and a marble counter. His and her sinks. She stands in front of one while I’m in front of the other. The whirlpool bathtub sits off to the right of us with the large shower behind it that you can enter from either side. I looked inside, and there are five showerheads. There’s a fireplace in the corner that is see-through into her master suite. I’d never leave this bathroom.
“Can I ask you something personal?” I turn to face her.
“Sure. I’m an open book.” She pops the lid off her lipstick.
“What did Haven mean by Luca would never allow her to go to the Airport? Is he really controlling? I remember that there was a guy who you mentioned was her babysitter when we were at lunch that first time I met her.” I think they said his name was Nite.
“Luca runs the Las Vegas American-Italian mafia.”
I gasp. Holy shit! Derek was right! “You’re serious?” He had said that Bones had an in with the mafia. And Luca was on the phone talking about going to Kingdom. Could that be the connection? If so, then that means he’s got to be close to Grave as well.
“Yep.” She nods. “Don’t you ever watch the news? Their engagement was a big deal.”
“No,” I say honestly, going back to my hair somewhat in a daze.
“Well, a lot of people would love to get their hands on Haven to get to Luca. So although to some, he may appear controlling or possessive, he’s really just keeping her safe.”
“I can see that.” I can’t imagine the kind of life where you’re always having to look over your shoulder or never knowing who is after your husband. Or yourself. Wanting a family but afraid to bring a child into that world.
“Are you ready for that kind of life?”
I set the curling iron down and look over at her. “What do you mean by that?”
“I mean …” She pops her nude-colored lips. “That being with a King could have the same ramifications. They’re powerful but also hated by many. Being with one could make things difficult. For you. For him.”
“Are you asking me if I’m in love with Grave and willing to risk my life for that?” That’s what I take from her cryptic words.
She gives me a quick side-eye. “Are you?”
“No,” I answer, shaking my head.
She sets down her lipstick and turns to face me, a smirk on her face as if she knows some secret. “So you’re willing to walk away from him?”
I go to say yes but shut my mouth. “I mean … I like him.”
She places her hand on my shoulder. “Do you like him enough to fight for him?”
My mother raised my brother and me to fight for what you want, but you also can’t make someone love you. They either want you in their life or they don’t. You can’t keep what doesn’t belong to you. “What exactly am I fighting?” I ask confused.
“Lucy. I know she would do anything to have him, however she could have him. Even if that meant being a side piece.”
“You’re saying he’s not the type to be faithful?” Is anyone? I’m not going to put Grave in a category with just men. Women cheat too. I’ve never done it because I’ve had it happen to me, and it hurt. I don’t understand why a man or woman can’t just be honest with the person they’re with and say I don’t want to be with you anymore.
“No, you’re putting words in my mouth.” She sighs. “I’m just saying that you need to decide what you want. Either take it or let her have it.” She shrugs. “Because honey, that choice is a hundred percent yours.”
She walks off to enter her closet. Grave doesn’t make me feel like I have to compete or there is a race I’m desperately trying to win. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. I know Lucy still calls him. The question is, does he call her after he leaves me? And if he does, how would that make me feel? Pretty fucking pissed if I’m being honest with myself!
He’s supposed to be mine, right? We’ve only had one official date, but who the fuck has time to date anymore? I don’t need to get dressed up and go to an expensive dinner for someone to prove they like me. I just need quality time with them, and we’ve done that. Every chance we’ve gotten. I feel comfortable around him and can