Page 15 of Iron Heart

“The car’s waiting for us,” Kingsley says curtly, already making his way down the plane’s staircase.

A pang of guilt gnaws at me, watching him retreat.What on earth did I do to upset him this much?Determined to amend things, I follow him down.This trip is my escape, a much-needed break, and I don’t want any lingering tension with Kingsley, especially since we got off to a rocky start.

Emerging from the plane, the afternoon sun graces my face.The warmth is a sharp contrast to the icy atmosphere between Kingsley and me.After the pilot bids me a good journey, I spot a sleek car waiting on the tarmac.

Despite his mood, Kingsley stands at the door and waits for me to settle into the back seat before firmly shutting the door.I’m slightly disappointed when he doesn’t join me and sits up front next to the driver.I really must have pissed him off.

The driver tips his hat in my direction and offers a warm greeting, “Buona sera, SignorinaSlater.”

I muster a smile, attempting not to let my concern about Kingsley’s demeanor show.However, any hope of clearing the air diminishes when Kingsley glances at me briefly in the rear vision mirror, then flicks his attention forward.

“Let’s go,” he says tersely, and the car starts to move.

Amidst a stifling silence from Kingsley and an impromptu history lesson about Sardinia from Giancarlo, our talkative driver, we reach a slice of paradise in less than an hour.Kingsley takes care of the check-in, and we’re promptly whisked away to my bungalow in a slick motorized buggy.

The setting sun splashes the sky with purple and soft pink hues while the villas are covered in cascades of vibrant bougainvilleas.Each villa boasts a plunge pool that leads to a private beach with the bluest water I’ve ever seen.

This place is exactly what I need.

Ever the security expert, Kingsley sweeps the bungalow before I can enter.His diligence might seem excessive, given our low profile, but maybe my previous guards had been too relaxed.The mere thought tugs at my heartstrings, igniting a surge of emotion.I can't help but question if my entire ordeal might have taken a more hopeful turn had Kingsley been by my side from the very beginning.

“All clear,” he confirms, stepping aside to let me pass.

The bungalow’s interior takes my breath away.Rich green plants brighten the corners while the wooden parquet flooring and plush linen furniture create an air of luxury.A grand four-poster bed draped in pristine white linens tempts me from the master suite.Succumbing to its allure, I sink into the bed as a delicate rose fragrance envelops me.

Kingsley’s throat-clearing from the doorway draws my attention.“My villa is three doors down to the south.I’ll be back in an hour,” he announces.

Feeling a pang of guilt, I sit up.“Sorry if I made you uncomfortable.”

His expression softens.“Let’s just forget about it,” he replies, the corners of his mouth pulling into a slight smile.

I’m so relieved he’s handling this professionally and with more maturity than me.

“Deal.See you in an hour then.We’ll find my family.”

He gives a curt nod, adding, “You have my number if you need anything.”

With that, he steps out, leaving me in solitude.I push away the fear that begins to gnaw at me when I’m alone, threatening to take over my relaxation.When the Advil starts to kick in, I grab my phone and dial Julius’ number.

While Vincent is likely caught up in engagement party preparations with Rosie, Julius has always been my go-to due in part to our closeness in age.At least by calling someone, I won’t feel alone and be left with my thoughts.

I’m just about to hang up when he answers the call.“Victoria!”

“Julius.Where is everyone?”I ask.

“We’re here in our suite.Are you here?”

“Yes, I’m here!I’m waiting at the restaurant!Get your asses down here.”Okay, that was a slight lie, but I know my brother, and he takes forever.

Julius chuckles.“All right, we’ll see you shortly.”

After a hot, invigorating shower and a refreshing liter of water, I’m buzzing with anticipation to reunite with my family and meet Julius’ new wife, Isabella.I opt for a breezy halter-neck sundress and pair it with wedge heels.As I apply a touch of lip gloss, a knock at the door punctuates the air.Considering it’s exactly seven p.m., there’s no guessing who’s on the other side.

Kingsley’s gaze travels over me when I open the door, taking in every detail.The journey of his eyes is deliberate, and by the time they meet mine, I sense a hint of appreciation.Yet, his staunch posture gives nothing away.

While part of me is tempted to probe for a compliment, I refrain.One bout of embarrassment around him today is more than enough.

“Nice dress, Miss Slater,” he comments, and I’m nearly bowled over.

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