Page 11 of Attraction (Mobsters + Billionaires 3)
Tonight I’m wearing a Kelly-green suit my tailor fitted perfectly to me, and instead of a bow tie, I chose a purple-and-lime paisley cravat, which I think is a fun little touch.
He seems to disagree, which is not surprising. His eyes fall to my coordinating nails and a sneer uglies his mouth.
“Ever the virgin,” he says, disdain written across his features. “I don’t even have to ask if you’ve ever given it up. You wear every color in the rainbow, yet you’re still such a frigid bitch.”
Remembering our last night together, I neutralize my expression and shove down the revulsion I feel whenever I see him at one of these things.
He attends charity events for his father’s company, and I’m usually pretty good at avoiding him. I’m just a little off tonight.
As I’m trying to figure out how to melt back into the crowd and call my security guy to bring the Mercedes around, a warm hand finds its way to my back. I glance to the side and…Luca.
My heart speeds up at the sight of his warm smile.
The last time he put his arm around me, I shimmied out of that sucker so quickly I probably broke land speed records. But with Fallon looking on, I melt into his hold.
“Luca, I wondered where you got off to,” I say, resting my head on his shoulder.
He grins and kisses my forehead, a gesture so sweet I wish it was real.
“Ford, baby, I’m so sorry. Hopper and I got caught up in a conversation about funding with the head of the anti-human-trafficking organization, and you know how it goes.”
I raise my head and look into his eyes, hoping he can see my eternal gratitude. “Of course, darling,” I say, my throat nearly closing around the word. I clear it and continue, “After all, that’s why we’re here.”
“True. Have I told you how much I love these glasses on you?”
I bow my head, unable to hide my pleased smile. “Thank you.”
Luca sends me a warm look, but his eyes turn to ice when he addresses Fallon.
Holding out his hand, he introduces himself, “Luca Stefano. Nice to meet you.”
Recognition dawns across Fallon’s features, and it is so fucking satisfying.
“Fallon O’Shea,” he says, his voice unsteady as he takes Luca’s hand.
They shake, and Fallon swallows, looking for the exit. I bite back a laugh because, in a spot of perfect timing, Hopper shows up right behind Fallon’s left shoulder.
“O’Shea, was it?” Hopper asks, and Fallon nearly jumps out of his skin as he turns around.
“Shit, dude. I didn’t see you there.”
“My apologies. People tell me it’s my worst trait. Name’s Hopper. I’m an associate of Luca’s,” he says, holding out his hand.
I’ve always wondered how Hopper ends up at these exclusive events. Does Luca get him a ticket? Does he sneak his way in? Is his presence as big a surprise to Luca as it is to the rest of us?
Whatever the case, I’m always happy when he shows up. While Anthony has assigned a full-time security guy to Luca, I suspect Hopper views himself as Luca’s unofficial security.
Fallon hesitates, then shakes Hopper’s hand as well.
“Um, well, see you around, Ford. And nice to meet you, Luca and…Hopper. I’ve got to continue making my rounds. You know how it is.”
Luca’s viper-like smile sends a shiver down my spine, but his voice is smooth as silk. “Of course. Enjoy your evening.”
Fallon practically sprints into the crowd. Laughing, I collapse against Luca’s side.
“You’re my hero.”
Luca, however, isn’t paying attention to me. His eyes follow Fallon as he escapes across the room. Luca’s eyes then shift to Hopper, who’s doing something on his phone.
