay.” I took a deep breath. “It is what it is.”
“I’ll be by your side.”
“My protector.”
“Always.” When he took me into his arms and kissed me, my anxiety settled down. He had a way of centering me and helping me realize that everything would fall into place.
“There you are.” Jennie approached us. “I was worried you weren’t coming.”
“We wouldn’t miss this.” Vincenzo hugged his mother. “Sorry we’re late.”
When he smirked, I couldn’t help but remember that extra long shower we shared. And how many times he’d made me...
“Nadia.” Jennie reached for me, kissing both of my cheeks. “You are as stunning as ever. Is this from the boutique?” She motioned toward my dress.
“Yes, Vincenzo surprised me with it today.”
“I raised him right.” She grinned. “Didn’t I?”
“Now if only you could have a do over with Gianni.” Vincenzo laughed.
“Don’t talk about my baby.”
Jennie swore she didn’t play favorites when it came to her boys and I believed her, but she had a special connection with Gianni. He was her wild child. The one who required extra attention from his mama.
“Your father is in the ballroom,” she said. “He wants to see you.”
“Business?” Vincenzo winced. “Tonight?”
“I told him to make it fast because tonight is supposed to be fun.” His mother took my hand. “There are some people I want to introduce you to. There are plenty of business owners here who could use some web designs. I’ve been bragging about you all night.”
“Thank you.” I glanced at Vince. “You go see your dad. I’ll be fine.”
“I’ll get us some champagne and meet you in the ballroom.” He let go of my hand. “I won’t be long.”
“Perfect.” I kissed his cheek. “See you soon.”
“In a few minutes.” When he stared into my eyes, I never wanted him to leave.
“You could have been gone and back by now. Young love!” Jennie laughed. “I’m stealing her for a bit.”
I giggled as she led me away from him and through a crowd of people who were lingering in the foyer drinking wine and mingling. This was one elaborate party.
“You like my son.”
“Very much.” I nodded. “You really did do an amazing job with him.”
“He’s always been a good guy. I’m so happy he’s found someone to share his life with.” We stopped walking once we reached the terrace doors. “I worry about all of my boys. It’s what a mother does, but I hope my other boys are as lucky in love as Vincenzo.”
Love?
“Mrs. Marchelli.” A woman rushed over to us. “I’m sorry to interrupt but we have an issue in the kitchen that needs your attention.”
“Is it serious?” Jennie asked.
“Nothing major but we’d like your opinion.” The frazzled woman fidgeted with her hands. “With this being the first night we don’t want to disappoint you.”
“Will you excuse me, Nadia?”
“Of course, I’ll meet you in the main room.”
“Perfect.” She headed in the direction of the kitchen, calling over her shoulder. “You and Vincenzo are sitting with the Marchellis tonight.”
I waved as she hurried away. I could use that champagne right about now. Eating with Vince, Dominick, Gianni, Salvatore, and Santino was always entertaining but it kept me on my toes. Most of the time I didn’t have to say anything. The five of them kept me, Jennie, and Dante quite engaged. I loved listening to stories of their childhood. They were so close to one another. Sometimes I envied their connection.
“Sitting with the Marchellis?” a voice said from behind me. “You’ve grown quite close to them these past few weeks.”
I turned to find Antonio facing me. My throat constricted and my stomach flipped when I gazed into his dark eyes. I hadn’t seen him since that night in the warehouse. The same warehouse where I’d witnessed his son murder someone. How many others had suffered the same fate at the hands of Antonio and Franco?
“Nadia.” When he smiled his expression softened. I could see myself in his features. That’s weird. “I hoped I’d see you tonight. If I’m being honest, it’s the reason I came.”
“Why?”
“Because I think it’s time we get to know one another.”
“What if I don’t want to know you?” My tone was soft, almost uncertain but I wasn’t sure why. “Until a month ago, I didn’t even know you existed.”
“Your mother and I thought that was for the best.”
“Because people get kidnapped, shot at, and killed in your world?”
He didn’t say anything. Perhaps my attitude surprised him but why should I hold back after what his son had done to me?
“It looks as if you fou
nd a way into my world anyway.”
“Vincenzo is nothing like you or Franco.”
“No, he isn’t but his father is and so are his brothers. Don’t be fooled by this winery. On Monday, it will be business as usual for the Marchellis. You have to decide if that’s a life you truly want. The life that your mother fought so hard to keep you out of.”
“The last time I checked, the only danger I’ve ever been in was because of your son.”
“I’m very sorry about that.” He shook his head. “So is Franco. If I had told him the truth about you or if your mother and I had handled things differently maybe you wouldn’t be so hostile toward me. I was only doing what I thought was right for you. I kept my distance against my better judgment because I’d caused your mother enough pain but I was never far.”
“You supported me.”
“Of course I did, you’re my child. The same as my others.”
“I thought I’d gotten a scholarship for school but you paid for it.” There were so many signs but I chose not to see them. My mother and I were still working on getting past the trust issues I now had when it came to her.
“You were never going to believe that your mother could afford to send you to school, so I set up the scholarship and made sure all of your expenses were taken care of. You also have a trust fund just as my other children do.”
“I don’t want that.”
“It’s yours.” He shrugged. “Donate it if you want. I can’t force you to keep it.”
“You can’t force a relationship with me either.”
“I respect that.”
“Why did you come if you respect that?”
“Because I had to see you. That night in the warehouse was not the way I ever anticipated our first meeting to go.”
“Did you think you would meet me?”
“I understood why your mother did what she did.” He stepped closer to me, his tall, imposing stature towered over me. “Now that you have been exposed to my world, I’m hoping you’ll keep an open-mind and maybe get to know me. Your siblings too.”
“I appreciate you reaching out tonight but I’m still not sure if...” I’d waited my whole life to meet my father and now he stood right in front of me. Why couldn’t he be a doctor or a teacher? A mailman, a truck driver, a plumber... anything but a Mob boss.
