Page 131 of Peasants and Kings
“Are you ready?”
Was I? Not even a little bit. I wasn’t prepared to tell my family the truth, but the sooner it was out in the open, the sooner it would be behind us.
“What happens if they don’t believe me?” I asked, my voice low.
“If they don’t believe your words, then you’ll show them your eyes. It’s an undeniable Moretti trait.”
“And then what?”
“Then they leave, and our lives return to normal. Dinners on the terrace, helicopter rides to Lerwick to go exploring, taking Aegir out and sightseeing the other islands. Whatever we want, Sterling.”
I shook my head and pressed my hand to his lapel. “No, I meant, what does this mean for me and my family? You have business dealings with them, but I don’t want them in my life, Hadrian.”
“Then they won’t be.” He took my hand and brought it to his lips. “After tonight, you’ll never have to see them again if you don’t want to.”
Our moment was interrupted by a knock on the door. Hadrian called, “Come in,” and Ingrid popped her head inside.
“They’re here,” she announced.
“Thank you. We’ll be right out.”
The door closed, giving us privacy once again. Shivering in trepidation, I quickly put on the earrings and necklace, and then Hadrian escorted me out of the bedroom to the den. Feeling the need to be protected, I appreciated his possessive touch now more than ever.
I forced a megawatt smile for our guests, who were already waiting in the den. Hadrian released me and then Luca took my hand and brought it to his lips in greeting, which made Hadrian take an unmistakable step closer to me.
“Gentlemen,” I welcomed. “Good evening. What can I get everyone to drink?”
I went to the liquor cart after taking their orders, and I wasn’t surprised when Luca sidled up next to me.
“Your boyfriend doesn’t like me very much,” he said.
“He’s not my boyfriend,” I said automatically.
“Oh?” His eyes scanned my ears. “Nice earrings.”
“Thank you.” I handed Luca his Compari and soda.
“If he’s not your boyfriend, what is he?”
“That’s none of your business.”
He took a sip of his drink and then sighed. “Can I give you a word of advice?”
“I’d rather you didn’t.”
Luca blinked and then a crack of laughter escaped his lips. “All right then.”
“How’s the guest house?” I asked.
“Very comfortable. A home away from home.”
“Why do I remind your father of Barrett Campbell?” I asked, my gaze sliding to a distant Hadrian. He was conversing with Nico and Angelo, and Tor sat by himself slightly farther away. Definitely the broody silent type.
Luca smiled slightly and his eyes took on a dreamy quality. “Barrett Campbell is the only woman to ever put my father in his place. Hadrian’s wrong, you know.”
“About?”
“You and Barrett do have a lot in common. My father paid you the highest compliment when he said you were like her.” He peered at me. “Have you met her?”
