promise I’ll love and respect you, no matter the circumstances. If you say no, I’ll respect your decision, but know that it will destroy me.”
As she pulled the box into her hand, tugging the ring toward her face, she seemed taken aback. “This is beautiful. Where did you get it?”
“You aren’t the only one who made a purchase today. You want simple things in your life that hold meaning. While I would love to get you a huge diamond surrounded by all the precious jewels in the world, I thought you’d like this more.” I’d taken a chance on the sterling silver dolphin with a beautiful sapphire eye. I only hoped I’d made the right choice.
When she didn’t say anything for a full minute, I rose to my feet.
“I’m sorry, Winter.”
“Stop talking,” she whispered as she lifted her head. “Yes, I will marry you and not because of the stupid rules or even the danger. I don’t care about money or a big house; I only want your love.”
As I slipped the ring on her finger, I felt the explosion of joy in my heart even though I was terrified I couldn’t protect her.
But God help anyone who dared attempt to come between us.
Chapter Fifteen
Winter
“Adventures or comedies?” I stared at him through the shadows that had formed in the room. He remained tense, although I’d gotten used to the fact the man would always remain on edge. The weight he carried on his shoulders remained, always adding to the hint of danger surrounding him.
“What are you referring to?” Matteo asked, a hint of amusement in his voice.
“Movies of course. Notice I didn’t ask you about romantic movies. I doubt you’ve ever seen a single one.” I’d retreated to the kitchen after returning to the house. It wasn’t that I didn’t want to be close to him, but the moment I’d said yes, there wasn’t an explosion of passion. There also wasn’t any conversation of what now. Everything was already planned. As far as picking out my dress, I had a feeling my mother had already taken care of it. Everything had to be perfect for such a festive occasion.
He remained half sitting on the back of the couch, swirling the same drink he’d had in his hand after coming back inside. I could tell he was preoccupied with whatever plans he’d already determined were necessary. I knew better than to push him for any additional answers.
Even in the darkness, I could still see his eyes as the candles glowed behind him. He’d called me the light to his darkness. That continued to make me sad, the secret haunting him eating him alive piece by piece.
“Horror,” he muttered then laughed. “However, I haven’t seen a movie in a long time.”
“Horror. I guess I’ll have to worry about hiding the knives in our house.” It struck me that I had no idea whether I’d be required to live in his house or if we would find something together. The awkwardness between us remained and it was suffocating me. We’d both admitted feelings that neither was certain were real. Were we trying too hard to find a path to acceptance?
“Oh, absolutely. I am a master knife thrower.”
His answer caught me off guard, a laugh bubbling from my throat. It felt good to break away from the tension. “Another thing I’ll keep in mind. So... meat or seafood?”
A smile curled on his lip. “Both. There is nothing better than a juicy piece of blood-rare filet topped with succulent lobster tail.”
The way he said the words made my mouth water, butterflies forming in my stomach. “Agreed. Vodka or gin?”
“Gin, of course. Boodles or Bombay.” Matteo shifted closer, his hungry eyes firmly pinned on me.
“Excellent. Favorite pizza?”
His grin widened as he took another step. “Mushroom with extra cheese.”
“Not bad. I can live with that.” I found it difficult to look at him, my nipples aching and my mouth suddenly dry. I took a sip of my drink, my heart skipping several beats. “Favorite color?”
“Red.” His voice was suddenly more authoritative, his eyes twinkling. “The color of hearts. Roses.”
“And blood.”
He lifted a single eyebrow, taking an exaggerated deep breath.
“Mountains or the ocean?” I managed.
“Depends on the season. I adore the ocean, the peace and tranquility the water provides. I also love the mountains, especially in the winter. The crisp air and the snowcapped peaks, the sun breaking out after snow has freshly fallen to the earth. Then a cozy fire, the scent of burning logs filtering in