Total pages in book: 76
Estimated words: 68858 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 344(@200wpm)___ 275(@250wpm)___ 230(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 68858 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 344(@200wpm)___ 275(@250wpm)___ 230(@300wpm)
A sharp pain throbbed in my chest as if my heart was trying to break free from my ribcage. I clenched my hands together on my lap, willing the burning sensation behind my closed eyes to subside. It always seemed to happen when I least expected it, just when I thought I was getting a handle on things, the overwhelming emotions would come flooding back.
The car continued to glide smoothly along the road, the driver's presence a silent reminder of the evening ahead. I tried to push my grief aside, focusing on my current predicament.
I pulled my phone from my clutch and sent a quick update to Peyton and Melody. Their replies came almost instantly, offering words of encouragement and caution. It didn't take long before the bright lights of the city began to appear on the horizon. I gazed out at the dark ocean that bordered the flashy buildings, its waters so deep and dark it resembled black glass, perfectly reflecting the neon-lit skyline and vibrant nightlife.
I had never seen the city at night. I was sent away to Aunt Molly before I was old enough to even dream of visiting. Now, it seemed something had come full circle. The driver took an exit and seamlessly maneuvered off the highway onto a road that immediately showcased the wealth of its residents and visitors. Luxury cars, each costing more than the average house, glided by, their sleek forms illuminated by the colorful glow of neon signs and streetlights. I couldn't help but marvel at the lively atmosphere.
Palm trees swayed gently against the backdrop of a twilight sky, adding to the surreal beauty of the scene. We continued down the bustling street, the vibrant lights and sounds enveloping us. We approached a more exclusive area, the buildings becoming taller and more sophisticated, slowing near a small line of luxury cars waiting to be dropped off, bypassing them to enter the same grand location.
There were two lanes: one for drop-offs and another for valet. There didn’t seem to be an option to park oneself. That would have been the first indication we were at an upscale restaurant, but the building itself was unlike anything I’d ever seen before. Dior’s stood tall, at least three stories high, with a connecting hotel rising up behind it, its rooftop vanishing into the night sky. I took a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves as I watched impeccably dressed women entering the building with their suited companions. I felt out of place among them, but I had to act like I belonged.
This was for Eva, for Aunt Molly, and for me. Despite feeling like an imposter, I knew I could pull off pretending to fit in. After all, there were probably other women doing the same thing tonight. My driver opened my door, and I stepped out of the car with one final steadying breath.
CHAPTER THIRTEEN
The moment I stepped out of the car, a man built like a brick house approached me. His eyes were also concealed behind a pair of sunglasses. Did Mateo's men have some kind of uniform code to abide by?
"Good evening, Miss Castello," he greeted me respectfully, his accent similar to Mateo's. "Please, follow me."
I nodded, taking a deep breath as I followed him into the restaurant. We bypassed the sign where patrons were checking in, moving effortlessly past people dining, all exuding wealth and sophistication. I didn't allow myself to meet anyone's eye. I was certain there were at least one or two diners that would recognize me. Instead, I focused on the interior of the restaurant. Loathe as I was to admit, the place was stunning.
The ambiance was a perfect blend of elegance and warmth, with wicker pendant lights casting a soft, golden glow.
Each table was adorned with fresh flowers and pristine linens. The soft hum of conversation mixed with the clinking of fine China and crystal glasses. Servers in crisp uniforms moved gracefully between tables, attending to guests with the utmost care.
My guide led me right through all of it. We ascended the stairs and moved through a set of glass doors, emerging onto a breathtaking rooftop bar and dining area. The cityscape glittered below, a sea of lights stretching into the night. Despite the opulence, the rooftop was empty, save for one figure—Mateo.
Even from behind, he exuded an unnerving degree of power, his presence commanding and almost palpable. His broad shoulders and confident stance made it clear he was a man accustomed to control.
I couldn't deny how attractive I found him, a magnetic pull that was both thrilling and terrifying. Peyton’s last warning echoed in my head, and I almost laughed. He stood near the edge, looking out over the city, but turned as we approached. The man who had escorted me gave a slight nod and stepped back, leaving me to face Mateo alone. As his eyes roamed over me, I suddenly felt ridiculous, like a child playing dress-up. But his heated gaze told a different story—one where he didn’t share my doubts.