Page 53 of Claimed At First Sight

“You sound like you’re trying to convince yourself.”

“Probably,” she admits. “But maybe that’s okay, and this is how it happens. You choose someone because it makes sense, and the rest comes later. There’s attraction, and I enjoy his kisses. I like who I am when I’m with him. That has to mean something, right?”

I stare out toward the dark water for a few moments, letting the new information settle.

“And you’ve done a background check?” I ask. “Is he really who he says he is?”

“It’s all clear,” she confirms. Luca taught her a thing or two about computers and digging into people years ago. Apparently, it comes in handy now.

“And he’s a good kisser? Because you really don’t want a dud if you’re going to stay with him.”

Memories of the boy on the beach resurface. That was such a letdown. I stop myself from thinking about the only other kiss I’ve had.

Isa grins. “Yeah. He’s a very good kisser.”

I nod approvingly.

“Well then. If he’s normal, financially stable, and attractive, go for it. God knows what might be forced on us otherwise.”

The words come out lighter than they feel. Mamma might let us choose our own husbands, but that doesn’t mean other people won’t have plans for us.

It makes sense now why Isa wasn’t thrilled about a Chicago trip. Two or three weeks, maybe even longer, could derail everything she’s trying to do. She can’t let that happen, not when she’s so close to finally creating something for herself.

“If you’re sure about this, you should stay back when we go to Chicago and close the deal.”

Isa goes still beside me. Then she looks at me, determination shining in her eyes.

“You’re right. This is my chance.”

Chapter Sixteen

Maximo

Snow blankets the Marco estate as the car rolls through the gates.

My gaze drops briefly to the sleeve of my suit. A few small flecks of blood stain the cuff.

Not mine.

The meeting downtown proved productive after all.

Beside me, Rafa’s attention shifts toward the eastern side of the property. His eyes narrow.

“Mitchell isn’t at his post.”

I glance toward the perimeter. The position sits partially obscured by trees and distance, but Rafa doesn’t need binoculars to know who’s supposed to be standing there.

“Relief rotation?” I ask.

“Not for another twelve minutes.” Before the vehicle has fully stopped, Rafa is already opening his door. “I’ll deal with it.”

It’s probably nothing more than a delayed rotation or a communication error, but I’ve learned not to dismiss security failures simply because they appear minor at first.

Rafa disappears into the cold while I continue toward the entrance.

Events like tonight create vulnerabilities simply because more guests and vehicles mean more opportunities for mistakes. That’s why security has been doubled and Rafa is personally overseeing every layer of it.

The mansion hums with activity when I step inside. Preparations for Aldo’s birthday celebration are well underway.