Page 15 of The Bonventi War
Focus on what you can control, Raven, I think to myself.
If Gio thinks he can control me, he's in for one hell of a surprise. I may be stuck with him as a neighbor for now, but I'll be damned if I let him dictate my life.
After my shower, I dress quickly in a black sleeveless dress that falls just above my knees and a pair of strappy heels. I do my makeup and give myself one last look in the mirror.
I grab my purse and head out, deliberately avoiding even a glance in Gio's direction as I pass the chaos of his move-in. I can feel his eyes on me, burning a hole in my back, but I don't give him the satisfaction of acknowledgment.
The summer air hits my face as I exit onto the street, and I breathe deeply, finally feeling some form of freedom. I check my phone—just enough time to make it to Sufra's Bistro, where I'm meeting Marcus, an old friend I haven't seen in years. We used to date briefly, and when he learned I was back in Chicago, I thought seeing a familiar face would do me some good. Plus, he's still pretty cute.
The restaurant's patio is busy when I arrive, but I spot Marcus immediately. He stands as I approach, pulling me into a warm hug. "Well, look who finally decided to grace Chicago with her presence again. Italy's been good to you. You look amazing!"
"You don't look so bad yourself," I say, settling into my chair. The waiter appears with a bottle of prosecco.
"I thought it would be fitting given your recent return."
"Yes, it's great," I say as the waiter pours our glasses.
I take a sip, and the taste mixed with the warm sun on my skin makes me think of the small cafe I used to visit in Florence. God, how I wish I was back there.
But I let myself relax. Marcus's easy laughter and familiar face help, just as I hoped they would.
"So, tell me," Marcus leans forward, "what's new in the world of Raven Carvello? Still saving priceless masterpieces?"
I laugh. I knew I could count on Marcus not to bring up my brother. That's all anyone I've run into since returning has instantly asked.
"You could say that. I'm looking over the gallery now, and that's a bit of a challenge. But nothing I can't handle."
Marcus reaches across the table, his hand covering mine. "The Raven I knew was always able to figure things out. I know you're going to thrive here. God, it's really good to see you."
The compliment warms me, and I feel a bit shy as Marcus gazes into my eyes. I glance around, suddenly feeling vulnerable, and that's when I see it—a sleek black Rolls-Royce pulling up to the curb.
My chest tightens, and my heart feels like it's going to explode in my chest.
No. Not here. Not now.
Gio emerges from the car like a wolf from its den. His eyes lock onto me immediately, and he strides toward us without losing eye contact.
Marcus follows my gaze. "Friend of yours?"
"No."
"Who is he?" Marcus asks.
Before I can answer, Gio is at our table. His presence seems to suck all the oxygen from around us.
"Raven." His voice is low, with a hint of anger. "We need to go."
I straighten my spine, meeting his gaze. "Uh, no. I'm having lunch with a friend. I'll see you later, I suppose."
His jaw tightens. "This isn't a request. We're leaving. Now."
I laugh and take a sip of my prosecco. "I wasn't aware I needed your permission to have lunch with a friend."
Marcus stands, confused but protective. "Hey, man, I don't know who you are, but?—"
Gio's gaze snaps to him, and Marcus falters. "Sit the fuck down," Gio commands. "This doesn't concern you."
I snap, looking up at him. "Go. Away."
