Page 77 of Secret Baby for my Off-Limits Fiancé

The wine is rich and smooth, coating my throat like velvet. "It tastes incredible."

He nods, swirling the glass in his hand. "I thought we could start with this, then maybe, if you’re in the mood, I could pull some strings and get us into that place downtown."

I set my glass down. “No. No fancy plans tonight.”

He tilts his head, studying me. Like he's trying to figure me out. "Are you sure about that?"

I nod.

Because as long as we’re here, alone, it doesn’t have to be a performance.

It can just be us.

“We can order in. Something low-key.”

He chuckles, shaking his head. “I don’t think I’ve done that in a long time.”

“What? Stay in and eat Chinese food?” I laugh. “God, you really need to learn how to loosen up.”

He watches me, amused. “You say that like you’re the expert.”

“Oh, I am. And tonight, you’re my student.” I raise my glass. “But I have an idea. I think we should get to know each other better.”

Valentino lifts a brow. "Is this a trap?"

I roll my eyes. “It’s a game. Never Have I Ever. Ever heard of it?”

He smirks. “High school. But I have a feeling you’re about to ruin my reputation.”

“Maybe.” I bring my knees up to my chest. “I’ll start. Never have I ever been caught doing something I shouldn’t be doing.”

A grin stretches across his lips. He takes a slow sip. "Haven’t we all?"

“Spill.”

He chuckles, leaning closer. "High school. Under the bleachers. Coach wasn’t thrilled.”

My jaw drops. “Valentino Marchetti, a rule-breaker? Shocking.”

He shrugs. "You haven’t answered your own question."

I smirk, taking a sip from my glass.

His eyes glint. “Oh, this is going to be good.”

I exhale, mock dramatic. “Once, I got caught skinny dipping into a hotel pool after hours.”

His brows lift. “And?"

“And…let’s just say the security guard was not amused.”

Valentino chuckles. “I’m almost disappointed it wasn’t something more scandalous.”

“You’re so predictable.” I nudge him. “Your turn.”

He drags his gaze over me, tapping his fingers on his glass. “Never have I ever… wanted something I shouldn’t.”

My stomach flips.

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