Page 54 of When She Tempts (The Fallen)
“They’ve managed to secure a number of important alliances already, and more will be finalized in the coming days.”
“That’s good.”
He cuts a piece of his steak. “I should tell you that he and Ras were attacked on the way to a meeting. They’re both fine.”
I drop my cutlery, and it rattles against the plate. “What?Why is this the first time I’m hearing about this?”
“It just happened. The only casualty was their driver.”
My heart pounds. “Oh my God.”
“These things are bound to happen.”
I know what my brother is doing is dangerous, but to hear Giorgio mention it so casually freaks me out. “I can’t believe he didn’t say anything to me. We haven’t been talking often enough.”
“It’s better that way. The less he calls, the smaller the probability your location gets somehow exposed.”
“Don’t you think he’s overestimated how much danger I’m in? Is anyone even looking for me?”
At this, Giorgio’s expression grows serious. “Oh, they’re looking.”
I swallow. “Sal?”
“And his army.” He wipes his mouth with a napkin and leans back into his seat. “I’m not trying to scare you, but you need to understand that your value increases with each passing day of this war. If any of your brother’s enemies get their hands on you, your brother will have a very difficult choice to make.”
I drag my palms down my arms as the air in the room suddenly turns cold.
“He knows that too. He’s known it from the moment he decided to start this war, which is why he entrusted you to me.”
The implication is clear. He’s the only one who can keep me safe.
I finish my dinner in silence as I process everything he’s said.
“Tommaso was making preserves all day and didn’t have time for dessert,” Giorgio says as he folds his napkin and places it on the table. “It’s a shame.”
I arch brow at him. “You don’t seem to me like someone with a sweet tooth.”
“Why’s that?”
Oh Lord.My cheeks heat. I can’t tell him it’s because his body makes it seem like he survives on chicken, potatoes, and broccoli. “Just…your vibe,” I say awkwardly.
He drags his hand over his jaw. “I like dessert.”
I could make him something. The kitchen’s fully stocked, and I don’t need a lot of time to whip up something simple.
Suddenly, my thoughts screech to a halt.
This is how I’m going to get him to drink that tea.
That’s it.I just got the opportunity I’ve been waiting for.
CHAPTER14
MARTINA
All of thepieces click into place.
Giorgio was the one who brought up dessert. My offer to make him something won’t look at all suspicious. Neither will me serving it with some tea.
