DEFENSE

NewYorkTimes,USAToday&WallStreetbestsellingauthor

SandiLynn

DEFENSE

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ChapterThirty-Five

ChapterThirty-Six

ChapterThirty-Seven

ChapterThirty-Eight

ChapterThirty-Nine

ChapterForty

ChapterForty-One

ChapterForty-Two

ChapterForty-Three

ChapterForty-Four

ChapterForty-Five

ChapterForty-Six

BooksbySandiLynn

AbouttheAuthor

ChapterOne

Ariana

Betrayal. The pain and rage that consumed me was unbearable. My perfect reality had become my

hurtfulone.LossofillusionsettledinsidemeandconstrictedtheairIbreathed.Ifeltasifmyentirelife

wasalie.ThatwastheonlytruthIhad.Theburningholeinthemiddleofmysoulwasthestartofmylife

Armageddon.Thisbetrayalchangedeverythingforme.Intheblinkofaneye,myentirelifewasaltered.

ThesecurityIoncehadwasgone.Thecomfortthatblanketedmemywholelifewasrippedoff,leaving

menumbandcold.Theysaytimehealsallwounds,buttherewasn’tenoughtimeintheworldtoheala

woundthisdeep.

Their justification sucked. The people I trusted with my life had done the unthinkable. They could

havechangedityearsago,buttheydidn’t.IonlyfoundoutafterhearingaconversationIwasn’tsupposed

to hear. They didn’t know I was there. It was supposed to be the happiest day of my life. I had just

graduatedlawschool.Topofmyclass.Ideliveredthevaledictorianspeechwithexcitementbecauseall

myhardworkhadfinallypaidoff.Iwasrewardedinthebestpossiblewaywithanassociatepositionat

one of the top law firms in Boston where I interned. All I needed was to pass the bar exam. I wasn’t

worried.Iwouldnailitandmyfuturelookedbright.

Butthis.Thischangedeverything.Thefoginwhichmymindwasenvelopedwasn’tlifting.Ithadbeen

fourhourssinceI’dfoundout.Weallhadwords.Minewereangry,whiletheirswereapologetic.Tears

wereshedandmyscreamscouldbeheardthroughoutourquietneighborhood.Myeyeswerefloodedand

myvisionwasblurry.Icouldn’tthinkstraightnorcouldIstandthereandlistentotheapologeticliesthat

spewed from their mouths. I had to leave, to get away from them and clear my head. But I had to be

carefulandplayitright.

IswallowedhardasIstoodthereandstaredatthepeoplewhohadbetrayedme.Iwantedtotellthem

alltofuckoff,butIcouldn’t.Notyet.Ineededaplan.

“I’minshock tosaythe leastandI needsometime toabsorb andprocessall ofthis,”I spokeina

calmbutshakytone.“I’mgoingtomyroomtothink,soI’maskingyoutopleaseleavemealoneandgive

methetimeIneed.”

“Weunderstand,baby.”

I slowly walked upstairs and went to my room. Locking the door behind me, I sat on the bed for a

moment and stared at myself in the mirror. My long brown hair was a mess from my hands tangling

throughitasthedestructionofmylifeunfolded.Streaksofblackrandownmyfacewitheverytearthat

I’dshed.Ididn’twearwaterproofmascarabecausetherewasnoneedto.Todaywassupposedtobea

dayofjoyandhappiness.Istoodupandchangedoutofmyplum-coloredsilksleevelessdressthatIhad

carefully picked out for this day. The shakiness I felt hadn’t subsided and my pounding heart failed to

slowdown.IknewwhatIneededtodo.Icouldn’tlivehereanymoreandIcertainlycouldn’tliveinthis

town.Iwentintomycloset,pulledoutmysuitcase,andbeganpackingtheessentials.Inacoupleofhours,

whenIknewthey’dbesoundasleepintheirroom,I’dleaveandI’dneverlookback.Iwouldruntothe

onlypersonthatcametomind.Anotherwhohadbetrayedme.Iswallowedhardatthethought.Itwasn’t

goingtobeeasy,butcomparedtostayinghere,itwasmyonlyoptionuntilIfiguredoutmynextmove.

Ididn’thavehernumberanymore.IthadbeenfouryearssinceI’dshutheroutofmylife.Shutthem

outofmylife.IopenedmylaptopandsearchedforheronFacebook.Foundher.Herprofilepicturewas

ofthetwoofthem.Postedtwoweeksago.TheyseemedhappyandbothstilllivedinNewYork.Itypeda

messageinthemessageboxandhitsend.

“Olivia,Ineedyou.”

Withinamatterofseconds,shereplied.

“Ariana?Mygod,it’ssogoodtohearfromyou.Areyouokay?”

“No.Thingsherehavechanged.I’llexplaineverythinglater.I’mheadingtoNewYorktomorrow.

WoulditbeokayifIcrashedwithyouandHarry?”

“Ofcourse.Doyouneedustopickyouupfromtheairport?”

“No.I’lljusttakeacab.”

“Okay, I’ll text you my address and I’ll leave the key under the mat. We’ll both be at work

tomorrow,butIshouldbehomearoundsixo’clock.”

“Thankyou,Olivia.Iappreciateit.”

“HaveasafeflightandI’llseeyoutomorrow.It’sreallygoodtohearfromyou,Ari.I’vemissed

you.”

“Metoo.”

Olivia Shallow and I had been best friends since the time we were five years old when we met in

kindergarten.Onthefirstdayofschool,shecurledintoaballandcriedbecauseshemissedhermom.I

feltsorryforher,soIwalkedoverandsatdownonthefloornexttoher,hookedmyarmaroundher,told

herthatshe’dbeokayandthathermomwouldbebacktogetherafterschoolwasover.Iaskedhertosit

nexttomeatmytableandwe’dbeeninseparableeversince.Untilthatnightfouryearsago.Thenightshe

andHarrytoldmethattheyhadfalleninlovewitheachother.Harrywasmyboyfriendatthetimeand

we’dbeendatingaboutayear.OliviaattendedBostonUniversitywithmerightafterhighschoolandthen

decided to transfer to NYU when her boyfriend of two years was recruited to the New York Giants. I

warned her that it wasn’t a good idea, but she didn’t listen and went anyway. Two months later, he

cheatedonherwithnotone,butseveralgirls,andshefinallydumpedhim.Harrywasofferedasummer

internshipinNewYorkataprestigiousfinancialfirm,andwhenhegotthere,Oliviashowedhimaround.

Apparently, New York wasn’t the only thing she showed him. They spent a lot of time together since

neitheroneofthemreallyknewanyoneelse.Shewasbrokenandhewasthere.Shithappens,Iguess.I

justneverthoughtmybestfriendwouldstealmyboyfriend.Icutalltieswiththemafterthatandwehadn’t

spoken in four years. But, even after everything we’d been through, she was the one I needed the most

rightnow.

After I finished packing, I went into the bathroom and washed my face. As I stared at myself in the

mirror, the only thing I saw was a little girl lost. The product of deception and lies. I heard footsteps

comingupthestairsandthentheysuddenlystopped.IturnedoffmylighttomakeitlooklikeI’dturnedin

forthenight.Theirbedroomdoorshut,soIwaiteduntilIknewtheywereasleep.Anhourlater,Isawthe

headlightsofthecabfrommywindow.Pickingupmysuitcaseanddufflebag,Icarefullyopenedmydoor,

creptdownthestairs,andslidoutthepatiodoor.

Afterclimbingintothecab,IstaredatthebrightlylithousewhereIhadgrownupforthepasttwenty-

fiveyears.Tearscreptintomyeyesasthedriverpulledawayanddrovemetoahotelforthenight.

ChapterTwo

Luca

The smell of cheap perfume woke my senses as I opened my eyes and stared at the arm that was

draped over me. Carefully removing last night’s fuck off me, I climbed out of bed and hopped into the

shower,thetasteofwhiskeystillonmybreath.Afterfinishing,Iwrappedatowelaroundmywaistand

whenIwalkedintothebedroom,thebedwasempty.Isilentlysmiledatthethoughtthatshe’dleftwithout

mehavingtokickherout.ButnosuchluckwhenIwentintothekitchenandfoundherstaringatthecoffee

pot.

“Whatareyoudoing?”Iasked.

“Tryingtofigureouthowtousethisthing.Ireallyneedsomecoffee,”shespokeasshestoodthere

wearingoneofmyblackt-shirts.

IrolledmyeyesandsighedwhileIwalkedbacktothebedroom,gatheredherclothesoffthefloor,

andhandedthemtoher.

“There’saStarbucksaroundtheblock.”

“Youwantmetoleave?”Shefrowned.

“Yes.Ineedtogetreadyandgototheoffice.I’malreadyrunninglate.”

“Icanwaitforyouherealldayandmaybewecandosomethinglater.Ihadalotoffunlastnight.”

Shebitdownonherbottomlipwhileherfingerrandownmychest.

“AsdidI,buttherewon’tbeanothertime.Nowgetyourselfdressed.”Iheadedbackintothebedroom

andpulledaten-dollarbilloutofmywallet.“Here.Yourcoffeethismorningisonme.”Ismiled.

Shetookitfrommewithoutassomuchasathankyouandslippedintolastnight’sclothes.

“Doyoualwaysdothis?”

“Dowhat?”

“Usewomenandthenthrowthemoutlikethey’reapieceoftrash?”

“Doyoualwaysdothis?”Iraisedmybrow.

“Dowhat?”

“Gohomewithandfuckrandomguysyou’veonlyknownforacoupleofhours?”

“Youknowwhat?You’reajerk.”Sheputonherheelsandstompedaway.

“You’renodifferentthanIam,sweetheart.”Ismiledassheslammedthedoorshut.

IrespectedwomanalotandIlikedthem.Ilikedtheircompanyaslongastheywereintelligent.Last

night’sfuckwasn’t.Usually,I’mmoreselectivewithwhomIbringtomybed,butIhadn’thadsexinover

aweekanditwasgettingtome.Sheapproachedmeatthebar,Iboughtherafewdrinks,andnextthingI

knew,wewereatmyplace.Ihadalotofcasualflings.Andthatwasallthey’deverbe.AsmuchasI

likedthecompanyofastrong,intelligentwoman,Ikeptthematadistance,neverlettingtheminandnever

lettingthingsgettoocomfortable.Itwasforthebest.Notonlyforme,butforthemaswell.Mysecrets

andmyfearsweremyownandonesI’dhavetolivewithfortherestofmylife.

****

“Goodmorning,Olivia.”Ismiled.“Arethosedepositionsready?”

“Morning,Luca.They’rerighthere.”Shehandedmethefolder.

“Thankyou.”Iwalkedintomyoffice.

“IwantedtoaskyouifitwouldbeokayifIleftanhourearlytoday?”

“Forwhat?Doyouhaveadoctor’sappointmentorsomething?”Itookaseatbehindmydesk.

“No. A friend of mine whom I haven’t seen in four years is coming to New York today and she’s

stayingwithme.”

Curiositygotthebetterofme.

“Haveaseat.”Imotionedforhertositdown.“MayIaskwhyyouhaven’tseenherinfouryears?”

Sheswallowedhardandlookeddown.Itwasabsolutelynoneofmybusinesswhyshehadn’tseenher

friend,but,byherreaction,somethingmusthavehappened.

“Olivia?”

Shelookedupatmeandscratchedherhead.“Imayormaynothavestolenherboyfriend.”

Inarrowedoneeyeasmyotherbrowarched.

“Harry?”

“Mhmm.”Shenodded.

“Andyouhaven’tseenhersince?”

“No.Shecutalltieswithusafterthat.”

“Iwouldsaythat’sgoingtobeanintensefirsttimemeetingafteralltheseyears.Byallmeans,leave

anhourearly,andwhileyou’reatit,youmightwanttodoacoupleofshotsfirst.”Ismirked.

“Thanks,Luca.Iappreciateit.”Shegotupfromherchairandbegantowalkout.

“Olivia?”

“Yeah.”

“Makesureyou’reinanhourearlytomorrowmorning.”Iwinked.

Shegavemeasmall,un-genuinesmileasshewalkedoutofmyoffice.

There was nothing I couldn’t get out of people and that was what made me a damn good lawyer,

probablythebest.Iwasalwaysincompletecontrol.Ihadcontrolovereveryaspectofmylife,including

whathappenedinthebedroom.Therewasn’tanyoneoranythingIcouldn’tcontrolandIthrivedonit.It

waswhatmademewhatIwastoday.SomecalledmeruthlessbecauseIplayeddirtyinthecourtroom.

Somecalledmeaman-whorebecauseIlikedtosleepwithwomenbutrefusetogivethemanythingmore,

and some called me a bastard because it was my way or no way. Did I care? Not in the least. I was a

thirty-year-old man with the world at his fingertips. I had a successful career that I loved, a luxury

apartmentonParkAvenue,andthecompanyofanybeautifulwomanIwantedatanytime.

ChapterThree

Ariana

I checked out of the hotel at nine a.m., climbed into the cab, and headed to the bank to close my

account. I had been up all night thinking and planning for my new life. I always liked New York, so I

figured that would be the best place to start over, take the bar exam, become a licensed attorney, and

hopefullygetajobatatop-notchlawfirm.Inthemeantime,I’dhavetofindsomethingelseforincome

untilIgotmylicense.IbookedaflightfromBostontoNewJerseyincasetheystartedlookingforme.

OnceIwasinNewJersey,IwouldhailacabtoNewYorkCity.

Astheplanestarteddowntherunwayandliftedintotheair,Ilookedoutthewindowandatearfell

from my eye as I silently said goodbye to the memories that I would lock away safely to never be

released.Isippedonaglassofwineandlookedatthepeoplewhosataroundme,wonderingifthey’d

betraytheonestheylovedthewaymyfamilydidtome.

I entered the building at 160 East 22

Street and took the elevator up to apartment 20B. Lifting the

mat,IfoundthekeythatOliviahadpromisedshe’dleaveandsliditintothelock.Iopenedthedoorand

stepped inside. Eggshell-colored walls, black leather furniture, a square glass coffee table, a small

kitchen,andaroundtablethatseatedfourgreetedme.Theirapartmentwascuteandverywelldecorated.

WalkingovertothestandwheretheTVsat,Ipickedupaside-by-sidepictureofus.Ontheleftwasthe

twoofusfromourkindergartengraduation,andontheright,wasourhighschoolgraduation.Thatwasthe

happiestdayofourlivesandprobablythedrunkestwe’devergotten.AsIsetitbackinitsplace,Iheard

thedooropen,andwhenIturnedmyhead,Oliviasteppedinside.Iswallowedhardasshesetdownher

purseandheldoutherarmstome.

Istoodthereforamoment,nervousandwonderingifImadetherightdecisiontocomehere.ThenI

thoughtaboutmyfamilyandIknewOliviawastheonlyonewhowouldunderstand.

“I’msohappyyou’rehere,”shespokeaswehugged.

“It’sgoodtoseeyou,Olivia.”Thetearsstartedtostreamdownmyface.

Westayedinanembraceforwhatseemedlikeforever,neitheroneofuswantingtoleteachothergo.

“You’rehomeearly,”Ispoke.

“My boss let me leave. Let me look at you.” She broke our embrace and placed her hands on each

sideofmyhead.“You’rejustasbeautifulasyouwerefouryearsago.”

“Soareyou.Youcutyourhair.”IsmiledasIsniffled.

“Yeah.Ineededamoregrown-uplook.”Shelaughed.

Oliviawasabeautifulgirl.Heroncelongblondehairthathadfloweddownherbackwasnowcut

intoastylethatsatabovehershoulderswithlongwispylayers.Shestoodfive-foot-fivewithgreeneyes

and a size two body. People always thought she was way younger than she was, so I understood her

reasonforthehairstylechange.

“Whathappened,Ari?”sheasked.

“You’renevergoingtobelievewhatI’mabouttotellyou.”

“GositdownonthecouchandI’llgrabthewinefromthefridge.”

Itwasgoodtoseeheragain.Evenaftereverythingthathappenedbetweenus,Ineverstoppedmissing

her.Apartofmehatedher,buttheotherpartlovedher.IhadfouryearstogetoverthefactthatHarry

choseheroverme,andIdid.MaybeIshouldhavereachedoutatsomepoint,butIhadsaidsomehorrible

thingstoher.ThingsIdidn’tthinkshe’deverforgivemefor.

She brought the bottle of wine over to the couch and I told her everything as she sat there in utter

shock.

“I—I—don’tknowwhattosay.Ican’tbelievethis,Ari.OhmyGod.”Shereachedoverandtookhold

ofbothmyhands.“Dotheyknowyouleft?”

“I’msuretheydobynow.”

“Theyhaven’ttriedtocontactyou?”

“Before I left Boston, I wiped my phone and dumped it in the dumpster at the hotel I stayed at last

night.Iwasgoingtogoandgetanewonebeforeyoucamehome.”

“Haveyoufiguredoutwhatyou’regoingtodo?”sheasked.

“Somewhat.I’mdefinitelystayinginNewYorkandIwanttotakethebarexamhere.”

“Really?”Awidesmilegracedherface.“That’swonderful.Well,youcanstayhereforaslongasyou

needto.”

“Thanks.Tomorrow,Ineedtostartlookingforajob.”

“Doyouhaveanymoneyatall?BecauseIcanloanyousome.”

“Ihavemoney.IclosedoutmyaccountatthebankbeforeIleft.ButifIwanttogetanapartment,I’m

goingtoneedajobASAP.”

“Well,firstthingsfirst.Letmeshowyouyourroomandthenwe’llheadtothecellphonestorearound

theblock.”Shereachedoverandgavemeahug.“Ireallymissedyou,Ariana.”

“Imissedyoutoo.”

****

“Hey,Ari.”HarrysmiledasOliviaandIsteppedinsidetheapartment.

“Hey,Harry,”Ispokenervously.

ThiswasthemomentIwasdreadingthemost.Seeingtheman,afterfouryears,whochosemybest

friendoverme.

“I’llleaveyoutwotogetreacquainted,”Oliviaspokeasshewenttoherbedroom.

Westoodthereinsilenceforafewmoments.HewasjustasuncomfortableasIwas.

“Isthisawkward?”Iasked.“BecauseIcanstaysomewhereelse.”

“Idon’tthinkit’sawkwardifyoudon’t.It’sgoodtoseeyou.”

“Thanks.”Iswallowedhard.

Hestilllookedthesame,evenfouryearslater.Sixfoottwo,sandybrownhair,andbrowneyes.The

onlythingthatwasdifferentabouthimwasnowhesportedabeard,whichmadehimlookmoremature.

“Youlookgood,”hespoke.

“Sodoyou.”Igaveasmallsmile.

“Listen,Ari,I’m—”

“Sorry.Iknow.I’vehadfouryearstogetoveritandIforgiveyou.ThingswithyouandOliviawere

meanttobe,Harry.I’mafirmbelieverinthat.”Iplacedmyhandonhischest.

“Thanks.” He shyly smiled as he looked down. “Do you want to talk about what happened back at

home?”

“I’llletOliviafillyouin.It’sbeenalongdayandIreallydon’twanttotalkaboutit.I’mtired,soI

thinkImayjustheadtobedandtrytogetagoodnight’ssleep.”

“Okay.Sleeptight.”Heplacedhishandonmyshoulder.

“Youtoo.”

ChapterFour

Luca

Ididn’tfallasleepuntiltwothirtya.m.andthebuzzingsoundofmyalarmjoltedmeoutofbedatfive

thirty. After turning it off, I lay back down and rubbed my face with my hands, letting out a long yawn.

MaybeIshouldn’thavegonetothatstripclublastnightwithBradandtheguys.Butitwasmyfriend’s

birthdayandwhowasInottoshowhimagoodtime?IletoutadeepbreathasIdraggedmytiredassto

the bathroom and took a shower. After wrapping a towel around my waist, I walked over to my

nightstand,pickedupmyphone,andnoticedIhadavoicemailmessagefrommysecretary,Lisa.

“Luca,myfatherpassedawaylastnightandIhadtoflytoGeorgiatobewithmyfamily.I’mnotsure

howlongI’mgoingtobegone,butitwillbeatleastamonth.Ineedtobehereformymother.She’sallI

have.I’msorry.Ihopeyoucanunderstand.”

Isighed.Thiswasnotagoodtimeforhertobegone.Shit.Isentheratextmessage.

“I’msorryforyourloss.Takeasmuchtimeasyouneed.”

“Thankyou.Iappreciateit.Again,I’msorry.”

IstrolledintotheofficeandheadedstraighttoOlivia’scubicle.NotonlytotellheraboutLisa’sfather

buttomakesuresheshowedupanhourearly.

“Good,you’rehere,”Ispoke.

“Youtoldmetobeinanhourearly.”Shesmirked.

“Lisa’s father passed away last night and she’s taking a month off to be with her mother. Do me a

favorandsendsomeflowersfromthefirm.”

“I’llgetrightonit.”

“Also,callthetempagencyandgetsomeoneoverhereassoonaspossible.”

“I’llmakethecallassoonastheyopen.”

“Thanks.Isthecoffeeready?”

“Yes.ImadeitwhenIcamein.”

“You’reagoodemployee,Olivia.”Ismiled.

“CanIhavearaise?”Shesmirked.

“Don’tpushit.”

Iwalkedawayandintothebreakroom,whichhadasmallkitchenwithafull-sizerefrigerator,coffee

maker,espressomachine,andamicrowave.Pullingdownmycoffeecup,Ipouredsomecoffeeandtookit

tomyoffice.Thefirsthalfofthemorningwashecticandbeingwithoutasecretarywasalreadystressing

meout.

“Olivia,didyoucallthetempagency?”IaskedasIwalkedovertowhereshewassitting.

“Yes.Theydon’thaveanyoneavailableuntiltwoo’clock.”

“Forfucksake.”Ishookmyhead.“Ican’tfindthefilefortheGraysonCase.Haveyouseenit?”

“CheckoveronLisa’sdesk.Itshouldbetheresomewhere.Shewasthelastonetohaveit.Ihaveto

rundowntothecopyroom.”

“Goahead.I’lllook.”Isighed.

SittingdownatLisa’sdesk,Ibegantolookthroughthefilesthatwereneatlystackedonthecornerof

herdesk.Nothing.TwolinesstartingringingatonceandIlookedaroundtoseethatnoonewasattheir

desk,soIansweredandputthemonhold.Turningmychairaround,Isearchedthebacktableforthefile.

“Excuseme,”Iheardasoftfemalevoicespeak.

Turningaround,myeyescaughtsightofthebeautifulwomanstandinginfrontofme.

“I’mlookingforOliviaShallow,”shespokeasshebitdownonherbottomlip.

Wow.Five-foot-six,slenderfigure,longbrownhairwithafewloosecurlsattheend,andthemost

beautifulblueeyesI’deverseeninmylife.Theyweren’tdarkbluelikesapphires;theyweremoreofa

babyblue.Lightblue.Intriguing.Mesmerizing.Cockraising.Theoutlineofherbrashowedthroughher

sheer top. Perfect cleavage. C cup. No doubt in my mind. Natural. No silicone. My cock started to get

hard.

“She’sdowninthecopyroom.She’llbebackinafewminutes.”Ismiled.“Andyouare?”

Shelookedatmestrangelyforamomentbeforereplying.

“ArianaWilliams.”

Suddenly,allsixlinesbegantoringatonceandmychestheavedwithirritation.

“Russo,Greggs,andButler.Pleasehold.”

AsIputthelastcallonhold,Ilookedupatherandoureyesmet.

“Youhaveyourhandsfull.”Shesmiled.

WhatIwantedweremyhandsalloverherbeautifulbody.Hertits.Herass.Afloralscentradiated

fromher.Liliesandroses.

“Busyday,”Ispoke.

“Well,I’msureyourbossappreciatesyourhardwork.”

Isilentlylaughedtomyself.ShethoughtIwasthesecretary.Inarrowedmyeyeatherasthecornersof

mymouthcurvedupwards.

“MayIgetyouabeveragewhileyouwaitforOlivia?”

“I’m fine. Thank you. I’m here to meet her for lunch. Don’t you need to take those calls you put on

hold?”

“No.Theycanwait.”IsmiledasIcouldn’ttakemyeyesoffher.

“Whatifthey’reimportant?”

“Ofcoursethey’reimportant.Thisisalawfirm.I’veneverseenyouaroundbeforeandOliviahas

workedherequitealongtime.”

“IjustgotintoNewYorkyesterday.”

Ah,shewasthefriend.TheoneOlivialeftanhourearlyfor.TheoneHarrydumped.

“Welcometothecity,”Ispoke.“Whereareyoufrom?”

“Boston.Ithinkyoushouldtakethosecalls.Iwouldhateforyoutogetintrouble.”

“Boston is a nice city. I’ve been there a few times. And as for my boss, he’s really a cool guy.” I

smirked.“HowlongareyouinNewYorkfor?I’dlovetoshowyouthesights.”

“Imovedhere.”

Fuckyeah.

Shelookeddownatthephoneandthenbackatme.

“Allyourcallshungup.”

Ishrugged.“They’llcallback.Soaboutshowingyouthesights.”

“Thankyouforyouroffer,butIdon’tthinkso.”

Hmm.Womenneverturnedmedown.Whatthefuckwasgoingon?

“Whynot?”Mybrowarched.“Wouldyourboyfriendnotapprove?”

“Idon’thaveaboyfriend.”

“Husband?”

“I’mnotmarried,”shespokewithanirritatedtone.

“Evenbetter.Thenyouhavenoexcuse.Doyou?”

“I’mflatteredyouwouldliketoshowmethesights,butIjustmovedhereandIneedtogetsettled.”

Andmybedisthebestplacetogetsettled.

“Couldyoupointmeinthedirectionoftherestroom,please?”

“It’sdownthehall.Firstdooronyourright.”

“Thankyou.”Sheclearedherthroatasshewalkedaway.

Myeyesfixatedonherperfectlyroundassasshewalkedoutofsight.GettingupfromLisa’sdesk,I

wentintomyoffice.Ihadjustfoundmynewchallenge,andIwasgoingtowin.

ChapterFive

Ariana

Hewasbrutallyhandsome.Shortdarkbrownhair,alightwell-manicuredbeard.Justenoughtomake

him incredibly sexy. Strong jawline and perfectly shaped lips. Deep brown eyes; dark, hypnotizing. I

didn’tknowhowtallhewasbecausehewassittingdown.ForallIknew,hecouldbeshort.Hisblack

suitscreameddesigner.ThetypethelawyersintheofficeIworkedatbackinBostonwore.Hisshirtwas

crispwhiteandhistiewasblackwithlightgraydots.Helookedtobelatetwenties,earlythirties.Why

washeasecretary?Weird.IfrownedasIwashedmyhands.Hewantedtoshowmethesightsofthecity.

Iwasflattered,butIcouldn’tlethim.AguywasthelastthingIneededforcompanyrightnow.Mylife

wasinlimbo.Amess.Anapocalypticmesstobeexact.HewasasecretaryandIwasalmostalawyer.

Bigdifference.Shoulditmatter?No,butitdid.

Isteppedoutofthebathroomandwalkedbackovertothedeskwherethemanhadbeensitting.He

wasn’tthere.

“Thereyouare!”Oliviaspokewithexcitement.

“Sorry.Ihadtousethebathroom.”

“Areyoureadytogo?”Shegrabbedherpurse.

“Yes.I’mstarving.”

Oliviatookmetoagardencaféaroundtheblockandwehadanicelunchoutsideonthepatio.Ididn’t

tellheraboutthesecretarybehindthedeskbecauseIjustwantedtoforgetabouthim.Itwasnobigdeal

anyway,eventhoughhewassexyashell.

“Canyoucomebacktothefirmwithmeforaminute?Iwantyoutomeetmyboss.”

“Sure.”Ismiled.

Westeppedthroughthedoorsandtooktheelevatoruptothetenthfloor.

“Letmeseeifhe’sintherefirst.”Shesmiled.

She looked in his office and then waved me over. As soon as I stepped inside, my mouth dropped

whenIsawthesexyashellmansittingbehindhisdesk.

“Luca, I would like you to meet my friend, Ariana,” Olivia spoke. “Ariana, this is my boss, Luca

Russo.”

I swallowed hard as he got up from his chair, buttoned his suitcoat, and walked over to me with a

smileonhisface.

“We’vealreadymet.It’snicetoseeyouagain,Ariana.”

“Technically,youmetme,butyoufailedtointroducedyourselfbecauseyouweretoobusytryingto

getmetoagreetogooutwithyou.”Ismirked.

“Wellthen,letmecorrectthat.”Heheldouthisstrong-lookinghand.“I’mLucaRusso.”

“It’s nice to meet you, Mr. Russo.” I placed my hand in his and lightly shook it as I gulped at the

electricalcurrentthattraveledthroughoutmybody.

“I’msorry.DidImisssomething?”Oliviafrowned.

“Your boss was sitting at the desk outside his office when I walked in, and pretended to be the

secretary.”Ismirked.

“Iwasn’tpretending.YoujustassumedIwasthesecretary,”hespoke.

“Yousaidyourbosswascool.”

“Iwasstatingafact.”Hesmiled.“AndIammyboss.So,youwerejustassuming.”

Narrowingmyeyeathim,asmallsmilecrossedmylips.

“Youhadanopportunitytotellmethatyouweren’tthesecretary,butinstead,youledmetobelieve

youwerebecauseyouansweredthephones,putthemonhold,toldmeyourbosswasacoolguyandthen

evadedmyquestionsbecauseyouweretoofocusedonconvincingmethatIshouldallowyoutoshowme

thesightsofNewYork.WhenItoldyouthatyouhadyourhandsfull,thatwasyouropportunitytotellme

thatyouweren’tthesecretary.ButitwasatthatmomentthatyouknewIthoughtyouwere,soyouplayed

itout.Therefore,youpretendedandtookadvantageofmyassumption.”

Hecockedhisheadandarchedhisbrowatme.God,hewassexy.

“You’dmakeadamngoodlawyer,MissWilliams.”Hesmirked.

“Thankyou.”Igrinned.

Hegatheredsomefilesonhisdeskandplacedtheminhisblackleatherdesignerbriefcase.

“Again,itwasapleasuretomeetyou.Nowifyou’llexcuseme,Ihavetogettocourt.”

IglancedoveratOlivia,whowasstandingtherewithhermouthopen.

“What?”Iasked.

“Heaskedyouout?”

Waving my hand in front of my face, I spoke, “He just wanted to show me the sights of New York

sinceItoldhimIjustmovedhere.Youdidn’ttellmeyourbosswashot.”

“Ididn’tthinkaboutit.”Ifollowedherouttohercubicle.“Areyouintohim?”Sheturnedandlooked

atme.

“No.Ijustthinkhe’sveryhandsomeandIlikehisname.Anyway,Ishouldgetgoing.Istillhaveto

lookforajob.”

“Didyoucheckintothebarexam?”

“I did.” A sad expression overtook my face. “The next exam is in two weeks and it’s way past the

deadlineforregistration.So,itlookslikeIcan’ttakeituntilNovember.”

“That’sfourmonthsaway.”Shepouted.

“Iknow,butwhatcanIdo?I’llseeyouathome.”Ismiled.

****

IscouredthestreetsofNewYork,gotlost,andstilldidn’thaveanyluckfindingajob.Iwasoffereda

positionfromasweetolderwomanwhoownedabakery,butshecouldonlypaymeminimumwage,and

therewasnowayIcouldgetanapartmentonthat.Ididhaveenoughmoneytopotentiallyrentoneright

now,butonlyenoughtocovertherentforthefirstcoupleofmonthsifIplannedonfurnishingit,paying

utilities,andbuyingfood.

Iwasfeelingtired,soIstoppedintoaStarbucksbeforehailingacabbacktotheapartment.Theline

waslong,butIdidn’thaveanyproblemstandinginitforthecoffeethatIdesperatelyneeded.

“Hello,MissWilliams,”Iheardaman’svoicefrombehindspeak.

Turningaround,IswallowedhardwhenIsawitwasLuca.

“Hello,Mr.Russo.Whatasurpriseseeingyouhere.”Ismiled.

“Ijustgotoutofcourtandneededsomecoffee.”

“Didyouwin?”Iasked.

“Ofcourse.Ialwaysdo.”Hesmirked.“I’massumingyouneedamiddaypick-me-upaswell?”

“Ido.Lookingforajobhastakenitstollonme.”

Thelinestartedtomove.

“Youdidn’talreadyhaveajobsecuredbeforeyoumovedhere?”

“No.Itwasabitofanimpulsivemove.”

“Isee.”

Finally,itwasmyturn.

“CanIhelpyou?”thegirlbehindthecounterasked.

“I’llhaveaGrandecafélattewithnon-fatmilkandadoubleshotofespresso.”

“I’llhavethesameandthisistogether.”Lucasmiledashepulledouthiswallet.

“Mr.Russo,Icanpayformyowncoffee.”

“Noyoucan’t.Youdon’thaveajob.”Hewinked.“Plus,it’stheleastIcandosinceIpretendedtobe

thesecretaryandall.”

“Well,inthatcase,thankyou.”

“You’rewelcome.”Thecornersofhismouthslightlycurvedupwards.

Wewalkedovertothepickupcounterandwaitedforourcoffeetobeready.

“Doyouhavetimetositdown?”heasked.

“Where?Here?”

“Yes.”Hechuckled.“There’ssomethingIwouldliketodiscusswithyou.”

“Ifit’saboutyoushowingmethesights—”

“It’snot.Ipromise.”

“Sure.Ihavetime.Actually,Ihaveallthetimeintheworldrightnow.”

“Good.Whydon’tyougograbthattableoverinthecornerandI’llbringourcoffees?”

Iwalkedovertothetableandtookaseat.Whatcouldhepossiblywanttodiscusswithme?Ihadn’ta

clue,butifithadanythingtodowithgoingout,hecouldforgetit.Iwasn’tlookingtodateanyone.Ihad

toomuchonmymindandIwastryingtogetmylifeundercontrol.

ChapterSix

Luca

Thetimingcouldn’thavebeenmoreperfect.ThefactthatIwalkedintoStarbucksandshewasthere

wasasign.AsignthatIshouldgettoknowherbetter.Asignthatshewouldbetheperfectbodytosprawl

acrossmybedinnothingbutsometypeofsexylingerie.Sheturnedmeon.AndthemoreIsawher,the

moremycockachedtohaveatasteofher.SheappearedtobeintelligentandthatwaswhatIcraved.

IgrabbedourcoffeesfromthecounterandtookthemovertothetablewhereArianasat.

“Thankyou.”Shesmiled.

Unbuttoningmysuitcoat,Itookaseatacrossfromher.

“So,whatdidyouwanttodiscusswithme?”sheaskedasshepickeduphercoffeeandtookasip.

“Ajob.”

“Ajob?Seriously?”

“Yes.”Inodded.“Iwassittingatmysecretary’sdesklookingforafileIneededbecauseherfather

passedawaylastnightandshetookofftoGeorgiatobewithherfamily.Sheplansonbeinggoneatleast

a month, maybe longer. So, that means I need a secretary until she returns and you need a job. Are you

interested?”

“Youwantmetoworkforyou?”

“Yes.Thetimingisimpeccable.It’slikeitwasmeanttobe.”

“Meanttobe?”Shearchedherbrow.

“Foryou,ofcourse.YouneedajobandIcanprovidethatforyou.”

“Butit’sonlytemporary,”shespokeasshebroughthercoffeecupuptoherlips.

“Fornow.Consideritatrial.Ifyoudowell,maybetherewillbeanotherpositionforyouinthefirm

whenLisareturns.”

“Idon’tthinkIcanaffordtotakethatchance,Mr.Russo.IfI’mgoingtostayputinNewYork,I’ll

needsomethingpermanent.”

“Youcan’taffordnottoacceptmyoffer,MissWilliams.Butifyouwouldlikeajobinretailworking

nights and weekends, and for minimum wage, then be my guest. But if you were to take my secretarial

position, at least you would have experience and it would be easy for you to find another job if one

shouldnotbeavailableafterLisareturns.”

Shesatthere,contemplatingmyoffer.Icouldtellthewheelswerespinninginthatprettylittleheadof

hers.

“Whatarethehoursandwhatdoesthejobentail?”

“Monday thru Friday, eight to five with an hour lunch break, and maybe an occasional Saturday,

depending if we’re pressed for time with a case. You would answer the phones, type correspondence,

reply to emails when necessary, file documents, fax, fetch coffee for clients. You know, just the basic

secretarialstuff.Andthebestpartofthejob,yougettoseemeeveryday.”Ismirked.

Sheletoutalightlaugh.“Soareyousayingthatyou’reoneoftheperks?”

“Iam,MissWilliams.”Iwinked.

“Youdon’tevenknowwhatskillsorqualificationsIhave.”

“Doesn’tmatter.You’reOlivia’sfriend,youneedajob,andIneedasecretary.That’sallIneedto

know.”Islightlyleanedacrossthetable.“Youcantype,right?”

“Yes.Icantype.”

“Doyouaccept?”Iaskedwitharaisedbrow.

“Yes.Iaccept.”Shesmiled.

“Excellent.”Itappedmyfistonthetable.“You’llstarttomorrow.I’llhaveOliviatakeyoutoHuman

Resourcesinthemorningtofilloutthepaperwork.”

“Thankyou,Mr.Russo.Iappreciateit.”

“CallmeLuca.”Ismiled.“MayIdriveyoubacktoyourapartment?”

“Thanksfortheoffer,butIcancatchacab.There’sacouplestoresIwanttostopat.”

“Okay,then.”Igotupfrommychair.“Iwillseeyouinthemorning.Oh,bytheway,I’mgoingtoneed

yourphonenumber.”

“For?”Hereyenarrowedatme.

“In case I need to get in contact with you. I have all my employees’ phone numbers and they have

mine.It’sjustbusiness,MissWilliams.”

Ipulledmyphonefrommypocketandkeyedhernumberundermycontacts.

“Enjoyyourevening,MissWilliams.”IsmiledasIbegantowalkaway.

“Luca?”shecalledouttome.

“Yes?”Iturnedaroundandoureyesmet.

“It’sAriana.”

Igaveheraslightnod,walkedoutthedoorwithasmileonmyface,andclimbedintomyBentley.

“Takemebacktothefirm,Jeffery.”

“Yes,sir.”

Thiswouldworkoutperfectly.Hersittingoutsidemyofficeallday,lookingsexyasfuck,fetchingmy

coffee and doing everything I asked. I would take her to dinner, using work as an excuse, calling it a

businessdinnertotrytogettoknowherbetter.ShewasgorgeousandIwantedherridingmycockuntilI

couldn’ttakeitanymore.Thethoughtgotmehard.Placingmyhandinmypocket,Iclimbedoutofthecar

andheadeduptomyoffice.WhenIreachedit,IsawanolderwomanwithshortredhairsittingatLisa’s

desk.

“Olivia,Ineedtoseeyouinmyoffice.”

ShefollowedmeinsideandIshutthedoor.

“Howdidcourtgo?”

“Good.Wewon.”IsmiledasItookaseatbehindmydesk.“WhoisthatsittingatLisa’sdesk?”

“Thetempyouaskedmetoget.”

“Call the agency and tell them I no longer require her services. I’ve hired someone and she starts

tomorrowmorning.”

“Whodidyouhire?”

“Yourfriend,Ariana.”Ismiled.

“What?How?I—”

“I ran into her after court at Starbucks. She mentioned she was looking for a job and I mentioned I

neededasecretary.Iofferedthepositiontoherandsheaccepted.”

“Wow.That’sgreat,Luca,”shespokewithaperplexedlookonherface.

“I’llneedyoutotakehertoHumanResourcesinthemorningtofilloutthepaperwork.”

“Sure.Okay.”

“Youmaygonowandtellthatwomanoutthereshecanleave.”

“Okay.”Shewalkedoutofmyoffice.

IleanedbackinmychairandplacedmyhandsbehindmyheadasIthoughtaboutAriana.Hernamefit

herperfectly.Abeautifulnameforastunningwoman.

ChapterSeven

Ariana

As soon as I got home, I grabbed my laptop and sat down on the couch. Bringing up my Facebook

page,InoticedIhadamessagefromher.

“Ariana, please. We can’t believe you just took off like that. Where are you? I tried to call your

phone,butitgoesstraighttovoicemailandyourmailboxisfull.Wearesoworriedaboutyou.Please

call.I’mbeggingyou.Iloveyousomuchandthisiskillingme.It’skillingallofus.Iknowyou’rehurt

andyoufeelbetrayed,butthatwasn’tourintention.There’ssomuchyoudon’tknow.Ifyou’dplease

justgivemeachance,Iwilltellyoueverything.”

Damn it. The first thing I should have done was deactivate my Facebook page. Shit. Reading her

message,Ifeltsick.Mebeinggoneiskillingthem?Whataboutme?Whataboutwhattheydidtome?As

muchasIhatedallofthem,Iknewtheywereworried,soItypedamessagebackbeforeIsaidgoodbyeto

Facebook.

“I’mfine.Don’tworryaboutme.Justgoonwithyourlife.You’reallreallygoodatpretending.”

Facebookpagegone.ItookinadeepbreathasIshutmylaptopandbroughtmykneestomychest.I

already got a job, which meant that I could start looking for my own apartment. Things were already

beginningtolookupforme.

ThedooropenedandOliviawalkedin.Settingherpursedown,shefellintothecouchnexttome.

“SoIhearyou’regoingtobeworkingforLuca.”Sheglancedoveratme.

“Iwasgoingtotellyouwhenyougothome.”

Shesighed.

“Areyoumad?”Iasked.

“No.Ofcoursenot.Iambeyondhappythatyougotajob.”Shegrabbedholdofmyhand.“It’sjust

him.”

“Whatabouthim?”

“He’saplayer.Hedatesalot,andImeanalotofwomen.Neverthesameoneafteraweek.”

“And?I’mnotdatinghim.I’mworkingforhim.”

“Healwaysgetswhathewantsandhehashiseyessetonyou.”

“I’m a big girl, Olivia, and I can handle Mr. Russo. Besides, he can eye me all he wants. The last

thingIneedrightnowisamancomplicatingmylife.Sodon’tworry.I’mnotgoingtodateLuca.Bythe

way,Ithoughtyoulikedhim.”

“Ido.Don’tgetmewrong,he’saniceguyandagreatbosswhenhegetshisway.Helikescontroland

Ijustdon’twanttoseeyougetcaughtupwithsomeonelikehim.”

I laid my head on her shoulder. “Who would have thought that four years later, we’d be working

together.”

Sheletoutalightlaughassherestedherheadagainstmine.“I’mhappyweare.”

“Metoo.Areyouevergoingtogoforyourlawdegree?”Iasked.

“Idon’tknow.Maybeoneday.Rightnow,I’mhappybeingaparalegal.Ilovemyjobanditdoesn’t

stressmeout.”

****

I slipped into my mid-length black skirt and a wine-colored luxe zip front blouse. After curling the

endsofmyhair,Iranmyfingersthroughandlightlysprayedit.I’dadmitthatIwasalittlenervous,but

excitedtobeworkingandearningapaycheck.ThelasttimeIworkedwaswhenIwasincollege.AfterI

graduated,Igaveupmyjobatthecoffeehousetofocusonmystudiesinlawschool.

OliviaandIhailedacabandrodeintotheofficetogether.Oncewearrived,shetookmetotheHuman

Resources department, where I filled out all the appropriate paperwork. Once I was finished, I headed

upstairstoLuca’soffice.Ireachedmydesk,theonewherehepretendedtobethesecretary,andsetdown

mypurseonthechair.HisofficedoorwasshutandIwasn’tsurewhattodo.GlancingoverwhereOlivia

sat,Isawthatshewasn’tatherdesk,soIjusttookaseatandlookedaround.

“Well,hellothere,”anoldermanspokeashestoppedatmydesk.“Youaren’tLisa.”

“Lisaisonaleaveofabsence.I’mMr.Russo’snewsecretary,ArianaWilliams.”Iheldoutmyhand.

“It’snicetomeetyou,Ariana.I’mJoeGreggs,oneofthepartnershere.WelcometoRusso,Greggs,&

Butler.”

“Thankyou.”

Justashewasabouttowalkaway,thedoortoLuca’sofficeopened.

“Goodmorning,Ariana.Joe.”Hesmiled.

“Goodmorning,”Ireplied.

Damn,didhelookgoodinhisnavybluetailoreddesignersuit.

“Morning,Luca.Iwasjustintroducingmyselftoyournewsecretary.Goodchoice.”Joewinkedand

walkedaway.

“Ignorehim.”Lucasmiled.“FollowmeandI’llgiveyouaquicktourandthenyoucangettowork.I

assumeyouknowhowtoanswerphones,right?”

Iarchedmybrowathim.“OfcourseIknowhowtoanswerphones.”

“Justchecking.”Hesmirked.

Aftermytour,Lucatookmeintohisofficeandtoldmetohaveaseat.

“Okay,”hespokeashetookaseatbehindhisdesk.“Iknowyou’renotfamiliarwithhowlawoffices

workorlegaldocuments,soaskOliviaforhelp.Ihavetwomotionsherethatneedtobeproofread.”He

handedmeafilefolder.“Andwhenthat’scomplete,givethemtoSpencer,ourrunner,andhe’llfilethem

withthecourt.”

IsattherelisteningtohimandthethoughtthatIshouldtellhimthatIgraduatedlawschoolcrossedmy

mind.Buthedidsaythathedidn’tneedtoknowwhatskillsorknowledgeIhad,soI’dlethimfindouton

hisown.

“I’llgetrightonit.”

“Thanks. I have a new client coming in about an hour. Until then, I don’t want to be disturbed,

includingphonecalls.”

“Gotit.”Ismiled.“Isthatall?”

“Yes.”

Igotupfrommychair,andasIwasabouttowalkout,Iheardhimcallmyname.

“Ariana?”

“Yeah.”Iturnedaround.

“Youlookverybeautifultoday.”

“Thanks.”IgavehimasmallsmileasIlefthisofficeandsatdownatmydesk.

Heshouldn’thavesaidthat.Heknewbetter.Icouldn’thelpbutthinkaboutwhatOliviasaid.Hewas

awomanizer,aplayer,andneverdatedthesamewomanformorethanaweek.Iknewhistype.Iworked

withthemandIwasprivytotheirindiscretions.ItwastimeIfoundoutexactlywhomIwasworkingfor.

Butthatwouldhavetowaituntillater.IneededtoproofreadthesemotionsandhandthemofftoSpencer,

whoeverhewas.

IwassittingatmydeskwhenOliviawalkedovertome.

“How’sitgoingsofar?”sheasked.

“Good.”Ismiled.“I’mjustproofreadingthesemotions.Bytheway,whichoneisSpencer?Ineedto

givehimthesetofilewiththecourt.”

“He’sdownthehall,firstcubicleontheleft.Whenyou’reready,letmeknowandI’lltakeyoutohim.

DoesLucaknowyourbackgroundyet?”

“No.”Ibitdownonmybottomlip.“Whenheofferedmethejob,Itoldhimthathedoesn’tknowmy

skillsandhesaiditdidn’tmatter.”

Sheletoutalaugh.“He’llfindoutsoonenough.HumanResourceswillbesendingupyourpaperwork

forhimtosign.”

“Great.”Irolledmyeyes.

I finished with the motions and Olivia walked me down to Spencer. Early twenties, part-time law

student, blondish-brown hair that was long on top and short on the sides, brown eyes, and a friendly

smile.

“Welcometothefirm,Ariana,”hespokeasheheldouthishand.

“Thanks,Spencer.Lucaneedsthesefiledtoday.”

“I’mheadingtherenow.”

AsIwaswalkingbacktomydesk,Lucasteppedoutofhisoffice.

“Ineedyouinthismeetingtotakenotes.Youcantakenotes,right?”

“Yes.Icantakenotes.”

“Good.GrabtheiPadinyourdeskandcomeonin.”

Reachinginsidethedesk,IgrabbedtheiPadthatwassittinginthetopdrawerandtookaseatatthe

tablewhereLucasatwithamanandhisdaughterwhowasaccusedofkillingherboyfriend.Itooknotes,I

listened, and watched the way Luca handled her when she broke down into tears. Her name was Kylie

Kirkmanandshewastwentyyearsold.Theyhadbeendatingfortwoyears.Hewastheloveofherlife

andhecheatedonher.Lucagotheroutonafive-hundred-thousand-dollarbondundertheagreementthat

she wasn’t to be left alone. Her father was an investment banker. Mother passed away a year ago. Her

mental stability was in question, for she was seeking psychiatric care for depression and anger issues

afterhermotherdied.

Oncethemeetingwasoverandtheyleft,IturnedtoLuca.

“Shedidn’tdoit.”

Helookedupfromthefileinfrontofhimandoveratme.

“Itdoesn’tmatterifshedidordidn’t.It’smyjobtogetheroff.”

“Doyoubelieveshekilledhim?”Icockedmyhead.

“Itdoesn’tmatterwhatIbelieve.”Heclosedhisfileandgotupfromthetable.

“Howcanyoudefendsomeoneifyoudon’tbelievethey’reinnocent?”

Heletoutalongsigh.“LikeIsaid,it’smyjobtogetheroff,regardlessifshediditornot.Whythe

interest?”Henarrowedhiseye.

“Justwonderinghowyouoperate.That’sall.”

Thecornersofhismouthcurvedupwardsintoasmallsmile.“HavedinnerwithmetonightandI’ll

tellyouexactlyhowIoperate.”

Thethoughtwastempting.Heintriguedme.Butdoubtcreptintomymind.

“Sorry.Ican’t.”

“Andwhynot?”

“Becauseyou’remyboss.”

“Itwouldbeabusinessdinner.”

“Todiscusswhat?”Iarchedmybrow.

“BusinessandwhatIexpectofyouhereintheoffice.”

“Youalreadytoldmewhatyouexpectedofme.”

“Maybe not everything.” He smirked. “Ariana, it’s just dinner, for god sakes. Nothing else. I

promise.”

Isattherecontemplatingwhetherornottogo.OliviaandHarrywereattendingsomebenefitdinner

tonight,soIwouldbehomeallalone,sittingandthinkingaboutmyfamily.Havingdinnerwithhimwould

beadistractionfromallthat.

“Fine.I’llhavedinnerwithyou.”

“Excellent.I’llpickyouupatseven.”

“Icanjustmeetyou.”

“IsaidI’llpickyouupatseven.Bytheway,didyoufinishthosemotions?”

“Yes.IhandedthemtoSpenceralready.”

“Well done and rather quickly. Impressive. Looks like I made the right choice in hiring you.” He

lookedathisRolex,whichsatproudlyonhiswrist.“Ihavetogettocourt.I’llseeyoulater.”

ChapterEight

Luca

I smiled all the way out of the building because she agreed to meet me tonight. Dinner was just the

beginning. In a matter of time, I’d have her rolling around in my bed while I fucked her every way

possible.Shedesiredit.Icouldtellbythewayshelookedatme.ButshewascautiousandIwantedto

knowwhy.Istilldidn’tknowanythingaboutherexceptthatshewasbeautifulandfromBoston.Hereyes

toldmethatshewashidingsomethingorperhapsrunningfromsomething.Itwasafeelingandmyfeelings

wereneverwrong.Nojoblinedup.Nopermanentplacetolive.Impulsemove.Allthefactspointedto

herrunningfromsomethingorsomeoneinBoston.

After court, I headed home to change clothes and then climbed into the Bentley to pick up Ariana.

FromthemomentIlaideyesonher,Iwasmesmerized.Andwhenshespoke,Ifeltaconnection.Itwasas

ifeverythingaroundmestoodstill.TimestoppedandtheonlypersonIsawwasher.Itooktheelevatorup

toherapartmentandknockedonthedoor.Whensheopenedit,Isilentlygaspedatthelowcut,above-the-

knee,form-fittingblackdressshewaswearing.

“Youlooklovely.”Ismiled.

“Thanks.Comeonin.Ijusthavetograbmyshoes.”

Istoodinthelivingroomandlookedaround.OliviahadworkedformeforthreeyearsandI’dnever

beentoherplacebefore.Therewasnoneedto.Butnow,Ihadareason.Abeautifulreason.

“I’mready.”Shesmiledassheemergedfromthebedroom.

“IhopeyoulikeItalian,”IspokeasIopenedthedoorandwebothwalkedout.

“Ido.Ithappenstobeoneofmyfavorites.”

“Good.I’vemadereservationsatLaMasseriaoveronWest48

Street.”

JefferystoodnexttotheBentleywiththedooropenandArianaclimbedin.

“Fancycar,Mr.Russo.”

“Thankyou.It’soneofmanyIown.I’llhavetoshowyoumyothersnexttime.”

Wearrivedattherestaurantandwereimmediatelyseatedatatableinthecornerfortwo.

“Goodevening,Mr.Russo,”thedark-hairedwomanspokeasshewalkedover.

“Goodevening,Hilary.We’llhaveabottleofchampagne.Champagneisokaywithyou,right?”My

eyesmetAriana’s.

“Champagneisfine,”sherepliedassheplacedhernapkininherlap.

Afterourchampagnewasserved,weplacedourdinnerorderandArianaandIbothreachedforthe

breadbasket at the same time, our fingers lightly brushing against each other’s. Just enough to send my

cockintoaspasticfit.

“Howwasyourfirstdayatmyfirm?”Iasked.

“Itwasgood.Ienjoyedit.”

“Itwasn’ttoocomplicatedforyou,wasit?”

“Notatall.Ievenhandledthephoneswithease.”Shesmiled.

“Good.”Ichuckled.“Whatdidyourfamilythinkaboutyoumakinganimpulsivemovehere?”

“Idon’thaveanyfamily.I’manonlychildandmyparentsdiedayearago.”

“I’msorry.”

“Thanks.Ijustneededachangeofscenery.IlivedinBostonmywholelifeandaftermyparentsdied,

Iwantedtostartsomewherefresh.”

“WhatdidyoudobackinBoston?”Iasked.

Myphonerang,andwhenIpulleditfrommypocket,itwasBradcalling.

“Ineedtogetthis.Brad,what’sup?”

“You’reneededdownatthepolicestation.It’sJoeyJohnson.”

“I’mhavingdinnerrightnow.Can’tyouhandleit?”

“Hespecificallyaskedforyou.”

Isighed.“I’monmyway.”

IlookedatArianaasaconfusedlooksweptoverherface.

“We have to go. Someone I know was just arrested and he’s asking for me to represent him. Mind

taking a little trip down to the police station? Since you are my secretary, you can take some notes for

me.”

“Idon’tmindatall.”

I held my finger up to Hilary from across the restaurant and she walked over. Pulling out my credit

card,Ihandedittoher.

“I’msorry,butwehavetoleave.Workcalls.”

“I’llberightbackwiththis.”Shesmiled.

WeenteredthepolicestationandweretakenbackintoaroomwhereJoeysat.

“Mr.Russo.”DetectiveGeorgeglaredatme.

“Detective.Ihopeyouweren’tharassingmyclient.Whatareyoucharginghimwith?”

“Rape,” he spoke. “Your client was brought in as a suspect fitting the description of the man who

rapedawomaninCentralParkacoupleofnightsago.”

“Itwasn’tme!”Joeyexclaimed.

“Don’tsayanotherword,Joey.DoyouhaveDNAproof,detective?”

“Not yet, but he was found lurking around the same area where the incident took place. Fits the

descriptiontotheTanditseemedasifhewaslookingforsomething.We’replacinghimunderarrestfor

therapeofCarlaKing.Bondwillbesetinthemorning.”

“Ineedamomentwithmyclient.”

AftertalkingwithJoeyandhavingArianatakenotesoneverythinghesaid,weleftthepolicestation

andclimbedintotheBentley.

“Doyoubelievehe’sinnocent?”sheasked.

“Thisagain?”Iarchedmybrow.“I’msorryaboutdinner.”

“It’sokay.Thiswasmorefun.”Shesmiled.

“You’rereallygettingatasteforthelaw.Icanseetheexcitementinyoureyes.”

“Maybe.”

JefferypulledalongsidethecurbtoherapartmentbuildingandIheldoutmyhandandhelpedherfrom

thecar.

“Again,I’msorryaboutdinner.We’llreschedule.Okay?”

“Sure.”Asmallsmilecrossedherlips.

“Haveagoodnight.I’llseeyouinthemorning.”

“Goodnight,Luca.”

Placingmyhandsinmypocket,Iwalkedbacktothecarandclimbedinside.WhatIwouldn’thave

giventokissthosebeautifulplumplipsofhers.Ididn’twanttocrosstheline.Notyetanyway.Myplan

for finding out more about her tonight was interrupted and I wasn’t happy about that. Once I knew, it

wouldbeeasiertogetherintobed.Icouldn’tputmyfingeronit,buttherewasmoretoherthanshewas

lettingon.

ThenextmorningwhenIarrivedattheoffice,Arianawasalreadysittingatherdesk.Afterlookingat

mywatch,Iglancedather.

“Goodmorning.You’retenminutesearly.”Ismiled.

“Goodmorning.It’sbettertobetenminutesearlythanfiveminuteslate.”Shegrinned.

“Iagree.Lisawasalwayslate,soI’mnotusedtoseeinganyonesittinghereforatleastanothertwenty

minutes.Canyougrabmeacupofcoffee?”

“Sure.Creamandsugar?”Shegotupfromherchair.

“Justblackandmakesureit’safreshpot.”

Walkingintomyoffice,Isetmybriefcasedownandtookaseatbehindmydesk.Afewmomentslater,

Arianasteppedinandsetmycoffeedowninfrontofme.

“Thankyou.”Ipickeditupandtookasip.

“You’rewelcome.”

Igrabbedapileoffilesfrommydeskandhandedthemtoher.

“I need you to go through these and get court dates set up. If you need any help, ask Olivia. I’ll be

leavinginaboutanhourforJoey’sbailhearing.”

“Okay.”Shesmiled.“Isthatall?”

Iwantedtotellherno,thatwasn’tallbecauseIwantedherinmylap,feelingthatsweetbeautifulass

ofhersrestingcomfortablyonme.IwantedherlipsonmineandIwantedmyhandupherskirt.

“Whatareyourplansfortonight?”Iasked.

“I’mgoingapartmenthuntingafterwork,”shereplied.

“Sonodinner?”

“Sorry,butIhavetofindaplace.IhateimposingonOliviaandHarry.”

“HowisseeingHarryworkingoutforyou?”IaskedasIleanedbackinmychair.

“Whatdoyoumean?”

“Oliviatoldmewhathappened.Actually,shedidn’tvoluntarilytellme.Isortofdraggeditoutofher,

soyoucan’tbemad.Itmustbehardseeingthetwoofthemtogether.”

IneededtogetherthoughtsonthesituationtoseeifshewasstillhunguponHarry.Maybethatwas

herplanandwhyshe’dmovedtoNewYork.Perhapsshewantedhimback.

“Oh.It’sworkingoutfine.Iputwhathappenedfouryearsagointhepastandwe’removingforward.”

“Soyouhavenointerestinhim?”

Shenarrowedhereyeasshestoodthereclutchingthefilefolderstoherchest.

“Absolutelynot.Thetwoofthemweremeanttobetogether.Iftheyweren’t,theywouldn’thavelasted

thislong.They’rehappyandI’mhappyforthem.”

Gotmyanswer.

“That’sgood.Okay,getworkingonthosecourtdates.”

Sheturnedaroundandbegantowalkoutofmyoffice,thenstoppedandlookedatme.

“Whywouldyouaskmethat?”

“Idon’tknow.”Ishrugged.“Iwasjustcurious.”

“Andwhywereyoucurious?”

“Ijustwonderedifitwasawkward.That’sall.”

“There’smoretoyourstory,Mr.Russo.Youwouldn’thaveaskedunlessyouweretryingtofindout

something.Perhapsyouweretryingtofindoutforyourself.”

“WhywouldIdothat?”Iaskedwithafurrowedbrow.

“Because you’re interested in me and you wanted to make sure that I wasn’t here to get my ex-

boyfriendbackbecausethatwouldposeaproblemforyou.”

“Whatkindofproblemwoulditpose?”

“If I was interested in someone else, you wouldn’t stand a chance.” Her brow arched, making her

evensexierthanshealreadywas.

“I would always stand a chance, Miss Williams. Women can’t resist my charm. In fact, they have

troublekeepingtheirpantiesupinmypresence.”

Mycockwasontherise.

“Idon’tsuccumbtocharmandIcanguaranteeyouthatmypantieswillstayintactinyourpresence.”

Sheturnedandwalkedoutofmyoffice.

IsattherewithasmileonmyfaceasIlookeddownatmyhardandthrobbingcock.

“Don’tworry,bigguy.You’llhaveatasteofher.Ipromise.”

****

Joeygotoutonbailandnowitwastimetoputhiscasetogether.WhenIarrivedbackatmyoffice,I

calledSheila,myinvestigator,intomyofficeandhandedherJoey’sfile.

“IwantthevictiminterviewedandIwantyoutogotoCentralParkandlookaround.Joeysaidhewas

therethatnightbecausehewasrunningintheareathatdayandwhenhegothome,henoticedhiswallet

wasmissing.Seewhatyoucanfind.”

“I’llgonow.Anythingelse?”

“No.Justseewhatyoucanfindtodiscredither.”

AfterSheilaleft,Istartedlookingthroughsomepaperworkthatwassittingonmydesk.Onethingthat

grabbedmyattentionwasAriana’sfinalpaperworkformetosign.Whatthefuck?Iturnedtomycomputer

andsearchedhernameinthedatabase.

“Ariana!”Ishoutedfrommydesk.“Getinmyofficenow!”

ChapterNine

Ariana

Shit.WhatdidIdotomakehimshoutlikethat?ItookinadeepbreathasIgotupfrommychairand

steppedinsidehisoffice.

“Shutthedoorandhaveaseat,”hecommandedinaharshvoice.

ThelookonhisfacewaspureangerandIcouldn’tfigureoutforthelifeofmewhatI’ddone.

“What’sup?”Ibitdownonmybottomlip.

“What’s up?” He cocked his head. “Let me tell you what’s up.” His eyes darted to his computer

screen.“ArianaGraceWilliams,bornOctober1,1991.GraduatedHarvardLaw2016atthetopofher

class and delivered valedictorian speech. Interned at Young, Johns, & Pettyfer. Daughter of Emma and

John Williams. Sibling of Julia Brooks. Whom are all still very much alive and living in Boston.” He

glaredatme.

Shit.Shit.Shit.MaybeIshouldhavetoldhimaboutHarvard.

Igulpedashiseyesburnedintomineandnotinaseductiveway.

“You’reafuckinglawyer?”Hisvoicewassternandsomewhatfrightening.

“Notyet.Istillhavetotakethebarexam.”

“This is unbelievable. Harvard? Really? Top of your class? Valedictorian speech? Why the fuck

didn’tyoutellme?”Hegotupfromhischairandpacedaroundhisoffice.

“Yousaidyoudidn’tneedtoknowwhatskillsIhad.Yousaiditdidn’tmatter.”

“Idon’tgiveashitwhatIsaid!”heshoutedashewalkedovertomeandplacedhishandsoneach

arm of my chair, his angry face mere inches from mine. “This is important information that you should

havetoldme.Youledmetobelieveyouknewnothingaboutthelaw.Youdeceivedme,Ariana,”hespoke

ashisangryeyesstaredatme.

“Ididn’tdeceiveyouatall.YouassumedandIplayedonyourassumption.Notagoodfeeling,isit,

Mr.Russo?”

“SothiswaspaybackformenottellingyouIwasn’tthesecretary?”

“No.Thiswasjustmetryingtogetmylifebacktogether.”

“Whydidyoulieaboutyourfamily?”

“AmIontrial?”Iasked.

Hiseyesnarrowedatmeashestoodupandtookaseatbehindhisdesk.

“No.ButIamyourbossandIthinkIhavetherighttoknow.”

“Myfamilyisn’tyourconcern,Luca.”Iprobablyjustgotfired.“They’redeadtome.”

“Andyouwon’ttellmewhy?”

“No,” I adamantly spoke as I got up from my chair. “I’ll get my things and go.” I began to walk

towardsthedoor.

“DoyoureallythinkthatI’dfireyou?”heasked.“Sitdown,please.”Hisvoicecalmed.

Taking in a deep breath, I sat back down. He folded his hands on his desk and stared at me for a

moment.Hiseyesdisplayedabitofwarmthandtheangerseemedtohavedissipated.

“You’reright.Yourpersonallifeisn’tanyofmyconcern.Butwhatismyconcernisthatyouhaven’t

takenyourbarexamyetandIwanttoknowwhy.”

“IwasscheduledtotakeitbackinBoston,butthenthingshappened,andIhadtoquicklyleaveand

relocate. I wanted to take the bar here, but it’s in less than two weeks and way past the deadline for

registration,soI’llbetakingitinNovember.”

“Areyoureadytotakethebarexam,Ariana?”

“Yes.I’mready.Ijustwish—”

“IhaveaverygoodfriendwhomI’mcertaincangetyouintotakeitthismonth.”

“Really?”

“Yes. But you must make sure you’re ready for it. It’s extremely hard and usually only about sixty

percentofthepeoplewhotakeitforthefirsttimeactuallypass.”

“I’mnotworried.”Ilookeddownatmyhands.

“Harvard,eh?”Hesmiled.

“Yes.Andyou?”

“Cornell.Topofmyclass.Deliveredthevaledictorianspeech.”

“Impressive.Andthisfirm?”

“Mygrandfatherwasthefoundingpartner.Hehadastrokeacoupleofyearsago,whichforcedhimto

retirefromthelaw.Hebroughtmeinasapartnerrightafterlawschool.Ibecamealawyerbecauseof

him.”

“I’msorry.”

“AndI’msorryaboutyourfamily.”

“Don’tbe.”Ilightlyshookmyhead.

“Areyouonehundredpercentsureyou’regoingtostayinNewYorkpermanently?”heasked.

“Yes.I’msure.”

“ThenthisiswhatI’mgoingtodoforyou.I’llmakethecalltomyfriend,getyouregisteredforthe

bar, pay all your exam fees and, once you pass, you will work here at the firm as a junior associate.

Deal?”Hegrinned.

“HowdoyouknowI’llbeagoodenoughattorneyforyourfirm?”

“Ialreadytoldyouthatyou’dmakeadamngoodlawyer.Doyouaccept?”

“Ittakesaboutthreemonthsfortheresultstocomeback.WhatdoIdoifLisareturnsbeforethen?”

“You’llgettheresultsquick.ThatIcanguarantee.”

“Youhavethatkindofpull,Mr.Russo?”

“Ido.”Hesmirked.“Icandoalotofthings.Neverunderestimateme.”

“Whywouldyoudothisforme?”

“Because,Ariana,you’rebrokenandyou’retryingtoputthepiecesofyourlifebacktogether.We’ve

allbeenthere.Youwereallsettotakethebarandbecomealawyeruntilsomethinghappenedwithyour

family,whichledyouoffyourpath.Icanputyoubackonthatpath.”

Excitement soared through my body. This was really happening and my life was already starting to

changeforthebetter.

“Iaccept.”Igrinned.“Butwhatabouttheotherpartners?Don’ttheyhavetoagreetobringmeonasa

juniorassociate?”

“I’m the majority holder and partner in this firm. I make whatever decisions I feel are in the best

interestofthiscompany.”

“Thankyou,Luca.YouhavenoideahowmuchIappreciatewhatyou’redoingforme.”

Thecornersofhismouthcurvedupintoasmile.“Thenshowme.Havedinnerwithmetonight.Nota

businessdinner,butapersonalone.Adate.”

HowcouldItellhimnoafterwhathewasdoingforme?HewasjumpstartingmycareerandIknew

inthebackofmymindthatI’dhavetosomehowpaythepriceforit.Itwasn’tthatIdidn’twanttogoout

withhim.Hewassexy,successful,andintelligent.Buttherewasn’tanyroominmyliferightnowforany

typeofrelationship.Plus,Ihadanoverwhelmingfeelingthathe’dendupbreakingmyheartandhurting

meifthingsgotoutofcontrol.I’dalreadybeenhurtenoughforalifetime.

“Iwassupposedtogoapartmenthunting,remember?”

“Youcangotomorrow.Infact,I’llcallmyrealtortohelpyoufindsomething.”

“Iguessdinnerwouldbenice.”Ismiled.

“Nice?”Hisbrowarched.“I’llpickyouupatsevenandwe’llgobacktothesamerestaurantaslast

nightsincewedidn’tgettoenjoythefinefoodtheyhave.”

“I’llbeready.”Igotupfrommychair.

“Youknowwhat?”Heslylysmiled.“We’llhavedinneratmyplacetonightinstead.”

Istoodthereandnarrowedmyeyesuspiciouslyathim.Ifhethoughthewasgoingtogetmetosleep

withhim,hewascrazy,becauseitwasn’thappening.

“Idon’tthinkthat’sagoodidea,”Ispoke.

“Why?”Hesmirked.“Areyouafraidyouwon’tbeabletoresistmeintheprivacyofmyownhome?

Thatyouwon’tbeabletokeepyourpantiesintact?Orisitthatyoudon’ttrustme?”

“Icanresistyou,Mr.Russo.I’mnotworriedaboutthat.Asfarastrustgoes,I’mnotsureyet.From

whatIhear,you’requitetheplayerofladies.”

“True.”Heshrugged.“AndI’msureOliviahaswarnedyouaboutme.ButIcanassureyouthatIwill

beonmybestbehaviortonight.”

“TextmeyouraddressandI’llseeyouatseven.”IsmiledasIwalkedoutofhisoffice.

Once I reached my desk, I let out a deep breath. In my head, I knew having dinner with him at his

placewasabadidea.

ChapterTen

Luca

IpromisedherthatIwouldbeonmybestbehaviortonight.WasitapromiseIcouldkeep?Yes.As

hardasitwouldbetokeepmyhandsoffher,Ihadto.Ineededtogainhertrustcompletely,andasofnow,

Ididn’thaveit.WhateverhappenedbackinBostonwithherfamilybrokeherintotinylittlepieces.She

didn’ttrustanyone.Icouldtell.Sheprobablydidn’teventrustOlivia.Shewasalawyerandtopofher

class. I knew she was intelligent as hell and now she turned me on even more, intensifying my need to

fuckher.

Pickingupthephone,Idialedmyfriend,DavidHildenberg,afamilyfriendwhomI’dknownsincethe

dayIwasborn.

“Luca,myboy.Howareyou?”

“I’mgood,David.Howareyou?”

“I’mdoingwell.TowhatdoIowethepleasureofthiscall?”

“Ihaveafavortoask.”

“Okay.Whatisit?”

“IhaveafriendwhojustmovedfromBoston,andshejustgraduatedlawschool.Iwanttohireheras

soonaspossibleasanassociate,butshehastotakethebar.Iknowthere’sonecomingupinacoupleof

weeks.Ineedhertositforit.YouknowIwouldn’taskyouifitwasn’timportant.”

“What’shername?”

“ArianaWilliams.ShegraduatedtopofherclassfromHarvard.”

“SendmewhatyouhaveonherandI’llgetherregistered.Howfastdoyouneedtheresults?”

“Assoonaspossible.I’mveryanxioustogetheronboardhereatthefirm.”

“Wouldyourgrandfatherapproveofher?”

“Mostdefinitely.Infact,heprobablywouldhavecalledyouhimself.”

“Okay.I’llmakeithappen,butyouknowthisconversationnevertookplace,Luca.”

“Iknow,andthankyou,David.Iwouldn’thaveaskedifitwasn’timportant.”

“We’lltalksoon,”hespokebeforeendingthecall.

AsIwasgettinguptotellArianathegoodnews,Bradwalkedintotheoffice.

“Howwascourt?”IaskedasIstoodup.

“Itwasgood.Wewon.”Hesmiled.“Settlementforonemilliondollars.”

“Excellent.Gotaminute?”IaskedasIsatbackdown.

“Sure.What’sup?”

“ArianagraduatedatthetopofherclassfromHarvardLaw.”

“What?”Hiseyesliterallypoppedfromhishead.“Areyouserious?She’salawyer?”

“Shewillbeassoonasshetakesthebarinacoupleofweeks.ItoldherthatI’dbringheronasa

juniorassociateassoonasshepasses.”

“Why?Wedon’tneedanotherlawyerforthefirm.”

Ishrugged.“Wecouldalwaysuseanothergoodattorneyaroundhere.Clientsarepouringinandthe

caseloadsaregettingheavier.”

“Didyoufuckheralready?Isthatwhyyou’redoingit?”heasked.

“No. I haven’t fucked her and I’m doing it because she just moved here and needs a job. Someone

withhereducationandskillswouldbeagreatassettothisfirm.”

“I’mguessingshesaidnotoyoualreadyandyou’reofferingherajobtogetupthatprettylittleskirt

ofhers.”

“You’rewrong.”Iarchedmybrowathim.

“Somehow, Luca, I don’t think I am. I know you and beautiful women. Except no woman has ever

turnedyoudownbefore.”Hecockedhishead.“Sothatmeansshemusthave.”Asmirkcrossedhisface.

“We’rehavingdinneratmyplacetonight.So,yourtheoryiswrong.Shedidn’tturnmedown.”

“Maybenotfordinner,butIcanguaranteeshewon’tletyoufuckher.”

“Don’tyouhaveacasetoputtogetheroraclienttomeet?”Ileanedbackinmychair.

Helookedathiswatchandgotupfromhischair.“Actually,Idohaveaclientmeetingintenminutes.

Goodluckwithdinnertonight.Ihopethedessertisjustasgood.”Hewinked.

I decided to wait and tell Ariana the good news at dinner. When I arrived home, I called the

steakhouseandplacedadeliveryorder.Ididn’thavemuchfoodinthehouseandmymeetingranlate,soI

didn’t have time to stop at the store and pick anything up to cook. After changing into something more

casual,Isetthetable,openedabottleofwine,andthenplacedmyhandsonthecounterasIthoughtabout

her.Fuck.HowwasIgoingtobehavetonightwhenallIwantedtodowasthrowheronmybed,spread

herlegswide,andshovemycockinsideher?ImadeapromiseandIalwayskeptmyword,nomatter

howmuchitkilledme.

****

Ariana

Thecabpulleduptothecurbof575ParkAvenue,andwhenIclimbedout,anoldermanopenedthe

buildingdoorforme.

“Goodevening,Miss.Areyouvisitingtonight?”

“Goodevening.I’mhereforMr.Russoinapartment810.”Ismiled.

“Andyourname,please?”heaskedashepickeduphisdeskphone.

“ArianaWilliams.”

Afterhangingupthephone,hepointedovertowheretheelevatorswere.

“What’syourname?”Iasked.

“Really?Youwanttoknowmyname?”heaskedinconfusion.

“Yes.Whywouldn’tI?”

Hisfacegavewaytoabashfulsmile.“I’mjustthedoorman.NowomanthathasvisitedMr.Russo

hadanyinterestinknowingmyname.”

“WellIdo.”Igavehimafriendlysmile.

“I’mEmil.”

“It’snicetomeetyou,Emil,”IspokeasIextendedmyhandtohim.

“Thepleasureismine,MissWilliams.”

“Noneedforformalities.JustcallmeAriana.Nowifyou’llexcuseme,I’mgoingtoheaduptoMr.

Russo’sapartment.”

After stepping off the elevator, I found apartment 810 and lightly knocked. I would admit that the

nervesinmybellyweregettingthebestofme.Oliviadidn’tseemtoohappythatwewerehavingdinner

athisplaceandclearlystatedthatnotevenshehadeverbeenthere.

“You’relate.”Hesmiledasheopenedthedoor.

“Sorry.IwastalkingtoEmil,”IspokeasIsteppedinside.

“Mydoorman?”

“Yes.Heseemsverynice.Eventoldmethatnotoneofthethousandsofwomenwhohavebeenup

hereeverbotheredtowanttoknowhisname.”

“Hesaidthat?”

“Okay.”Ismiled.“Hedidn’tsay‘thousands.’”

HegavemeasmallgrinasIfollowedhimintohisstainlesssteelandwhitetiledkitchenwithblack

granitecountertopsandtopofthelineappliances.

“Dinnerwillbehereshortly,”hespokeashepouredaglassofwineandhandedittome.

“Ah,Ithoughtyouwerecooking.”

“Iwasgoingto,butmymeetingranlateandIdidn’thavetimetostopatthestore.”

“Soyoudocook?”Ismirked.

“Alittlebit.Howaboutyou?”Hepouredhimselfaglassofwine.

“I’mnogourmetchef,butIcancook.Iusedtocookallthetimewith—”Ipausedandlookedaway

fromhim.“Anyway,whatdidyouorderfordinner?”

“Youcantalktome,Ariana,”hespokeasIwentintothelivingroom.

“Ireallylikethebeamedceilingsinhereandthiswoodfloor.Whattypeisit?”Iaskedtochangethe

subject.

“It’saherringbonefloor,”hereplied.

BeforeIknewit,Ifelthishandonmyshoulderasmybackwasturnedtohim.

“I’magoodlistener,”hespoke.

“AndI’mnotaverygoodtalker,solet’snottalkaboutmyfamily.”

His phone rang and I was saved by Emil, who called to let him know that our food delivery had

arrived.Lucawalkedovertothedoorandopeneditasthedeliverymanhandedhimacoupleofbagsand

thenleftwithageneroustip.IfollowedLucaintothekitchenasheplacedthefoodonthetable.

“Wehaveacoupleoffilets,bakedsweetpotatoes,grilledasparagus,salad,andsomebread.Ihope

youlikefilet.”

“Ido.”IsmiledasIsatdown.

“Good.Let’sdigin.”

Iwantedtoknowmoreabouthim,buthowcouldIexpecthimtotellmeanythingwhenIwouldn’ttell

himaboutmyfamily?Maybecomingherewasn’tsuchagoodideaafterall.Oliviadidwarnmethathe

wasaveryprivateperson.Iwasgoingtogiveitashotanyway.

“Doyouhaveanysiblings?”IaskedasIcutintomyfilet.

Hisbrowarched.“Youwanttotalkaboutmyfamily,yetyouwon’ttellmeanythingaboutyours?”

“YoualreadyknowIhaveasister.”

“True, and no, I don’t have any siblings. My father passed away when I was fifteen and my mother

diedthreeyearsago.AllIhaveleftismygrandfather.”

“I’msorryaboutyourparents.”

Hegavemeasmallsmileandtookasipofhiswine.“Idon’twanttotalkaboutmyfamily.Ihave

some news for you. You’re all set to take the bar exam. You should be getting an email with all the

informationwithinacoupleofdays.”

“Idon’tknowwhattosay,Luca,exceptthankyou.”

“You’re welcome. Since you don’t want to talk about your family, why don’t you tell me why you

wantedtobecomealawyer.”

“Iliketodebate.”Ismiled.“Itookalawclassinmyjunioryearinhighschool.Iwantedpsychology,

butthatclasswasalreadyfull.ItwasthatsemesterthatIbecamefascinatedwiththelaw.Itwasalsoin

thatclasswhereIdiscoveredhowunjustthelawcouldbetopeopleandIwantedtohelpthosewhowere

in need. By time the semester ended, I left with a 4.5 in the class and my teacher told me that I should

consider studying law as a career. It was weird because after that class, I became obsessed and spent

hours researching cases and studying law books. I knew if I wanted to be the best lawyer I could be, I

neededto attend agood law school.So I obtained mybachelor’s degree atBoston University, took the

LSAT,gotintoHarvardLaw,andhereIam.”

“WhatwasyourGPAfromBostonUniversity?”

“4.0.”

Hisbrowarchedwithimpression.“AndyourLSATscore?”

“180.”

“Letmeguess.CaptainoftheHarvardMockTrialTeam?”

“Howdidyouknow?”Igrinned.

“Icanjusttell.”Hewinked.

“Wewereundefeatedandwonfirstplaceatnationalseveryyear.”

“Impressive,MissWilliams.Youshouldhavenoproblempassingthebar.”

“IknowIwon’t.”Iheldupmyglasstohim.

“Good,becauseI’manxioustobringyouonboardasajuniorassociate.”Helightlytappedhisglass

againstmine.

ChapterEleven

Ariana

“Yousaidyourgrandfatherwasthereasonyouwantedtostudylaw.Whyisthat?”Iaskedasweboth

finisheddinnerandIhelpedhimcleanup.

“He’sabrilliantlawyerandsomeoneIgreatlyadmireandlookupto.We’reveryclose.”

“Haveyoualwaysbeenclosetohim?”Iasked.

“SincethedayIwasborn.He’sthemostimportantpersoninmylife.”

“Isheyourgrandfatherfromyourmotherorfather’sside?”

“Mymother’s.”

“I’msureifyourfathercouldseeyounow,he’dbeveryproudofyou.Washealawyeraswell?”

“He was a cop.” He placed the dishes in the sink and rested his hands on the counter while he

loweredhisheadandlightlyshookit.“Wow.You’regood.”

“Whatdoyoumean?”Iaskedinconfusion.

“ItoldyouthatIdidn’twanttotalkaboutmyfamily,yetyoumanagedtosneakinaquestionaboutmy

fatherandIansweredwithouteventhinkingtwiceaboutit.”

“Idon’tunderstand,Luca.”

“I’monlygoingtosaythisonce.”Helookedoveratmewithseriousnessinhiseyes.“AndI’llnever

speakofitagain.MyfatherwasnotagoodmanandIdon’tliketotalkabouthim.Soallquestionsareoff

limits.Doyouunderstandme?”hespokeinanauthoritativetone.

“Yeah.Sure.Iunderstand.”

“Youdon’twanttotalkaboutyourfamilyandI’mrespectingthat,soIexpectthesamefromyou.”

I put my hands up. “I get it. No talk about either family. Could you point me in the direction of the

bathroom?”

“It’sdownthehall.Firstdooronyourright.”

“Thanks.I’llberightback.”

Iclosedthebathroomdoorandleanedagainstit,lettingoutabreath.Histoneandhisdemeanortold

methathischildhoodmustn’thavebeenaverygoodonewithhisfather.Iwasabouttoaskhimhowhe

passed away, but now I couldn’t. We all had secrets we wanted to keep locked away deep within our

soulsandIcouldn’tfaulthimforthatsinceIwasunwillingtotellhimwhathappenedbackinBoston.

Afterusingthebathroom,IwalkedintothelivingareaandfoundLucasittingonthecouch.

“Joinme.”Hesmiled.“Iwantyouropiniononsomething.”

WhenItookaseatnexttohim,hehandedmeafilefolder.

“What’sthis?”IaskedasIopenedit.

“Acase.Iwantyoutolookthroughitlaterandreportbacktomeinthemorningwithyourthoughts.

We’regoingtotrialinafewdays.”

“Really?”Igrinned.

“Really.”Hebroughthishanduptomycheekandsoftlystrokedit.

I could feel my cheeks redden as a rush of warmth flooded me down below. Our eyes locked onto

eachother’sasneitheroneofussaidaword.MyeyesdivertedtohislipsandIgulpedathowbadlyI

wantedhimtokissme.

“Doyouwantmetokissyou?”hesoftlyspokeasthepalmofhishandrestedonmycheek.

“Maybe,”Iwhispered.

“AsmuchasIwantto,Ican’t.”Hepulledawayandgotupfromthecouch.

“Why?”ThequestionfellfrommylipsbeforeIhadthechancetothinkaboutit.

“Because,Ariana,IpromisedyouthatIwouldbeonmybestbehaviortonight.HowwoulditlookifI

brokethatpromise?”

“Idon’tmindifyoubreakit.Peoplebreakpromisesallthetime.”

“Idon’t,andit’sgettinglate.I’llhaveJefferydriveyouhome.”

“Okay.”Ifrowned.

Igotupfromthecouch,grabbedmypurse,andhewalkedmetothedoor.

“Thankyoufordinner,”Ispoke.

“You’rewelcome.Don’tforgettostudythatfile.”

“Iwon’t.”

Istoodthere,hopingandprayingthathe’datleastgivemeakissonthecheek,buthedidn’t.Hejust

placedhishandonthesmallofmybackandwalkedmeintothehallway.

“Haveagoodnight,Ariana.”

“Yeah.Youtoo.”

Fuck.NowIsawwhywomenhadtroublekeepingtheirpantiesupinhispresence.Itdidn’ttakemuch

more than a look from him to make me go weak in the knees and want him. I could already tell that

workingforhimwasgoingtobeaproblem.

****

Luca

MycockwashardandIwasgoingtobeleftwithaseriouscaseofblueballs.Shewantedmetofuck

herandittookallthestrengthIhadinmenotto.IwantedtotakeitslowbecauseIneededhertotrustme

first. But why did I care? That was the question I needed to figure out the answer to. There was a

tremendous amount of attraction. More so than I’d ever felt with anyone before. I could see myself

growingclosewithherandthatwouldposeaproblem.ShewasdifferentandIcouldn’tputmyfingeron

astowhy.

Thenextmorning,IstrolledintotheofficeandsawAriana’sbeautifulfaceasshesatatherdesk.

“Goodmorning.”Istopped.

“Goodmorning.”

“Grabussomecoffeeandcomeintomyoffice.Bringthefilewithyou.”

Afewmomentslater,shewalkedinwiththefileunderherarmandtwocupsofcoffee.Icouldn’tstop

thinkingabouthowIcouldhavehadherlastnight.Ofalltimestobeagentleman.

“So.Whatdoyouthink?”Iaskedasshesetmycoffeecuponmydeskandtookaseat.

“Alltheevidencepointstoyourclientasbeingguilty,andifIthinkthat,sowillthejury.Hehadno

witnessestohisalibi.Hefoundouthiswifewascheating,sohehadamotive.”

“Iknow.That’swhyIneedyoutoseesomethingwe’renot.I’mremovingyoufromthepositionofmy

secretary and making you my legal assistant for now. I want you to work on this case and find me

somethingtoprovetothejurythatourclientdidn’tmurderhiswife.”

“You’rekidding,right?”

“No.I’mveryserious,Ariana.Reasonabledoubtisthekeyhere.”

“Butifyouandyourteamexhaustedallavenues,whatcanIdo?”

“Areyoudoubtingyourabilityasalawyer?”Iarchedmybrowather.

“No.It’sjust—”

“It’sjustnothing.Nowgettoworkandcallthetempagencytosendoverasecretary.”

“I’llgetrightonit,”shespokeasshewalkedoutofmyoffice.

IsighedasIpickedupmyphoneandcalledWill,myrealtor.

“Luca,whatcanIdoforyou?”heanswered.

“Ineedyoutohelpanemployeeofminelookforanapartmentandmakesureit’sincloseproximityto

mybuilding.Here’shernumber.Iknowshe’sanxious,sogiveheracallassoonaspossible.Iwantyou

totextmewhenyoushowhereachapartment.”

“Willdo,Luca.”

“Thanks,Will.”

Isetdownmyphoneandleanedbackinmychair.WhatthefuckwasIdoing?

ChapterTwelve

Luca

AsIwaslookingoveracasefile,Arianasoftlyknockedonmydoor.

“Comein.”

“IjustwantedtoletyouknowthatI’mleavingforthenight.Ihaveanappointmentwithyourrealtor.

Thanks,Luca,forhavinghimgetintouchwithme.”

“You’re welcome.” I smiled. “I figured it would save you some time since you’re going to be busy

workingontheMichaelscase.Letmeknowifyoufindsomething.”

“Iwill.”Shesmiled.“Haveagoodnight.”

“Youtoo.”

Aboutanhourhadpassed,andasIwasgettingreadytoleavetheoffice,atextmessagecamethrough

fromWill.

“Ourfirststopisat117East57

Street.Ameretwo-minutewalkfromyourapartmentbuilding.”

“Iknowexactlywhatbuildingyou’retalkingabout.Itmightbealittlepriceyforherandifitis,

letmeknow.Doeverythingyoucantoconvincehertotakeit.”

“IwillandI’llletyouknow.”

****

Ariana

WhenWillopenedthedoortoapartment26E,Isteppedinsideandlookedaroundatall712square

feet.

“Isn’titlovely?”Hesmiled.“Thelightoakfloorsactuallymakethespacelookbigger.Andwaituntil

Ishowyouthekitchen.”

Ifollowedhimintothekitchenarea,whichwasdecoratedwithwhitecabinets,whiteappliances,and

blackandgraymarbledgranitecountertops.

“Ilikethisapartment.Itfeelscozy.Howmuchistherent?”

“3,850amonth,”hereplied.

Ibitdownonmybottomlip.“That’salittlemorethanIwantedtospend.Especiallyforthissmallof

aspace.”

“Well,darling,thisisNewYorkandyoudon’tgetmuchforyourmoney.Holdonasecond;letmetext

thelandlordjusttomakesurethatisthecorrectrent.”

Itwasaniceapartment.Iwouldhatetoseewhatsomethingbiggerwouldcost.IsighedasIcontinued

tolookaroundandranthenumbersinmyhead.

“Thelandlordsaidthattherentincludesallutilitiesandhewon’trequireadeposit.Iexplainedtohim

yoursituationandyourjobatthelawfirm.”

“Nodeposit.Really?”

“Really.”Hegrinned.“It’sasteal,MissWilliams,andtobehonest,it’sthenicestoneofthethreethat

Iwantedtoshowyou.Iwassavingthebestforfirst.”

Ilookedaroundonelasttime,arrangingfurnitureinmyhead.

“Allright.I’lltakeit,”Ispokewithexcitement.

“Fabulous.I’llgetthepaperworkstartedandyoucanprobablymoveinthisweekend.I’llgiveyoua

calltomorrowafternoon.”

“Thankyou,Will.”Iheldoutmyhand.“Iappreciateit.”

“You’rewelcome,Ariana.”HesmiledasweleftthebuildingandIheadedhome.

Excitement soared through me. This was the first time I ever rented my very own place. I lived at

homemostofmylifeexceptwhenIwentofftocollegeandlawschool,whereIroomedwithacoupleof

othergirls.

“Howdidapartmenthuntinggo?”HarryaskedasIsteppedthroughthedoor.

“Ifoundaplace!”IsmiledasIheldmyhandsout.

“That’sgreat,Ari.Whereat?”Oliviaaskedfromthecouch.

“117East57

Street.It’sa712-square-foot,one-bedroom,one-bathapartment.It’scute.”

“That’soverbyLuca’sapartment.Like,literallyatwo-minutewalkaroundthecorner.”

“Really?Ididn’trealizethat.”

“I’m happy for you, but I’m sad you won’t be living here anymore.” She pouted. “When are you

moving?”

“WillsaidthatIwouldprobablybeabletomoveinthisweekend.”

AftertalkingwithHarryandOliviaforawhile,Iretreatedtomybedroom,changedintomynightshirt,

andsatdownonthebed,spreadingthepapersfromtheMichaelscaseinfrontofme.Theboyfriendhad

an airtight alibi. He was sitting at the bar he frequently visited. Mrs. Michaels was murdered at

approximatelyninep.m.andthesecuritycamerainthebarshowedStephan,thevictim’sboyfriend,sitting

thereatthatprecisetime.AsIwasrackingmybrainandreviewingtheevidence,myphonerang.Itwas

Lucacalling.

“Hello,”Ianswered.

“Hello,Ariana.Howdidapartmenthuntinggo?”

“Itwentgood.Ifoundaplace.”

“Excellent.Whereat?”

“OveronEast57

Street.”

“That’snottoofarfromme.Greatarea.I’msureyou’llbeveryhappythere.”

“IthinkIwillbe.”

“AnyupdateyetabouttheMichaelscase?”

“I’mworkingonitnow.”

“Okay.I’llletyougetbacktoit.I’llseeyoutomorrow.”

There had to be something Luca and his team wasn’t seeing. But what? All the evidence pointed to

Mr.Michaels.Hehadamotive.ButmaybeMrs.Michaels’boyfrienddidtoo.Ithrewmyclothesbackon

andheadedtotheBleuRoomtoviewthesecuritytapeofthatnightformyself.Afterviewingandseeing

onethingthatcaughtmyattention,Idecidedtolookatthetapesfromthemonthbeforethemurder.Asmile

crossedmyfaceasIleftthemanager’sofficeandtookaseatatthebarforadrink.

“WhatcanIgetyou?”thetallblondeyoungbartenderasked.

“I’llhaveavodkaontherocks.”

“Thereyougo.”Shesmiledasshepushedthefilledglasstowardsme.

JustasIpulledmyphonefrommypurse,amansatdownnexttome.WhenIlookedover,Inoticedit

wasStephan,Mrs.Michaels’boyfriend.

“Hi.”Hegaveaslightnodashecaughtmelookingathim.

“Hi.”Ismiled.

Theyoungbartendercameoverwithagrinsplayedacrossherfaceandplacedherhandontopofhis.

“Hey,Ithoughtyouweregoingtocallmelastnight,”shespoke.

“I’msorry,Vi,IcrashedtheminuteIgothomeandIdidn’treallyfeelliketalking.”Hepulledhishand

away.

Hergrinquicklydisappearedasshepouredhimabeerandsetitdowninfrontofhim.

“Well,you’reherenow.”Hersmilecameback.

I sat there, sipping my drink, pretending not to listen to their conversation as I studied her body

movementsandtooknoteofthelookinhereyesasshestaredathim.

“Isentyouafewtextmessagestodayandyoudidn’trespond,”shespoke.

“Sorryaboutthat.Itwasacrazybusydayatwork.”

Suddenly,hisphonerang,andheexcusedhimselftotakethecall.

“I’llhaveanothervodka,please.”IsmiledasIheldupmyglass.“Men.Alwayshaveanexcuseasto

whytheydidn’tcallortext.”

“Iknow,right?”Shesetmydrinkdowninfrontofme.“ButIalwaysseemtoforgivehim.”

“Howlonghavethetwoofyoubeendating?”

“Well,wearen’tofficiallydatingyet,butwewillbesoon.He’sstillmourningthelossofhiswhore

whorecentlypassedaway.Ineverunderstoodwhathesawinher.”

“Hiswhore?”Iasked.

“Shewasmarried,andthepoorhusbandneverknewshewasoutcheatingonhim.Shedeservedto

die.Stephanistoogoodforher.Hedidn’tdeservetrashlikethat.Bytheway,I’mVi.”Shesmiled.

“I’mAriana.Nicetomeetyou.Howlonghadtheybeendating?”Iasked.

“Aboutsixmonths.Sixmonthstoolong,ifyouaskme.”

Afewmomentslater,StephanreturnedtohisseatandIdecidedtostrikeupaconversationwithhim

afterViwalkedawaytoattendtoothercustomersattheotherendofthebar.

“I’msorryforyourloss.”

“Excuseme?”Heturnedhisheadandglaredatme.

“Visaidyourgirlfriendrecentlypassedaway.”

“Oh.Whywouldshetellyouthat?Andthankyou.”

“Ithoughtmaybethetwoofyouweredatingbythewayshetalked.”

“Wearen’tdating.Iwouldneverdateher,”hespokeinamonotonevoiceashepickeduphisbeerand

threwitback.

“Doessheknowthat?”Icockedmyhead.

“I’msorry,butwhoareyou?”

“ArianaWilliams.”Iextendedmyhand.“Ijustmovedhere,hadalongday,neededadrink,andthis

barwasthefirstoneIsaw.”

“It’snicetomeetyou.I’mStephan.”Helightlyshookmyhand.

IlookedatVi,whowasattheotherendofthebarhelpingcustomersandkeepingaverycloseeyeon

us.

“Idon’tthinkshelikesmetalkingtoyou.”

“Don’tmindher.Shehasalotofseriousissues,butshe’sharmless.”

Suddenly,Viappeared,andiflookscouldkill,I’dbedeadrightnow.

“CanIgetyouanotherbeer,Stephan?”sheasked.

“Sure.OnemoreandthenIhavetoheadout.”

“Didyouwanttohangouttonight?Igetoffinanhour.”

He let out a long sigh. “I can’t, Vi. I must be up early for a meeting in the morning. Maybe another

time.”

“Sure.Justletmeknowwhen.”

Ithrewsomemoneyonthebarandgotupfromthestool.

“Itwasnicetomeetthebothofyou.I’mgoingtousetherestroomandheadhome.”

Insteadofusingtherestroom,Isteppedintothemanager’sofficeandfoundRandysittingathisdesk.

“Didyouneedsomethingelse?”heasked.

“YourbartenderVi.Isthatshortforsomething?”

“Violet.Why?”

“What’sherlastname?”

“Cole.Isthereaproblem,MissWilliams?”

“No.Notatall.IthoughtIwenttohighschoolwithher,butitturnsoutIdidn’t.Haveagoodnight.”I

smiled.

“Youtoo.”

It was midnight when I climbed into the back of a cab and pulled out my phone. Leaning my head

againsttheheadrest,IdecidednottotextLuca.Mysuspicionscouldwaituntilmorning.

ChapterThirteen

Luca

Myalarmwentoffatsixa.m.Rollingoutofbed,Ithrewonapairofsweatpantsandat-shirt,grabbed

mysuitandmybag,andheadedtothegymforaworkoutbeforedivingintoafulldayofwork.

“Hey,bro.”IsmiledasIsawBradoverontheweightbench.

“Readyforakillerworkout?”heasked.

“Alwaysready.”

Iwasforty-fiveminutesintomyworkoutwhenIlookedoverandsawArianawalkingmyway.What

thefuckwasshedoinghere?

“Weneedtotalk,”shespoke.

“HowdidyouknowIwashere?”Iwipedmyfacewithatowel.

“OliviatoldmeyoucomehereonThursdaymornings.”

“Andthislittletalkcouldn’twaituntilIgotintotheoffice?”

“No.”Shesmiled.

My eyes looked her over from head to toe. Black business suit and stiletto heels. My cock was

enjoyingitasmuchasmyeyeswere.

“Nexttimeyoucomeheretotalktome,wearsometightyogapantsandasportsbra.”Ismirked.

Sherolledhereyesasshegrabbedholdofmyarmandpulledmeovertothecorner.

“Thebartender.Haveyoucheckedherout?”

“Whatbartender?Whatareyoutalkingabout?”

“TheonewhoworksattheBleuRoom?ThesameonewhohasathingforStephan.”

“No.Whywouldwecheckherout?Plus,thesecuritytapesalreadyshowedhewasthereatthetime

ofthemurder.Whatdoesthebartenderhavetodowiththis?”

“BecauseIthinkshewastheonewhokilledMrs.Michaels.”

“WHAT?”

“She’sinlovewithStephanandmyguessisthatVi,thebartender,couldn’tstandseeingthetwoof

themtogetheranymore.”

“Howdoyouknowallthis?”Icockedmyhead.

“Iwenttothebarlastnight.Ihavealltheinformationinmyfolder.”Shepattedthebagthathungfrom

hershoulder.

“GoandgetinsidetheBentley.I’mgoingtotakeaquickshowerandchange.I’llmeetyouinthereand

we’lldrivetotheofficetogethertodiscussthisfurther.”

“Okay.”Shegaveasmallsmileandheadedoutofthegym.

Iwalkedintothelockerroomwithasmirkonmyface.TherewasagreatchanceArianadidit.She

foundsomethingthatcouldprovidereasonabledoubt.

“WhywasArianahere?”BradaskedasIquicklyshowered.

“ShemayhavesomeinformationthatcouldproveusefulintheMichaelscase.”

“You’rekidding.”

“No.I’mnot.”Iglancedoverathim.“She’swaitingoutsideformewiththefile.Whenyougettothe

firm,comestraighttomyoffice.”

“Willdo,Luca.”

Idriedmyselfoff,putmysuiton,andclimbedintotheBentley.Ifthisinformationprovedusefuland

couldsetmyclientfree,acelebrationwouldbeinorder.ThetypeofcelebrationthatwouldputArianain

mybedforanentirenightwithabottleofchampagneandalotofroughsex.

“Tellmemoreaboutthisbartender,”Ispoke.

Arianapulledafilefolderfromherbagandhandedittome.Takingitfromher,Iopeneditandbegan

readingallhernotes.Herhandwritingwasimpeccable,justlikeherlooks.

“ShecalledMrs.Michaelsawhore?”Iarchedmybrow.

“Yes,andshealsosaidthatshedeservedtodieandthatStephanwastoogoodforher.”

“Doesshehaveanypriors?”

“Idon’tknow.Ididn’tgetthatfar.IleftthebaratmidnightandwhenIgothome,Iwroteeverything

downandthenwenttobed.”

“Youdidgood,Ariana.”Ismiled.“Thankyou.”

“Justdoingmyjob.”Shesmiledback.

AsIwalkeddownthehallsofthefirm,IstoppedbySheila’soffice.

“IneedyoutopullupeverythingyoucanonaVioletCole.She’sabartenderoverattheBleuRoom.”

“Surething,Luca.”

****

Aboutanhourlater,asIwassittinginmyoffice,Sheilawalkedinandthrewafileonmydesk.

“Violet Cole was arrested five years ago for attacking a woman outside a bar in Greenville, North

Carolina.”

“Letmeguess.”Ismiledather.“Thewomanwasthegirlfriendofsomeoneshewasinterestedin?”

“You are correct, Mr. Russo.” She smiled back. “She beat her up pretty bad. According to the

boyfriend, he and Miss Cole had a one-night stand and then she proceeded to stalk him shortly after he

told her that it was only a one-time thing. He got a restraining order against her, so she went after the

girlfriend.Assaultandbatterychargeswerefiled,shewassentencedtooneyearinjail,gotoutaftersix

months for good behavior, and was ordered to take an anger management class, which she completed

beforeleavingthestate.”

“And the fine citizens of New York were the lucky ones to be graced with her presence.” I sighed.

“Callthedistrictattorneyandseeifshe’savailabletoday.Withanyluck,wewon’thavetogototrialat

all.”

“I’llmakethecallrightnow.”

“Thanks.Domeafavoronyourwayout.TellArianaIneedtoseeher.”

Sheilagavemeanodand,amomentlater,Arianawalkedintomyoffice.

“What’sup?”

“Whatareyoudoingtonight?”

“Iwasgoingtogolookforfurnitureformyapartment.”

“Great.I’llgowithyouandthenwe’llgrabsomedinner.”Icheerfullysmiled.

Sheletoutalightlaugh.

“What’ssofunny?”

“Youwanttogofurnitureshoppingwithme?”

“Yeah?Whynot?”

“Youjustdon’tseemlikethefurnitureshoppingtype.”

“I didn’t know furniture shoppers had a type.” I smirked. “Everybody shops for furniture in their

lifetime,includingme.”

Hereyenarrowedandthecornersofhermouthslightlycurvedupwards.

“Okay.ButI’msureyou’llbebored.”

“Ihighlydoubtthat.Idon’tthinkboredomwouldbeanissue,beingwithyou.”

“Trustme.I’mnotthatexciting.”

“Itendtodisagree.”Mybrowraisedasasmallsmilemadeitswayacrossmyface.“Iknowagreat

furniturestorewecanstopat.Infact,it’snottoofarfromhere.”

“Soundsgood,butIhopetheyaren’texpensivebecauseI’monabudget.”

“I’msureyou’llfindsomethingwithinyourpricerange.”

“Excuseme,Luca,”Sheilaspokeasshepokedherheadinthedoorway.“TheD.A.saidshe’llseeyou

ifyoucanbeatherofficeinfifteenminutes.”

“Thanks,Sheila.”Igotupfrommychairandbuttonedmysuitcoat.“Now,ifyou’llexcuseme,Ihavea

meetingwiththedistrictattorneyaboutMissVioletCole.”Iwinked.

ChapterFourteen

Ariana

Itwasaboutfouro’clockwhenmyphonedingedwithatextmessagefromLuca.

“Yourworkdayisover.Meetmeoutside.”

“For?”

“Furnitureshopping.”

IgrabbedmypurseandstoppedbyOlivia’scubicleonmywayout.

“I’mleavingfortheday.I’llseeyoulater.”

“Already?It’sonlyfouro’clock.”

“Lucaisdownstairswaitingforme.We’regoingfurnitureshopping.”

“Okay.That’sweird,Ari.”Shefrowned.

“Hewantedtogowithme.”Ishrugged.

Sherolledhereyes.“I’llseeyoulater.Havefunbutnottoomuchfun.”

IsmiledasIwalkedawayandclimbedintothebackoftheBentleywhereLucawaswaiting.

“HowdiditgowiththeD.A.?”

“Thatwomanisabitchandhasitoutforme.Shedoesn’tseeanythingthatconvincedherthatViolet

Colecouldhavemurderedmyclient’swife.”

“That’sbullshit.”

“Iknow.SonowI’mgoingtohavetogetthejurytoseethatshecouldhavebeentheonewhokilled

Mrs.Michaelswithherjealousy.Givethemreasonabledoubt.”

“You’recallingherasawitness?”

“She’s already on the witness list for the prosecutor. They want her testimony saying that she saw

Mrs.MichaelsandStephanatthebaronseveraloccasions.”

WewalkedthroughthefurniturestorethatdisplayedsomeofthemostbeautifulfurnitureI’deverseen.

Waytoopriceyformybudget,whichwasn’tasurprisetome.

“I’mjustgoingtogotoaclearanceoutlet,”Ispokeasweleftthestore.

“Whenareyougettingyourkeys?”heasked.

“Sunday.”

“Whydon’tyouwaituntilSunday,assessyourapartmentfirsttofigureoutwhatyoucanactuallyfitin

it,andthenI’llgowithyoutotheclearanceoutlet.I’llhaveatruckonstandbytoloadeverythingupyou

purchaseandtakeitovertoyourplace.”

“That’sniceofyou,Luca,butyou’vedoneenoughalready.”

“Nonsense.Nowlet’sgograbsomedinner.I’mstarvingandindesperateneedofadrink.”

He’dhelpedmetoomuchalready.ItwasallhehaddonesincethefirstdayImethim.AsmuchasI

didn’twanttoadmitit,therewassomethingthere.Ifeltcomfortablewithhimandapartofmefeltsafe.

WhenIwaswithhim,Ididn’tthinkaboutmyfamily.Hemademeforgetabouteverythingbadinmylife.

HewasfuntobearoundandIenjoyedhiscompany.Hemademelaughandhemademefeelcomfortable

inmyownskinwhenInolongerfeltitbecauseofthebetrayalofmyfamily.Ifoundmyselfthinkingabout

himwhenweweren’ttogether;whenI’dlieinbedatnightandcouldn’tfallasleep.

“There’ssomethingIneedtotellyou,”hespokeashesippedhisscotch.

“Whatisit?”

“I’mgivingyouallnextweekoff.Withpay,ofcourse.”

“Why?”Inarrowedmyeyeathim.

“BecausethebarexamisnextThursdayandFridayandIwantyoutosettleintoyourapartmentand

studyforit.”

“I’llbefine,Luca.”

“Ihavenodoubtinmymindyouwillbe.Butyou’regoingtoamusemeandstudyfortheexam.Idon’t

wantyoufocusingonanythingelse.”

“Fine.I’lltaketheweekandstudy.”

“Goodgirl.”Hesmiled.

Afteranicedinner,Lucadrovemebacktomyapartmentbuildingandwalkedmetomydoor.

“Doyouwanttocomein?”Iaskedwiththehopehe’dsayyes.

Hebroughthishandtomycheekandsoftlystrokedit.

“Ishouldgethome.Plus,itwouldbekindofweirdseeingOliviaandHarry.”

“Okay.Thankyouforgoingfurnitureshoppingwithmeandthankyoufordinner.”

Hiseyeswerefixatedonmineashishandmadeonelaststrokedownmycheek.

“You’rewelcome.Haveagoodnight.”Hetenderlysmiled.

“Youtoo.”

I waited for his lips to brush against mine. Even a trace of a kiss on my cheek would have been

acceptable.Buthedidn’t.Heturnedaroundandheadedtowardstheelevatorswithhishandstuckedinhis

pockets.Thefirethatengulfedmedownbelowwasaconstantflamethateruptedeachtimehewasnear

me.Hewantedme.IcouldseeitinhiseyesandIfeltitinthewayhewouldtouchthesmallofmyback

withhishand.Thesamehandthatgentlycaressedmycheek.Thoughtsofwhatthosehandscoulddoto

otherareasofmybodyinvadedmymind.

Uponopeningthedoor,Oliviajumpedupfromthecouch.

“Ineedtotalktoyou,”shespokewithanurgencyinhervoice.

“Okay.”Shefollowedmetomybedroomandshutthedoor.

“Juliacalledmeearlier.”

“WHAT?!”Ithrewmypurseonthebedandlookedather.

“Ididn’twanttointerruptyourdatewithLuca,sothat’swhyIwaiteduntilyougothometotellyou.”

IswallowedthehardlumpthatroseinmythroatasIsatdownonthebedandclutchedthecomforter

withmyfingers.

“Howdidshegetyournumber?”

“Howdoesonegetanybody’sphonenumbernowadays?”Shetookaseatnexttome.

“Whatdidshewant?”

“She asked if I had heard from you. I told her no, of course. And then I asked her why she was

asking.”

“And?”Ilookedoverather.

“She just said you took off and they haven’t been able to get in contact with you and the family is

worried.Shesaidsheknewitwasalongshot,butshehadtocallanyway.Shealsosaidtheyknewyou

flewtoNewJersey,somaybeyou’dbecomingtoseeme.”

“Great.”Igotupfromthebedandpacedtheroom.“Sotheyaresearchingforme.”

“Ari,doyoublamethem?Theyloveyouandthey’reworriedsick.”

Iwhippedmyheadaroundandpointedmyfingerather.

“No.Iftheylovedme,theywouldhavetoldmeandnotpretendedtobesomethingtheyweren’t.They

fuckedwithmylife,Olivia.AndifIhadn’tstumbledinonthatconversation,theyneverwouldhavetold

me,andthat’sjustfuckedup!”Ishoutedwithtearsinmyeyes.

“Iknowitis,sweetie.”Shegotupfromthebedandwrappedherarmsaroundme.“Butthey’restill

yourfamily,yourblood,andthey’reworriedaboutyou.Imaginebeingintheirshoes.”

“Iwouldneverbeintheirshoes.”Ibrokeourembrace.“Ineverwouldhavedonewhattheydid.”

“Howdidfurnitureshoppinggo?”sheaskedtocalmmedown.

“Lucatookmetoareallyexpensivestore,whichwaswayoutofmybudget.AfterIgetmykeyson

Sunday,I’mgoingtotheclearanceoutlet.It’sallIcanaffordrightnow.”

“Lookonthebrightside.Afteryoupassthebarandstartworkingasalawyerforthefirm,you’llbe

rakinginthedough.”Shesmiled.“Domeafavor?”

“What?”

“Justcallyourfamilysotheycanhearthatyou’reokay.Maybeiftheyhearyourvoice,they’llaccept

thefactthatyou’renotcomingback.I’mheadingtobed.I’llseeyouinthemorning.”Shegentlysmiledas

shepattedmyshoulder.

Afterchangingintomynightshirtandclimbingintobed,Ipickedupmyphonefromthenightstandand

pulledupLuca’snumber.Iknewitwaslate,butIjustneededtohearhisvoice.

“Ariana,iseverythingokay?”heanswered.

“Yeah,”Ispokeinasoftvoice.“Ijustwantedtothankyouagainforeverythingyou’vedoneforme.”

“You’rewelcome.”

“Okay.Ijustwantedtotellyouthat.Goodnight,Luca.”

Therewasamomentofsilenceontheotherend.

“Areyousureyou’reokay?”heaskedagain.

“Isanybodyeverreallyokay?ButI’mfine.”

“Goodnight,Ariana.”

“Night.”

Afterendingthecall,Isankdownintomycoversandtookinadeepbreath.Iwouldcallmyfamily

afterIsettledintomynewplace.

ChapterFifteen

Luca

Placingmyphoneonthenightstand,IlaybackonmypillowandthoughtaboutAriana.Somethingwas

wrong.Icouldtellbythesadnessthatresidedinhervoice.ItbotheredmemorethanIunderstoodwhy.

The next day, I drove to Nyack for my weekly visit with my grandfather. We usually met on either

SaturdayorSunday,dependingonwhatwasgoingon.SinceIwasspendingtimewithArianatomorrow,I

setupourvisitfortoday.

“Hello,Didi.”IsmiledasIsteppedthroughthedoor.

“Hello,Luca.Yourgrandfatherisoutonthepatio.”

“Thankyou.”

I made my way to the patio and found my grandfather sitting in his wheelchair at the patio table,

readingthenewspaper.

“Luca,myboy.”HesmiledasIapproachedhim.

“Hello,Grandfather.”

“Gopouryourselfascotchandhaveaseat.It’sabeautifuldayout.Wouldn’tyousay?”

“Yes.It’sagreatday.Refill?”IaskedasIpickeduphisglass.

Hegavemeasmileandasmallnod.Settingourdrinksdownonthetable,Itooktheseatacrossfrom

him.

“IgotacalltheotherdayfromDavidHildenberg.”

“Figuredyouwould.”IsmirkedasIsippedmyscotch.

“Whoisshe,Luca?”

“HernameisArianaWilliamsandshe’sveryintelligent.”

“Isshehot?”Hisbrowarched.

“Yes.Asamatteroffact,she’saverybeautifulwoman.”

“Andyouthinkshe’llbeagreatassettothefirmoryourself?”

AslysmilecrossedmylipsasIstaredatmygrandfather.Heknewmetoowell.

“Tothefirm.ShegraduatedtopofherclassfromHarvardLaw.ShewascaptainoftheHarvardMock

TrialTeamandherLSATscorewas180.”

“Impressive.”

“ShefoundsomeevidenceonamurdercaseI’mworkingonthatprovesreasonabledoubt.Whenno

oneelsecould,shedid.She’sgood.”

“Soundstomelikeshe’stheperfectwoman.Iwanttomeether.”

“Okay.I’llbringherbysometime.”Isetdownmydrink.

“Youlikeher.Iseeitinyoureyes,”hespoke.

“She’sanicewoman.Whatisn’ttolike?”

“No,Luca,Imeanyoureallylikeher.I’veneverseenthisexpressionbeforewhenyoutalkabouta

woman.”

“Grandfather—”

“Don’t,son.Don’ttrytopulloneoveronme.You’rethirtyyearsoldandyourunyourownlawfirm.

It’stimetofindsomeone,settledown,andshareyourlife.”

“YouknowIcan’tdothat,”IspokeasIgotupfromthetableandlookedouttotheriver.

“You’renothinglikehim,Luca.Youneverwereandyouneverwillbe.”

“Istillhavehisbloodflowingthroughmyveins.”

“Youwoulddoanythingtoprotectthepeopleyoulove.Heonlyhurtthem.”

“I’mstarving.Areweeatinginorgoingout?”IsmiledasIturnedandlookedathim.

“Didihaspreparedawonderfulmeal.Let’sgoinside.”

We ate dinner, talked about law and business, had a couple of drinks, and then it was time to head

home.

“Drivesafe,son.”

“Iwill,Grandfather.”Ileaneddownandgavehimahug.

****

Ariana

Iwokeupandjumpedoutofbed,showered,gotdressed,andmadesureeverythingIhadwaspacked

andreadytogotomynewapartment.AsIpouredmyselfacupofcoffee,myphonedingedandasmile

crossedmyfacewhenIsawIhadatextmessagefromLuca.

“WhattimeshallIpickyouup?”

“I’mmeetingWillathisofficeatnoon.”

“ThenI’llbebyat11:30.Soundgood?”

“Soundsgreat.Seeyouthen.”

“Whoareyoutexting?”Oliviaaskedasshewalkedintothekitchen.

“Luca.He’llbehereateleventhirty.”

Shestoodthereglaringatme.

“What?”Iasked.

“Haveyousleptwithhimyet?”

“No.Ofcoursenot.”

“Butyouwantto.”Shesmirked.

“Maybe.”Ibitdownonmybottomlip.

“Becareful,Ari.Youhavetoworkwithhim.”

“Iknow.”

“No,sweetie,youdon’t.I’vealreadymentionedthisbefore.LucaisaplayerandIdon’twanttosee

yougetplayed.Youdon’tdeservethat.Heuseswomen.”

“I’m a big girl, Mom, who can make big girl decisions. Plus, maybe I’m tired of playing it safe.

MaybeIwanttotakeawalkonthewildside.WhatifIplayedhim?”Iarchedmybrow.“Usehimformy

ownsatisfaction.”

Shecockedherheadandnarrowedhereye.“Idon’tthinkyouhavethatinyou.”

“Iguessyou’llhavetowaitandfindout.”Ismiled.

ItwaseleventhirtyonthedotwhenIheardaknockonthedoor,onlytofindahandsomeandsexyMr.

LucaRussostandingontheotherside.

“Areyouready?”heaskedwithasmile.

“Iam.Mysuitcasesareinmyroom.”

“I’llsendCarlupandhe’lltakethemtoyourapartment.”

“Who’sCarl?”Ismiled.

“Themandownstairswhoisgoingtotakeyoursuitcasestoyourapartment.”

“Okaythen.Let’sgo.”

“Aren’tOliviaandHarryhere?”heasked.

“No.Theyhadtogettoabirthdayparty.Wesaidgoodbyeearlier.”

After signing the rental agreement, Will handed me the keys to my apartment. I clutched them in my

handandsmiledasIlookedatLuca.

“Congratulations,”hesaid.

“Thankyou.I’mexcitedtoseeitagain.”

“Thenlet’sgo.”Heheldouthisarm.

I stood outside my apartment and took in a deep breath as I slid the key into the lock. Opening the

door,IsteppedinsideandimmediatelyfrozewhenIsawmyspacefilledwithfurniture.

“Therehastobesomemistake.”IlookedatLuca.“AmIinthewrongapartment?”

Iturnedandlookedatthenumberonthedoor.

“You’reintherightapartment,Ariana.”

IswallowedhardasIbegantoaskhimthequestionthatIalreadyknewtheanswerto.

“Didyoudothis?”

“Idid.”Hesmiled.“Doyoulikeit?”

“Luca,why?”Iaskedwithexasperation.

“Doyoulikeit,Ariana?”

“Yes,ofcourseIdo.”

I walked around, looking at the furniture I mentioned I liked the other night at the store. The same

furniturethatwasoutofmybudget.

“Ican’taffordthis.Itoldyouthat,”Ispokeinapanickedvoice.

“IknowandIdidn’twantyoutoworryaboutit.”

“HowcanInotworryaboutit?”Ithrewmyhandsintheair.“Luca,you’ve—”

“I’vewhat?”Hewalkedoverandclaspedmyshoulders.

“Youshouldn’thavedonethis.Ican’tacceptit.”

“You can and you will. I’ve bought you everything you liked. You have a bar exam to worry about,

Ariana.Notwhetheryoucanaffordthefurnitureyoulike.”

“It’stoomuch.”Islowlyshookmyhead.

“It’sonlyfurnitureandI’mafraidyou’restuckwithitbecausethere’snowayI’mhavingitallmoved

out.”

Amomentofsilencetookover.Itwasapparentthatthisconversationwasalosingbattle.Whathehad

donewasbeyondwords,andnow,Iwasindebtedtohim.

“Thankyou.”Ilookeddown.

Heplacedhisfingerundermychinandliftedmyheadsooureyesmet.

“You’rewelcome.”Hesmiled.“Waituntilyouseeyourbedroom.”

Hetookholdofmyhandandledmetomyroomthatconsistedofafull-sizebed(theonlysizethat

wouldfitifIwantedtohaveanywalkingspace),onenightstand,adresser,aTVthathungonthewall,

andafull-lengthmirror.

IsmiledasIstoodinthedoorway.

“It’sthesetIloved.Rightdowntothecomforterset.”

Hesatdownonthebedandstaredatmeforafewmoments.Hiseyesrakedovermefromheadtotoe.

Hewantedpaymentforwhathe’ddoneformeandIwasmorethanreadytogiveittohim.

“Comehere.”Heheldouthisarms.

Islowlywalkedovertohimandclimbedonhislap,lockingmylegsbehindhimandmyarmsaround

hisneck.Hisscentwasasubtlemixtureofsageandwoods.Ascentthatheightenedmyawarenessofhim

everytimehewasnearme.Mybodywasonfireandtheacheforhimwasgreaterthanever.

Westaredintoeachother’seyesasIcouldfeelthehardnessofhiscockpressingagainstmyass.It

turnedmeonandIwasreadytoconquerMr.LucaRusso.Hebroughthishanduptomyforeheadandhis

fingerssliddownafewstrandsofmyhair.Ourstarewasbrokenwhenhiseyesdivertedtomylips.Ifhe

didn’tkissmebythetimeIsilentlycountedtofive,Iwouldsmashmymouthintohis.ButIdidn’thaveto.

Itonlytooktothecountofthreewhenhislipsbrushedagainstmine.Softandgentle.Careful,butskillful

atthesametime.

His hand wrapped around the nape of my neck as he pulled me closer and his tongue met mine,

tanglingliketwosoulswhoweredestinedtomeet.AsoftmoanescapedmeasIcouldn’tgetenoughofhis

lips on mine. He broke the kiss and lifted my shirt over my head and stared at my breasts that were

perfectlycuppedintheblacklacebraIwore.Ipatientlywaitedforhislipstotouchmineonceagain,but

instead, they roamed down my neck and to each breast, teasing my skin with the tip of his tongue and

eruptingtheflamesthatresideddownbelow.

ChapterSixteen

Luca

Thecleavagethatstoodbeforemewaspureperfection,afantasyofwhatwasyettoberevealed.My

tonguesliduptohershoulderasherbrastrapfellfromitsplace.Sometimes,seeingawomanlikethis

wassexierthanseeinghercompletelynaked.IhadmyreverieastowhatshelookedlikeunclothedandI

couldn’twaittoseeifIwascorrect.

I reached around, unhooked her bra, and slowly removed it, revealing her perfect C cup breasts.

Beautifulbreasts.Full,round,perky,andonehundredpercentnatural.Hernippleswereafragilepinkof

hardenedpeaksthatcompletedthepackage.Itookthembetweenmyfingersfirstbeforedrawingtheminto

mymouth,givingeachoneequalattention.Herhandsrakedthroughmyhairasshebegantogrindonmy

hardcock.

“Slowdown,baby,andstandup,”Ispoke.

She stood in front of me in nothing but a pair of black shorts. I could only imagine what she was

hidingunderneaththem.

****

Ariana

Icouldbarelycontrolmyself.Usually,Iwouldbealittleself-consciousbeforehavingsexwithaguy.

ButwithLuca,Ididn’t.Itfeltnaturalandspecial.Hewasn’toneofthosemenwhowantedtohurryand

ripoffmyclothes,shovehiscockdeepinside,andcomewithinafewpumps.Hewastakinghistimeand

getting acquainted with my body before we went any further. He sat on the edge of the bed and slowly

unbuttonedhiswhiteshort-sleevecottonshirt.Slidingitoffhisshoulders,Igaspedatwhatgreetedme.A

strongmuscularchestandasixpackthatIcouldn’twaittoexplore.

“Takedownyourshortsforme,”hespokeinalowandsexyvoice.

Bringing my hands to my waist, I unbuttoned my shorts and slid them down my hips, revealing the

black lace v-string I was wearing. I watched his reaction as he let out a soft gasp and then placed his

handsonmyhips.

“You’resobeautiful,”hewhisperedashepulledmecloserandhismouthpressedagainstmybelly.

“God,Iwantyousobad.”

“Iwantyoutoo.”

Hisfingersgrippedthesidesofmypantiesasheslowlytookthemdown.

****

Luca

She was now completely naked and stood before me, her perfectly shaven pussy staring me in the

face.

“Whenwasthelasttimeyouhadsex?”Iaskedasmyfingersliddownherabdomenuntilitreached

herclit.

“Ayearago,”sherepliedanxiously.

ThecornersofmymouthcurvedupintoasmallsmileasIsatthereandlookedatthelusciouswet

folds that hadn’t been touched by a man in a year. Placing my hands on her taut round ass, I pulled her

closer and slid my tongue around her, circling her clit and feeling it swell against my lips. She tasted

sweet,likecandy.Istoppedandstoodup,smashingmymouthintohers.

“Liedownonthebedandspreadyourlegs.”

****

Ariana

Mybodywasinoverdrivewithexcitement.Ilaydownonthebedlikeheaskedwhilehetookdown

hispants,revealinghishardcock,whichdidn’ttakemebysurprise.Ihadvisionsofwhatitwouldlook

like in my head from time to time and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Long and thick. Proud and strong.

Freshlyshaven,whichIfoundtobeanincredibleturnon.

Hetookholdofmylegsandranhistongueupmyinnerthigh,teasingmewithsmallstrokesbefore

making his way to my opening. His mouth slowly began to devour me, causing me to let out sounds I

didn’t even know existed inside me. I felt his finger dip inside as his tongue circled my clit, causing a

buildupofsensationsthatsentmybodyintoaragingorgasm.Anorgasmsostrongthatitmademytoes

curls.

Lucaliftedhisheadwithagrinsplayedacrosshisface.

“Itmakesmehappythatyouenjoyedthatsomuch.”

Hehoveredoverme,hishandsplantedfirmlyoneachsidewhilehedippedhisheadandgentlykissed

my lips. I reached my hand down and brushed the tips of my fingers along his hard cock. He instantly

grabbedmyhandandpulleditaway.

“There will be plenty of time for you to satisfy my cock with your hand and mouth, but not now

becauseIneedtobeinsidethatsweettasting,warm,andbeautifulpussy.Idon’tsupposeyou’reonbirth

controlsinceyouweren’thavingsex.”

Oureyeswerelockedoneachother’sashespoketome.Iknewwhathewasasking.

“I’monthepill,”Iansweredwithoutthinkingtwiceaboutit.

“I’lluseacondomifyouwant,butIprefernotto.Notwithyou.”Hishandsoftlystrokedmycheek.

“Andifyou’reworriedaboutmenotbeingclean,don’tbe.IcanassureyouthatthisissomethingIdon’t

makeahabitof.”

“It’sfine,”Iwhispered.“Itrustyou.”

Hislipstangledwithmineashethrustinsideme,untileveryinchofhimwasburieddeep.Several

moansescapedmeasdidthewhispersofhispleasureescapehim.Hethrustinandoutofme,skintoskin

in all its naturalness. Glorifying, powerful, and completely controlled. We fucked for what seemed like

hoursandinvariouspositions.SomewerenewtomeandsomeIdidn’tcareforbefore,butwithhim,I

enjoyedit.HetookmybodytoalevelIneverknewexisted.

HismovementsbegantoslowafterIorgasmedforthesecondtimeandthenhehalted,hoveringover

meandstrainingtopoureverylastdrophehadinsideme.MyheartwasracingandIwasleftbreathless.

He lowered his head while still buried deep within me and softly kissed my lips. It was at that very

moment that I felt something; something more than just a connection. He climbed off me and fell on his

back,extendinghisarmandmotioningformetosnuggleagainsthim.

“Thatwasincredible,”hespokeasmyheadlayonhischest.

“Itdefinitelywas.”

“Theothernightwhenyoucalledme,yousoundedoffandupset.Whathappened?”

IsighedasItightenedmyarmaroundhim.Justbecausewehadslepttogetherdidn’tmeanthatIwould

tellhimmylifestory.

“OliviatoldmethatJuliacalledandaskedifshehadheardfromme.”

“Julia’syoursister,right?”

Iswallowedhardandnoddedmyhead.

“DidOlivialietoher?”heasked.

“Yes.”

“Yourfamilyisobviouslyworriedaboutyou.”

“Iknow.NowthatI’msettledhereandI’llbetakingthebarinafewdays,Icanstartover.Abrand

newlifewhereI’mtheonlyoneIhavetoworryabout,”IspokeasIsatupandbroughtmykneestomy

chest.

Lucasatupbehindmeandsoftlykissedmybareshoulder.

“You’lltellmeallaboutitintime.”

Heclimbedoffthebed,grabbedmyclothesfromthefloor,andhandedthemtome.

“Getdressedandwe’llgograbsomelunch.I’veseemedtoworkupquiteanappetite.”Hesmirked.

“Ihavetounpack.”

“Well,sinceyouonlyhavetwosuitcases,I’dimagineitwon’ttakeyouverylong.Youcandoitafter

lunch.”

“Areyoualwayssodamnbossy?”Iarchedmybrowathim.

“Yes.”Hesmiled.

“Well, just so you know,” I pulled my shirt over my head, “I don’t tend to listen very well so I’m

goingtounpackfirst,andwhenI’mfinished,thenwe’llgotolunch.”

Hestoodthereandtookthecornerofhisbottomlipbetweenhisteeth.

“I’lltellyouwhat.We’llcompromise.YoustarttounpackandI’llgotothedeliaroundthecornerand

pickusupacoupleofsandwichesandwe’lleathere.Then,latertonight,we’llgooutforanicedinner.”

“Thatsoundslikeagoodplan.”

“Whatkindofsandwichdoyouwant?”heasked.

“CornedbeefandSwissonryewithmustardontheside.”

“Hmm.Thatsoundsgood.IthinkI’llgetthesame.”Hewinked.“I’llbebackinaflash.”

ChapterSeventeen

Ariana

Luca left to go get lunch and I walked around my apartment and examined my new furniture. I was

speechlessatthefactthatheboughtallofitforme.Apartofmewasgratefulbeyondwords,buttheother

halfofmewasupset,disoriented,andconfused.Whywouldhedoit?HowwasIevergoingtopayhim

back?

IpickedupmyphonefromthecounterandclosedmyeyesforamomentwhileItookinadeepbreath.

AsmuchasIdidn’twanttomakethecall,Ihadto.ItwassomethingIneededtodoandthenmoveonwith

therestofmylife.Newapartment,newjob,newbeginnings.Bringingmyphoneuptomyear,myheart

startedpoundingwhenIheardhervoiceontheotherend.

“Hello.”

“It’sme,”Ispokeinaflattone.

“Ariana?”

“Yes.”

“We’vebeensoworriedaboutyou.DidOliviatellyouIcalledher?”

IknewwhatshewasdoingandIneededtobecareful.

“No.Ididn’tknowyougotintouchwithOlivia.IjustcalledtoletyouknowthatI’mokay.I’msafe

andthere’snoneedforyoutoworry.”

“Pleasetellmewhereyou’reat.IpromiseIwon’ttrytocomeseeyou.Ijustneedtoknow.”

“Really?Youjustneedtoknow?WhataboutthethingsIneededtoknow?”

“Ari,please.Weneedtotalk.Pleasejustgivemeachancetomakethingsright.”

“Youcouldhavemadethingsrightyearsago,butinsteadyoudecidednottotellmethetruth.Youall

lied to me for twenty-five years,” I shouted uncontrollably. “Do you have any idea how that made me

feel?Howmuchyoubetrayedme?”

“Please,Ari.I’msosorry.”

“SorrythatIfoundout?Anyway,Ihavetogo.IonlymadethiscallsoIcouldmoveonwithmylife.

I’mputtingthepasttorestandI’mmovingforwardonmyown.Isuggestyouandtherestofthefamilydo

thesame.”TearsfilledmyeyesasIendedthecall.

Ithrewmyphonedownonthecouchand,beforeIknewit,Ifelttwoarmswraparoundme.

“Areyouallright?”Lucaasked.

“Iwillbe.”Iwipedthetearsfrommyeyes.

“Ifyoudon’twanttobefound,Ihopeyoublockedyournumber.”

“Idid.”

“Smartgirl.”Hesmiledasheturnedmearoundandkissedmyforehead.“Let’seat.Shallwe?”

Aswewereeating,therewasaknockatthedoor.GivingLucaaconfusedlook,Igotupandanswered

it.Standinginthehallwaywasatallthinmanwithadollythathousedaverylargebrownbox.

“Ah,Yemin,thankyou.”Lucasmiledasheapproachedthedoor.“Justbringtheboxoverheretothe

livingroom.”Hepointed.

“Nowwhatdidyoudo?”Icockedmyheadathim.

LucawinkedatmeandthenpulledsomecashoutofhispocketandhandedittoYemin.Assoonashe

shutthedoor,hesatbackdownatthetabletofinishhissandwich.

“Luca?Whatisinthebox?”

“Whydon’tyougoopenitandfindout?”

IsighedasIwalkedovertotheboxandrippedthetapeoffthetop.

“Whatisallthis?”Ireachedintheboxandpulledoutabook.

“Everythingyouneedtostudyforthebarexam.Youonlyhaveafewdays,Ariana.Whichtomeisa

ridiculously low amount of time. Law students usually spend months prepping for that exam. I know I

did.”

Icouldn’thelpbutsmile.

“Thankyou.”

“You’rewelcome.They’reonloan,soafteryourexam,I’llarrangeforsomeonetocomepickthem

up.”

After making love for the second time, we got dressed and went out for a nice dinner. After dinner

wasover,Lucadroppedmeoffatmyapartment.

“Aren’tyoucomingup?”Iaskedaswestoodoutsidemybuilding.

Hebroughthishandtomycheek.

“No.Yourstudytimeofficiallystartsnow.TheonlythingIwantyouthinkingaboutisthelaw.”

“DoIhaveto?”Ipouted.

“Yes.Yourfuturedependsonit.”Hesmiledashislipsbrushedagainstmine.“Nowgetupstairsand

crackopenthebooks.I’llbeintouch.”

“Yes,sir!”Isalutedhim.

When I walked into my apartment and turned on the lights, I took in a deep breath. I couldn’t stop

thinkingaboutsexwithLucaandhowhemademefeel.ItwassomethingIhadneverfeltbefore,noteven

with Harry. He was charming and irresistible and he knew it. Was I just another notch in his belt? I’d

hopednotbecauseI’dalreadyfallenforhim.AsmuchasItriedtostopmyself,Icouldn’thelpit.

****

Luca

AfterIdroppedArianaoffatherapartment,IheadedtoClementinsidetheGrammercyHotelandtook

aseatatthebar.

“Goodevening,Mr.Russo.Theusual?”Harvey,thebartender,asked.

“Goodevening,Harvey.Yes,theusualwillbefine.”

Ipickedupmydoublescotchandthrewitbackasifitwasaglassofwater.Whathappenedtome

afterIfuckedArianawasunexplainable.Myinitialattractiontoherwasstrong.StrongerthananythingI’d

everfeltbefore.Butaftertoday,theintensityofitterrifiedthefuckoutofme.Iknewshefeltsomething

forme.IcouldseeitinhereyesandIfeltitinthewayshekissedme.Womenfellformeallthetime,no

bigdeal.ButwithAriana,itwasabigdeal.ThebiggestdealofmylifebecauseIhadfallenforher.

“Givemeanother,Harvey.”Isetmyglassdown.

“Comingrightup,sir.”

Itookasipofmyseconddrink.Withmyhandstightlyclaspedaroundtheglass,IknewwhatIhadto

do. I had to protect her. Protect her from me, my past, and the things I’d done. I cared deeply for her,

possiblyevenlovedher,andthatwasmorethanenoughreasonformetohavetolethergo.

ChapterEighteen

Ariana

I’dspentthelastfewdayslockedupinmyapartmentstudyingforthebarexam.Ihadn’theardfrom

Luca at all and that bothered me. I had sent him a few text messages, only to go unanswered. I was

worriedabouthim,soIcalledOlivia.

“Shouldn’tyoubestudyingforthebar?”sheansweredinherperkyvoice.

“HaveyouseenLuca?”Iasked.

“Ofcourse.Iseehimeverydayatwork.Why?”

“Ihaven’theardfromhimsinceSundayafterhedroppedmeoff.Isenthimafewtextmessagesandhe

nevertextedmeback.”

“That’s odd. I know he’s been busy with court and some new cases that came in this week. Maybe

he’sjustkeepinghisdistancesoyoucanfocusonyourstudies.”

“Yeah,maybeyou’reright.”

“Goodlucktomorrow,”shespoke.“Iknowyou’llaceit.”

“Thanks,Olivia.I’lltalktoyousoon.”

Somethingwasn’tsittingrightwithme.ItwasafeelingIhadinthepitofmystomach.Imissedhim

andIwantedtoseehim,soItriedonelasttime.

“I’mgoingtoDooley’sforadrinkatseveno’clock.I’mhopingyou’llmeetmethere.Ireallyneed

tocalmmynervesbeforetomorrow.”

The truth was I wasn’t nervous at all about taking the bar. It was the only thing in my life at the

moment that I was confident about. I waited for a response and one never came. Maybe he was in a

meetingandhadn’tseenityet.Maybehewasonthephone,ormaybehewasjustflatoutignoringmefor

somefuckingreason.IgrabbedmypurseandheadedtoDooley’s.He’dmeetmethere,Iwassureofit.

Aftereverythinghe’ddoneforme,hewouldn’tnotwishmeluck.

“WhatcanIgetyou,Miss?”ahotyoungmalebartendernamedKevinasked.

“Vodkaontherocks.Makeitadouble,please.”

“Toughday?”heaskedwithasmileashepouredthevodkawithfinesseintotheglass.

“Toughweek.I’vebeenstudyingforthebarexamthatI’mtakingtomorrow.”Ismiled.

“Ah.Goodforyou.Goodluck.”

“Thanks.”

Isattherewithmyphoneonthebar,sippingmydrink,waitingforLucatoeithercall,text,orshow

up.AnhourandahalfhadpassedandstillIheardnothingfromhim.

“CanIgetyouanythingelse?”Kevinasked.

Ipulledmycreditcardfrommywalletandhandedittohim.

“Justcashmeout.”

Itwasabeautifulnightoutandmyapartmentwasonlyacoupleofblocksaway,soIdecidedjustto

walkhomeinsteadoftakingacab.Iwashurtandonthevergeoftearsatthefactthathecouldn’tbotherto

showupatDooley’sorthathecouldn’tbebotheredtotextmeback.Iwalkedpasthisbuildingontheway

to mine and saw Emil standing outside holding the door open for someone as they brought in some

packages.

“Hi,Emil.”IwavedasIwalkedby.

“Ariana,wait!Howareyou?”

“I’mokay.Howareyou?”IaskedasIturnedaround.

“I’mgood.Ihaven’tseenyouaroundinawhile.”

“I’vebeenbusystudyingforthebarexam.”

“Ohwow.Ididn’tknowyouwerealawyer.”

“Almost.”Ismiled.“Hey,isLucahomebyanychance?”

“Idon’tthinkso.Ihaven’tseenhim.”

“Oh.Okay.Well,Ibettergethome.Onlyafewmorehoursleftforstudying.”

JustasIturnedaround,IsawLucaclimbingoutofhisBentley.Shit.Iquicklyturnedtheoppositeway

andranrightintoBrad.Doubleshit.

“Hellothere,Ariana.”Hesmiledbrightly.

“Brad.”Inodded.“Excuseme,butIhavetogethome,”Ispokeinapanickedvoice.

“Ariana.”IheardLuca’svoicefrombehind.

Icouldfeelmyrapidheartbeatingfasterbythesecond.IswallowedhardbeforeIturnedaroundto

facethemanthatIhadn’theardfrominthreedays.Thesamemanwhostoodmeuptonight.Suddenly,out

ofnowhere,anangerroseinsideme.

“Luca.Didyougetmytextmessages?”

Heclearedhisthroatbeforeanswering.

“Yes.I’vejustbeenreallybusy.”

“Toobusytotakefivesecondstoletmeknowthatyouwouldn’tbeabletomakeittothebar?”

“I’vebeeninbacktobackmeetingsalldayandincourt.”

“Okay.”Ilightlynoddedwithasmugtone.“Ihavetogo.”

“Goodlucktomorrow.”

I stuck my middle finger up at him as I walked away. An involuntary gesture that I simply had no

control over. I could still hear Brad’s laughter as I turned the corner. The moment I stepped into my

apartment,Ilostit.ThetearsIhadbeenfightingfloodedmyeyesasIcurleduponthecouchintoaball

andcriedmyselftosleep.

Islowlyopenedmyswolleneyes,andforabriefmoment,Ifeltdisoriented.Realizingthatitwasthe

middleofthenight,Idraggedmyassoffthecouchandreachedintomypursetogetmyphonetocheckthe

time.Itwasonethirtyinthemorning.Walkingintothebathroomandflippingonthelight,Iwashedmy

face,changedintomynightshirt,setmyalarmonmyphone,andthenclimbedintobed.Mystomachwasa

knottedmess.Itwasasthoughhewasatotallydifferentman.AmanwhomIdidn’tlikeverymuchatthe

moment.

****

Thefirstpartoftheexamwasoveranditwastimetobreakforlunch.Grabbingmypurse,Iheadedto

a small café down the street for a sandwich and much needed coffee. I had approximately an hour and

fifteenminutestomyselfbeforeheadingbackandtakingthesecondpartoftheexam.Ipulledmyphone

outofmypurseandnoticedatextmessagefromOlivia.

“Howdiditgo?Didyousurvivethefirstpart?Wasithard?Wasitexcruciating?Ineeddetails!”

Icouldn’thelpbutsmileasIdialedhernumber.

“So,howdiditgo?”sheaskedassheanswered.

“Pieceofcake.”

“You’reweird,Ari.HaveyoubyanychancetalkedtoLuca?”sheasked.

“No.Why?”

“He’sinafoulmoodtoday.LikeawomanwithseverePMS.”

“GladI’mnotthere.”

“Anyideawhathisproblemcouldbe?”

“No.Sorry,Idon’t.Listen,Ihavetogo.I’llcallyousoon.”

I ended the call and held the white round coffee cup between my hands. Maybe his mood had

somethingtodowithmeflippinghimoffyesterday.Afterfinishingoffmysandwich,Iheadedbacktotake

thesecondhalfofthebarexam.

****

Luca

IthoughtaboutheralldayandIwonderedhowherexamwent.TodaywasthelastdayandDavidtold

methatshewouldfindoutherresultsonTuesdayatthelatest.ThenightIranintoheroutsidemybuilding,

shewaspissedandIdidn’tblameher.Shehadeveryreasontobe.AllthethingsIhaddoneforher,Idid

becauseIwantedto.WhyIwantedtoIhadnoclue.I’dneverdoneanythinglikewhatIdidforherbefore.

I needed to explain to her that things would never work out for us. If we talked like two adults, then

maybethingsattheofficewouldn’tbeawkward.WhatthefuckdidIdo?

It was Sunday and on the way home from visiting my grandfather, I stopped by Ariana’s apartment.

Takinginadeepbreath,Iknockedonthedoor.Hell,Ididn’tevenknowifshewashomeornot.Istood

there, my nerves getting the best of me as I patiently waited. Then, I heard the deadbolt unlock and the

dooropened.

“Whatareyoudoinghere,Luca?”sheaskedinasternvoice.

“Ineedtotalktoyou.”

“Ihavenothingtosaytoyou.”ShewenttoshutthedoorandIstoppeditwithmyhand.

“Ariana,weneedtotalk,”Ispokeinanauthoritativetone.

“Fine.Comeonin.”Shewavedherhandandsighed.

Isteppedinsideherapartmentandsheimmediatelywentandsatdownonthecouch.Aftershuttingthe

doorbehindme,Iapproachedher.

“Howdidtheexamgo?”

“Itwentfine.”Sherefusedtolookatme.

“Listen,Ariana,I’msorry.”

“I’msureyouare.Itseemsthateveryoneinmylifeissorrywhentheyhurtme.”

“Notfair.”Ishookmyhead.

“Luca,”shegotupfromthecouch,“whatdoyouwant?Whydidyoucomehere?Idon’thearfromyou

foraweekandnowyouthinkyoucanjustwaltzintomyapartmentandthinkthatIevenwanttotalkto

you?”

“Iknowyou’repissedoffandI’msorryaboutthat.There’ssomethingsIneedtosay.”

“Thenbyallmeans,saythem.”Shethrewherhandsintheairasshewalkedtothekitchenandpulled

abottleofwinefromtherefrigerator.

“Ilikeyou,Ariana.Ireallydo.Butthingscouldneverworkoutforus.”

Shepulledaglassdownfromthecabinet,pouredsomewineintoit,andtookasipbeforespeaking.

“Thingscouldneverworkoutforus?”Shecockedherhead.“Andwhyisthat,Luca?”

“BecauseI’mnotthemanyouthinkIam.”Iplacedmyhandsinmypocketandpacedaroundtheroom.

“EverythingI’vedoneforyou,Ididbecauseyouneededhelp.Oliviaisanemployeeofmineandyou’re

hergoodfriendwhosuddenlyupandleftBostonwithnoplacetoliveandnojob.Ihelpedyougetinto

takethebarbecauseIdidn’twanttoseesomeoneasbrightasyouhavetoworkadead-endjobbecause

offormalities.”

“Andthefurniture?”sheaskedasshetookanothersipofwine.

“Itwasjusttohelpyougetsettledfaster.Ifyouwant,Icanhavepayrollmakeweeklydeductionsfor

it.”

“Yes,pleasedo.Idon’twanttooweyouathing.”

“Fairenough.”

“Andwhatabouttheotherdaywhenyoucouldn’tkeepyourhandsoffme?”

“We’retwoconsentingadultswhowereattractedtoeachother.Ithappensallthetime.”

“You’re right, and I’m sorry to burst your bubble, but to me, it was only sex. So, Mr. Russo, I’m

apologizing to you for giving you the wrong idea. Obviously, you misread me and assumed I wanted

something more from you. My apocalyptic life is a mess as it is and the last thing I need is the

complicationsofsomerelationshipwithamanIbarelyevenknow.”

“Youwerepissedoffatmetheothernightoutsidemybuilding.”

“You’reright.Iwas.Andyouwanttoknowwhy?BecauseIthoughtwewerefriends.Youhadhelped

mesomuchsinceImovedhereandallIwantedwasonedrinkwithyoubeforeIhadtotakethebiggest

examofmylife.”

“Again,I’msorry.Ijustthought—”

“YoujustthoughtIfellmadlyinlovewithyoubecauseyoustuckyourdickinme.That’swhatyou’re

usedto.Well,I’mnot,Luca.AndasfarasyounotbeingthemanIthoughtyouwere,you’reright.I’mnot

evensurebeingfriendsisinthecardsforus.Ithinkit’sbestifwemaintainaprofessionalrelationship

sincewehavetoworktogether.”

“That’swhatIcameheretotellyou.”

“Good. Then we both agree,” she spoke. “I’ll see you at the office, Mr. Russo.” She walked to the

doorandopenedit.

“I’llseeyoutomorrow.”Inodded.

IleftherapartmentfeelingworsethanIdidwhenIfirstarrivedthere.Iwasreadyforit.Readyfor

hertofalltoherkneeswithtearsstreamingdownherface,beggingmetostay.Thatwaswhatthewomen

Idatedalwaysdid.Butnother.No.Shejuststoodtherewithaseriouslookonherfaceandaserioustone

inhervoiceandtoldmethatIjustassumedshefeltsomethingforme.ThatIwasjustherfriend.Shewas

agoodliar.Ofcourseshewas;shewasalawyer.Hearinghersaywhatshedidpissedmeoff.Icame

theretotellheritwouldneverworkforus.Butsheturneditaround,monopolizedtheconversation,and

toldmethingsIdidn’twanttohear.ThemoreIthoughtaboutit,themoreangerflowedinsideme.Thelast

thingIwantedtodowashurther.IwantednothingmorethantoprotectherandthatwasexactlywhatI

wasdoing.Shewouldn’tunderstand.Shecouldn’tunderstand.Fuck.Whydidthishurtsobad?

ChapterNineteen

Ariana

I shut the door and let out a deep breath. Now I could fall apart. I walked over to the couch, laid

down,andbroughtmykneestomychest.ThehurtandangerIfeltwasunbearable.WhatdidIdotomake

him feel that way? When we parted ways on Sunday, everything was perfect. The job, the dinners, the

furniture,thebar,thestudymaterial,thesex.Allofitwasforwhat?Maybethatwaswhathedid.Olivia

toldmehewasneverwiththesamewomanformorethanaweek.Mytimewasup.Bastard.Ididn’tthink

it would be possible to work for him. There was no way I could see him every day and pretend that I

hadn’tfallenforhim.Itwouldbetoopainful.I’drideitoutuntilIfoundanotherjob.Withmycredentials,

I’dhavenoproblemfindinganotherfirmtoworkfor.Heusedme,andnowitwasmyturntousehim.

Takinginadeepbreath,Iwalkeddownthehallwayofthefirmandtookaseatatmycubicle.Olivia

hadsentmeatextmessageearlythismorningtellingmethatshewassickwiththeflu.Ofalltimesforher

tobesick,andofalldays.ThiswasthedayIneededherherethemost.JustasIputmypurseaway,I

heardLuca’svoicecallmyname,andinstantly,asickfeelinginthepitofmystomachsettledin.

“Ariana.Ineedtoseeyouinmyoffice.”

Igotupfrommyseatandnervouslysteppedinside.

“SinceOliviawon’tbeintoday,Ineedyoutofillinforher.”Hehandedmeafewfiles.

“Okay,”Isoftlyspoke.

“WegotocourttomorrowmorningfortheMichaels’caseandsinceyouweretheonewhofoundout

aboutthebartender,Iwantyouthere.Courtstartsateight.Sojustgostraighttherefromhome.”

“I’llbethere.”Inodded.

Hewouldn’tlookatme.Hejustkeptlookingdownatthefilehewasstudying.

“Isthatall?”Inervouslyasked.

“Yes.”

As the morning passed, I finished up what Luca had asked of me and stepped away to use the

restroom.WhenIreturned,IsawLucastandinginthedoorwayofhisoffice.

“Ariana.Pleasecomeintomyoffice.”

Isighed,andwhenIsteppedinside,IsawDavidHildenbergsittingacrossfromLuca’sdesk.

“Hello,Ariana.”Hesmiled.

“Mr.Hildenberg.Whatareyoudoinghere?”

“Haveaseat.Willyou?”Hemotionedformetositdown.

Shit.Wasthisgoodorbad?

AssoonasItookaseat,Davidopenedupthefilehehadinhishands.

“Ihavetheresultsofyourexam.”

“Already?”Iasked.

“Ididn’tplanonfinishingitupuntiltomorrow,butonceIgotstarted,Icouldn’tseemtostop.Ona

scoringsystemof400points,youneedatleasta265topassthebar.You,mydear,scoredaperfect400.

Inallmyyearsofgradingtheseexams,Ihaveneverrunacrosssomethinglikethis.”Hegrinned.

“Congratulations,Ariana,”Lucaspokefrombehindhisdesk.

“Thankyou.”IlookedatLucaandthenturnedtoDavid.“Thankyou,Mr.Hildenberg,forcomingall

thewayheretotellme.”

“You’rewelcome,Ariana.Youareaverybrightwomanandyouwillexcelasalawyer.”

“Howsooncanyougetherswornin?”Lucaasked.

“Well,”hespokeashereachedintohisbriefcase,“Ihappentohaveanadmissionsapplicationand

otherrelateddocumentsrighthere.”Hehandedthemtome.“Takeittoyourdeskandfillitoutnow.I’ll

wait.OnceIgetbacktotheoffice,I’llhavetheseexpedited.Shouldonlytakeacoupleofdaysandthen

youcancomedownandbesworninandtaketheoathonFriday.”

“Really?”Iaskedwithasmile.

“Really, Miss Williams. Now go start that paperwork. Perhaps Luca and I can go to lunch while I

wait.”

“Wecertainlycan,David.”Hesmiled.

Itookthe paperworkbackto mydeskand startedtofill itout. IknewI’d passthebar, butIdidn’t

knowI’dgetaperfectscore.Thiswasacauseforcelebration.Butwithwhom?Certainlynotmyfamily

orLuca.Oliviawassick,soIguesseditwasjustme.Anothermilestoneinmylifeandoneofthemost

importantdaysofmylifeandonceagain,itwasshit.

IfinishedthepaperworkjustasLucaandDavidarrivedbackfromlunch.

“Allset,Mr.Hildenberg.”Ismiled.

“Thank you, my dear. Luca, it was a pleasure having lunch with you. Call your grandfather and set

somethingupforthethreeofus.”

“Willdo,David,”Lucaspoke.

DavidwalkedawayandLucastoodinfrontofmydesk.

“Ithinkacelebrationisinorderfortheoutstandingjobyoudidonthebarexam,”hespoke.

“Iagree.”Ismiled.“Andthatcelebrationwillconsistofmeandabottleofwineinthecomfortofmy

ownhome.”

“Despitetheconversationwehadlastnight,Istillwouldliketohelpyoucelebrate.Thisisareally

bigdeal,Ariana.”

“Just like graduating from law school was a really big deal and we saw how that turned out.

Celebrationsformedon’tmeananythinganymore.It’sjusthowIfeel.”

“Soyou’rethrowingyourselfapityparty?”heasked.

“No.I’mjustnotsettingmyselfupforanymoredisappointments.”

Heglareddownatme,hiseyesburningaholethroughmyveryexistence.

“Havefun,”hespokewithirritationashewalkedawayandwentbackintohisoffice.

****

Luca

Ishutmyofficedoorandthrewmyphoneacrossmydeskinanger.WassheinsinuatingthatIwasa

disappointment?Idideverythingtohelpherout,andifshesawmeasadisappointmentbecauseofwhatI

said,thenthatwasherproblem.Shedidn’tgetit,andIwasn’tabouttotellhereither.Fromhereonout,it

wouldbestrictlyprofessional.Shewasright;wecouldn’tevenbefriends.ButIwasstillherbossand

herpassingthebarwasabigdeal.Pickingupthephone,Iplacedanorderforsomeflowerstobesentto

herhomewithacardthatread:“Congratulationsonpassingthebarexam.FromyourassociatesatRusso,

Greggs,&Butler.”

ChapterTwenty

OneMonthLater

Ariana

ThingswithLucaandmenevergotbetter.Hestayedawayfromme,asIdidfromhim.AssoonasI

obtainedmyattorneylicense,hehadmemoveddownonefloorintoaspaciousofficewithsomeofthe

otherjuniorassociates.Itwasforthebest.ThelessIhadtoseehim,thebetteroffIwas.HegotVito

confessonthestandforkillingMrs.Michaels.Hebrokeher,justlikehesaidhewould.Intheinterim,I

metamanonenightaboutthreeweeksagoatabarwhenIwaswithOliviaandHarry.Hewascuteand

hisnamewasJimmy.Hestoodaboutsixfeettall,hadshortblondhair,greeneyes,andamediumbuild.

He was there celebrating his sister’s birthday with the family when we accidentally bumped into each

othertryingtopushourwaythroughthecrowdtogettothebathroom.Heapologized.Iapologized.We

endeduptalkingandIthoughthewasnice.Heboughtmeadrink,Igavehimmynumber,andwewentout

afewtimes.Amovie,dinner,thebar.Yeah.Hewasnice.Areallynice,uncomplicatedguywhoworked

foracementcompany.

IcravednormalcyandJimmywasnormal.OliviatoldmethathewasareboundfromLucaandthatI

wasjustusinghimtotryandgetovermyhurtfeelings.Shealsopulledthe“Itoldyouso”cardwhere

Lucawasconcerned.

It was a Saturday night and Jimmy took me to dinner at Del Posto. As soon as we were seated, I

excusedmyselftotherestroom.

“Ineedtousetherestroom.I’llberightback.”Ismiled.

“ShallIorderyouaglassofwine?”

“Yes.Please,”Ireplied.

WhenIwasfinished,IheadedbacktomytableandstoppeddeadinmytrackswhenIsawwhowas

sitting at the table next to us. I swallowed hard and ran back to the hallway where the restrooms were

located. Standing up against the wall, I tried to calm my rapidly beating heart. Of all the restaurants in

New York City, why did he have to choose this one tonight? I took in a deep breath and thought about

textingJimmyandtellinghimIwasn’tfeelingwellsoIleft.Butthatwasn’tfairtohimandithadbecome

apparenttomethatallIdidwasrunwhenIdidn’twanttofacecertainsituations.So,Ipulledupmybig

girlpantiesandstrolledovertomytable.

“Ariana?”LucacockedhisheadasIsatdown.

“Luca.Whatasurprise.”Ismiled.

HeglaredatmeandthenoveratpoorJimmy.

“Jimmy,thisismyboss,LucaRusso.Luca,thisisJimmy.”

“Nicetomeetyou,Luca.Arianahastoldmealotaboutyou.”Hesmiledasheheldouthishand.

“I’msureshehas.”Hiseyenarrowedatme.“Grandfather,IwouldlikeyoutomeetAriana.Ariana,

thisismygrandfather,FrancoRusso.”

“Ah,sothisisthebeautifulandhighlyintelligentArianaWilliams.”Francosmiledashetookmyhand

andpressedhislipsagainstit.

“It’snicetomeetyou,Mr.Russo.”

“Please,callmeFranco,”heinsisted.

“Havethetwoofyouorderedyet?”Lucaasked.

“No.IwaswaitingforArianatoreturnfromtherestroom,”Jimmyreplied.

“Thenyoumustjoinus.”

Thesickfeelinginmystomachintensified.

“That’sokay.Wedon’twanttointrudeonyourdinner,”Ispoke.

“Nonsense.Youwouldn’tbeintrudingatall.”Luca’sbrowraised.

ThefourofusendeduphavingdinnertogetherandIhadtositthereandwatchJimmybeputontrial.

Lucaaskedhimallkindsofquestions.Howwemet.Whenwemet.Howlonghadwebeenseeingeach

other.Whathedidforaliving.Theonlyquestionhedidn’taskwasifwe’dhadsex.ButIknewdamn

wellhewasthinkingaboutit.Oncedinnerwasover,Jimmydrovemehome.Hewantedtocomeup,butI

politelythankedhimfordinnerwithakissonhischeek.

“I’mreallytiredandIthinkImightbecomingdownwithsomething,”Ilied.

Heplacedhishandsonmyshoulders.“GetsomerestandIhopeyoufeelbetter.”

“Thankyou.Iwill.”

I pushed the button to the elevator and waited for it to open. What an exhausting night. Dinner was

awkward and draining, something I never wanted to experience again. The doors opened and I stepped

inside and pushed the button to my floor. As they began to close, a hand stopped them, and when they

reopened,Lucawasstandingthere.

“Whatareyoudoing?”Iaskedwithirritation.

Hesteppedinsidetheelevatorandstoodnexttome.

“Didyoufuckhim?”heaskedinasternvoice.

“That’snoneofyourbusiness!”

“Thehellitisn’t.”

Hegrabbedmeandpushedmeupagainstthewall,smashinghismouthintomine.Iwastakenaback

andwantedtofighthimoff,buthislipsonmineagainfelttoogood.Whentheelevatorreachedmyfloor,

thedoorsopened,hebrokeourkiss,grabbedholdofmyhand,andledmetomyapartment.Neitheroneof

us spoke a word. My heart was pounding out of my chest and I didn’t know what to expect once we

reachedmyapartment.

“Howdareyou,”IspokeasIstuckthekeyintothelock.“Youhadnorighttodothat.”

“Ididn’tseeyoufightingmeoff,”hewhisperedashekissedthesideofmyneckfrombehind.

Shit.Ishouldn’thave,butIwantedhim.Ihadn’thadsexsincewelastsaweachotherandIcravedit;

cravedhim.ItwaswrongandIknewit.Itwouldonlymakethingsmorecomplicated.Butmybodywas

on fire and the ache down below needed to be soothed. The minute I opened the door, he followed me

insideandshutit.Takingoffmyshoes,Iturnedaroundandlookedathim.Mybreathhitched.Heplaced

hishandsoneachsideofmyfaceandbrushedhislipsagainstmine.Notsoftorgentle,butrough,likein

theelevator.Hewashungryandhewantedtodevourme.Ourkisswaswild,almostasifwecouldn’tget

enoughofeachother,liketwoanimalsinheat.Hisfingersreacheddowntothebottomofmyshirtashe

lifted it over my head and tossed it to the floor. His mouth instantly swept over my cleavage as he

unhookedmybraandthentookeachhardenedpeakinhismouth.

Hepickedmeupandcarriedmeintothebedroom,threwmeonthebed,andhoveredovermestill

fullyclothed.Histongueslidacrossmyneckandthenbackdowntomybreastswhilehishandwentup

myskirt,pushingmypantiestothesideandplunginghisfingerinsideme.Igaspedatthefeelingashe

manipulatedmeineverywayheknewhow.

“Beforewegoanyfurther,Ineedtoknow.Didyoufuckhim?”Hestaredintomyeyeswithhisfingers

stillinsideme.

“No,”Iwhispered.“Ididn’t.”

His mouth once again smashed into mine as he hit the right spot and sent my body into an intense

orgasm. He climbed off me, pulled down my skirt and panties, spread my legs wide, and devoured me

downbelow.Histongue.GodhowImissedit.Whenhewasfinished,hestoodup,slippedoffhisclothes,

hovered over me, and brought my arms above my head while he thrust inside me at a rapid pace. One

strokeandhewasburiedsodeep,Icouldfeeleverythickinchofhim.Hepushedinandout,kissedmy

lips,andheldmywristswithatightgrip.Ithurt,butitturnedmeon.Afterafewhardthrusts,heturned

meoveronmystomachandtookmefrombehind,ourmoanssyncingtogetherfromtheecstasyweboth

felt.Hismouthkissedmybarebackwhilehishandreachedaroundfromthesideandhisfingerspressed

againstmyclit.Icouldn’ttakeanymoreasmybodygearedupforanotherorgasm.

“Comeforme.Ineedthisfromyou,Ariana,”hespokebreathlessly.

My panting was out of control as I came for him. His thrusting went from fast to slow with smooth

longstrokesashegroanedandcameinsideme.Hisbodydroppedonmineandourfingersinterlaced.His

lipspressedagainstmyshoulderashetriedtoregainhisbreath,andIlaythere,notregrettingwhathad

justhappened.Butcometomorrow,itmightbeadifferentstory.

Heclimbedoffmeandstoodup.Walkingovertotheothersideofthebed,hepulledthecoversback

andlookedatme.HewasstayingandIdidn’tknowwhattosay.Istoodup,didthesame,andclimbedin

nexttohim,cuddlingagainsthisbody,andlayingmyheadonhischest.

“Whydidyoucomehere,Luca?”Iasked.

“Idon’twantyouseeinghimagain,”hespoke,totallydodgingmyquestion.

“Thatisn’tuptoyou.”

“Idon’tlikehim.Heisn’tgoodenoughforyou.”

“Andneitherareyou,”Ispoke.

“Iknow.”Hesatup,forcingmetoliftmyhead.

Isatup,holdingthesheetagainstmeandfacedhim.

“Youbarelyspoketomeinamonth.Onlywhenyouhadtoregardingacase.Thenyouseemeoutwith

someoneelseandyouthinkyoucanjustcomeatmelikeyoudid?”

Asmirkcrossedhisface.“Ididn’thearyoucomplaining.AllIheardandfeltwaspurepleasurefrom

you.”

“Doesn’tmatter.”Ilookeddown.“Whatwedidwaswrong.”

“Butitfeltright.Didn’tit?”

Icouldn’tanswerhimbecauseifIdid,thenitmadeeverythingIfeltforhimtrue.

“Whyhaven’tyousleptwithhim?”heasked.

“Idon’tknow.”

HeliftedmychinwithhisfingersoIwaslookingstraightintohiseyes.

“Becauseyouaren’treallyintohim.Youclaimyoudon’tlikeme,yetyouletmefuckyou.”

“IneversaidIdidn’tlikeyou.”

“Yousaidwecouldn’tbefriends,”hespoke.“ButhereIamlyinginyourbedinsteadofJimmy.”

“Whyareyoudoingthis?”

“Idon’tknow.”Helookedaway.

“Thiscan’thappenagain.”Igotupandslippedonmyrobe.“Youtoldmethatyou’renotthemanI

thinkyouare.Sotellmewhoyoureallyare.”Iturnedandlookedathim.

“Ican’tandIwon’t.Idon’tdiscussthatwithanyone.Whydon’tyoutellmewhathappenedwithyour

family?”

“No.”Iwalkedoutofthebedroomandintothekitchen.

Hefollowedbehindme,wearingnothingbuthispants.

“YouhaveyoursecretsandIhavemine.Tellmehowyou’reanydifferentthanIam.”

“IsupposeI’mnot.”Iplacedmyhandsfirmlyonthekitchencounter.

“Ishouldgetgoing,”hespoke.

“Yeah.Ithinkyoushould.”

“IwishIcouldbethemanyouwantmetobe,Ariana.I’vedonethingsthatI’mnotproudofandI’m

doingthistoprotectyou.”Hewalkedawayandintothebedroom.

“Whatdoyoumean‘toprotect’me?”Ifollowedhim.

“Itdoesn’tmatter.”Heslippedonhisshirt.“Iwon’tbotheryouagainandI’msorryfortonight.”He

grabbedhisshoesandwalkedtowardsthedoor.

IwasconfusedandIneededanswers.Heplacedhishandonthedoorhandle.

“Ifyouwalkoutthatdoor,IquitthefirmandIdon’teverwanttoseeyouagain.”

Helookeddownandsoftlyspoke,“I’msorryyoufeelthatway,butit’sprobablyforthebest.Iaccept

yourresignationandIwillgiveyounothingbuttheupmostrecommendationstoanywhereyougo.”

“Fine.”

HeopenedthedoorandwalkedoutwhileIstoodthereshakingandmyeyesfillingwithtears.Iwent

intothebedroomandrippedallthesheetsoffmybedinafitofrage.Theangerthatfilledmewasoutof

controlasIthrewmylampagainstthewallandfelltotheground,whereIcriedmyselftosleep.

ChapterTwenty-One

TwoWeeksLater

Luca

IwassittinginmyofficewhenacallcamethroughfromGaryDilbert,attorney,andownerofDilbert

& Associates. He was calling about Ariana. I made good on my promise and told him she was an

excellentemployeeandhe’dbeafoolnottohireher.

Ikeptbusyandburiedmyselfinmywork,wenttostripclubswithBrad,anddrankmorethanIshould

have.Oliviabarelyspoketomethepastcoupleofweeks,whichwastobeexpected.IwassureAriana

toldhereverything.Nothavingherhereatthefirmkilledme,butitwasforthebest.ThemoreIsawher,

theharderIfell.Butitdidn’tstopherfrombeingonmymind24/7.

TodaywasSamButler’sbirthday;mypartneratthefirm.IwasthrowinghimapartyatRose,abarin

thePeninsulaHotelwithaboutfiftypeople.AfterArianahadquit,Iwasquestionedbytheotherpartners.

Theywantedtoknowwhathappened.Ididn’tsaytoomuch,buttheyalreadyknewbecausetheyknewme.

Thepartywasgoinggreatandeveryonewashavingagoodtimedrinkingandmingling.Iwassittingatthe

barfinishingoffmyscotchwhenanattractivewomanwithlongbrownhairsatdownnexttome.Ismiled.

WestartedtotalkandIendedupbuyingheracoupleofdrinks.

****

Ariana

IwasputtingeverythingaboutLucaRussobehindme.Ihadquitmyjobandstartedthehuntforanew

one.ButnotuntilafterIstayedinastateofdepressionforaweek,eatingnothingbutjunkfoodandbinge-

watchingNetflix.

By the time I dragged my ass out of bed, showered, and got dressed, it was one p.m. Just as I was

putting on my shoes to go run some errands, my phone rang. When I looked at it, I noticed it was Luca

calling.Itookinadeepbreathandwenttohitthedeclinebutton,butIdidn’t.Againstmybetterjudgment,

Iansweredit.WhythehellIwouldanswerhiscallwasbeyondme.

“Hello.”

“Ariana,it’sme.Ineedyourhelp.”HisvoicewaslowandIcouldtellsomethingwaswrong.

“What’swrong,Luca?”

“Ineedyoutocomedowntothepolicestation.”

“Why?”Iaskednervously.

“I’vebeenarrested.”

“Arrested?Forwhat?”

“Murder.”

Myheartdroppedtomybellyandawaveofnauseasweptoverme,prohibitingmetorespond.

“Ariana,Ineedyoutocomenow.”

“I’monmyway.”Iswallowedhard.

Igrabbedmypursefranticallyandhailedacabtothepolicestation.Myheartwaspoundingoutofmy

chestandIfoundmyselfinanervousstate.Whatdidhedo?Iarrivedatthestationandwastakenbackto

theinterrogationroomwhereLucawas.WhenIwalkedin,alleyesdivertedtome.

“Whoareyou?”atall,brown-hairedandblue-eyedmandressedinasuitasked.

“She’smylawyer,”Lucaspoke.

IlookedatLucaandthenbackatthegentlemaninthesuit.

“ArianaWilliams,Mr.Russo’sattorney.”

“Wow. It’s nice to meet you, Miss Williams. I expected his lawyer to be some old guy pushing

seventy.”Hesmirked.“I’mDetectiveJacks.”

“Why have you arrested my client?” I asked in a commanding tone, ignoring the fact that he had

extendedhishandtome.

“ForthemurderofacallgirlnamedGinaBurroughs.Herbodywasfoundbythecleaningstaffwhen

theyenteredtheroomtocleanit.Shewaslyinginbed,naked,withherthroatslitandastabwoundtothe

heart.Mr.Russowasthelastpersontoseeher.”

“And?Thatdoesn’tprovehehadanythingtodowithhermurder.”

“True.Butthebloodyknifewefoundinhishotelroomwithhisfingerprintsonit,aswellastheshirt

hewaswearingthenightbeforewithherbloodonit,does.”

Ilookedaroundtheroomforanythingtovomitin.

“Also,therewasevidenceofsexualcontact,”hespoke.

IlookedoveratLuca.Hestaredmestraightintheeyesandneverlookedaway.

“DNA?”Iasked.

“Therewasnosemen,butthemedicalexaminersaidsexualintercoursehadtakenplace.”

“Ineedamomentwithmyclient,”Ispoke.

“We’vealreadybeenincontactwiththedistrictattorneyandsheischarginghimwithsecond-degree

murder.AbailhearinghasbeensetforMondayatninea.m.”

Assoonashelefttheroom,ItookaseatacrossfromLuca.Ineededtocollectmyselfandbeprepared

forwhathewasabouttotellme.

“Ididn’tkillthatwoman,Ariana,”hefirmlyspoke.

Itookinadeepbreath.“Tellmewhathappened.”

“Iwassittingatthebarwhenshesatdownnexttome.Iknewher.Shewasaclientofminefroma

year ago. She told me that she needed some legal advice and suggested we go back to her room. She

seemed nervous. I finished off my drink and we went back to her room to talk. After that, I don’t

rememberathing.ThenextthingIknew,IwaswokenupbyaloudbangonthedoorofthehotelroomI

wasin,whichbytheway,IhavenocluehowIevengotthereorwhyIwasthere,andwhenIletthemin,

theyaskedmesomequestions,foundtheknifeandmyblood-stainedshirt,andarrestedme.I’mbeingset

up,Ariana.”

“Bywhom?”Ishookmyhead.

“Idon’tknow.Youneedtogetincontactwiththeemergencyjudgeandgetthebailhearingtoday.I

cannotstayinhere,”hepleaded.“ItwilleitherbeJudgeHarrisonorJudgeSmith.Bothofthemknowme,

soyoushouldn’thaveaproblem.Ididn’tkillher,Ariana.”

AsIstaredintohiseyes,Ibelievedhim.HewastellingthetruthandIneededtodoeverythingIcould

togethimoutofthismess.AsIgotupfromthetable,hegrabbedmyhand.

“TheD.A.hatesmeandshehasavendettaagainstme.Shewillpushfornobailusingeveryexcusein

thebooktokeepmeinjail.Useherhatredtowardsmetoyouradvantage.”

Inoddedmyheadandwalkedoutoftheroom.Fuck.Fuck.Fuck.Theemergencyjudgeoncallwas

Wyatt Harrison. After explaining who I was and whom I represented, he agreed to an emergency bond

hearing, set for six o’clock, after he had his dinner. I was sitting in the station waiting when the lovely

districtattorneywalkeduptome.

“You’retheonerepresentingLucaRusso?”sheaskedwitharaisedbrow.

“Yes.I’mArianaWilliams.”

“You have got to be kidding.” She smirked. “You can’t be more than mid-twenties, which means

you’refreshoutoflawschool.”

“Iam.”Ismiled.

“He’snofoolrepresentinghimself,sohemustbecoachingyou,andthat’showyougotthisemergency

bailhearing.”

“Believewhatyouwant,MissGraham.I’mheretodefendmyclientandgethimoutofthisplaceas

soonaspossible.Iwantthechargesreducedtoinvoluntarymanslaughter.”

She let out a loud laugh. “Are you kidding? Your client’s fingerprints were all over that knife that

killedGinaBurroughs.Hehasherbloodonhisshirtandhewasseenleavingwithherfromthebarlast

night.Yourclientkilledherandthenwentbacktohisroomandpassedout.Hisbloodalcohollevelwas

through the roof, not to mention the empty scotch bottle found beside his bed in his room. The charges

stand at second-degree murder, Miss Williams, and that’s me being generous. I could charge him with

first-degreemurder.”

JudgeHarrisonarrivedandweallmetinoneoftheconferencerooms.MissGrahamwasviciousand

itwasclearhowmuchshehatedLuca.ButIfoughtbackandhard.Shepushedfornobail,claimingflight

risk.Ipushedharder.

“I’veknownyouandyourgrandfatherformanyyears,Luca.Duetothenatureofthecharges,I’llgrant

bailinthesumofthreemilliondollars.”

“ButYourHonor,”MissGrahamangrilyspoke.

“I’vemademydecision,Wendy.Mr.Russowillnotleavethestateorthecountry.He’snotstupidand

youofallpeopleknowthat.Now,ifyou’llexcuseme,I’mgoinghome.”

ChapterTwenty-Two

Ariana

TheridebacktoLuca’sapartmentwassilent.HiswholeworldwascrumblingbeforehimandIdidn’t

knowwhattodo.Wetooktheelevatoruptohisapartment,andtheminutewesteppedthroughthedoor,he

headedtohisbarandgrabbedthebottleofscotch.

“Drink?”heasked.

“Sure.”Isetmypursedown.“Whyme,Luca?”

Hestoppedpouringthescotchandlookedupatmeforamoment.

“BecauseIbelieveinyou.”

“Dilbert&Associatesofferedmethejob.”

“Areyougoingtoacceptit?”heaskedashehandedmemydrink.

“Idon’tknow.”

“Youshouldn’t.You’remylawyerdefendingmeinamurdercase.It’sgoingtotakeupalmostallyour

time.Plus,youwon’tneedthatjobanyway.”

“Whydoyousaythat?”Iasked.

“Because the money I’m paying you to defend me will be more than enough for quite a while. You

won’thavetoworryaboutanythingelse.Infact,Idon’twantyouworryingaboutanythingelsebutthis

case.Ididn’tdoit.Youbelieveme,right?”

“Itdoesn’tmatterifIbelieveyouornot.It’smyjobtodefendyou.”

“Throwingmywordsbackatme,eh?”Hethrewbackhisdrink.

Ipacedaroundthelivingroomwhilehesatonthecouchandwatchedme.

“So you want me to turn down a permanent job because I’m defending you in a murder case? And

whathappenswhenthiscaseisover?”

“You’llcomebacktomyfirm.You’llalwayshaveajobthere.”

“Idon’twanttoworkforyou,Luca.”

Henarrowedhiseyeatmeashesethisglassdownonthetable.

“Butyoualreadyare.”

Isighedandtookaseatnexttohim.“Iam,aren’tI?”

“Yes,youare.”Asmallsmilecrossedhislips.

“Soyouthinkyou’rebeingsetup?”Iasked.

“Idon’tthink.IknowIam.Ihavealotofenemies.”

Ipickeduphisglassfromthetable,walkedovertothebar,andpoureduseachanotherscotch.

“Youdoknowthiswillbeinthepapersbymorning.”Ihandedhimhisdrink.

“It’salreadyout.Brad’sbeenblowingupmyphonewithcallsandtextmessages.”

Justashespokethosewords,therewasaknockonthedoor.

“Whereishe?”BradaskedasIopenedthedoor.

“Inthelivingroom.”

****

Luca

IthrewbackmyscotchbeforeBradmadeitovertowhereIwassitting.

“Whatthefuckhappenedlastnight,Luca?”

“AllIknowisthatGinawasmurderedandIwasthelastonetoseeher.”

“Excuseme,Ariana.IneedtospeakwithLucainprivate,”Bradspoke.

ArianaquietlysteppedoutofthelivingroomtogiveustheprivacyBradaskedfor.

“Youhiredherasyourlawyer?Areyoufuckingkiddingme,bro?”

“Ididhireherandno,I’mnotkidding.”

“Butwhy?MyGod,Luca,she’sinexperienced.Howdoesthatlooktothefirm?Areyoutryingtoget

lifeinprison?”

“It’smydecision,Brad.Itrustherandherabilities.”

“Fuckherabilities!”heshouted.“Shejustgraduatedlawschool!Letmehandlethisforyou.Orbetter

yet,JoeandIcanworktogether.Wecanproveyoudidn’tmurderthatwoman,”hebegged.

“You’llbeworkingwithAriana,andthat’sanorder.Ifyourefuse,thenyoucanfindanotherjob.”I

loweredmyheadasIclaspedmyhands.

Heplacedhishandsinhispocketsandpacedaroundtheroom.Hewasangryandhadeveryrightto

be.

“Fine.Butshebetterknowwhatthefuckshe’sdoing.”

“Shedoes.”

Igotupfromthecouchandledhimtothedoor.

“I’mtired.It’sbeenalongday,”Ispoke.

AsIshutthedoor,Arianacamebackintothelivingroomwithherarmsfoldedagainstherchest.

“Hedoesn’tlikeme,”shespoke.

“Helikesyou.He’sjustworriedaboutme.That’sall.”

Iwalkedovertowhereshestoodandtookholdofherhand.

“Thankyoufordoingthis.”

“DidIreallyhaveachoice?”Shesmirked.

“Youcouldhavetoldmetofuckoff,butyoucame.”Mythumblightlysweptacrossherhandasmy

eyesstaredintohers.

“Becauseyoucalled,”shespokeinasoftwhisper.

Iletgoofherhandandbroughtmineuptoherface,strokinghercheekbeforedippingmyheadand

brushingmylipsagainsthers.

“Thankyou,”Ispoke.

“You’rewelcome,”shereplied.

Ourlipscollidedandlockedtogetherasmycockgrewharderbythesecond.Warmthradiatedfrom

her. A warmth I desperately missed but was too afraid to admit it. My fingers hooked around the thin

strapsofhersundressasIslidthemoffhershoulders,lettingthefabricthatcoveredherbeautifulbody

falltotheground.Iwasjustreleasedonathree-million-dollarbondforacrimeIdidn’tcommitandthe

onlythingIcouldthinkaboutwasfuckingheragain.

My hand slid down her torso and inside her panties, feeling the wetness that emerged from her. I

dippedafingerinsideandshegasped,breakingourlipsapart.IplacedmyforeheadonhersasIworked

my magic inside her. Her breathing increased and the subtle sounds of pleasure escaped her as she

orgasmed.

Iliftedherupinoneswoopandcarriedherupstairstomybedroom.Assoonaswereachedthebed,I

setherdownonthefloor,unhookedherbra,andslowlyremovedherpanties.Sheclimbedunderthesheet

whileIstrippedoutofmyclothes.Climbingontopofher,Ipushedseveralstrandsofhairawayfromher

faceandloweredmyheadforanothertasteofhersweetlips.

ChapterTwenty-Three

Ariana

My body trembled underneath his like it always did when he touched me. The softness of his lips

againstminetookawayallthesadnessI’dfeltthepastcoupleofweeks.Iwasagluttonforpunishmentfor

lettingthishappenagain,butrightnow,Ididn’tcare.Hehoveredovermeandslowlythrustinside,my

bodytakingineveryinchofhim.Softmoansescapedbothofusasourbodiesmovedtogetherinsync.My

legswerewrappedtightaroundhiswaistashemovedinandoutslowlyandwithease.Hisanimal-like

naturewastamed,almostasifhewantedtomakethislastaslongashecould.Mybodywasn’tpatientas

Irodethewaveofanorgasm.Throwingmyheadback,Imoanedasmynailsdugintohisback.Asmall

smilecrossedhisfaceasherolledontohisback,pullingmeontopofhim.Hishandsfirmlygrippedmy

assandheldmedownashethrusthishipsintome.Neitheroneofusspokeawordasoureyesstayed

fixatedoneachother.MyfeelingsforhimintensifiedagaintoalevelIneverknewexisted.Hehaltedand

therumblesinhischestroseupintogroansashestrainedinsideme.

Iburiedmyheadintothesideofhisneckasheplacedhishandonthebackofmyheadandheldme

tight. Even though he would never admit it, he was afraid. Afraid of everything going on and what the

possible outcome could be. I went to roll off him, but he stopped me, holding me so tight that I could

barelybreathe.Mybodysoftenedinhisarmsandwestayedlikethatforseveralminutes.

“Everything’sgoingtobeokay,Luca,”Iwhispered.

“Ihopeso.”Hekissedthesideofmyhead.

HisgriponmeloosenedandIrolledoffhim,snugglingagainsthissideandplacingmyheadonhis

chest.

“IneedyoutobelievethatIdidn’tkillthatgirl,”hesoftlyspoke.“That’stheonlythingthatmattersto

me.”

“Idobelieveyou.IfIdidn’t,Iwouldn’tbehere.”

His phone rang and I sat up while he reached over the bed and pulled it from his pants pocket. He

lookedatmewhenhesawwhowascalling,gotupfromthebed,andtookthecallinanotherroom.Ilay

there,underthesheet,waitingforhimtoreturn.Whenweleftthepolicestation,reporterswereoutside,

takingpicturesandaskingquestions,tryingtogetthestoryforthefrontpageoftomorrow’snews.

Lucawalkedbackintothebedroom,satdownontheedgeofthebed,andloweredhishead.

“Whowasthat?”Iasked.

“DavidHildenberg.Mylicensehasbeensuspendedpendingtheoutcomeofthiscase.”

“Youknewthatwasgoingtohappen.”Ibegantorubhisshoulders.

“Iknow.It’sjusthearingitmakesitsomuchworse.”

“I’msorry,Luca.”Mylipsgentlypressedagainsthisback.

“Weneedtobecareful,Ariana,”hespoke.

“Aboutwhat?”

“Wecan’tletanyoneknowwe’resleepingtogether.IftheABAcaughtwindofit,theycouldsiteyou

forattorneymisconduct.”

“Iknow.Ialreadythoughtaboutthat.”

“Thatmeansyoucan’ttellOlivia,”hespoke.

“Iwon’t,andyoucan’ttellBrad.”

“Trustme.I’mnotgoingto.”

“Weneedtotalkabouttheeventsoflastnight,Luca.Ihavetostartpreparingyourcase.”

“Wewilltomorrow.I’mtootiredrightnow.”Hebroughthishanduptomycheek.“Willyoustaywith

metonight?Ireallydon’twanttobealone.”

“OfcourseI’llstay.”

Heclimbedbackunderthecoversandheldmeaswebothdriftedoffintoadeepsleep.

****

IawokebeforeLuca,whotossedandturnedallnightlong.Quietlyclimbingoutofbed,Islippedon

hisnavy-bluet-shirtthathehadsittingonthechairinhisbedroom.Beforewalkingout,Istaredathimfor

amomentwhileheslept.Hewasatpeace.Atleastfornow.Igrabbedmypursefromthelivingroomand

took it into the kitchen with me. Pulling out my phone, I found I had ten missed calls from Olivia, five

voicemailmessagesandfifteentextmessages,allaskingmewhatthehellwasgoingonbecausesheheard

aboutLuca.WasIreadytodealwiththisrightnow?No.First,Ineededcoffee.

Istartedthebaconandcrackedsomeeggsintoabowl.AsIputthebreadinthetoaster,Lucawalked

in.

“Whatareyoudoing?”heasked.

“Good morning.” I smiled. “I’m making breakfast.” I took a cup down from the cabinet and poured

somecoffeeintoit.

“Youdon’thavetodothat.”

“Iwantto.Plus,I’mstarving,”IspokeasIhandedhimhiscoffee.“SitdownandtalktomewhileI

maketheeggs.”

“Somebody’sbossythismorning.”

Iglancedathimfromovermyshoulder.

“I’myourlawyer.It’smyjobtobebossy.WeneedtogoovertheeventsoftheothernightandIneed

youtotryandremembereverything.”

“TheonlythingIcanfocusonatthemomentishowsexyyoulookinmyt-shirt.”Hesmirked.

Ileanedoverthecounterandkissedhislips.

“Forgetaboutthet-shirtandfocusonFridaynight.Thisisimportant,Luca.Themurderweaponwith

yourfingerprintsonitandGina’sbloodonyourshirtismorethanenoughforthemtoputyouawayforat

leastthirtyyears.”

AsIplacedtheeggs,bacon,andtoastonaplateandsetitdowninfrontofhim,therewasaknockat

thedoor.Afterhegotuptoanswerit,Iheardhisgrandfather’svoicecomingfromthelivingroom.Shit.I

lookeddownatmyselfinnothingbutLuca’st-shirt.Inorderformetothrowonmydressfromyesterday,I

needed to cross the living room to get upstairs to the bedroom. He’d see me and then what would he

think?Shit.Shit.Shit.

“Luca,”Ishouted.“Canyouhelpmewithsomething?”

“Getouthere,younglady!”hisgrandfathershoutedinanauthoritativetone.

IswallowedhardwhileIplacedmyhandsfirmlyonthebottomofthet-shirtasIslowly,andutterly

embarrassed,walkedintothelivingroom.

“Goodmorning,Mr.Russo.”

Hesighedashestaredatme.

“Ariana,goupstairsandgetdressed,”Lucaspoke.

IgavehimasmallnodasIwentuptothebedroomandslippedintomysundress.WhenIwalkedback

downstairs,thetwoofthemweretalking.IheardmynamementionedandtheybothlookedatmewhenI

enteredtheroom.

“Canyoudothis?”hisgrandfatheraskedme.

“Yes.”

“Well,Idon’tagreewithhisdecisiontohireyoutodefendhim.Especiallywhenthetwoofyouare

sleepingtogether.Youdoknowthat’sunethical,right?”

“Yes.”Ilookeddown.

“Andifanyonewastofindout,youcouldbedisbarred.”

“Iknow.”

Hestaredatmeforamomentwithnarrowedeyes.Iwaswaitingforhimtostartyelling,screaming,

andtellingLucahemadeahugemistake.Buthedidn’t.

“You’rearulebreakerandarisktaker.Thosetwothingsrighttheremakeadamngoodlawyer.Ithink

you’lldojustfine.”

“Thankyou,sir.”

“CallmeFranco,dear.”

Lucawentupstairstogetdressed,leavinghisgrandfatherandmealone.Icouldtellhehadsomething

onhismindthewayhespokemyname.

“Ariana. You are going to have to do everything possible to prove he didn’t murder that woman,

including things that may be unethical, so to speak. I know the district attorney. She plays hardball and

doesn’tbackdown.She’sruthlessandwillstopatnothingtoproveLucaisguilty.Shewilldoeverything

inherpowertomakethejurybelievehe’sacold-bloodedkiller.”

“Ifweevenmakeittotrial.”Iraisedmybrow.

Asmallsmilecrossedhislips.

ChapterTwenty-Four

Luca

ArianaandIspenttheentireSundayatmyapartmenttalkingandgoingovertheeventsofFridaynight.

ThefactthatIcouldn’trememberafuckingthingafterIleftthebarwithGinafrightenedme.Myentirelife

wasontheline.Reporterswaitedoutsidemyapartmentbuilding,makingitimpossibleforustoleave.I

feltlikeaprisonerinmyownhomeanditpissedmeoff.TherewassomethingIhadn’ttoldheryet.The

onethingIneverwantedhertofindout.I’dkeepittomyselffornow,andwhenthetimecame,ifitdid,

I’dtellhereverythingandthenwatchherlookatmeasifIwassomekindofmonster.Icouldn’thavethat.

Ilikedherandthethoughtofherseeingmeinthatwaywouldkillme.

The next morning, I got up, dressed, and went out the back of the apartment building where Jeffery

waswaitingformewiththecar.Iwalkedintothebuildingofmyfirmwherepeoplestoppedwhatthey

weredoingandstaredatme.Thefearintheireyesshotthroughmelikeabullet.WhenIwalkedintomy

office,mypartners,JoeGreggsandSamButler,followedmeinside.

“We’resurprisedyou’rehere,”Joespoke.

“Why’sthat?”Icockedmyhead.“Thisfirmwillrunasusual.”

“Yourlicensehasbeensuspended,Luca,”Samspoke.

“I’mwellawareofthat,Sam.Imaynotbeabletopracticelaw,butitdoesn’tmeanthatIcan’tstill

runthisfirm.”

“Wetalkedandwethinkitwouldbeinthebestinterestofthefirmifyoutooksometimeoff,”Joe

spoke.

“Idon’tcarewhatyouthinkisbest.ThisismyfirmandIwillcontinuetobehereeveryday.”

“Luca,wealreadylosttenclientsthismorning.Peopledon’twantafirmrepresentingthemwhenthe

mainpartnerhasbeenaccusedofmurder.”Samleanedbackinhischair.

“Ifyoucareanythingatallaboutthisfirm,you’llstepdownforawhile,”Joespoke.

Islammedmyfistdownonmydesk.

“Thisfirmismylifeandthisismyreputationontheline.IfIwalkawaybecauseofthis,Imightas

wellsayI’mguilty.Businesswillgoonasusual.”

“Good morning, gentlemen.” Ariana walked into my office. “Luca’s right. Business will go on as

usual. He’s innocent until proven guilty.” She let out a light laugh. “But you already know that, right? I

mean,comeon,you’relawyers.”

“We’reworriedaboutwhatthiswilldotothefirm,”Samspoke.

“Of course you are. You have a lot invested in here. It’s nice to know that you care more about the

firmthanwhatmighthappentoyourfriendandpartner.”

Bothofthemsatthereandglaredather.ShehadrenderedthemspeechlessandIfoundmyselfturned

on.

“Now,ifyou’llexcuseus,gentlemen,Ineedtospeakwithmyclientinprivate.”Arianaheldthedoor

openforthem.

I silently smiled to myself. She seemed different this morning. She shut the door and threw a black

phoneacrossmydesk.

“What’sthis?”IaskedasIpickeditup.

“Aburnerphone.Ihaveoneaswell.We’llbeusingthosephonesforpersonalconversations,andour

regularphonesforbusiness.Iliketoconsideritasafetymeasurejustincase.”

Isetthephonedownandstaredatthebeautifulwomaninthebluepantsuitthatstoodbeforeme.

“Imissedyoulastnight,”Ispoke.

Sheraisedherfinger.“Youcan’tbetalkinglikethatattheoffice.Anyway,Ineedtogo.Ihavealotof

worktodo.I’llbebacklater.Inthemeantime,Ineedyoutomakemealistofyourpotentialenemies.”

“Thatcouldtakesometime.”

“Timeisallyouhave,Luca,”shespokeasshewalkedoutofmyoffice.

Shewasright.TimewasallIhadandIwasn’tgoingtowasteitbysittingaroundthinkingabouthowI

mightgotoprisonfortherestofmylife.AllofthiswasunrealandIneededtothinkrealhardaboutwho

woulddothistome.

****

Ariana

IwenttothePeninsulaHotelandspokewithRandall,thebartenderwhowasworkingthatnight.

“HowmanydrinksdidyouserveMr.Russo?”Iasked.

“Hehadthreescotches.”

“Didheseemintoxicatedtoyouwhenheleftthebar?”

“Notreally.Imean,hewalkedoutofherefine.Hegavemehiscreditcardandsignedthebill.He

eventoldmetohaveagoodnight.”

“Wasthereanythingunusualaboutthewomanheleftwith?”

“No.Buttobeperfectlyhonest,Iwasn’tpayingattention.Itwasreallybusythatnightwiththeparty

andall.”

“Doyourememberwhattimetheyleftthebar?”Iasked.

“Yeah.Itwasaroundeleveno’clock.”

“Andhowdoyouknowtheexacttime?”

“Because my co-worker, Ron, had just gotten back from break and he was late. So, I remember

lookingatthetimewhenhecameback.ThatwaswhenMr.Russohadjustsignedthebillandtoldmeto

haveagoodnight.”

“Thankyou,Randall.”Ismiled.

“Noproblem.”

AsIbegantowalkaway,Randallcalledmyname.

“Hey,MissWilliams?”

“Yeah?”Iturnedaround.

“Idon’tknowifthisisofimportanceoranything,butrightbeforetheyleft,thewomandroppedher

purseandallthecontentsfelloutofit.Mr.Russobentdowntopickitupforher.”

“Really?”Inarrowedmyeye.“Shedidn’thelphim?”

“No.Shejustsatonthestoolwhilehepickedeverythingup.”

“Thanks.Thatcouldbeofimportance.Didyoubyanychancetellthattothedetectives?”Iasked.

“Nah.Ijustrememberedit.”

“Let’skeepthatlittlebitofinformationtoourselves.”Iwinked.

“Surething,MissWilliams.”

AsIwasleavingthehotel,IreceivedacallfromWendyGraham.

“ArianaWilliams.”

“MissWilliams,it’sWendyGraham.Mr.Russowillneedtoappearincourttomorrowmorningatten

a.m.forthepreliminaryhearing.”

“Sosoon?”Iasked.

“Thisisahigh-profilecaseandit’sinthebestinterestofthepeopletogetthismovingquicklyandget

thiscaseclosed.”

“Areyousurethat’stheonlyreason?”Iaskedwithsuspicion.

“Ofcourse,MissWilliams.Haveagoodday.”

IsighedasIrolledmyeyesandhailedacabbacktothefirm.Asthedriverapproachedthebuilding,

reporters were swarming outside the doors. I paid the cabbie, took in a deep breath, and got out of the

cab.

“Excuseme.Aren’tyouthedefenseattorneyforLucaRusso?”atallyoungmalereporterasked.

“Yes.Nowifyou’llexcuseme,Ineedtomeetwithmyclient,”IspokeasIpushedmywaythroughthe

crowdofpeople.

“Doyouthinkyou’rereallyqualifiedtohandlethiscase?”heshouted.

Istoppeddeadinmytracksandslowlyturnedaround.

“Excuseme?”

“FromwhatIunderstand,youjustgraduatedlawschool.Mr.Russocanaffordthebestattorneyinthe

world.Sowhywouldhehiresomeonewithnoexperience?”

“Whatisyourname?”Iasked.

“AidenYork.”

“Toansweryourquestion,Mr.York,Iamthebest.”Iraisedmybrowwithasmirk.“Andwhenwe

winthiscase,Iexpectanapologyfromyouforjudgingmewithoutevenknowingmeormyskills.Havea

goodday.”Iwalkedintothebuilding.

ChapterTwenty-Five

Ariana

IguessthepositivesidetoeveryonethinkingthatLucamadeamistakeinhiringmewasthattheywere

sobewilderedittookthefocusoffhimbeingapossiblemurderer.Istoppedinthelobbybeforetakingthe

elevatoruptohisofficeandplacedmyhandsonmyforehead.Ihadfledfromonemessrightintoanother.

ThepreliminaryhearingwastomorrowandIwasn’treadyyet,butthatwasherplan.Itookthefileoutof

mybagandopenedit.EverythingaboutthatnighthadhappenedquicklyandIneededmoreanswers.

Turningaround,IheadedoutthedoorandhailedacabtothepolicestationtotalktoDetectiveJacks.

“Hello,MissWilliams.”Hesmiled.“HowmayIhelpyou?”

“Iwashopingyou’dhaveafewminutestotalk.”

“Foryou?Ofcourse,please,haveaseat.”Hepointedtothechairacrossfromhisdesk.

“HowdidyouknowthatMr.Russowasstayingatthehotelthenightofthemurder?”Iasked.

“Weactuallydidn’t.ThekeytohisroomwasfoundonthefloorofMissBurroughs’room.Wetookit

downtothefrontdeskandaskedwhichguestitwasregisteredunderandthat’swhenwefoundoutit

belongedtoMr.Russo.So,wewentuptohisroomtoquestionhimand,well,youknowtherestofthe

story.”

“Sohehadtworoomkeys,correct?”

“Yes,wefoundonelyingonthenightstandnexttohisbed.Ourtheoryisthattheotheronemusthave

fallenoutofhispocketwhenhetookoffhispantstohavesexwithMissBurroughs.”

“Itwasneverestablishedthetwoofthemhadintercourse.Therewasnosemen.”

“True,butthemedicalexaminerstatedthattherewasdefinitelypenetration.”

“Stilldoesn’tprovethatitwasfrommyclient.Iwouldlovetoknowhowyougottheforensictesting

donesoquickly.”

Hesatbehindhisdeskandnarrowedhiseyewhilehesmirkedatme.

“Themurderweaponandablood-stainedshirtthatbelongedtoMr.Russo,foundinhishotelroom

whilewewerequestioninghimtookpriority.Therewasnotimetowaste.Hewasthelastpersonseen

withMissBurroughsandwehadourprimesuspectrightthere.Whysitonevidencewhenwecouldhave

anopenandshutcase?”

“Thiscaseisfarfromgettingshut,Mr.Jacks.Myclientdidnotmurderthatwomanandthereal

murdererisstilloutthere.”

Hegotupfromhischair,walkedovertothedoor,andopenedit.

“Goodluckprovingthat.”

Hiscondescendingattitudepissedmeoff.Igotupfrommychairandwalkedoutofhisofficewithout

speakingaword.IheadedbacktothefirmonlytolearnthatLucahadleft.

“Sheila?”IspokeasIstoodinthedoorwayofheroffice.

“Hey,Ariana.”

“Ineedyourhelp.”

Shegavemeasmallsmileasshegotupfromherdesk.

“I’malreadyonitsodon’tworry.IknowLucadidn’tdoitandI’llstopatnothingtogettheevidence

weneedtoprovehisinnocence.”

“Thanks.Letmeknowwhatyoufindassoonaspossible.”

“Iwill.”Shesmiled.

Ineededtomakeonemorestopbeforeheadinghome.Pullingoutmyburnerphone,IcalledLuca.

“Hello.”

“Hey.Iwassurprisedyoulefttheoffice.”

“Iwasdonefortheday,soIdecidedtogohome.Whereareyou?”

“I’mstoppingbythemedicalexaminer’sofficetoseeifthere’sanupdatedautopsyreport.”

“Ineedyoutocomebywhenyou’redone,anddon’tworryaboutdinner.We’llorderin.”

“Isthereaspecificreasonyouneedmetostopby?”Iaskedwithasmile.

“Icouldgiveyouamillionreasons,butIdon’twanttogethardatthemoment.So,I’lljustshowyou

whenyougethere.”

“Ilookforwardtoit.”

“Metoo.I’llseeyousoon.Oh,andbytheway,stopbyyourapartmentfirstandpackasmallbagfor

thenight.”

“Willdo.”

Thethoughtofhimbeinginsidemeagainwasriveting.MybodycravedhiminwaysIneverknew

existed.TheattractionIhadtohimwassostrongthatsometimesitscaredme.Ioftenwonderedifhe

hiredmetodefendhimbecausehewantedtoprovetomethathedidn’tkillGinaBurroughs.Iwasn’tthe

bestchoice.MaybeinfiveortenyearsIwouldhavebeen,butnotatthismoment.Iwasscared;soscared

thatIwouldscrewthisupforhimandsendhimtoprisonfortherestofhislife.Itwasapparentthatthe

districtattorneyaswellasthecopswereouttogethim.

“Excuseme.Dr.High?I’mArianaWilliams,LucaRusso’sattorneyintheGinaBurroughscase.”

“Ahyes,pleasecomein,MissWilliams.”Hesmiled.“WhatcanIdoforyou?”

“IneedanupdatedautopsyreportonMissBurroughsifoneisavailable.”

“Yes.Ijustfinishedittoday.Haveaseat.”Hegesturedwithhishand.

AsIsteppedinsidehisoffice,hemovedsomepapersaroundonhisdesk,pullingouttheautopsy

reportandhandingittome.

“Werethereanynewfindings?”IaskedasIlookeditover.

“Yes.Shewaspregnant.”

“What?”Myeyeswidened.

“Abouttwelveweeks.”

Fuck.Fuck.Fuck,Ithoughttomyself.Thiswasbad.Realbad.Ibroughtmyhandtomyforeheadand

pinchedmybrowstogether,tryingtosoothetheachethathadsuddenlyappeared.

“Andyou’resuretherewasintercoursethedayofthemurder?”Iasked.

“Theredefinitelywaspenetration.But,fromwhatIcouldsee,itwasconsensual.Therewasno

bruisingortearsinthevaginalarea.Nosemenorepithelialcellswerefound,indicatingthekilleror

whomevershehadsexwithwaswearingacondom.”

“Thankyou,Dr.High.”

“You’rewelcome.I’msureI’llbeseeingalotofyouifyou’reworkingforMr.Russo’sfirm.”

“Maybe.”Igaveasmallsmile.

AssoonasIleftthebuilding,IpulledmyphonefrommypurseanddialedSheila.

“Hello.”

“Sheila,it’sAriana.Ineedyoutofindouteverything,andImeaneverythingonGinaBurroughs.Also,

Iwantherclientlist,andseeifyoucangetmeherphonerecords.Intervieweveryoneyoucanatthat

escortservice.Someonehastoknowsomething.”

“I’llgetrightonit.”

“Thanks.Callmeifyoufindsomething.I’llbeoveratLuca’sgoingoversomethingswithhimbefore

thepreliminaryhearingtomorrowmorning.”

Iheadedhome,packedasmallbag,andwalkedovertoLuca’s.Emilsawmecomingandheldthedoor

openforme.

“Evening,Ariana.”Hesmiled.

“Hi,Emil.Howareyou?”

“I’mokay.Hey,IknowMr.Russodidn’tkillthatgirl.”

“No,hedidn’t,andI’mgoingtoproveit.”Asmallsmilecrossedmylips.

IpulledGinaBurroughs’photofrommypurse.

“Haveyoueverseenthiswomanbefore?MaybeshecametovisitLucaatonetime?”

Hetookthephotographfrommyhandandstudiedit.

“No.I’veneverseenherbefore.”

IsilentlyletoutthedeepbreathIwasholding.Ifhehadseenherhereatsomepoint,thatwouldhave

posedaproblem.

“Thanks,Emil.”

“You’rewelcome.Haveagoodnight,Ariana.”

“Youtoo.”IsmiledasIheadedtowardstheelevator.

ChapterTwenty-Six

Luca

Whatthefuckwastakinghersolong?IthoughtasIlookedatmywatch.Iwalkedovertothebarand

pouredascotch,downedit,andpouredanotherone.Didn’tsherealizetheurgencyofmeneedingtosee

her,tofuckher,andthenhavedinnerwithher?MylifewasinchaosandIwastryingmybesttoholdit

together,butthatonlyseemedpossiblewhenshewasaround.

JustasIthrewbackthelastofmyscotch,therewasaknockatthedoor.

“It’sabouttime,”IspokeasIopenedit.

“Nicetoseeyoutoo,Luca.”Shegrinnedasshemadeherwayinside.

“Whatthehelltookyousolong?ItseemslikeI’vebeenwaitinghereforhours.”

“Wehaveaproblem.Arealbigproblem.”Shesighed.

“Whatisit?”Iaskedwithconcern.

“Ginawastwelveweekspregnant.”

“Areyoufuckingkiddingme?”Iplacedmyhandonmyforehead.“Youknowwhatthatmeans?”

“OfcourseIdo.You’llbechargedwithtwocountsofmurder.Yourpreliminaryhearingistomorrow

morningattena.m.”

“Whendidyoufindthatout?”Iasked.

“AfterIleftthehotel.”

“Andyou’rejusttellingmethisnow?”Ispokewithahintofanger.

“Istoppedbyyourofficeafterbeingharassedbyreportersandyouhadalreadyleft!”shespokeina

raisedvoice.

“Don’tyoudareraiseyourvoicetome.”Ipointedather.

“Anddon’tyoudareraiseyourvoicetome,Mr.Russo.”Shepointedback.

Mycockwasontheriseandthrobbingtobeinsideher.I’dwaitedalldayandIwasn’tabouttowaita

secondlonger.Shestoodthereandglaredatme,waitingformyresponse.Ineededherhardandfast.It

wastheonlywaytoreleasethetensionmybodyhoused.Ipulledmyshirtovermyheadandtossediton

thefloorasIwalkedovertowhereshestood.

“Whatareyoudoing?”

“ShowingyouamillionreasonswhyIneededyoutocomeover.”

MyfingerstookholdofthebottomofhershirtassheliftedherarmsandIpulleditoverherhead.My

tongueteasedherlipsasIunhookedherbraandtosseditonthefloor.AsIwrappedmyarmaroundher

waist,mymouthsmashedintohers,whileIledherovertothecouch.

“Takeoffyourskirtandgetonyourknees,”Icommanded.

SheslidherskirtoffherhipsandremovedherpantieswhileItookdownmypantsandkickedthemto

theside.Sheheldontothebackthecouchwhilehertautasswasupintheair.Ireachedmyhandsover

andgrabbedeachofherbreastswhilemytonguesliddownherbackuntilitreachedherwetpussy.AsI

dartedmytongueinandoutofherslickopening,sheletoutamoanofdesire.Shewasmorethanready

formetotakeherandmycockhadbeenpatientlongenough.Ipositionedmyselffrombehind,placinga

firmgriponherhipswhileIpushedintoherhardanddeep.Shegaspedasshetookeveryinchofme

insideher.ThewarmththatenvelopedmycockwasexhilaratingasIthrewmyheadbackandrapidly

thrustinandoutofher.

“Doyoulikeitlikethis?”Iaskedinaroughvoice.

“Yes,”sherepliedwithbatedbreath.

“Tellmehowmuchyoulikeit,”Icommanded.

“Iloveit.”

“Doyouwantitharder?”

“Yes.”

“Thentellme.”

“Fuckmeharder,Luca,”shespokewithexasperation.

Imovedinandoutofheratthespeedoflight,myheartracingandmybreathaccelerated.Shewas

abouttocomeasIcouldfeelhertighteningaroundme.Sheletoutaloudmoanassheloweredherheadto

tryandcatchherbreath.OnelastpumpandIsloweddown,pushingouteverylastdropofcomeIcould.

Istoodthere,stillinsideherasIloweredmyheadandpressedmylipsagainstherback.Mybreathing

waserraticaswashers.Oncemyracingheartslowed,Ipulledoutandsatdownonthecouchnexttoher.

ShesnuggledintomylapandlayherheadonmyshoulderasIwrappedmyarmsaroundherandheldher

tight.Sheliftedherheadandlookedatmewithherbeautifuleyes.

“I’mhungry,”shespoke.

ThecornersofmymouthcurvedupintoasmallsmileasIbrushedastrandofhairawayfromherface.

“Metoo.Whatdoyouwantfordinner?”

“Thaifood.There’sthisgreatlittleplacearoundthecorner.”

“Yes.Iknow.Ieatthereallthetime.”Igrinned.

Shegotoffmylap,wentintoherbag,andpulledouthershortsilkblackrobe.Afterpullingmypants

on,Iwalkedtothekitchenandgrabbedthemenufromthedrawer.AfterIphonedinourorderfor

delivery,IstoodatthediningroomtablewhereArianawasalreadysittingwithpapersspreadoutinfront

ofher.

“Sohere’swhatweknowsofar.Theroomwasreservedunderyournamewithyourcreditcard

information.Thatcallwasmadefromyouroffice.”

“Inevercalledthathoteltoreservearoom.”

“Ididn’tsayyoudid.Nowsitdownandchillout.”Shepointedatthechairacrossfromher.“Youleft

thebarateleveno’clockandthevictim’stimeofdeathwasapproximatelytwelvea.m.Myquestionis,

whydidthecleaningladyenterGina’sroomatsixa.m.?Theydon’tcleantheroomsthatearlyinthe

morning.”

“Becausesomeonesentheruptheretofindthebody,knowingthatI’dbeinthatotherroom,”Ispoke.

“Fuck.”Igotupfrommychair.“IwishIcouldremembersomething.”Ipacedbackandforth.

Myapartmentphonerang,soIansweredit,thinkingitwasEmiltellingmethatourfooddeliverywas

here,butitwasn’taboutthat.

“Yes,Emil.”

“There’sawomanbythenameofJuliaBrooksinquiringifyou’rehome,”hewhispered.

JuliaBrooks.HowdidIknowthatname?

“JuliaBrooks,yousay?”IaskedasIlookedatAriana,whoseeyesjustaboutpoppedoutofherhead.

Shejumpedupfromthetableandranovertome,grabbingthephonefrommyhand.

“Emil,it’sAriana.DonotletherknowthatLucaishomeanddonotletherknowthatyouknowme.”

“Iwon’t.”

“Thankyou.”Shehungup.

“Yoursisterishere.IimagineshefoundyoufromallthepressconcerningtheGinaBurroughs’case.”

“Idon’tneedthisrightnow!”shesnapped.“Ican’tdealwithherandthiscaseatthesametime.”

“WhateverhappenedbackinBostonneedstobeputtorestandtheonlywaytodothatistotalktoher.

Forfuck’ssake,Ariana,she’syoursister!”Ishouted.“Youneedtotalktoher!”

“Nosheisn’t!”Shewhippedaroundwithangersplayedacrossherface.“She’smymother!”

“What?”Icockedmyhead.

“Youwanttoknowwhathappened,Luca?Fine,I’lltellyouwhathappened.MymotherisJulia

Brooks,whoforthelasttwenty-fiveyearspretendedtobemysister.Andmyparents,whomIcalledmom

anddadalltheseyears,aremygrandparents,”shespokeastearsfilledhereyes.

“Theyliedtoyou?”

“IfoundoutbyaccidentonthedayIgraduatedfromlawschoolwhenherandmygrandmotherwerein

thekitchenarguing.WhenIheardmyname,Ihidbehindthedoorandlistened.Mymotherwastellingher

thatitwastimeIknewthetruth.”

“Ariana,I’msorry.”Iwrappedmyarmsaroundherandheldhertight.

Ihadjustthoughttheyhadafightandsheleft.Ineverimagineditwassomethingasseriousaswhatshe

toldme.Myheartbrokeforher.Nowondershewassosecretiveabouteverything.

“Howcouldtheykeepsomethinglikethatfrommealltheseyears?”shecried.

“Idon’tknow,baby.That’sfuckedup.Didtheyatleastexplainorgiveyoutheirreasons?”

Shebrokeourembraceasshewipedhereyes.

“Mymomhadjustturnedfifteenwhenshegotpregnant.Accordingtomygrandmother,therewasno

wayshecouldcareformeandstillcarryoutherlifeplan.”

“Whatthefuckwasherlifeplan?”

“She’sasurgeon.ShegraduatedfromStanfordinthetoptenpercentofherclass.”

“Theappledoesn’tfallfarfromthetree.”Ismiled.

“Really,Luca?”Hereyesnarrowedatme.

“I’msorry.”Iwrappedmyarmsaroundheronceagainandkissedthetopofherhead.“Soyour

grandparentsraisedyouasifyouweretheirownsoyourmomwouldn’thavetoworry?”

“Yep.”

“Andtheycouldn’thavetoldyouthetruthsomewheredowntheline?”

“Iguessnot.”

“Whataboutyourfather?Doyouknowwhoheis?”

“Julia’shusband,Tom.They’vebeentogethersincetheywereteenagers.BothwenttoStanfordand

graduatedtogether.”

“He’sadoctortoo?”Iasked.

“He’sacardiologist.”

“Andhisparentswereokaywiththisdecisiontolietoyou?”

“Ofcourse.Becausethatmeantitdidn’tdisrupthislifeeither.So,bothofthemgotoffthehookforthe

mistaketheymade.”

Mygriparoundhertightened.“Youarenotandwerenotamistake,Ariana.Don’teverthinkthat.”

Therewasaknockatthedoor,andwhenIopenedit,Emilwasstandingthereholdingalargebrown

paperbag.

“Yourfoodwasdelivered,soIthoughtI’djustbringituptoyou.”

Ireachedinmypocketandpulledoutsomecash,givingEmilextraforatip.

“Thankyou,Emil.”

“Isthatwomanstilldownstairs?”Arianaaskedasshewalkedovertothedoor.

“No.ItoldherthatMr.Russowasn’thomeandIdidn’tknowwhentoexpecthim,sosheleft.”

“Thanks,Emil,”Ispoke.

“You’rewelcome.Isthereanythingelseyouneed?”heasked.

“No.Haveagoodnight.”

WesatdowntoeatandArianamainlypickedatherfood.

“Youneedtoeat,”Ispoke.“Yousaidyouwerehungry.”

“Iameating,”shespokeasshestaredatherplateandmovedherforkaroundthefood.

“No.You’repickingatyourfood.”

Igotupfrommyseatandtooktheonenexttohers.Takingtheforkfromherhand,Iputsomefoodonit

andbroughtituptohermouth.

“Openup.”Igrinned.

ChapterTwenty-Seven

Ariana

Iclimbedoutofbedatsixa.m.LucawasstillsoundasleepwhenIhoppedintotheshower.AfterI

finished,Iwrappedawhitetowelaroundme,andwhenIwalkedintothebedroom,hiseyeslookedatme.

“Whydidn’tyouwakeme?”heasked.

“Youweresleepingsopeacefully.I’msorryifIkeptyouupallnightwithmytossingandturning,”I

spoke.

“Youdidn’t.Iwasupallnightmyself.Today’sthedayIgetchargedwithadoublemurder.”Hesighed.

“She’llprobablywanttorevokemybail.”

“Notgoingtohappen,”IspokeasIslippedintomypanties.“I’mreadyforwhatevershethrowsatus.”

Lucaclimbedoutofbed,gavemeakiss,andthenwenttothekitchentomakesomecoffeewhileI

wentintothebathroomandgotmyselfreadyfortheday.AsIwaschangingintomytailorednavyblue

pantsuit,myphonerangandOliviawascalling.

“Hello.”

“Hey.IheardLuca’spreliminaryhearingisthismorning.Howareyou?”

“I’mgood.”

“Areyounervous?”

“Alittle.ButI’mnotgoingtolethimknowthat.”

“Well,goodluck.Ifyouneedanythingatall,I’mhereforyou.”

“Thanks,Olivia.”

“You’rewelcome.”

Afterendingthecall,IwalkedtothekitchenandLucapouredmeacupofcoffee.

“DidIhearyoutalkingtosomeone?”heasked.

“Oliviacalled.Shewantedtowishuslucktoday.”

“Ah.Thatwasniceofher.Whatdoyouwantforbreakfast?”

Itookasipofmycoffeeandlookedatmywatch.

“Ihavetogo.I’llgrabsomethinglater.”Ikissedhislips.

“Whereareyougoing?”

“IhavesomeoneIneedtotalktobeforethehearing.I’llmeetyouatthecourthouse.”Iflewoutthe

door.

****

“Helloagain,MissWilliams,”Roberto,thehotelmanageratthePeninsula,spoke.

“Roberto,Ihaveaquestion.”

“Okay.Let’sgointomyoffice.WhatcanIdoforyou?”

“WhywouldthecleaningstaffgotocleanMissBurroughs’roomatsixa.m.?”

“WhenMissBurroughscheckedintothehotel,shesaidthatshewantedtheroomcleanedatsixa.m.

whileshewasdownatthespa.”

“Yourspaopensatsixa.m.?”Iraisedmybrow.

“No.Thespaactuallyopensateight.Butforspecialguests,wecanmakeaccommodations.”

“Howwouldyoudefinea‘special’guest?”Iasked.

“Someonewhovisitsourhotelfrequentlyandstaysinourhigh-pricedsuites.”Hesmiled.

“HowfrequentlydidMissBurroughsstayhereatthehotel?”

“Aboutthreetofourday/nightsaweek.Sherarelystayedmorethanjustafewhours.

“Andeveryreservationwasbookedunderhername?”

“Yes.”

“Differentmeneachtimestayedwithher?”Iasked.

Helookeddowninembarrassment.

“Yes.Shehadalotofdifferentboyfriends.”

“Comeon,Roberto.Webothknownoneofthosemenwereherboyfriends.”

“Ifyousayso,MissWilliams.”

IsighedasIrolledmyeyes.

“Wasshewithanyothermanthatdayshewashere?”

“No.Ididn’tseeherwithanyonebutMr.Russo.”

“Andwhattimewasitthatyousawthem?”

“Itwasaroundeleveno’clockwhenIsawthemstepintotheelevator.”

“DidMissBurroughseverscheduleaspaappointmentthatearly?”Iasked.

“I’dhavetocheck.”Heturnedtohiscomputerandstartedtyping.“No.Theearliestsheeverbooked

onewasaroundnoon.”

“Thankyou,Roberto.”IsmiledasIheldoutmyhand.

“You’rewelcome,MissWilliams.IhopeIwasofsomehelp.”

“Youwere.Onelastthing,isthemaidwhofoundMissBurroughsheretoday?”

“ThatwouldbeMarta,andyes,she’shere.Didyouwanttospeakwithher?”

“Please.Ipromiseit’llonlybeforacoupleofminutes.”

RobertopickedupthephoneonhisdeskandcalledforMartatocomeintohisoffice.Ilookedatmy

watchandsawthatIhadapproximatelyforty-fiveminutestogettothecourthouse.Afewmomentslater,

anolderwomanwithjet-blackhairpulledbackintoaponytailsteppedintotheoffice.

“Marta,thisisMissWilliams.She’sanattorneyandwouldliketospeakwithyou.”

Martalookedoveratmeandgaveasmallsmiletohidethenervousnessthatwassplayedacrossher

face.

“Hi,Marta.WhenyouenteredMissBurroughs’suite,andbeforeyoufoundherbody,didyousee

anythingoutoftheordinary?”

“No.I’vealreadytalkedtothepolice,”shespokeinaheavyaccent.

“IknowyouhaveandI’msorrytomakeyougothroughthisagain,butit’sveryimportantthatyou

remembereverythingaboutthatmorning.Yousaidyoustartedcleaningthelivingareaofthesuitebefore

youwentintothebedroomandfoundMissBurroughs.Didyouperhapsthrowanythingaway?Maybea

condomwrapperorsomething?”

Thiswasalongshot,butIhadtoask.

“No.I’msorry.Therewasnothing.”

“Thankyou,Marta,Iwon’ttakeupanymoreofyourtime.”

WhenIleftthehotel,IpulledmyphonefrommypurseanddialedSheila.

“Ariana,Iwasjustgoingtocallyou.I’matthecourthouse.Whereareyou?”

“I’monmyway.”

“ItseemsthatGinaBurroughsquittheescortagencythreemonthsago.”

“Really?Thenwhowassheworkingfor?”

“Herself.Liza,oneofthegirlsoverattheagency,saidthatGinahadconfidedinherthatshehadaplan

totakeherclientswithherandstartupherownagency.”

“Interesting.I’malmostatthecourthouse.IsLucathereyet?”

“Yeah.He’sstandingrightnexttome.”

“Great.I’llbethereinfive.”

Thecabpulleduptothecurbofthecourthouse.AfterIpaidmycabfare,Iclimbedout.AsIwas

walkingupthestairs,WendyGrahamwalkedupnexttome.

“I’mgoingforadoublelifesentenceifthisgoestotrial,sincethevictimwaspregnant.”

“Figuredyouwould.”Ikeptlookingstraightahead.

“Ariana,stop.”Sheplacedherhandonmyarm.“I’mofferingfiftyyears.Takeitorleaveit.Thatisa

damngooddeal.I’monlyofferingthisrightnow,atthismoment.Onceweenterthecourtroom,thedealis

offthetable.”

“I’mleavingit,Wendy.We’regoingtotrial.”

IwalkedintothecourthouseandfoundLucaandSheilawaitingoutsidethecourtroom.

“Wherewereyou?”Lucaaskedinalowandauthoritativetone.

“IwentovertothePeninsulaHotelandtalkedtothemanager.We’lldiscussitlater.Wendyisgoingfor

adoublelifesentenceifwegototrial.Sheofferedapleabargainoffiftyyears,offthetabletheminute

westepinsidethecourtroom.”

“Shecanshoveherfiftyyearsuphercunt,”hespoke.

Ibitdownonmybottomlipandlookedathim.

“Wouldyouliketotellherthat?”

“Definitely.”Asmallcockygrincrossedhislips.

IwouldadmitthatIhadallowedmynervestogetthebestofme.Standinginthecourtroom,waiting

forthejudgeandnotknowingwhattheD.A.wasgoingtothrowatuswasnerveracking.

“Didyouofferhimtheplea?”Wendyleanedoverandaskedinalowwhisper.

“Yes,andhesaidyoucantakeyourfiftyyearsandshoveitupyourcunt.”Ismiled.

Herjawdroppedassheglaredatme,hernostrilsflaringinanger.

“Hiswords,notmine.”Ishrugged.

Thejudgeenteredthecourtroomandtookhisseat.TheD.A.presentedhercase,asdidI.

“Yourhonor,wearechargingMr.Russowithsecond-degreemurderontwocountssincefindingout

thevictimwaspregnant.Withthatnewcharge,andinlightofnewcircumstances,weareaskingthatyou

revokebail.”

“Whatnewcircumstances?”IaskedasIlookedoveratWendy.

“Yes,MissGraham,whatnewcircumstancesareyoureferringto?”JudgeKingsleyspoke.

“Yourhonor,Mr.Russohasahistoryofviolence.Whenhewasfifteenyearsold,hewaschargedand

triedforthemurderofhisfather.”

Instantly,mystomachfeltsickandawaveofheatflowedthroughmybody.Mykneesstartedtoshake

asIslowlysatdown.IlookedoveratLucaandheimmediatelylookedawayfromme.Iswallowedhard

asshocksettledinside.

“Mr.Russo,isthattrue?”JudgeKingsleyasked.

“Yes.AndIwasfoundnotguiltybyreasonofself-defense,yourHonor.”

“MissGraham,youknowbetterthanthat.”Heslowlyshookhishead.

“Sorry,yourHonor,”shespoke.

“DuetotheevidencepresentedandMr.Russo’spleaofnotguilty,thiscasewillbetriedbyajuryand

yourmotionforrevokedbail,MissGraham,isdenied.Youshouldn’thavepulledthatlittlestunt.”

“Again,Iapologize,yourHonor.Thestateisaskingforthetrialdatetobesetfairlyquicklyduetothe

factthatthisisahigh-profilecase.”

“Juryselectionwillbeginintwodaysandwewillmeetbackinthiscourtroominoneweektostart

trialproceedings.”

“Youwon’thaveenoughtimetoprepare,Ariana.Object!”Lucawhisperedinanauthoritativetone.

Iignoredhim.Icouldn’tevenlookathim.

“MissWilliams,anyobjections?”JudgeKingsleyasked.

“No,yourHonor.”

“Courtadjourned,”hespoke.

Igotupfrommychairandgrabbedthefilesfromthetable.

“Sorry,Ariana.IthoughtMr.Russowouldhavetoldhislawyereverything,includinghispast.”Her

browraisedasshewalkedoutaheadofme.

Iwasatalossforwords,stillshakenbywhatI’dheard.ButmoresothatLucadidn’ttellme.Iwalked

outofthecourtroomatafastpace,tryingtoescapewhatIhadconsideredanotherbetrayal.Lucacaught

upwithmeandgrabbedholdofmyarm,hisgriptightasheheldmeinplace.

“I’msorry,Ariana.Butyouhavetolistentome.”

“Listentoyou?”Ispokethroughgrittedteeth.“That’sallI’vedoneislistentoyou.I’myourlawyer.

Whydidn’tyoutellme?”Myvoiceraised.“Youhiredmetodefendyouandyoukeptsomethingas

seriousasthatasecret?Iwasfuckingblindsidedinthere!”

“Let’sdiscussthisbackatmyplace,”hespoke.

“No.I’mgoinghomeandIwanttobealone.Youcanwaitformycall.”Iyankedmyarmfromhisgrip.

Myheartwasbroken.Brokenbecausehedidn’ttrustmeenoughtotellmeabouthispast.Hedidn’t

havefaithinmethatI’dunderstand,justlikemyfamilydidn’t.WhenIarrivedhome,Ipouredaglassa

wine,drewahotbath,andclimbedintothebubblyvanilla-scentedwater.Maybeitwasbestifhehadone

oftheotherpartnersdefendhim.Iwasn’tsureaboutanythinganymore.IsoakedinthetubforaslongasI

could,gotout,slippedintoapairofsweatpantsandatanktop,andlaiddownonthecouch.

ChapterTwenty-Eight

Luca

IshouldhavetrustedArianaandtoldhereverything.ButIletmyfearofherthinkingIwasamonster

takeover.Itwasn’tonlybecauseofwhatI’ddone;itwasalsohowIfeltaboutit.Isatatthebarand

drankwhileItriedtofigureoutwhatIwasgoingtodo.I’dhurtheragainandthistime,Icouldn’tafford

thatsinceshewasmylawyer.Fuck.WhathadIdone?Pullingmyphonefrommypocket,Idialedher

numberandshedeclinedmycall,soIsentheratextmessage.

“Ariana,please.Ineedtoexplaineverythingtoyou.”

Ipatientlywaitedforareply.Nothing.Thosethreelittledotsshroudedinsideabubblenever

appeared.Icouldn’tblameher.I’dbepissedtooifitwasmyclient.Ijustneverdreamedthatbitch,

WendyGraham,wouldpullastuntlikethat.Ihadnocluehowsheevenfoundout.Myrecordswerenot

onlyexpungedbutalsomylastnamewasdifferent.Thatrightthereraisedmysuspicion.Shewasgoing

aftermetodestroymeforalltheclientsIgotoffandthecasesshelostthatmadeherlookbad.Iordered

onemoredrinkandthenlookedatmywatch,whichreadeighto’clock.IneededArianatounderstandand

Iwasgoingtomakeherlisten.

Iarrivedatherapartmentandlightlyknockedonthedoor.Shedidn’tanswer,soIknockedalittle

harder.

“Ariana,openup!”

“Ican’ttalktoyourightnow,Luca.Please,justgo.”

Iclosedmyeyesandrestedmyforeheadagainstthedoor.Ifshewouldn’tletmein,thenshe’dhaveto

listenfromtheotherside.

“Iwasfifteenyearsoldandmyfatherwasanabusivealcoholicwhobeatonmeandmymomfor

years.IdidwhatIhadtodotosavemymother’slife.”

****

Ariana

Isatonthefloorwithmyheadagainstthedoorandlistenedtothepainthatresidedinhisvoice.As

angryasIwasathim,Icouldn’tlethimstandinthehallwayforalltheneighborstohear.Istoodup,

turnedthelock,andopenedthedoor.

“Comeonin,”Isoftlyspoke.

Hesteppedinsidemyapartmentwithhisheadloweredandhishandstuckedintohispantspockets.

“Hecamehomedrunkthatnight.Hewenttothebarafterhisshiftendedinsteadofcominghomefor

dinner.Aftermeandmymomate,shetoldmetogoupstairsandfinishmyhomeworkwhileshecleaned

up.Iofferedtohelpherandshetoldmeno.Itwasasifsheknewhewouldstarttheminutehewalked

throughthedoor.Aboutanhourlater,Iheardhimwalkinandthescreamingstarted.ThenIhearddishes

beingbrokenandthecriesofmymomtellinghimtostop.Shehadalwaystoldmethatwhenthingsgot

badlikethatwiththem,Iwastostayputandnotgetinvolved.So,Istayedupstairsandprayedthatit

wouldbeoverwithsoon.”

Isatdownonthecouchwhilehepacedbackandforth,relivingthatawfulnight.

“YoucouldseeourlivingroomfromthestairsandIsawhimdragherbyherhairacrossthefloor.She

wasbegginghimtoletgo,buteachtimeshecriedout,hewouldpullherhairharder.Hewasdrunkand

wasscreamingobscenitiesather.Callingherawhoreandallkindsofotherhorriblenames.Mymother

hadneverbeenbraveenoughtostanduptohim,butonthatnight,shesaidsomethingIneverthoughtshe’d

say.”

“Whatdidshesay?”Iasked.

Heturnedandlookedatme,andthesadnessineyesoverwhelmedme.

“Whenhefinallylethergo,afterkickingherintheribsbeforewalkingaway,shelookedathimand

said,‘I’vehadenoughandyouwillneverhurtmeormysonagain.’Heturnedaround,pickedupapillow

fromthecouch,andstartedsmotheringherwithit.Irantotheirbedroomandgotoneofhisgunsfromthe

topshelfinhiscloset,loadedit,andrandownstairs.Ipointeditathimandtoldhimtostopandlethergo.

I’llneverforgettheangerandrageinhiseyeswhenheturnedaroundandglaredatme.Hegotup,threw

thepillowonthefloor,andcameafterme,tellingmethatIwasnext.Ipulledthetriggertwotimesandhe

wentdown.Mymotherlookedatmeinshockasshesatonthefloorwithtearsrunningdownherfaceand

herhandcuppedoverhermouth.WhenIwentovertohim,hewasstillalive.Ipulledhisphonefromhis

pocketwithmyshakinghandandwenttodial911.BeforeIknewit,mymomhadgottenupoffthefloor

andgrabbedthephonefromme.‘Hedeservestodie,’shesaid.Afewmomentslater,hewasdeadand

thenshecalledmygrandfather,whocalled911.”

IswallowedhardasthetearsIfoughttoholdbackcamerushingfrommyeyes.Hestoodthere,afew

feetawayfromwhereIwassitting,andlookedatme.Therewasnoexpressiononhisfaceandhisstare

wasblank.Igotupfromthecouchandwrappedmyarmsaroundhim,layingmyheadonhischest.Ittook

afewmoments,buthefinallyembracedme.Hisgriparoundmewastightasifhewasafraidtoletmego.

“I’msosorry,Luca,”Iwhispered.

“Doyouwanttoknowwhattheworstpartwas?”heasked.

“What?”IaskedasIliftedmyhead.

“IneverregretteddoingitandIwashappyhewasdead.NowyouknowwhatkindofmonsterIreally

am.”

“No.”Ibroughtmyhanduptohisface.“You’renotamonster.Youdidwhatyouhadtodotosaveyour

momandyourself.”

“ButIdidn’thaveoneounceofremorse.”

Itookholdofhishand,ledhimtothecouch,andclimbedonhislap.

“Heabusedyouandyourmom.Youendedthenightmareyoulivedin,andifitwasme,I’mnotsure

thatI’dhaveanyremorseeither.”

Heranhishandalongmycheekashespoke,“I’msosorryIdidn’ttellyou.Ineverwantedyoutofind

outwhatIhaddone.Ididn’twantyouseeingmeassomeonewhotookanotherperson’slife.You’re

specialtome,Ariana.IthinkaboutyouallthetimeandIalwayswanttobewithyou.”

“Thenwhydidyouletmego?Youactedlikeitwasnobigdeal.ThatIwasjustanotherwomanyou

gotsickof.”

“That’snottrue.LettingyouquitthefirmandwalkingoutofyourlifethewayIdidwasoutoffear.I

knewfromthefirstmomentIlookedupfromLisa’sdeskandsawyoustandingtherethatyouwere

different.I’dneverfeltwhatIdidinsideatthatverymoment.ButIcouldn’tallowmyselftogettoo

attachedtoyoubecauseIwasafraidthatI’dbelikehim.ThatI’dlosecontrolandangerwouldovertake

melikeitdidmyfather.That’swhatImeantwhenItoldyouthatIwasprotectingyou.”

“You’renothinglikehim,Luca.Ifyouwere,youwouldn’thavepulledthattrigger.Don’tyougetit?

Youwereprotectingyourmom.You’reaprotector,notanabuser.Youprotectthepeopleyoulove.You

don’thurtthem.”

“I’msorryifIhurtyou,”hewhisperedashisthumbsweptovermylips.“Wouldyoueverbeableto

finditinyourhearttoforgiveme?”

“Idoforgiveyou,Luca.”Mylipsbrushedagainsthis.

“I’msosorry.”Hehuggedme.

“It’sokay.Iunderstandnow.”

Hebrokeourembraceandkissedmylips.

“Thankyouforunderstanding.Ineedyoutoknowhowimportantyouaretome.”Hishandcaressedmy

cheek.

Ibroughtmyhandtohisfaceandsmiledasoureyesstayedlockedoneachother’s.

“Now.”Ijumpedupfromhislap.“WehavesomeseriousworktodotoproveyoudidnotmurderGina

Burroughsandwedon’thavemuchtime.”

“Itoldyouthatyoushouldhaveobjectedtothat,”hespoke.

“It’sfine.Iworkbetterunderpressureanyway.Oh,andbytheway,Ireallylikeyoutoo.”Ismiled.

Asmilecrossedhislips.ThecaptivatingsmilethatI’dmissedandwashappytoseeagain.Hegotup

fromthecouch,swoopedmeupinhisarms,andcarriedmetothebedroom.

“Wecanworklater.”Hesmirked.

“Iwashopingyou’dsaythat.”

ChapterTwenty-Nine

Luca

Itfeltlikeaweighthadbeenliftedoffmyshoulderstellingheraboutmypast.Afterwemadelove,we

climbedintothebathtubandherbodymeshedwithmine.

“ThisisthesecondbathI’vetakentoday.”Shelookedupatme.

“ButI’msurethisonehasalreadyfarexceededtheoneyoutookearlier.”IsmiledasIkissedhernose.

“Itdefinitelyhas.”

“IwanttoknowhowWendyfoundoutaboutwhatIhaddone.It’sreallybotheringme.”

“Whatdoyoumean?”sheasked.

“Mylastnamehadn’talwaysbeenRusso.MyrealnamewasLucianoBenedetti.Theonlypeoplewho

calledmeLucaweremyfriendsandfamily.AfterIwasfoundnotguiltyandacquittedofallcharges,I

officiallyandlegallychangedmynamefromLucianotoLucaandtookmymother’smaidennameRusso.I

wantednopartofmyfather’snameattachedtome,”IspokeasIrantheloofahspongeupanddownher

arm.

“Idon’tblameyou.Youwantedafreshstart.KindofmakesmethinkaboutwhoIreallyam.Shit,

Luca.Mybirthcertificateisalie.Mylastnametechnicallyisn’tevenWilliams;it’sBrooks.”

“Well,Ihappentolikeyourname,MissWilliams.Ithinkitfitsyouverynicely.”

“Thankyou,Mr.Russo.”Asmallsmileescapedher.

“DoyouthinkyourmomisstillinNewYork?”Iasked.

“YoumeanJulia?”

“Yes.”

“Idon’tknow.Maybe.She’sprobablyhangingoutinthelobbyofyourbuilding,waitingforyouto

walkthroughthedoors.”

“Well,she’sgoingtobewaitingawhilebecauseI’mnotgoinghometonight.”Ismiled.

“Doesthatmeanwe’rehavingasleepover?”

“That’sexactlywhatitmeans.”Igrinned.

“Socanwelikepopsomepopcornandwatchgirlymovies?”Arianaaskedwithexcitement.

“Wecanwatchanymovieyouwantto.That’sifwe’renottootiredfromwhatwe’reabouttodo.”My

lipspressedagainstthesideofherneck.

Sheletoutalightmoanasshetiltedherheadtotheside,givingmemoreaccess.

****

Ariana

Thenextmorning,IjumpedoutofbedandmadeapotofcoffeebeforeLucawokeup.Therewasalot

ofworktobedonethisnextweekandIneededeveryminuteIcouldget.Isatdownatthetableand

openedthecasefiles.

“Goodmorning.”Lucawalkedovertomeandkissedmyhead.

“Morning.Coffee’sready.”

“Thanks.Youshouldhavewokenmeup.”

“Youweretired,plusIcouldn’tsleep.Ihavetoomuchinformationrollingaroundinmyhead.”

Hechuckled.“Welcometotheworldofbeingadefenseattorney.”

Lucapouredhimselfsomecoffeeandtookaseatacrossfromme.

“TheonethingtheDAcan’tproveisthatyouhadamotivebecauseyoudidn’thaveone.”

“MotiveisirrelevantwhenIwascaughtwiththeweaponandherbloodonmyshirt.”

Igotupfromthetableandtookaseatonhislap,wrappingmyarmsaroundhisneck.

“Iwillfindoutthetruth.Ineedyoutotrustme.”

“Idotrustyou.IfIdidn’t,Iwouldn’thavehiredyou.”Hekissedmylips.

“Good.Nomoresecrets.So,ifthere’sanythingelseyou’renottellingme,youbetterspillitnow.”

“Thereisn’tanythingelse.Ipromise.”

“Yousaidyourrecordwasexpunged,right?”Iasked.

“Yes.Why?”

“Doyouthinkyoucangetyourfilefromyourgrandfather?”

“Yes.I’msurehestillhasit.Idon’tunderstandwhyyou’dwantit.”

“Ijustwanttolookatit.”

“Why?Thathasnothingtodowiththiscase.”Hecockedhishead.

“Listen,Luca.Youhaveapastand,whoknows,maybeI’mgraspingatstraws.ButIthinkit’s

importantthatIknowaboutthatcase.”

“I’llcallhim.Maybewecandriveouttohisplacetomorrow.”

“Soundsgood.”Igotupfromhislap.“Ihavetogo.Ihaveaclienttoclear.”Iwinked.“There’san

extrakeyinthekitchendrawer.Makesuretolockup.”

AssoonasIleftmybuilding,IpulledoutmyphoneandcalledSheila.

“Sheila,it’sme.IneedyoutocomewithmetoGina’sapartment.”

“Whatarewelookingfor?”sheasked.

“Sincesheranherownbusiness,shehadtokeepalistofallherclientsandwe’regoingtofindit.”

“Youdon’tthinkthecopsalreadyfoundit?”

“Whywouldtheyevenlook?Theyalreadyhavetheirsuspect.”

“True.I’llmeetyouthere.”

WhenIgotoutofthecabthattookmetothehighrisebuildinginTribecawhereGinalived,Isaw

Sheilawaitingformeinfrontofthelargeglassdoubledoors.Whenwewalkedinsideandspokewiththe

buildingmanager,SheilaflashedherinvestigatorbadgeandheletusintoGina’sapartment.

“Wow,”IspokeasIlookedaroundthetwenty-fivehundredsquarefootluxuryapartment.“Thelifeofa

callgirlsuredoespayoff.”

“Nokidding.Lookatthisplace,”Sheilaspoke.

Itwasprofessionallydecoratedingrayandwhitewithapopofplumthrownin.Iwalkedintothe

masterbedroomandopenedherwalk-incloset,whichwasbiggerthanmyapartmentbedroom.Itwas

filledwithdesignerclothes,shoes,andhandbagsthatpracticallymatchedeveryoutfitsheowned.Onone

oftheshelves,therewasalineofwigs.Shorthair,longhair,mediumhair,curlyhair,andstraighthairin

brunette,blackandred.

“What’swithallthesewigs?”Iasked.

“Probablyforherclients.Dependinguponwhatcolorhairtheywereinto,”Sheilarepliedasshe

walkedoutofthebedroom.

“Ah.”Iraisedmybrow.

Ontheleftsideofhercloset,tuckedinthecorner,wasarackoflonggowns.Pushingeachhangerover

andcheckingoutthebeautifuldressesthathungthere,Inoticedcutsthatformedasquareinthewall.

WhenIjammedmyfingersintothem,thepieceofthewallcameoutandsittinginsidewasalaptop

computer.

“Sheila,”Ishouted.“Ifoundsomething.”

Ipulledthelaptopoutandsetitonthetableinthediningroom.

“Wheredidyoufindthat?”Sheilaasked.

“Hiddeninthewallinthecloset.”

Ipluggedtheplugintotheoutletandpushedopenthetop.Instantly,thedesktopscreenappeared.

“Whywouldn’tshehavethislocked?”Sheilaasked.

“Probablybecauseshekeptithidden.”

“Idon’tunderstand.Thepolicehaveherlaptopdownatthestation.”

“Icanguaranteethisisherworklaptop.”Ismiled.

Iclickedonthedocumentsfileand“ClientList”cameup.

“Bam!”IgrinnedatSheila.

ShesatdowninthechairnexttomeasInervouslyopenedit,hopingthatIwouldn’tfindLuca’sname

anywhereonthatlist.

“Holyshit.Lookatwhoherclientswere,”Sheilaexclaimed.“Politicians,detectives,high-powered

attorneys,CEO’sofmajorcompanies.Jesus,Ariana,ifthislistevergotout.”

IfranticallysearchedthroughthenamesandletoutabreathwhenLuca’snameneverappeared.ThenI

cameacrossanamebothSheilaandIrecognized:SamButler.

“I’llbedamned.”Sheilashookherhead.“Ican’tbelieveSamwasinvolvedwiththiswoman.Ialways

thoughtheandhiswifeweretheperfectcouple.”

“Goestoshowthingsaren’talwaysastheyseem,”Ispoke.“Isthereaprinteraroundhere?”

“IthinkIsawoneinthebedroom.Areyouprintingthat?”

“YoubetIam.Wemayneedthis.”

Ihittheprintbuttonandthenclickedonthecalendaricon.

“Let’sseeifMissBurroughshadanyappointmentsthedayofhermurder.”

ChapterThirty

Luca

Iwenthome,showered,andchangedsoIcouldheadtotheoffice.Reportersstilllinedthefrontofmy

buildinganditwasimpossibletogetthroughwithouttheflashesofthecamerasandquestionsaboutthe

case.AfterIgotdressed,Ipackedasuitcaseandleftitbythefrontdoor,instructingJefferytopickitup

anddropitoffatAriana’sapartmentlatertonight.Iescapedthroughthebackofmybuildingandhaileda

cabacoupleofblocksawaytotheoffice.

AsIwalkeddownthehallwaytomyoffice,Oliviagrabbedmyarmandpulledmeintohercubicle.

“Ineedtotalktoyoubeforeyougointoyouroffice,”shespokeassheletgoofmyarm.

“What’sgoingon?”

“Julia,Ariana’ssister/mother,isintherewaitingforyou.Isawheronmywaytothebathroom.”

“Didsheseeyou?”Iasked.

“No.I’vebeenhiding.Ifshedoesseeme,she’llknowIliedtoheraboutAriana.”

“Thankyou,Olivia.I’llhandleher.”

IsighedasIwalkedintomyofficeandsawawomanwithmediumblondehairsittingacrossfrommy

desk.

“Excuseme,butdidyouhaveanappointment?”IaskedasIsetmybriefcasedownandtookaseat

behindmydesk.

“No.I’msorry.I’mJuliaBrooks.”Sheleanedoverandextendedherhand.

Placingmyhandinhers,IlookedatheranddiscoveredhowremarkableitwashowmuchAriana

lookedlikeher.

“LucaRusso.I’mverybusyanddon’thavealotoftime.WhatcanIdoforyou?”

“IneedtoseeAriana,”shespoke.“AndtheonlywayIcanisthroughyou.”

InarrowedmyeyeatherasIfoldedmyhandsonmydesk.

“ArianaWilliams?Myattorney?”

“Yes.Ineedyourhelp,Mr.Russo.”

Iclearedmythroatbeforespeaking.“Arianadoesn’twanttoseeyou,Mrs.Brooks.”

“Soshetoldyouaboutourfamily’ssituation?”

“Shedid.”Ilightlynodded.“We’refriends.”

“Ididn’tevenknowshepassedherbarexam.Shewon’tspeaktoanyofus.”

“Doyoublameher?”Icockedmyhead.“Thesecretyoukeptfromherallthoseyearswasvery

detrimentaltoher.Didyoureallythinkthatshewouldbeforgivingandacceptthetruthwhenthetruth

shouldhavebeentoldtoheryearsago?Putyourselfinhershoes,Mrs.Brooks.”

“Please,callmeJulia,andIhaveputmyselfinhershoes,butwe’restillfamily.Toshutusouttheway

shedidandsneakoutinthemiddleofthenightwasabitchildish.Thishaskilledmyparents.”

“Childishisn’tthewordIwoulduse.WhatArianadidwasmakeanadultresponsibledecisiontotry

andputthepiecesofherlifebacktogether.Youandyourparentsperformedtheworstkindofbetrayal

thereis.Toletherbelievesincebirththatyouwerehersisterwasselfishinmyopinion.Andthatgoes

foryourparentsaswell.”

“Youdon’tknowanythingaboutmeormyfamily,Mr.Russo,”shevoicedloudlywithabitofanger.

“Iknowenoughthatyouallputyourselffirstinsteadofadefenselesschild.Achildwhodeservedto

knowthetruthaboutwhoherparentsreallywere.”

IlookedupandsawArianastandinginthedoorway.

“Whatareyoudoinghere?”sheaskedasshesteppedinsideandclosedthedoor.

Juliaturnedaroundandthengotupfromherseat.

“Weneedtotalk,Ariana.Please.”

“Youshouldn’thavebotheredcoming.Ihavenothingtosaytoyouoranyoneelse.I’mdoingwell,and

nowthatyousawforyourself,youmayleave,”shespokenervously.

“Howlongareyougoingtokeepshuttingusout?”

“Hmm.”Shelookedupattheceiling.“Abouttwenty-fiveyears.”

“MomandDadaredistraughtoverthiswholething.Theyneedtoseeyou.Weallneedtositdownand

discussthis.”

“Youmeanmygrandparents?I’msureEmmaandJohnwillbejustfine.Afterall,theywerewithall

theliesovertheyears.Andhowdareyou.”Arianapointedather.“Howdareyoucometomyclient’s

office.I’minthemiddleofamurdercase.Idon’thavetimetodealwithyouandyourtalkorapologies.

Don’tyouhavesurgeriestoperform?Gohome,Julia.”

“I’mhereforasurgicalconvention.Todayisthelastday.IsawyouonthenewsandIcouldn’tbelieve

youwerehereinNewYork.IcalledOliviaandshesworetomeshehadn’tseenorheardfromyou.”

“That’sbecauseItoldhertolie.Whatpartof‘Idon’twanttoseeyou’doyounotunderstand?”

“Idon’tdeservethis!”sheshouted.“Itookcareofyou.ImadesuretobethebestmotherIcouldbe,

andTommadesurehewasthebestfather.Whydoyouthinkwedideverythingwithyou?!Whyhewas

alwaysaround?EvenwhenIwasn’t?Itkilledusbotheverydaywhenyou’dlookatusandcallusbyour

namesinsteadofmomanddad.

“Idon’tcare!Neitheroneofyouhadthegutstotellmethetruth!Youshouldhavetoldme!Nowget

outofhere!”Shepointedtothedoor.“Ihavetotalkwithmyclient.”

“I’mstayingattheWaldorfAstoriaifyoudecideyouwanttotalk.Myflightleavesatsixtomorrow

morning.”Shewalkedtowardsthedoor.“Icanmakethisright,Ariana.AllI’maskingforisachance.”

Arianastoodtherewithherarmfoldedandascornfullookonherface.

“Haveaniceflight,”shespoke.

TheminuteJulialeftmyofficeandclosedthedoor,tearsstartedtofalldownAriana’sface.Igotup

fromchair,walkedovertoher,andwrappedmyarmsaroundhertightly.

“It’sokay,baby.”Ikissedherhead.

“I’msorryyouhadtogetinthemiddleofthis.”

“Noworries.Ionlyspokethetruthtoher.”

IbrokeourembraceandwipedthetearsfromherfacewhileIstaredintohersadeyes.

“I’msorryIhadtogetyouinthemiddleofmychaos.”

“Iwanttobeinthemiddleofyourchaos.”Shelightlysmiled.

“AndIwanttobeinthemiddleofyours.”Iplacedmyforeheadagainsthers.“Bytheway,I’mmoving

inwithyouforawhileifthat’sokay.”

“Ofcourseit’sokay.”Shesniffled.“Wejusthavetobecareful.”

“Iknowandwewillbe.Nowwhatdidyouwanttotalktomeabout?”

“Nothere.We’lltalklaterbackatmyplace.Didyoucallyourgrandfather?”

“Yes,andwe’llheadouttheretomorrowafterjuryselection.”

“Okay.Ihavetogo.”Shekissedmylips.“I’llseeyouathomelater.”

“Becareful,Ariana.”

“Iwill.”Shesmiled.

Seeingherupsetlikethatputanacheinmyheart.Shedidn’tdeservethatandallIwantedtodowas

makeitallbetterforher.Iwasafraidthatwiththistrialandeverythingelsegoingon,itwouldbetoo

muchforhertohandle.

ChapterThirty-One

Ariana

BeforeIwenttothePeninsulaHoteltoviewthesecuritytapesofthatnight,IstoppedatDunkinDonuts

andpickedupadozen,allnicelyboxedupandreadytogivetoBruce,thesecuritymanager.HowdidI

knowheloveddonuts?IoverheardhimtalkingtooneofthecleaningstaffthelasttimeIwasthere.He

wasthankingherforbringinghimaboxofhisfavoritedonuts.Hegrinnedfromeartoear.

“Excuseme,Bruce.”IsmiledasIlightlytappedonhisdoor.

“Yes?MissWilliams,right?”

“Yes.Ineedtolookatthesecuritytapefromthenightofthemurder.Iwashopingyoucouldhelpme.I

broughtaboxofdonuts.”Iheldthemupwithawidesmile.

“Thatwassoniceofyou,”hespokewithexcitementashegotupfromhischair,tooktheboxfromme,

andopeneditup.“Please,haveaseatandI’llpullupthetapefromthatnight.”

“Thankyou.”Isatdown.

“Wouldyoulikeadonut?”heaskedasheheldtheboxinfrontofmyface.

“Iwouldloveone.Theyaremyfavoritesweets.”

“Minetoo.Incaseyoucouldn’ttell.”Hechuckledasheplacedhishandsonhisbelly.

Hepulledupthetapefromthatday.Atapproximatelythreep.m.,GinaBurroughscheckedintothe

hotel.Atapproximatelythreethirtyp.m.,sheexitedoutoftheelevatorsandpulledherphonefromher

purse,dialinganumberandthenspeakingtosomeonewhileshestoodinthelobby,staringoutthe

window.Almostasifshewaswaitingforsomeone.

“Wait.Gobacktowhereshepullsoutherphone,”IaskedBruce.“Okay,nowzoominonit.”

HedidasIaskedwhilegrabbinganotherdonutfromthebox.Ileanedinclosertothescreentomake

sureIwasseeingexactlywhatIthought.Pullingmyphonefrommypurse,IdialedSheila.

“Hey,Ariana,”sheanswered.

“WhatkindofphonedidthepolicefindinGina’spurse?”Iasked.

“IbelieveitwasaniPhone.Icandoublecheck.Why?”

“Domeafavorandfindoutforsure.Also,findoutwhatcoloritwasandifithasacaseonitandthen

callmebackASAP.”

“Sure.I’lldoitrightnow.”

Iendedthecallandcontinuedlookingatthetape.OnceGinaplacedherphonebackinherpurse,she

waitedinthelobby.Thenafewmomentslater,shepulledherphonebackout,lookedatit,putitback,and

headedoutthehoteldoors.

“Shewaswaitingforsomeone,”Ispoke.

“Yep.Surelookedlikeittome,”Brucespokeashebitintohisthirddonut.

“Ineedtofindoutwhothatsomeonewas.”

MyphonestartedtoringandSheilawascalling.

“Didyoufindout?”IaskedasIansweredhercall.

“ThecopsrecoveredawhiteiPhone6withapinkandblackpolkadotcase.”

“That’swhatIthought.”IbitdownonmybottomlipasIhadrememberedseeingitatthepolicestation

inthebagofevidence.“Thephoneshepulledfromherpurseinthelobbyofthehotelonthedayofher

murderwasblack,biggerthantheiPhone6,anditdidn’thaveacaseonit.”

“Thenwhere’sthatphone?”Sheilaasked.

“Exactly.ShehadtwophonesandI’mguessingtheblackonewasherbusinessphone.Seeifyoucan

findanotherphonenumberforherandgetthosephonerecords.”

“I’monit.”

Thetapesshowedherenterthehotelagainatapproximatelyeightp.m.,stepontotheelevator,andthen

returntothelobbyatninethirtyp.m.,whensheheadedstraighttothebararea.

“Wherewereyouforfourhours,Gina?”Iaskedoutloud.

“Youknowyoucancheckthesecuritycamerasoutside.Justabouteverystreetcornerhasthem,”Bruce

spoke.

“OhmyGod.That’sright.Bruce,youareagenius!”IsmiledasIkissedhischeek.

“Thanks.”Heblushed.

Igrabbedmypurseandheadedoutthedoor,butnotuntilafterItookpicturesofwhatIneededtofrom

thesecurityfootage.

“Thanksagain,Bruce.”Iwaved.

“Noproblem.Thanksforthedonuts.”

“You’rewelcome.”Igrinned.

WhenIarrivedhome,Lucawasalreadythere,inthekitchen,unloadinggroceriesfrombrownpaper

bags.

“Youwentgroceryshopping?”Ismiled.

“Iorderedonlineandtheydelivered.”Hesmiled.

“Ah.”

“Howareyou?”heaskedwithaserioustone.

“I’mokay.WeneedtotalkaboutwhatIfoundtoday.Thingsthat,withalittlefurtherinvestigation,may

helpyourcase.”

“Whatdidyoufind?”heasked.

“Gina’sclientlist.”

“Howandwheredidyoufindit?”Hiseyenarrowed.

“Inherapartment,inhercloset,insidethewall,”IrepliedasIgrabbedthebottleofwinefromthe

fridge.

“What?”

Ilookedupathimbeforepouringaglassofwine.

“Ihavedonenothingwrong.Itiswellwithinmyrightasanattorneytotryandprovemyclient’s

innocence.”

“Ididn’tsayyoudidanythingwrong,buthowthefuckdidyoufindit?”

“IwaslookingthroughherdesignergownsandIsawthecutsinthewall.So,Ipulledthepieceoutand

thereitwas.”Ishrugged.

Bringingmyglasstomylips,IlookedupatLuca,whohadagrinsplayedacrosshisface.Hereached

overtooktheglassfrommeandhislipsbrushedagainstmine.

“You’reamazing.Didyouknowthat?”Histhumbgentlymovedacrossmychin.

“Itwasluck.Anyway,weneedtotalkaboutthatlist.”

Theromanceinhiseyesquicklydissipatedashestaredatme.

“Mynameisnotonthatlist.Andifitis,someoneputittheretoframeme.Ihaveneverbeenwiththat

womanoranycallgirlinmylife.”

“Yournameisn’tonthelist.”Ipulleditfrommypurseandhandedittohim.

Hetookitfrommyhandandlookeditover.

“SamButler?Areyoufuckingkiddingme?Henevertoldmeheknewher.Notevenafterhetriedtoget

metostayoutoftheoffice.Thatsonofabitch.”Hestartedtopacebackandforth.

“Wouldhehaveanyreasonatalltowanttoframeyou?”Iasked.

“No.NotthatIknowof.Jesus,Ariana,thenamesonthislist.”Helookedupatmeindisbelief.

“Areyoureallysurprised,Luca?”Irolledmyeyes.“Isn’tthatwhathigh-poweredmendo?”

“Some.Butnotall.Ifthislistevergotout,itcoulddestroyhalfthepolicedepartmentofNewYork

City.NottomentiontheCEO’sofallthesemajorcompanies.”

Ididn’tsayaword.Ijustbroughtmyglassuptomylips,tookasipofwine,andsmiled.

“Thisisinadmissibleincourt,youknow?”Henarrowedhiseyeatme.“Youcan’tusethis.”

“Iknow.Butitsureisahandylittleblackmailtool.”Igrinned.

Hewalkedovertomeandplacedhishandsfirmlyonmyhips.

“Blackmailisillegal.”

“Andsoistryingtoframesomeoneforamurdertheydidn’tcommit.”Icockedmyhead.

“You’replayingwithfire,Ariana.”

“Thebiggerthefire,thebetter,”IspokeasIraisedmybrow.

Hetookinalong,deepbreath.

“Becareful.Youhavenoideawhatcanofwormsyoumightbeopening.”

“I’llbefine.”Thecornersofmymouthcurvedupintoasmallsmile.

Hislipspressedintomineforapassionatekiss.Myfingersworkedthebuttonsonhisshirtashelifted

mytopovermyheadandhishandsroamedupanddownmysidesbeforereachinginthebackand

unhookingmybrawhileIpushedhisshirtoffhisshoulders.Hegrabbedmyarms,turnedmearound,and

plantedmyhandsfirmlyonthecounter.Pushingmyskirtupovermyhips,hetookdownmypantiesand

thenranhishandupmyinnerthighs,hisfingersontheedgeofmylips.

“You’resowet,”hewhisperedsoftlyinmyear,sendingshiversdownmyspine.

Hislipscaressedmyneckashisfingersmovedswiftlyinsideme.

“You’regoingtocomefirstbeforeIshovemyhardcockinsideyou.Doyouunderstandme?”

“Yes,”Ispokebreathlessly.

“Goodgirl.”Hishotbreathsweptovermyskin.

Thewayhespoketome,histoneandoveralldemeanorduringsex,escalatedmyexcitement.Hewas

themostperfectandskilledmaninthesexdepartmentI’deverbeenwith.Subtlemoansescapedmeas

hisfingersmovedinsideandhisfreehandgropedmybreast.ThebuildupwasthereandIcouldn’thelp

buttellhimnottostop.

“Don’tstop.Pleasedon’tstop.”

Hisfingerspinchedmyhardenednipplesasheplacedhisthumbdirectlyonmyclitandwhisperedin

myear.

“I’mnevergoingtostopmakingyoucome.”

Thosewordswereenoughtosendmeoverthecliffandrightintoafull-blownorgasm.Mylegs

tightenedandmybodyshookasItiltedmyheadbackandmoansofpleasureerupted.

“That’swhatIliketofeelandhear,”hesoftlyspoke.

Hetookmyskirtdownandturnedmearound,liftingmeupontothecounter.Takingastepback,he

staredatmewhilehetookdownhispants,revealingthedeliciousv-linehesportedthatIlovedtorunmy

tonguealong.Hiscockstoodtallandproudashewrappedhishandarounditandgaveitacoupletugs

beforethrustingdeepinsideme.Ourlipsreunitedandourtonguestangledamongsteachother’s.His

thrustswerelongandhard.Hewasn’tholdingbackandhewasinfullcontrol.Groansrumbledinhis

chestashepushedinandoutofme.

Leaningback,Ipushedmybreastsup,signalingtohimthattheydesperatelyneededattention.His

mouthinstantlyroamedtomyleftone,exploringeveryinchofbareskinbeforetakingmynippleintohis

mouth.AnotherorgasmwascomingasIpreparedmyselfforanothertriptoeuphoria.

“You’regoingtocome.Icanfeelit,”hespoke.“Iwantyoutotellme.”

“I’mgoingtocome,”Ipanted.

“Saymyname,Ariana.Iwantyoutoscreammynamewhenyoucome.”

Itonlytookacoupleofmorethrustsandhislipsaroundmynippletogetmetothebreakingpoint.

“Luca!”Ishoutedasthereleaserushedthroughme.

“Sayitagain,baby.Sayitagain.”

“Luca!”

Histhrustingslowedashepusheddeepinsidemeandhalted.

“Fuck,Ariana.”Hestrained.

Myheartwasrapidlybeatingashewrappedhisarmsaroundmeandminewentaroundhimandwe

werefrozenintime.Somethingneitherofushadanditweighedheavilyonmymind.

ChapterThirty-Two

Luca

Westayedinallnight,cookeddinnertogether,watchedamovie,madelove,discussedthecase,and

thendriftedoffintoadeepsleep.IfoundwhenIwaswithher,everythingbadthatwashappeninginmy

lifedisappeared.Theonlythoughtsthatranthroughmyheadwereaboutherandhowonceallthiswas

overandIwasfoundnotguilty,I’daskhertobemine.

Wegotupearly,showeredtogether,andthenheadedtothecourthouseforjuryselection.I’dnever

thoughtinamillionyearsthatI’dbesittinginthatsamespotlettingtwelvestrangersdecidemyfate.The

judgemadeitverycleartobothArianaandWendythattheywouldhaveajurypickedbytheendofthe

day.JudgeKingsleywastoughandhedidn’tplayaround.Thetwothingshehatedmorethananythingin

hiscourtroomweregamesandchaos.Hedidn’thavetimenorthepatienceforbullshitorfrictionbetween

thedistrictattorneyandthedefenselawyer.Namelyme.Iwreakedmorehavocinhiscourtroomthanany

otherlawyer,andhetookgreatpleasureinholdingmeincontemptandfiningmewheneverIgavehimthe

chance.

JuryselectionwasoverinfivehoursandArianadidanamazingjob.Watchingheruptheretalkingto

thejurorsthewayshedidimpressedme.Iwasoverlyconcernedaboutacouplejurorsshepicked,but

shetoldmeshehadaneyefordetailandnottoworrybecauseshesawsomethingIdidn’t.Iwasn’tsureif

Itrustedherdecisionanditbotheredme.

Weheadedtomygrandfather’shouse,andwhenwearrived,wewereseatedinthelivingroomwhere

wewaitedforhimtocomedown.

“Hellothere,son.”Hesmiledashewheeledhimselfintotheroom.

“Hello,Grandfather.”Igavehimahug.

“Howareyouholdingup?”

“I’mokay.”

“Ariana,goodtoseeyou,sweetheart.”

“Goodtoseeyoutoo.”Shesmiledandkissedhischeek.

“Nowwhat’sthisIhearaboutyouwantingLuca’sfile?Thatdoesn’thaveanythingtodowiththiscase.

Inmyhonestopinion,itwouldbeawasteofyourtimetobelookingthroughthat.”

“Idorespectyouropinion,Franco,butit’sjustsomethingasalawyertomyclientthatIfeelIneedto

see.”

“Allright.Didi,”hecalledout.

“Yes,Mr.Russo?”

“WillyouescortMissWilliamstomyoffice?You’llfindthefileonmydesk,Ariana.”

AssoonassheandDidiwalkedaway,Igotupandpouredaglassofscotchformeandmygrandfather.

“Luca,I’mconcerned.”

“Aboutwhat?”Ilookedathim.

“AboutAriana’sdefensestrategy.Lookingatyourfileisapurewasteoftime.”

“Sheobviouslyhasherreasons,Grandfather.”

“Explorealloptionsiftheyareavailabletoyou,”Arianaspokeassheproudlywalkedintotheroom.

“SomeoneisframingLucaformurder.Whoknows,maybeitcouldbesomeonefromhispasthavingtodo

withthiscase?”

“Nonsense.Hewasfifteenyearsold.Hedidn’thaveanyenemies,”mygrandfatherspoke.

“Maybehedidn’tormaybehedid,butitdoesn’thurttocheckouteverypossiblething.He’sbeing

indictedontwocountsofmurder.Wecan’taffordnottoexploreeverything.”

Thethreeofussatandhaddinnertogetherandthenitwastimeforustoheadhome.

“Thankyou,Franco.”Arianasmiledasshetookholdofbothhishands.

“You’rewelcome,mydear.Ifyouneedanythingelse,callme.“I’llbestayinginthecityduringthe

trial.IsitokayifIstaywithyou,Luca?”

“Actually,youcanhavethewholeapartmenttoyourself.I’mstayingwithArianaforthetimebeing.

Thereportersoutsidemybuildingwon’tgiveup.”

Aswedrovehome,Arianastudiedmyfile.EverytimeIlookedoverather,Icouldn’thelpbutsmile.

Shewassexy,intriguing,intelligent,veryfocused,andshewaseverythingIknewIalwayswantedina

womanifIdidn’tletmyfearstakeover.

“Findanythingyet?”IaskedasIglancedoverather.

“Notyet.”Shesmiled.“I’llletyouknowifIdo.”

Whenwearrivedbackatherapartment,Ichangedintomypajamabottomsandclimbedintobedwith

mylaptopwhileshewentintothebathroomandwashedherface.

“Shehadtwophones,”shespoke.

“What?”IaskedasIrespondedtoanemail.

“Ginahadtwophones.Theoneshepulledfromherpursethedayofthemurderwasnottheonethe

policetook.”

“Howdoyouknowthat?”

Shechangedintohernightshirtandclimbedonthebedwithherphone.

“Iviewedthesecuritytapefromthehoteltodayandatapproximatelythreethirty,shepulledthisblack

phonefromherpurse.TheonethepolicehaveisawhiteiPhonewithacaseonit.Ithinkthiswasher

clientphone.Whichleadsmetobelieveshewasmeetingaclientthatday.Icheckedhercalendarandthe

onlythingshehadonitwasthehotelnameandcheckinatthreep.m.”

“Ifshehadthatphoneonherthatnightorevenupinherroom,thenwherethehellisit?”

“Exactly.I’mhavingSheilatrytotracethenumberandgettherecords.”

“Whydidn’tyoutellmethisyesterday?”

“Ididn’thaveachance.”Shesmiled.“IonlygotasfarastellingyouabouttheclientlistIfoundand

thenyoudistractedmewithmultipleorgasms.”

“Andthismorning?”Iraisedmybrowather.

“Wehadjuryselectionandthenwewenttoyourgrandfather’s.”

“Idon’tlikeyoukeepinginformationlikethatfromme.”

“I’mpreparingyourcase.Letmehandlethedetails.”

Istaredatherforamomentandthenmyeyestraveleddowntoherbarelegs,whichwerestretchedout

onthebed.Isetmylaptopdown,rolledonmyside,andranmyhandupherthighuntilIreachedher

panties.

“Areyouupforacouplemoreorgasms?”Ismirked.

“I’malwaysready,butthistime,useyourmouthforoneofthem.”

Instantly,mycockstoodatfullforce.

“Itwouldbemypleasuretosatisfyyouwithmymouth.”

ChapterThirty-Three

Ariana

IspentthenextdaytalkingtoGina’sformerboss,KitCaldwell.

“I’vealreadyansweredthedetective’squestions,MissWilliams.”

“IknowandI’msorrytobotheryou.HowdidyoufeelwhenGinaquit?”

Shelaughed.“HowdoyouthinkIfelt?Iwaspissedashell.Sheleft,tookallmytopclients,andcost

myagencymillionsofdollars.ButwhatcouldIdo?Hercontractwiththeagencywasupandshechose

nottorenew.Shehadthiscrazyideathatshewasgoingtostartherownagency.Iwishedhergoodluck.”

“AndyouwereawarethatshehiredMr.Russoforrepresentationayearago?”

“Yes.Infact,Iwastheonewhosuggestedhisfirm.”

“Why?”Iasked.

“Becausetheyhaveagoodreputation.”

“Itwouldn’thaveanythingtodowithSamButlerbeingaclientofyours,wouldit?”

“I’msorrybutIdon’thaveaclientbythatname.”

“Areyousure?”Iasked.

“Letmedoublecheck,butitdoesn’tringabell.”

Shetappedthekeysonhercomputerandthenlookedatme.

“No.He’snotoneofourclients.MaybeGinatookhimonaftersheleft.”

“Thankyouforyourtime.”Ismiled.

Ilefttheagencyandhailedacabtothepolicestation,whereIfoundDetectiveJackssittinginhis

office.

“Hellothere.”Hesmiledashelookedupfromhiscomputer.

“Hello,detective.”

“TowhatdoIowethepleasureofhavingyouinmyofficetoday?”

“IneedtoseethesecurityfootagefromthecamerasoutsidethePeninsulaHotel.”

“Andforwhatreasondoyouneedtoseethat?”heaskedasheleanedbackinhischair.

“GinaBurroughsmetsomeonethatdayaftershecheckedintothehotelandIwanttoknowwhoit

was.”

“I’mafraidIcan’tletyoudothatwithoutasubpoena,andgoodluckgettingonefromthejudge.Who

shemayormaynothavemetisn’trelevantinthiscase.Yourclient’sprintswerealloverthatmurder

weapon.NeedIremindyouofthat?”

Istoodthere,slowlynoddingmyheadathim.Ihadhopeditwouldn’tcomedowntothis,butheleftme

nochoice.

“Maybeyou’llchangeyourmindonceyouseethis.”IpulledGina’sclientlistfrommypurseandheld

itupatadistancefromhim.

“Whatisthat?”

“Gina’sclientlist.”Iturneditaroundandstudiedit.“Thenumberofcopsanddetectivesonthislistis

astounding.”Ilookedathim.“Itseemstomethateveryoneonthislistcouldbeapotentialsuspect.They

wereclientsofhers.Theyknewherandnowshe’sdead.I’msuretheD.A.’sofficewouldlovetoget

theirhandsonthislist.”

“Doyouknowwhatthat’lldo?”heasked.

“OfcourseIdo.Listen,I’mtryingtoclearmyclientofmurder.Whyareyoufightingmeonthis?Your

jobistoputtherightpersonbehindbars,detective.”

“Soyou’reblackmailingme?”Hisbrowarched.

“HowcouldIbeblackmailingyou?Yournameisn’tonthislist.I’mjustaskingtoseetherecordings

fromthedayofthemurder.It’ssimple.Youshowme,Ithankyou,Iwalkaway,andtheliststaysa

secret.”

Hesighedheavilyandgotupfromhischair.

“Fine.Followme,butI’msittingrighttherewithyou.”

IgavehimasmallsmileashetookmedownstairsandintroducedmetoamannamedRowan

Harrison.

“Rowan,IneedyoutopullthefootagefromthenightoftheBurroughs’murder.”

“Startingatthree-thirtyp.m.,”Isaidtohim.

HepulleditupandIwatchedherwalkoutofthehotelandclimbintoablacklimousine.

“Canyougetthelicenseplatenumber?”Iasked.

RowanzoomedinandIwrotethenumberdownonapadofpaperthatwassittinginfrontofDetective

Jacks.Aroundeightp.m.,thesamelimousinepulleduptothehotelandGinaclimbedoutalone.

“Thankyou,detective,foryourhelp.”Ismiled.

“Doyouwantmetorunthatplateforyou?”heasked.

“Wouldyou?”Icockedmyhead.

Heshotmealookandtookthepaperoutofmyhand.

“Let’sgobacktomyoffice.”

Ifollowedhimupstairsandtookaseatwhilehekeyedthelicenseplateintohiscomputer.

“ThenumberisregisteredtoGraystoneLimousineCompanyoveronWest37

Street.”

“Guessthat’smynextstop.”Ismirked.

AsIwasonmywaytoGraystone,myburnerphonerang.

“Hello,”Ianswered.

“Whereareyou?Ihaven’theardfromyoualldayandI’mstartingtogetworried,”Lucaspoke.

“I’mworkingandI’mfine.Areyoustillattheoffice?”

“Yes.”

“Good.StayuntilIgetthere.”

“Ariana,whatareyoudoing?”heaskedwithconcern.

“Myjob.Ihavetogo,Luca.I’llseeyouattheoffice.”

IaskedthecabtowaitformewhileIsteppedthroughthedoubledoorsofGraystoneLimousine.

Maybethiswasalongshotanditwouldturnouttobenothing.Perhapsshewasjustmeetingaclientfor

theday.ButIfounditoddtherewasnothingaboutaclientonhercalendar.

“MayIhelpyou?”anolderwomanwearingadarkgraypantsuitasked.

“I’mhopingyoucan.IhavealicenseplatenumberandIneedtoknowwhorentedthatparticular

limousineonthedayofSeptember5

.”

“I’msorry,miss,butI’mnotallowedtogiveoutcustomers’information.”

“Evenifitinvolvesamurdercase?”Icockedmyhead.

“I’msorry,butyou’llhavetogetawarrantorsomething.”

“Thankyouforyourtime.”Iwalkedawayindisspointent.

Iclimbedbackinthecabandsatthereforamoment.

“Whereto,lady?”thedriverasked.

“Holdonasecond.I’mthinking.”

“Iain’tgotallday,”hespokewithirritation.

“Why?I’mpayingyou,aren’tI?”Ithrewmyhandsintheair.“HowamIanydifferentfromanyone

elsethatwouldbesittinginthebackofthiscab?”

“Justletmeknowwhereyouwanttogo.”

Think,Ariana.Think.Suddenly,myphoneranganditwasSheila.

“Hello.”

“Ariana,IgotthenumberandtherecordsofthatotherphoneregisteredtoGinaBurroughs.”

“Great!I’monmywaytothefirm.Areyouthere?”

“I’minmyoffice.”

“I’llseeyousoon.”

AssoonasIreachedthefirm,IcalledLucaandtoldhimtomeetmeinSheila’soffice.BythetimeI

gotupthere,hewasalreadysittingdown.

“IhighlightedthephonenumberfromwhenGinawasinthelobbyatapproximatelythreethirtyp.m.,”

Sheilaspokeasshehandedmethecalllog.“Thatnumberappearsonherphoneanawfullot.Ithadtobe

oneofherclients.Icouldn’ttracethenumbersoI’msuspectingit’sfromaburnerphone.”

“Thenlet’scallitandseewhoanswers.”Ipulledoutmyburnerphoneandhelditupwithasmile.

Idialedthenumberandputitonspeaker.Afterthreerings,amalevoiceanswered.

“SamButler.”

IlookedatLucaasIhungup.

“Didheworkthatday?”Iasked.

“Onlyforahalfaday.Hesaidheandhiswifehadplansforhisbirthdaybeforethepartythatnight.

Youdon’treallythinkSamhadanythingtodowiththis,doyou?”

“Idon’tknow.DoyouknowofacompanycalledGraystoneLimousine?”Iaskedhim.

“Ofcourse.That’sthecompanywerentourlimosfrom.Why?”

“Sheila,findoutwhorentedthatlimo.IfitwasSam,whichmysuspicionssayitis,hewouldhave

doneitthroughthefirm.”

“I’monit.”

IgotupfrommychairandbegantowalkoutofSheila’soffice.

“Whereareyougoingnow?”Lucaasked.

“TohavealittlechatwithSam.”

ChapterThirty-Four

Ariana

IcarefullyopenedSam’sofficedoorandpeekedinside,onlytoseethathewasonthephone.Whenhe

sawme,hewavedmein.Afterfinishinguphiscall,heleanedbackinhischairandbroughtonelegup

andresteditontheother.

“WhatcanIdoforyou,Ariana?”

Iputonmysweetandinnocentface,actingasifthiscasewasahopelessone.

“Canyourecallanythingoddoroutoftheordinarythenightofyourparty?”

“No.”Heshookhishead.“Everyonewashavingagreattime.Why?”

“IjustfeellikeI’matadeadendhereandIcan’tseemtofindanythingthatcouldclearLuca.I’m

reallyworried,Sam.”

“Ariana,Lucanevershouldhavehiredyoutodefendhim,andIdon’tknowwhathewasthinking.I

mean,comeon,thisisyourfirstrealcase.You’refreshoutoflawschoolandreallydon’thavemuch

experience.”

Iwantedtothroatpunchhim.

“DidyouseeLucaleavewithGinathatnight?”

“Idid.”Henoddedhishead.“Ithoughttomyself‘Wow,luckyguy.’”

“Butyoudidn’tknowwhoshewas?”

“No.HowwouldIknowher?”heaskedashecockedhishead.

Ineededtobeverycarefulwithmywordingorhewouldbecomesuspicious.

“IthoughtsinceLucarepresentedherayearago,youwouldhavemetherorsomething.”

“Idon’tknoweveryclientLucarepresents.”

“Anyway,I’msorrytobotheryou.Iwasjusthopingthatyouwouldhaveseensomethingthatnightthat

couldhelphim.”

“I’msorry,butIwasdrinkingandsocializingwitheveryone.IwishtoGodIcouldhelp,butIdidn’t

seeanythingodd.”

“Thanks,Sam.”Igotupfrommyseatandwalkedovertothedoor.Placingmyhandontheknob,I

turnedandlookedathim.“Bytheway,howwasyourbirthday?”

“Itwasgreat.BestbirthdayIthinkIeverhad.”Hesmiled.

“Didyouandyourwifedoanythingspecialduringtheday?”Iaskedwithcaution.

“No.Weweresupposedto,butshe’sreallybigintocharityworkandhadmeetingsallday.Ididn’tsee

heruntilIgothomeandwegotreadyfortheparty.Whyareyouasking?”

“Inoticedthatpictureyouhaveofthetwoofyoubehindyourdeskandyoubothlooksohappy.Ijust

thoughtmaybeshewouldhavedonesomethingromanticforyourbirthday.IknowifIhadaguyinmylife

anditwashisbirthday,I’dplanthewholedayout.BirthdaysshouldbecelebratedalldayasfarasI’m

concerned.”Ismiled.

“Iagree.MaybeI’llrunthatideabyherfornextyear.”Hewinked.

IgavehimasmallsmileasIlefthisoffice.Ifmytheorywasright,he’dbespendinghisnextbirthday

behindbars.AsIwaswalkingtoLuca’soffice,Sheilastoppedme.

“SamwastheonewhorentedthatlimoGinaclimbedinto,”shewhispered.“Ithadtobehimshemet.”

“HealsoliedtoLucaaboutspendingthedaywithhiswife.Hejusttoldmethatshewasincharity

meetingsalldayandhedidn’tseeheruntilhegothomeandtheyleftfortheparty.”

“WhatmotivewouldhehaveforwantingtokillGinaandframeLuca?”sheasked.

“Idon’tknow,butweneedtofindoutandwedon’thavealotoftime.Doyouthinkwhenheleaves

tonight,youcansearchhisoffice?”

“Sure.I’llcallyouifIfindanything.”

“Thanks.”Iplacedmyhandonherarmbeforewalkingaway.

IreachedLuca’sofficeonlytofindthathewasn’tinthere,soIwentovertoOlivia’scubicle.

“DoyouknowwhereLucais?”

“Heleft.”

“Left?Doyouknowwherehewent?”

“Idon’tknow.Hedidn’tsay.Iseverythingokaywiththetwoofyou?”sheasked.

“Besideshimbeingchargedwithadoublemurderandmestressingtryingtofigureoutwhoframed

him?Yeah.Everythingisgreat.”

Itriedtocallhim,buthedidn’tanswer,soIsenthimatextmessage.

“Hey,whereareyou?I’mattheofficeandOliviatoldmeyouleft.”

Noresponse.

Isighedandplacedmyphonebackinsidemypurse.Icouldn’tthinkaboutwherehewentoffto.I

neededtothinkaboutmynextmove.TherewassomethingIwasn’tseeing.IwentbacktothePeninsula

andviewedthesecuritytapeagain.Thistime,Ivieweditwhilethepartywasgoingon,watchingevery

personwhoenteredthelobby.

“Bruce,stoprightthere.”IpointedtothescreenwhenIsawSamButlerinthelobbyatapproximately

teno’clock,makingaphonecall.“Whowouldyoubecallingthatlatewhileatyourbirthdayparty,Sam?”

Ispokeoutloud.

“Wife,maybe?”Brucespoke.

“Hiswifewaswithhim.”

“Mistress,perhaps?”

“Shewassittingatthebarattheparty.”Ismirked.

“Ah.That’scrazy.”

IpickedupmyphoneanddialedSheila.

“What’sup,Ariana?”

“IsSam’sphonethroughthefirm?”Iasked.

“Yes.Allthepartners’phonesare.Why?”

“Thenyou’dhavenoproblemgettinghisphonerecords?”

“Nope.Icangetthemquick.Why?”

“Ineedthemassoonaspossible.”

“I’llstartworkingonitnow.”

“Thanks.I’llcallyoutotellyouwheretomeetme.I’mnotcomingbacktothefirmtoday.”

Iendedthecallandwatchedmoreofthesecurityfootage.Nothingoutoftheordinarygrabbedmy

attention,exceptseeingLucaandGinastepontotheelevatortogouptoherroom.Itbotheredme.Iknew

hejustwentuptheretotalkbecausesheneededlegaladvice,butseeinghishandonthesmallofherback

astheyenteredtheelevatorstruckajealousychordinmethatIfoundhardtocontrol.Athoughtcameto

myhead.SomethingIdidn’tthinkaboutbefore.IgrabbedmyphoneandmypurseandthankedBruceonce

againforhelpingmeout.IflewoutthedoorsofthehotelanddialedLuca.

“Hello,”heanswered.

“Wherethefuckareyou?”Iblurtedout.

“Atyourapartment.Why?Andwhyareyoutakingthattonewithme?”

“IwenttoyourofficeaftertalkingtoSam,andOliviasaidyouleft.ThenIsentyouatextmessageand

youdidn’trespond.”

“Inevergotatextmessagefromyou,Ariana.Areyouonyourwayhome?Yousoundfrantic.”

“Ihavesomequestionstoaskyou.I’llbehomesoon.”

Afterendingthecall,IdialedSheila.

“Hello.”

“I’mheadedhome.Canyoumeetmethere?”

“IgotthephonerecordsandI’monmyway.”

“Great.Seeyousoon.”

Beforeheadinghome,Istoppedatthecraftstoreandpickedupalargewhiteboardwithsomeerasable

markers.Itwasabitchtocarryinsidemyapartmentbuilding,butImadeituptheelevatoranddraggedit

downthehallwaytomyapartment.AsIopenedthedoorandattemptedtobringitin,Lucacamerunning

overtomewhenhesawmestruggling.

“Ariana,whydidn’tyoucallmetohelpyoubringthisup?”

“Idon’tknow,”Ispokeinafrazzledtone.

“Youlookexhausted,”hespokeashesettheboardagainstthewall.

“Weneedtohangthatuponthatwallrightoverthere.”Ipointed.“Sheilawillbeheresoon.And

what’sthatsmell?”IaskedasIsniffedaround.

“Dinner.”Hesmiled.

“Youcookedforme?”Ipouted.

Hewalkedovertome,tookmypursefrommyshoulder,setitdown,andplacedhishandsfirmlyon

myhipswhilesoftlykissingmylips.

“IdidandIhopeyoulikeit.”

Wrappingmyarmsaroundhisneck,Istaredintohispanty-meltingeyes.

“IknowI’lllikeit.Thankyou.”Ismiled.

“You’rewelcome.NowwhyisSheilacomingover?”

“IhadhergetSam’sphonerecords.”

Hebrokeourembraceandpouredmeaglassofwine.

“Why?”

“I’lllayitalloutontheboardassoonasyougetithung.”

“Youdoknowwehaveboardslikethisatthefirminourconferencerooms?”

“DoyouwantmewritingSam’snamealloveritforhimtosee?”

“Ah,goodpoint.”Henodded.“Well,doyouhaveanythingtohangitwith?”

“Iboughtasmallhammerandsomenails.They’reinthebaginmypurse.I’mgoingtogochange

beforeSheilagetshere.”

IwalkedintothebedroomandthrewonapairofcroppedyogapantsandaloosetanktopwhileLuca

hungthewhiteboardonthewall.IwasexhaustedandIwasrunningoutoftime.Histrialstartedinthree

daysandIwantedtodoeverythingIcouldtotryandpreventitfromevenhappening.AsIwaswalkingto

thekitchen,therewasaknockatthedoor.

“Sheila,comein.”Ismiledasshehandedmeafolder.

Shesteppedinside,saidhitoLuca,andthenlookedaround.

“Whatagreatplaceyouhave,Ariana.It’ssocozy.”

“Thankyou.Wouldyoulikeaglassofwine?”

“Winesoundsreallygoodrightnow.Thanks.Whatisthatsmell?”sheaskedasshewalkedovertothe

edgeofthecounter.

“Lucaismakingdinner,”Ireplied.

“Ididn’tknowyoucooked,Luca.”

“Ido,butthatstaysbetweenus.”Hesmirked.“Ihopeyou’llstayandjoinus.”

“I’dlikethat.Thankyou.”Shesmiled.

WhileLucafinishedpreparingdinner,Iwrotesomethingsdownonthewhiteboard.

“Sothisiswhatweknow.”Ipointedtotheboardwithabluemarker.“GinaBurroughscheckedinto

thehotelatthreeo’clock.Atthreethirty,shewenttothelobbyandmadeaphonecalltoSamButler.

Shortlyafterhangingup,sheleftthehotelandclimbedintoalimousinethatSamButlerrented.Whenshe

returnedtothehotelateightp.m.approximatelyfourhourslater,shewentuptoherroomandthencame

backdownatninethirtyandheadedintothebarwherethepartytookplace.”

“Comesitdownandeat,Ariana,”Lucaspoke.

IsetdownmymarkerandtookaseatatthetablewhereLucaplacedaplatedowninfrontofmethat

consistedofChickenMarsala,roastedfingerlingpotatoestossedinoilandherbs,French-stylegreen

beans,andaloafofFrenchbread.

“Ohgod,Luca.Thisisamazing.Whyhaveyoubeenholdingoutonmeaboutyourcookingskills?”

“Yeah,Luca,youcouldbeachef.Thisisdelicious,”Sheilaspoke.

“Thankyou.Mymothertaughtmetocook.It’sreallyallshedid.Shelovedtocookbigmeals.”

IateapieceofchickenandtookasipofmywinebeforeaskingLucathequestionIneededananswer

to.

“Okay,Ihaveaquestion.IfGinacamedowntothebaratninethirtyandyoudidn’tgouptoherroom

untileleven,whatdidthetwoofyoutalkaboutforanhourandahalf?”

“Shedidn’tcomesitatthebaruntiltenthirty,”hereplied.

“Huh?”Icockedmyhead.“Howdoyouknowtheexacttimeshesatdown?”

“IwasjustfinishingoffmyscotchandIlookedatmywatchtoseewhattimeitwasbecauseIwas

readytoleave.Itwasatthatmomentthatshesatdownnexttome.WetalkedandIboughtheracoupleof

drinks.”

“Talkedaboutwhat?”Iasked.

“Nothingmuch.Ijustaskedherhowshewasdoingandsheaskedmeabouttheparty.Sheneverleton

thatsheknewSam.”

“Didn’tyoufinditoddthatshewasthere?”

“No.Shewasacallgirl.Hotelsaretheirthing.Ididn’tfindanythingoddaboutitatall.Thenshetold

mesheneededsomelegaladvice.”

“Isthatwhensheseemednervous?”

“Yeah.Itwaslikewhensheaskedmetocometoherroom,herdemeanorchanged.”

“Thebartendertoldmethatshedroppedherpurseandallthecontentsfellout,”IspokeasIatea

potato.

“Yes,andIbentdownandpickedeverythingupforher.Thatwasrightbeforeweheadedtoherroom.”

“Aboutwhattime?”

“Idon’tknow.Ipickedupherpurse,handedittoher,finishedoffmydrink,andthenweleft.”

“Sothatcouldhavebeenwhat?Tenminutes?”

“Possibly.Ariana,Idon’tunderstandwhatmepickingupherpursehasanythingtodowiththis?”

“Rohypnol,afteringested,takesaboutfifteenminutestokickin.Whenshedroppedherpurse,

intentionally,mayIadd,andyoubentdowntopickitup,sheslippeditintoyourdrink.Andthat’swhy

youcan’trememberanythingafteryougottoherroom.”

“Whythehellwouldshedrugme?”

“Because,obviously,shewasinonit,”Sheilaspoke.

“Ohcomeon;sheplannedherownmurder?”

“Nothermurder,butsomething.Sheluredyouuptoherroomforareason,andIneedtofindoutwhat

thatreasonwas.”

ChapterThirty-Five

Luca

BeforeArianafinishedherdinner,shegotupfromthetableandwalkedbackovertothewhiteboard.

“GinawasdefinitelyinonsomethingwithsomeoneandI’mguessingthatsomeonewasSamButler,”

shespoke.“Whenthetwoofyouwereintheroom,someoneelsewaseitherinthereorcameinwhenyou

werepassedout.”

“DoyouthinkitwasSam?”Iasked.

“Heneverlefttheparty.Theonlytimehewenttothelobbywaswhenhemadeaphonecallatten

o’clock.”

“Therearestairs,youknow,”Ispoke.

“Butthestairsonlyleadtothetwelfthfloor.Anyfloorabovethatiselevatoraccessonly,andhersuite

wasonthetwentiethfloor.Someoneenteredthelobbyandwentuptoherroom.”

“Andhowthehellarewegoingtofindoutwho?”Iasked.

“Idon’tknow.”Shesighedasshesatbackdowninherchair.“Someonewantedherdeadandwanted

youtotakethefallforit.Ithastobesomeonewhoknowsyou.”

“MaybeSamwantedherdeadbecauseitwashisbabyshewascarrying,”Sheilaspoke.

“Ithoughtofthat.ButifshewaswithSamthatdayandtheyhadsex,heusedacondom.Ifheknewshe

waspregnant,whywouldheuseacondom?”

“Idon’tknow.Itdoesn’tmakesense.”Sheliashookherhead.

Igotupfrommychairandtookmyplatetothesink.

“Maybeshedidn’ttellhimshewaspregnantyet,buthefoundout,”Ispoke.“Couldyouimaginewhat

thatwoulddotohisfamilyandreputation?”

“I’mheadingbacktothefirm,”Sheilaspokeasshegrabbedherpurse.“Ijustwantyoutoknow,Luca,

thatI’msearchingSam’soffice.”

“Goodidea.Letusknowifyoufindsomething.”

“Iwill.”Shesmiled.“Thanksfordinner.Itwasamazing.”

“You’rewelcome.”

AssoonasSheilaleft,IglancedoveratAriana,whorestedherheadonthetable.Sheneededtorelax

andunwind.ThestressofthiscasewasgettingtoherandIdidn’tlikeseeingherthatway.Iwentintothe

bathroomandstartedthewaterforabubblebath.

“Whatareyoudoing?”sheaskedasshestoodinthedoorway.

“Drawingyouabubblebath.Youneedtorelax,Ariana.You’reexhausted,”IspokeasIdriedmy

handsonthetowel.

“Abubblebathdoessoundgoodrightnow.”

Walkingovertoher,Ikissedhertenderlips.

“ClimbinandI’llbringyouaglassofwine.”Ismiled.

Iwentintothekitchenandpouredsomewineintotheglassshehadwithdinner.BytimeImadeitback

tothebathroom,shewasalreadyinthetubwiththebubblesuptoherneck.Iwanteddesperatelytoclimb

inwithher,butthiswashertimeandsheneededtorelaxwithoutanydistractionsfromme.

AsIcleanedupfromdinner,Ithoughtabouthow,intwodays,itwasherbirthday.Shehadn’t

mentionedanythingandIwantedtodosomethingspecialforher.Shedeservedit,especiallyafter

everythingshe’dputherselfthroughtryingtoprovemyinnocence.Itsuckedthatitwasthedaybeforethe

trialstarted.Iknewsheneededtowriteheropeningstatementandthatwasgoingtotakeupalotofher

time.I’dhavetogethertostartwritingitnowbecausewhenherbirthdaycame,shewasgoingtoenjoyit

andnotworryaboutanythingelse.

IhadstoppedatthejewelrystoreafterIlefttheofficeandboughtherabeautifulsilvernecklacewitha

pendantonit.Thefrontsidewasanetchingoffleurdelis,andonthebacksidewasanetchingofthe

NorthStarwithaquotethatwaswritteninLatin.Iwassureshedidn’tknowLatin,soIwasn’tworried

thatshewouldknowwhatitsaid.Ifsheasked,I’dtellheritsaidsomethingelse.Thequotewastruefor

meineveryform.Ijustwasn’tsurehowshe’dfeelaboutit.

Iwalkedbackintothebathroomandshehadfinishedoffherwine.

“Wouldyoulikeanotherglass?”Iasked.

“No.I’mgood.”Shesmiled.

“Doyouthinkmaybeyoushouldstartworkingonyouropeningstatement?”

“I’mgood.”Sheclosedhereyes.

“Whatdoyoumeanyou’regood?Thetrialstartsinthreedays.”

“Ihaveitalluphere.”Shepointedtoherhead.

Istoodthereinconfusion.

“Soyou’renotwritinganythingdownonpaper?”

“Nope,”shespokewithhereyesstillclosed.

Nowshehadmeworried.Eventhebestlawyersintheworldwrotedowntheiropeningstatements.

“Ariana,thisisyourfirstmajortrial.Ithinkyoushouldwriteitdown,”Ispokewithconcern.

“Doyounottrustme?”Sheopenedoneeyeandlookedatme.

“Idotrustyou,but—”

“Thenifyoutrustme,don’tworryaboutmyopeningstatement.”

IsighedasIplacedmyhandsinmypocketsandleanedupagainstthebathroomcounter.EverydayI

learnedsomethingnewaboutherandthethingsIlearnedsurprisedme.ThatwaswhatIlovedabouther.

Shewasexcitingandkeptmeonmytoes.Ihadthisfantasyaboutgoingupagainstherincourt.Thetwoof

us,objectingtoeachother’squestions,battlingitouttogetherindefenseofourclients.Itturnedmeonjust

thinkingaboutit,anurgesostrongthatmycockwasstartingtorise.

“Ithinkyouneedtogetoutofthetubnow,”Ispoke.

“Why?”

Ilookeddownatthebulgethatwasinmypantsandthenather.Asmilecrossedherfaceasshebit

downonherbottomlip.

“Ithoughtyouwantedmetorelax?”

“Trustme,sweetheart,I’llmakesureyoudonothingbutrelax.”

SheheldoutherhandasIgrabbedatowel,helpedherfromthetub,andwrappeditsecurelyaround

her.Pickingherup,Icarriedhertothebedroom,driedheroff,andthenaskedhertolieonherstomach

whileImassagedeverypartofhersoftbareskin.

****

Irolledoverandmyarm,whichwassupposedtobewrappedtightlyaroundherbody,fellontothe

crumpledsheetwhereshelaid.Openingmyeyes,Iglancedattheclockandsawitwasonethirtya.m.

Climbingoutofbed,Iwentintothelivingroom,whereIsawhersittingonthecouch,hunchedoverthe

coffeetableandlookingoverSam’sphonerecords.

“Whatareyoudoing?You’resupposedtobesleeping,”Ispoke.

“Icouldn’tsleep.Ihavetolookoverthesephonerecords.”

“Ariana,thatcanwaituntilmorning.”Ilightlytouchedherarm.

Shepulledaway,andwithanauthoritativetone,shespoke,“Noitcan’t.”

“Sweetheart,yesitcan.Nowcomebacktobed.”

“NO!”sheshoutedasshegotupfromthecouchandheadedintothekitchen.

“Whatthehellisthematterwithyou?Isaidcomebacktobed.You’reexhaustedandyouneedyour

rest.”

Suddenly,sheslammedtheglassshewasholdingdownonthecounteranditbrokeintoseveralpieces.

“Don’tyoutellmewhattodo!”sheshoutedasshestartedtocry.

Istoodthereinshock,wonderingwhathappenedbetweenthetimewesaidgoodnightandnow.I

walkedovertowhereshewasstandingandnoticedshewasbleeding.

“Ariana,you’rebleeding.”

Iquicklygrabbedatowelandwrappeditaroundthepalmofherhand.

“Whatisthematterwithyou?”IaskedasIledhertothebathroom.

“Youdon’tgetit,Luca.Ihavetofindoutwhodidthis.”

Sheplacedherhandsfirmlyonmychestandstaredatmewithdespairinhereyes.Notonlydespair,

butalsofear.

“Youcouldgotojailforlifeanditwouldbeallmyfault.Don’tyouunderstandthat?Aren’tyoueven

worried?”shefranticallyspoke.

I’dneverseenherlikethisbefore.Itwasalmostasifshewashavingabreakdown.Andifshewas,I

neededtostopit.Igrabbedholdofherarmstotryandcalmherdown.

“IamworriedandIdounderstand.You’reworkingtoohardonthis,baby,andyouneedtoslow

down.”

“Ican’t.”Sheshook.“Ifyougotoprison,Idon’tknowwhatI’lldo.Ineedtodothis.Youaren’tin

controlanymore,Luca.Youjustaren’t.”Herheadfellontomychestasshesobbed.

Iwrappedmyarmsaroundherandheldhertight.Ididn’tknowwhattosay.Ididn’twanttolietoher

andtellherthateverythingwouldbeokay,becausethetruthwas,itmightnotbe.

“I’msorry,Ariana.I’msorryfortryingtostopyoufromdoingyourjob.Ihadnoright.It’sjustI’m

worriedaboutyou.”

“AndI’mworriedaboutyou.ThatiswhyIcan’tstopuntilIfindsomekindofproofthatsomeoneelse

wasresponsibleforherdeath.”

IclosedmyeyesasIbroughtmyhanduptothebackofherheadandheldheragainstmychest.

“Dowhatyouhavetodo,sweetheart.Iwon’ttrytostopyouanymore.Okay?”Ibrokeourembrace

andstaredintohertearyeyes.

Shelightlynoddedherhead.

“I’llcomebacktobednow,”shesoftlyspoke.

Withmyarmwrappedaroundher,IledhertothebedroomandweclimbedunderthesheetswhereI

heldhertherestofthenight,tooafraidtolethergo.

ChapterThirty-Six

Ariana

Mylittlemeltdownlastnightwasn’toneofmyfinermoments.Thestressofthiscasewasgettingtome

morethanIthoughtiteverwould.ThemoreIcouldn’tconnectthedots,themoreIfeltlikeafailure.The

possibilityofhimgoingtoprisonfortherestofhislifeforacrimehedidn’tcommitterrifiedmebecause

Iwasinlovewithhim.Icouldn’tlethimdown.Ihadtokeepfightingtoprovehisinnocence,evenifit

killedme.

Tomorrowwasmytwenty-sixthbirthday.WiththetrialstartingintwodaysandthemessIwasinwith

myfamily,mybirthdaydidn’tmatter.ItwasthelastthingonmymindandthelastthingIevenwantedto

thinkabout.WhenIclimbedoutofbed,IfoundLucainthekitchenmakingapotofcoffee.

“Morning,”IlazilyspokeasIwalkedovertohimandwrappedmyarmsaroundhiswaist.

“Goodmorning.Upearlytostartwork?”Hegrinned.

“Luca,listen,I’msorryaboutmybehaviorlastnight.”

“Don’tbe.”Hekissedmyforehead.“Youhadeveryright.”

Ikissedhislipsandgavehimasmallsmilebeforetakingaseatonthecouchandpickingupthepapers

thatcontainedSam’sphonerecords.

“OnethingInoticedlastnightwasthatSammadeseveralcallstothisonenumber.”

“Whodoesitbelongto?”heasked.

“Idon’tknowyet,butI’mgoingtofindout.”

“Ifyouneedanyhelp,letmeknow.Ineedtogettothefirm.”Hewalkedoverandhandedmeacupof

coffee.

“Thankyou.”Ismiledupathim.

“You’rewelcome.”Hebentdownandkissedmylips.“I’lltalktoyoulater.”

Assoonashewalkedoutthedoor,IcalledSheila.

“Hey,Iwasjustgoingtocallyou,”shespokewhensheanswered.

“Didyoufindanythinglastnight?”Iasked.

“No.IsuspectthatSamisn’tstupidenoughtokeepanythingsecretiveinhisoffice.”

“Great.Ineedyoutotraceaphonenumberforme.”

“Sure.GiveittomeandI’lllookitupwhilewe’reonthephone.”

IrattledthenumberofftoherasIheardtheclickingofkeystrokesonhercomputer.

“ThatnumberbelongstoamannamedWilsonGarrett.He’sapoliceofficerinJersey.”

“WhywouldSambeincontactwithacopfromJersey?”

“Idon’tknow.I’lltryanddigupsomeinformationonhimandgetbacktoyou.”

“Thanks,Sheila.”

Isetmyphonedownandhoppedintotheshower.AsIwasshampooingmyhair,hisnamekeptplaying

overandoverinmyhead.HowdidIknowthatname?Thenithitme.Ijumpedoutoftheshowerwithmy

hairinalatherofshampoo,grabbedatowel,andwrappeditaroundme.Runningtothelivingroom

wheremybagsat,IpulledoutLuca’sjuvenilefile,threwitonthetable,andbeganspreadingoutallthe

papers.IfranticallythumbedthroughthemuntilIfoundwhatIwaslookingfor.Holyshit.WilsonGarrett

wasLuca’sfather’spartnerontheforce.RealizingthatIstillhadshampooinmyhair,Ihoppedbackinto

theshower,rinsedit,washedmybodyasquickasIcould,gotdressed,andflewoutthedoortothefirm.

WhenIarrivedatRusso,Greggs,&Butler,IwentintoLuca’soffice,onlytofindhewasinameeting

intheconferenceroom,soIwenttoSheila’sofficeandshutthedoor.

“IsSamintheoffice?”Iasked.

“No.He’sincourt.”

“Good.WilsonGarrettwasLuca’sfather’spartneronthepoliceforce.”

“Iknow.IjustfoundthatoutwhenIsearchedhiminthedatabaseandLuca’sfather’snamecameup.

Also,andyou’renotgoingtobelievethis,but,ayearago,Garrett’ssisteraccusedamannamedRoyce

Worthingtonofrape.Thefamilyisanupstandinginfluentialpartofthecommunity.Royce’sdadownsone

ofthelargesttechcompaniesinthecountry.They’refilthyrichandguesswhodefendedhim?”

“Luca?”

“Yes,andhegothimoff.Thejuryfoundhimnotguilty.”

“SothiscouldberevengeforWilsonGarrett.FirstLucamurderedhispartneroutofself-defenseand

thengotthemanaccusedofrapinghissisteroff.IdobelieveMr.Garretthadamotiveforwantingto

frameLuca.”

“ButhowisheconnectedtoGinaBurroughsandSamButler?”

“Idon’tknowyet,buttheyare.SammadenumerouscallstoWilsonGarrett,includingonethat

occurredonthenightofthemurderattenp.m.Doyouhaveapictureofhim?”

“Yeah.I’llprintit.”

Shepulledthepictureofftheprinterandhandedittome.

“Thanks.IfLucaasks,tellhimI’lltalktohimlater.”

“Whereareyougoing?”

“BacktothePeninsulaHotel.”Ismiled.

****

ImadeastopatDunkinDonutsonthewaytothehotel.Afterall,itwastheleastIcoulddoforbugging

Bruceagain.Ilightlyknockedonthesecurityofficedoor,andwhenheopenedit,awidesmilegracedhis

face.

“Ariana.You’reback.”

“Iam,andIbroughtdonuts!”

“Letmeguess,youwanttoseethesametapeagain,”hespokeashetooktheboxfromme.

“Yes,please.Thiswillbethelasttime.Iswear.”

“Noproblem.Haveaseat.Wantadonut?”

“Sure.”IsmiledasItookthechocolatefrostedonefromthebox.

“Isthereaspecifictimeyouwanttolookat?”heasked.

“Fromteno’clockon.”

“Didn’tyoualreadylookatthattime?”

“Idid,butnowI’mlookingforaspecificperson.”

“Ah.Okay.”Hebitintoaglazeddonut.

Inervouslysatthere,bitingintomydonutasIwatchedthefootage.

“STOPRIGHTTHERE!”Ishouted.“That’shim.”

IletoutasighofreliefwhenIsawWilsonGarrettenterthePeninsulaHotelattenfifteenandsteponto

theelevator.Icontinuedtowatchandpatientlywaitedforhimtoreturntothelobby.Andsureenoughhe

did,withatimestampthatread12:40a.m.

ChapterThirty-Seven

Luca

IdecidednottotakeArianasomewhereforthedayforherbirthdaytomorrow.Afterherbreakdown

lastnight,itbecamecleartomethatsheneededtoworkonmycaseeverysecondshecould.Withthetrial

beingintwodays,shewouldbeanervouswreckifIwhiskedherofftoMontauktocelebrateher

birthday.IdecideditwouldbebesttotakeherforanicedinnerandgiveherthepresentIboughther.That

wouldhavetodofornow.Butoncethiscasewasover,andifIwasfoundnotguilty,Iwouldtakeher

somewherebeautiful.Maybeatropicalislandwhereitwasjustthetwoofuswithnodistractions.A

placewecouldescapetoandforgetabouteverythingthathappened.Themurder,thetrial,andherfamily.

NotconfrontingSamaboutknowingGinawaskillingme.Ifthatassholehadanythingtodowith

framingme,I’dmakesurehepaidtheultimateprice.Butwhywouldhedoit?I’dneverbeenanythingbut

agoodfriendtohim.Thedinnersathishouse,theanniversarypartyIthrewforhimandJessica,andthe

birthdayparty.Noneofthismadesense.ButIknewbetter.AsmuchasIwantedtoconfronthim,I

couldn’t.ItwouldcompromiseeverythingArianahadfoundout.

IlefttheconferenceroomaftermymeetingandheadedstraighttoSheila’soffice.

“HaveyouseenorheardfromAriana?”Iasked.

“Yeah.Shewashereawhileago.Shetoldmetotellyouthatshe’dtalktoyoulater.”

“Doyouknowwhereshewent?”

“ShewentbacktothePeninsulaHotel.”

Isighed.“Thanks,Sheila.”

Ileftthebuildingandheadedtothehotel.Shemusthavefoundsomethingtogobackthereagain.AsI

walkedthroughthedoors,asickfeelingovertookme.Istoodinthelobbyandlookedaroundwith

memoriesofthatnightflashinginmyhead.Thenightthatsentmylifedowntheshithole.Ineededtosit

downforamoment,soItookaseatinthelobbyandrestedmyelbowsonmyknees.

“Luca?”Arianaspoke.“Whatareyoudoinghere?”

Ilookedupandjustthesightofhermademefeelbetter.

“Sheliatoldmethatyoucamehere.”

“Weneedtotalk.”Shesmiled.“Let’sgograbsomelunch.”

WehadJefferytakeustoSoHosowewouldn’triskrunningintoanyoneandgotatableinthecorner

fortwoatBalthazar.

“DoyouknowamannamedWilsonGarrett?”sheaskedasshetookasipofherwater.

Ihadtothinkforamoment.Thenamesoundedfamiliar,butIcouldn’tplaceit.

“Namesoundsfamiliar,butI’mnotsure.Why?Whoishe?”

“WilsonGarrettwasyourfather’spartner.”

“You’reright.Ihadforgottenallabouthim.Irememberthathisoldpartnerretiredandhewas

assignedwithWilson.Hewasnewontheforce.JustgraduatedfromtheacademyandIthinkhewasonly

hispartnerforaboutsixmonthsbeforehedied.Whatdoeshehavetodowiththis,Ariana?”Iaskedwith

concern.

“Ishimbeingyourfather’spartnertheonlythingyouremember?”sheasked.

“Yeah.Ithinkso.Aftermyfather’sdeath,weneverheardfromhimagain.Youreallyneedtotellme

what’sgoingon.”

“Doyourememberaclientyoudefendedaboutayearago?RoyceWorthington?”

“Yeah.Hewasaccusedofrapingacollegegirl.Thejuryfoundhimnotguilty.”

“ShewasWilsonGarrett’ssister.”

“What?”Inarrowedmyeyeandcockedmyhead.

“IwentbacktothePeninsulatoviewthesecuritytapesagain.Sammadeaphonecallinthelobbyat

tenp.m.toWilsonGarrett,andguesswhat?Hewalkedintothehotelattenfifteenandgotontheelevator.

NowyousaidthatGinadidn’tcomesitdownnexttoyouatthebaruntiltenthirty.Right?”

“Right.”

“WhatImissedthelasttimeIlookedatthetapewaswhenshecamedownatninethirty,shealsowent

backuptoherroomatnineforty.”

“Wherewasshefortenminutes?”

“Idon’tknowandwe’llneverknowatthispoint.SoshewasinherroomattenfifteenwhenWilson

Garrettwentupthere.”

“Hecouldhavebeentheretoseeanyoneatthathotel.TheD.A.willripthatapart,”Ispoke.“There’s

noconnectionbetweenherandWilsonGarrett.”

“Butthere’saconnectionbetweenWilsonGarrettandSamButler,whoisconnectedtoGina

Burroughs.”

“Okay,whywouldWilsonGarrettframeme?OrSam,forthatmatter?”

“IsuspectthatWilsonwastryingtogetrevengeforthemurderofhispartnerandforhissister’srape.”

“AndSam?”Iraisedmybrow.

“Ihaven’tfiguredthatoutyet.ButIwill.”

JustasIwasabouttosaysomething,herphoneranganditwasSheilacalling.

“Shit.Weneedtogetbacktothefirm,”shespokeasshegrabbedherpurse.

“Why?Wehaven’tfinishedlunch.”

“IthinkSamwasembezzlingmoneyfromthefirm.”

“Thatsonofabitch!”IvoicedloudlyasIthrewsomecashonthetableandweheadedbacktothe

firm.

ChapterThirty-Eight

Ariana

“IdecidedtolookatGina’sfinancialsandthereweredepositsmademonthlyintoheraccountfroma

wiredaccountinthesumoftwenty-fivethousanddollars.So,Itracedtheaccountandguesswhoit

belongsto?”Sheilaasked.

“SamButler?”Ismiled.

“Youarecorrect,Ariana.”Shepointedatme.

Lucarestedhisfaceonhishandandletoutalongsigh.

“Tellmehewasn’tstealingfrommyfirm,”hespoke.

“IwishIcould,Luca,buthewas.Hewasskimmingmoneyfromhisclients’trustfundsand

transferringthemintohiswiredaccount.Notonlywashedoingthat,buthealsoinflatedhisfees,paying

thefirmournormalfee,andbilledclientsforlegalworkthatwasneverdone.”

“Thatsonofabitch!I’llkillhim!”Lucaangrilyspokeashegotupfromhischairandheadedforthe

door.

Ijumpedupandgrabbedhisarm.

“Luca,no.Youcan’tsayawordaboutthistohim.”

“Ariana,letmego!”heshoutedashejerkedhisarmaway.

Ithrewmyselfagainstthedoortostophim.

“Iknowyou’reangry,butthiswillhelpyourcase.Ifyouconfronthim,he’llhavetimetodestroythe

evidenceweneed.Weneedtokeepquiet.Please,Luca.Doitforme.”Iplacedmyhandonthesideofhis

face.

Heslowlyclosedhiseyesandtookinadeepbreath.

“Fine.Butoncethisisover,I’mgoingafterhim.”

“That’sfine.Pleasesitdown.”Itookholdofhisarmandledhimbacktothechair.“Weknowthat

GinaquittheagencythreemonthsagoandthatwasaroundthetimeSamButlerstartedmakingmonthly

depositsintoheraccount.WhatifSamkeptherashismistress,madeherquittheagency,andagreedto

payhersoshedidn’tseeothermen?”

“Butmaybeshestillwantedtorunherownbusiness,keepingherpreviousclientsandhidingitfrom

Sam,”Sheilaspoke.“Ibetshewasplayinghim.”

“ThenSamfoundoutwhatshewasdoing,”IspokeasIpacedaroundtheroom,“becameenraged,and

hiredWilsonGarretttomurderher.”

“ButhowdidWilsonandSammeet?”Lucaasked.“That’stheimportantquestionhere?”

“Idon’tknow.”Isighed.“SeewhatyoucanfindonWilson’spolicecareer,”IspoketoShelia.“Sam’s

alawyer,he’sacop.Therehastobesomekindofconnectionthere.”

IgrabbedmypurseandturnedtoLuca.

“IhavetogotalktoDetectiveJacks.I’llseeyoulater.”

****

Isteppedinsidethepolicestationandmademywaydownthehalltothedetective’soffice.WhenI

reachedit,Ifoundhewasn’tthere,soItookaseatandIwaited.

“MissWilliams,towhatdoIowethepleasureofanothervisit?”Hesmiledashetookaseatbehind

hisdesk.

“GinaBurroughswasseeingSamButler.Aboutthreemonthsagoaftershequittheescortagency,he

startedtomakedepositsoftwenty-fivethousanddollarsfromawiredaccountintohers.Atapproximately

threethirtyp.m.onthedayshewasmurdered,shecalledhim,leftthehotel,andclimbedintoalimothat

wasrentedbyhim.Atapproximatelytenp.m.,helefthispartyandsteppedintothelobbytomakeaphone

calltoamannamedWilsonGarrettwhoisanofficerforaNewJerseypolicedepartment.At

approximatelytenfifteen,hewasseenwalkingintothePeninsulaHotelandsteppingontotheelevator.”

“And?”

“IthinkhewastheonewhomurderedGinaBurroughs.”

“Doyouhaveprooforanyevidencetosupportyouraccusation?”

“No.ButSamhasbeenembezzlingmoneyfromthefirm.”

“IsMr.Russopressingcharges?”

“Notyet.”

“MissWilliams,”heleanedbackinhischair,“whyareyouhere?”

“IbelieveSamfoundoutthatGinawasstilloperatinganescortbusinessandhefoundoutshewas

pregnantandhadherkilled.”

“ByWilsonGarrett?”

“Yes.”

“Who’sacop?”Hesmirked.

“Yes.”Ifirmlynoddedmyhead.

Heletoutalightchuckle.

“That’sagoodtheory,butyoudon’thaveproof.”

“CouldyoupleasejustdomeafavorandseewhatyoucanfindoutaboutWilsonGarrett?”Iasked.

“HaveadrinkwithmeandI’llconsiderit.”Hesmirked.

Inarrowedmyeyesathimandhissadattempttotakemeout.

“I’msorry,detective,butIdon’thavetimetohaveadrinkwithyou.I’minthemiddleoftryingto

provemyclient’sinnocence.”

“AndI’minthemiddleoftryingtosolvemanycriminalcases,”hespoke.

“Fine.”Igotupfrommychair.“Haveagoodday.”

“Callmeifyouchangeyourmind,”heshoutedasIwalkedoutthedoor.

Itookacabhome,andwhenIarrived,Lucawasn’tthere.Takingoffmyshoes,Ilaydownonthecouch

andshutmyeyes.Icouldn’tthinkanymore.Ineededtogivemymindabreak.Wemadeprogress,butnot

enough.ItwasgoingtobebrutaltryingtogetthejurytoseethatLucadidn’tkillGinaandthatsomeone

framedhim.

Iwasinadeepsleep,butIstillcouldfeelthewarmthoflipspressedagainstmineandahandgently

runningthroughmyhair.Openingmyeyes,IsawLucasittingnexttome,ontheedgeofthecouchwitha

tendersmileonhisface.

“Howlonghaveyoubeenhome?”Iasked.

“Aboutanhour.”

“Whydidn’tyouwakemeassoonasyougotin?”

“Becauseyouobviouslyneedtorest.WhatdidDetectiveJackssay?”

IletoutayawnasIsatup.

“Wehavenoproof,”Ireplied.

“Ifiguredhewouldsaythat.Areyouuptogoingouttodinner?”

“Yeah.Letmechangefirst.”

LucaandIwenttoBellasario,anewItalianplacethatjustopenedaweekagoacoupleofblocksaway

frommyapartment.Asthehostessledustoourbooth,InoticedSamandhiswifesittingafewtables

away.

“Look,it’sSamandhiswife,”Ispoke.

“Shit.Let’sgosomewhereelse.”

“No.Ithinkweshouldatleastsayhi.Afterall,heisyourfriendandpartneratthefirm.”Ismirked.

“Whatareyouupto?”heaskedwithfurrowedbrows.

“Nothing.”IsmiledasIwalkedovertoSam’stableandLucafollowedbehind.

“Ariana,Luca,”Samspokewithsurprise.

“Hi,Sam.”Ismiled.

“Ariana,thisismywife,Jessica.Jessica,thisisArianaWilliams,Luca’sattorney.”

“It’ssonicetomeetyou.”Iheldoutmyhand.

“Andyouaswell.Luca,howareyouholdingup?”sheasked.

“I’mfine,Jessica.Thankyouforasking.”

IwantedtobringupsomethingaboutGina,toseeifIcouldgetareactionoutofSam,butIwastoo

distractedbytheearringsJessicawore.

“Thosearebeautifulearrings.Ilovetheknotandthediamondinthemiddle.Abouthowmanycarats

eacharethey?”

“Thankyou.Twocaratseachside.”Shesmiled.“Theywereagiftfrommyhusband.”

“Hownice.Foryouranniversary?”Ismiled.

“No.Theywerea‘justbecause’gift.”

“Youhaveexcellenttaste,Sam.”

Hedidn’tsayaword.Hejustpursedhislipstogethertoformalightsmile.

“Well,I’mstarvingandLucaandIhavehiscasetodiscuss.Itwasnicetomeetyou,Jessica.”

“Samehere.”

“Sam.Jessica.”Lucanodded.

WesatdownatourtableandLucaorderedusabottleofwine.

“Whythehellwereyoucommentingonherearrings?”heasked.

“Iwaswonderingifyounoticed.”Ismirked.

“Ariana,you’reconfusingme.”

“ThoseweretheexactearringsGinawaswearingwhenshewalkedintothehotel.”

“Howdoyouevenknowthat?”

“Inoticedthemonthesecuritytape.Wewomennoticeotherwomen’sjewelry.”

“Okay.SomaybeheboughtGinaandhiswifethesamepair.”

“You’regoingtohateme,Luca,butwehavetogo.”

“What?Why?”

“WeneedtogotothePeninsulaHotelandviewthattapeonelasttime.”

“OhmyGod,Ariana.Youcan’tbeserious.”Heleanedoverthetable.

“Iam.”Igrabbedmypurse.“Ifyoudon’twanttocome,thendon’t.ButIhavetoseethattapeagain.”

WemadeourwaytothehotelandwhenIgottothesecurityroom,Brucewasjustlockingup.

“Ariana.”Heglaredatme.

“Bruce.”IsmiledasIheldoutmyhandwithadonutwrappedinanapkin.

“Howlongareyougoingtobe?”Hesighed.

“Fiveminutes,tops.”

Heunlockedthedoorandwesteppedinside.

“Bruce,thisisLucaRusso.Luca,thisisBruce.”

“Youmustbetheaccused,”Brucespoke.

“Iam.”

“Whattimedoyouwanttosee?”heasked.

“Threeo’clock,”Ispoke.

“Again?”Hesighed.

Hepulledupthefootageandforwardedtothreep.m.

“Freezeitrightthere,Bruce,”IsaidasIsawGinawalkintothehotel.“Lookatherearrings,Luca.”

“Okay.Wealreadyestablishedshewaswearingthem,”hespokewithahintofirritation.

“Nowfastforwardtoeighto’clock,”ItoldBruce.“Stop!She’sstillwearingtheearrings.Nowfast

forwardtoninefortyandstop.Look,shewentbackuptoherroomwiththeearringson.”

“Ariana,Iamtryingsohardtounderstandwhatthefuckyou’retalkingabout.”

“Therewerenoearringsfoundonherorintheroom.Theonlypossessionsofhersthepolicehaveare

acellphone,adiamondbracelet,herlaptop,andapendantshewaswearingofadiamondcross.”

“Sowherearetheearrings?”

“OnMrs.Butler’sears.”

“I’mworriedaboutyou,Ariana.”

“Luca,listentome.WhatifsheknewaboutGinaandSam?”

“SonowyouthinkshekilledGina,tookherearrings,andframedme?”

“Possibly.”

“You’regraspingatstraws,sweetheart,andI’mworriedaboutyou.”

“Arewedonehere?”Bruceasked.

“Yes.Thankyouagain.”

“Noproblem,Ariana.”Hesmiled.

Weheadedbacktomyapartmentandtheridewassilent.Lucawasn’tsayingmuchandIknewhe

thoughtIwascrazy,butshecouldhavedoneit.ThatwassomethingIwasn’trulingout.

ChapterThirty-Nine

Luca

IopenedmyeyesandlookedoveratAriana,whowassleepingonherstomachwiththesheetpartially

coveringhernakedbody.IsmiledasIsatuponmyelbowandsoftlypressedmylipsagainstherback.

ShestirredandIkissedheragain.Sheletoutasoftmoanassherolledoverandlookedatmewitha

smile.

“Happybirthday,baby.”Ikissedherlips.

“Youremembered.”

“OfcourseIdid.HowcouldIeverforgetthatdayIfoundoutyouliedtomeaboutwhoyouwere.”I

grinned.“Ihavesomethingforyou.”

“Youdo?”ShesatupasIreachedoverthesideofthebedandhandedheralongboxwrappedin

birthdaypaper.

“Ihopeyoulikeit.”

“IknowIwill.”

Sheunwrappedtheboxwithasmileonherfaceandtookoffthelid.

“Ohmygod,Luca.It’sbeautiful!It’safleurdelis.”

“Lookontheback.”

Sheturnedthenecklaceoverandstudiedit,runningherfingerovertheNorthStarandthequote.

“It’sbeautiful,Luca.Thankyousomuch.”Shekissedmylips.

“You’rewelcome.IwantedtotakeyoutoMontaukfortheday,butwiththetrialstartingtomorrow,I

didn’tthinkthatwouldbeagoodidea.”Icuppedherchinwithmyhand.“Assoonasthistrialisoverand

ifI’mfoundnotguilty,I’mgoingtowhiskyouawayforabeautifulandrelaxingvacation.Ipromise.”

“Youwillbefoundnotguilty.”

IgaveherasmallsmileasIkissedheronemoretime.

“Happybirthday,Ariana.”

“Thankyou.”

“NowI’mgoingtomakeyouaspecialbirthdaybreakfast,”IspokeasIgotoutofbed.“Andthen

we’regoingtogobacktobedsoIcangiveyoutherestofyourbirthdaypresentbeforeyoustartyour

day.”Ismirked.

JustasIwasleavingthebedroom,IstoppedinthedoorwaywhenIheardArianaspeak.

“Luca?”

“Yeah.”Iturnedaround.

“Iloveyoutoo.”Shesmiled.

Fuck,sheknewLatin.WhywasInotsurprised?Iwalkedbackovertoherandsatdownontheedgeof

thebed.

“Youknewwhatthatmeant?”

“Yeah.”Shescruncheduphernose.“IstudiedLatinatHarvard.”

“Ofcourseyoudid.”Iranmyhandthroughherhair.“Iloveyouforever.”

“AndIloveyou,”shespokewithtearsinhereyes.

“Fuckbreakfast.I’mgivingyoutherestofyourpresentnow.”Iclimbedunderthesheetandhovered

overher.

****

Ariana

HelovedmeandIwasoncloudnine.I’dalwaysknownhehadfeelingsforme,butIwasn’tsureifit

wasasdeepaslove.ThereweresomanytimesIwantedtotellhimhowmuchIlovedhimtosoothehim

duringthismess,butIwasafraidifhewasn’tatthelovestageyet,ortooscaredtoadmitit,itwould

freakhimout.Buthesaiditfirst.Well,notsomuchverbally,butwiththatpendanthegaveme.WhenI

readthewords,Iloveyouforever,itmademehappy,buthearinghimspeakthemafterItoldhimthatI

lovedhimtoocausedmyeyestoswellwithtears.I’dneverfeltthiswayaboutanyonebeforeandnow,to

findsomeonetolovewholovedmebackinthemidstofallthischaoswasoverwhelming.Thefateofhis

lifebegantomorrowandIwastheonewhohelditinmyhands.Ihadtobeontopofmygameandfully

preparedforwhateverDistrictAttorneyWendyGrahamthrewatme.Butshewastheonewhowasgoing

tobesurprisedafterIgotaconfessiononthestand.Icoulddoit.Ihadtodoit.EvenifIbroketherules

ofthecourtroomorthejudicialsystem,Iwould.LucawaswaytooimportanttomeandIwasn’tgoingto

failhim.Failurewasn’tanoption.I’dgotojailtomakesurethejurysawthathewasinnocent.

TryingtofindouthowSamButlerandWilsonGarrettwereconnectedwasgoingtobeachallenge.I

hadnocluewheretostartandSheilawasn’tcomingupwithanything.MaybetalkingtoJessicaButler

wouldhelpshedsomelight,soIkissedLucagoodbyeandheadedtoherhousewhenIknewSamwasat

theoffice.

“Ariana,whatanicesurprise.”Shesmiledassheopenedthedoor.

“Hello,Jessica.Iwashopingyou’dbehome.IwaswonderingifIcouldtalktoyouaboutthenightof

Sam’sbirthdayparty.”

“Ofcourse.Comeonin.Idon’tknowhowmuchhelpIcanbe.”

Shemotionedformetocomeinsideandledmetothelivingarea.

“Haveaseat.MayIgetyousomethingtodrink?Tea,coffee?”Shelookedatherwatch.“Isupposeit’s

alittletooearlyforwine.”Shesmirked.

“I’mfine.Thankyou.”

Itookaseatonthecream-coloredVictorian-stylecouchwiththecherrywoodtrimandshetookaseat

inthematchingchairacrossfromme.

“Sowhatdidyouwanttoaskme?”Shecrossedherlegsandfoldedherhands.

“Didyouknowthevictimbyanychance?”

Shelookedatmewithahintofconfusion.

“No.HowwouldIknowher?”

“Ididn’tthinkyouwould.Ijusthadtoask.Didyounoticeanythingstrangethatnight?”

“Likewhat?”

“Anyonelurkingaround?Maybesomethingthatcaughtyourattention?”

“No.Ican’tsayIdid.”

“DidyouseeLucaandthevictimsittingupatthebaratanytimeduringthenight?”

“Idid.Isawthemtalking.Ijustcan’tbelieveit.IknowLucawouldneverkillsomeone.”

Igaveherasmallsmile.“DoyouknowamannamedWilsonGarrett?”

“No.Ican’tsayIdo.Whoishe?”

“Justsomeonewhowasatthehotelthatnight.I’mtryingtofindsomeonewhoknewhim.”

“IwishIcouldbeofmorehelp.IloveLuca.He’sdonesomuchforSamandme.”

“HeisagoodmanandIdon’twanttoseehimgotoprisonforacrimehedidn’tcommit.Wouldyou

mindgivingmeatourofyourhouse?Ijustlovehowbeautifullyit’sdecorated.”

“Ofcourse.”Shesmiled.

Ifollowedherupthestairsasshegavemeatour,thelaststopbeingherbedroom.AsIsteppedinside,

IlookedaroundandsmiledwhenIsawalargesilverandcrystaljewelryboxsittingonthedresser.

“Wow,Jessica.Didyoudecorateyourself?”Iasked.

“IwishIcouldtakeallthecredit,butIhadadecoratorcomein.HisnameisXavierandheis

wonderful.”

“I’mintheprocessofbuyinganewapartmentoveronEast72

Streetanditneedssomemajor

redecorating.IwouldlovetogetXavier’snumberandgivehimacalltoseewhathecandoforme.”

“Ohmygosh,you’lllovehim!Ihavehisbusinesscarddownstairs.”

Thiswasmyopportunity.

“WoulditbeokayifIusedyourbathroom?Ihadonetoomanycupsofcoffeethismorning.”

“Ofcourse.Justusethemasterbath.I’llrundownstairsandwriteXavier’snumberdownforyou.”

Shesmiled.

Assoonasshelefttheroom,IwaitedforamomenttomakesureIheardherfootstepsasshewalked

downstairs.LiftingthelidtotheinsanelybeautifulandI’msureveryexpensivejewelrybox,Iglanced

insidefortheearrings.Foundthem.Lookingaroundtheroom,Ipulledatissuefromtheboxthatsaton

oneofthenightstands,grabbedanearringwithit,andslippeditintomypurse.Lettingoutadeepbreath,I

carefullyclosedthelidandwentdownstairs.

“Feelbetter?”JessicasmiledasIwalkedintothekitchen.

“Yes.Thankyou.”

“Here’sXavier’snumber.MakesuretotellhimthatIsentyou.”

Itookthesmallsquarepieceofpaperfromherhand.

“Thankyou,Jessica.Iwill.Ibetterheadout.ThetrialstartstomorrowandIstillhavealotofworkto

do.”

“I’msorryIcouldn’thavebeenmorehelp.”

“It’sokay.I’mjusttryingtospeaktoeveryoneIcanthatwasatthepartythatnight.Ifsomeone

rememberedevenonesmallthing,itcouldhelpLuca’scase.”

Asshewalkedmetothedoorandopenedit,Iturnedandlookedatherbeforesteppingoutside.

“Bytheway,IjusthavetotellyouthatIthinkyouandSammakeanamazingcouple.”

“Whythankyou.”Shegrinned.

“IhopesomedayifIevermeettheloveofmylife,peoplewillthinkthataboutus.Youmusthavedone

somethingreallyspecialforhisbirthday.”

“Iwantedto.”Shepouted.“Buthewastiedupincourtalldaylong.Hedidn’tgethomeuntilitwas

almosttimetoleavefortheparty.”

“Thelifeofalawyercansometimessuck,”Ispoke.

“Well,nextyear,hisbirthdayisonaSaturday,sotherewillbenoexcusesforhimnottobehome.”

“Nope.Noexcuseatall.”Igrinned.Excepthe’llbeinprison.

****

Itooktheearringtothecrimelab,whichwasintheinvestigativedivisiononthefourthfloor.Ihadto

becarefulbecausetheriskofrunningintoDetectiveJackswasfartoogreat.Uponenteringthelab,Iwas

greetedbyamanwhostoodaboutsixfootfourwithaleanbuild,jet-blackhair,andworeblackrimmed

glasses.

“Excuseme.”Iclearedmythroat.AreyouCharlieHenderson?”

“Yes.Iam.CanIhelpyou?”

“MynameisArianaWilliamsandI’mthedefenseattorneyforMr.LucaRusso.”

“Nicetomeetyou.”Hesmiled.“I’dshakeyourhand,butIdon’twanttotaketheglovesoff.I’minthe

middleofsomething.”

“I’msorrytointerruptyou,butIwashopingyoucouldhelpmeout.”

“With?”heaskedashelookedintohismicroscope.

“IhaveanearringandIneedtoseeifyoucanliftsomeprintsoffit.”

“IsthistohelpLuca’scase?”heasked.

“Yes,andI’msorry,butit’skindofarushrequest.”

“Howsoondoyouneedit?”

“Wegototrialtomorrow.”

Hepeeledoffthegloveshewaswearingandtossedtheminthegarbage.

“Youknow,I’veknownLucaforafewyears.He’sagoodlawyerandhe’sbroughtsomethingstome

inthepasttohaveanalyzed.WhenIexaminedtheknifethatkilledthatwoman,Iwasshockedtofindhis

fingerprintsalloverit.”

“Hewassetup.”

“IhopetoGodyou’reright.Whatdoyouneedanalyzed?”heaskedasheputonanewpairofgloves.

Icarefullytookthetissue-wrappedearringfrommypurseandhandedittohim.

“There’sprobablygoingtobeatleastthreesetsofprintsonthatearring.Actually,I’mnotevensureif

you’llbeabletolifttheprints.”

“Iwon’tbeabletoiftheearringhasbeencleaned.ButI’llseewhatIcando.Haveaseat.I’llworkon

itnow.Itshouldn’ttakeverylong.Thelongestpartisrunningtheprintinthesystemtotryandfinda

match.Whoseearringisthisanyway?”

“GinaBurroughs.”

Heglancedoveratmeforamoment.

“Andwhoseprintsareyouhopingareonit?”

“AmannamedSamButler.”

“AsinLuca’spartneratthefirm?”Hisbrowraised.

“Yes.”Isighed.

ChapterForty

Ariana

AsIwassittingthereandwatchedCharlietrytoliftsomeprintsfromtheearring,myphonerangand

Lucawascalling.

“Hello,”Ianswered.

“Imissyou.Whereareyou?”

“AtthecrimelabtalkingtoCharlie.”

“Why?”heslowlyasked.

“I’mhavingGina’searringtestedforfingerprints.”

“Ariana,howdidyougetGina’searring?”

“FromJessicaButler.”Ibitdownonmybottomlip.

“Shejusthandeditovertoyouwithoutanyquestionsasked?”

“No.Notreally.”

“Tellmeyoudidn’tstealit.”

“Maybe.”Icontinuedbitingmybottomlip.

“Ariana!JesusChrist,whathaveyoudone?”

“YourgrandfathertoldmethatImayhavetodothingsthatmaybeunethical.Anddon’tyouevengo

there,Luca.I’mprettysureyou’vedonesomeshadythingsinthepasttohelpyourclients.”

“That’snotthepoint!Whatthehellareyoutryingtoprove?”

“AnythingIcan.I’llcallyoulater.”

“Ariana—”IheardhimyellasIhungup.

“Therearetwoprintsonthisearringandapartialprint.I’llrunthemthroughthesystemnow,butIwill

warnyou,itcouldtakehoursforsomethingtocomeup.”

“Thenletmesaveyousometime,”Ispoke.“OneofthoseprintsbelongstoJessicaButlerandtheother

onebelongstoGinaBurroughs.”

“Ifyou’resosureaboutthat,thenlet’ssee.You’reright,onedoesbelongtoGinaBurroughs.Asforthe

otherprint,it’sadefinitematchtoJessicaButler.Butthispartialprintwilltakesometime.I’llcallyouif

somethingcomesup.”

“Thanks,Charlie.Ioweyou.”Ismiled.

“JustkeepLucaoutofprison.”

“I’mtrying.”

AsIlefttheforensicslabandsteppedontotheelevator,IranintoDetectiveJacks.Shit.

“Ariana,whatareyoudoinghere?”

“Nothing.”

“Soyou’rejusthangingaroundthestationforthehellofit?”

“Yes.”Ismiled.

“Isee.Haveyoureconsideredhavingadrinkwithme?”

“No.”

Theelevatordoorsopenedandwebothsteppedout.

“Suityourself,MissWilliams.Theofferstillstandsatanytime.”

“Evenwhenhellfreezesover?Haveagoodday,detective.”Iheldmyhandupandwavedgoodbyeas

Iwalkedaway.

Iheadedhome,andwhenIwalkedthroughthedoor,Lucawasstandingtherewithtwodozenbeautiful

longstemredrosesinhishand.

“Happybirthday.”Hekissedme.

“Luca,they’rebeautiful!Thankyou.”

“You’rewelcome,sweetheart.”

“You’vedoneenoughformealready,”IspokeasIsettherosesdownandwrappedmyarmsaround

hisneck.

“Icouldneverdoenoughforyou.”Hislipsbrushedagainstmine.“Now,weneedtotalk.”

“Ifthisisabouttheearring,I’mnotdiscussingit.”

“Well,partofitis.Whatyoudidwasriskyandyoucouldhavegottencaught.Butifitwasme,I

probablywouldhavedonethesamething.”Hesmiledashestrokedmycheek.“Anotherthing,Ididsome

checkingonWilsonGarrett.”

“Youdid?”

“He’sbeensuspendedindefinitelyfromthepoliceforce.”

“Why?”

Lucaletgoofmeandwentintothekitchen.

“HewaschargedwithamisdemeanorassaultonRoyceWorthington.Itwasn’tthefirsttimehe’dbeen

chargedwithassaultingsomeone,”hespokeashepoureduseachaglassofwine.

“Wow.Talkaboutabuseofpower.”

“HewassuspendedthreemonthsagoaftertheinvestigationwasfinalizedbyInternalAffairs.Heleft

JerseyandmovedtotheBronx.”

“Stilldoesn’tgiveusaclueastohowheandSamareconnected,”IspokeasIsippedmywine.

“Noitdoesn’t,butIdon’twanttotalkaboutthiscaseorworkanymore.”Hewalkedovertomeand

tooktheglassfrommyhand,placingafirmgriponmyhips.“AllIwanttodoistakeyououtfora

wonderfulbirthdaydinnerandthenspendtherestofthenightmakinglovetoyou.”

“Soundsamazing,butIneedtotalkaboutthiscase.IfIdon’t,I’llgocrazy.AndifIgocrazy,thenyou

won’thaveanattorneydefendingyouincourttomorrow.”Ismiled.

Hesighedashepressedhislipsagainstmyforehead.

“Fine.Wecantalkaboutthecase.”

“Doyoustillloveme?”

“OfcourseIloveyou.”

****

Luca

Weenjoyedanicedinner,talkedaboutmycase,andthencamehomeandmadeloveintotheweehours

ofthenight.Neitheroneofuscouldsleep.Arianatossedandturnedallnight,asdidI.Iwasworried

abouttomorrow.Shedidn’twritedownheropeningstatementandthatbotheredme.ThelastthingI

neededwasherfumblinginfrontofthejury.Ifshedidn’tshowconfidence,thejurywouldn’ttakeher

seriously.

Iwatchedherasshelaidnexttome.Herchestslowlymovedupanddownwitheverybreathshetook.

Theluckiestdayofmylifewasthedayshewalkedintomyfirm.Iwasinlovewithherandtohavetoput

herthroughallofthiskilledme.Shewasmyrock,becausewithouther,Ididn’tknowwhatI’ddo.My

lifewashanginginthebalanceandshewastheonlyonewhocouldsaveme.

Itwastimeforustogetupandgetreadyforcourt.Afeelingofuneasinessresidedinsidemebecause

thiswassomethingIhadnocontrolover.Icouldn’tcontrolthejurybecauseIwasn’targuingmycase,and

Icertainlycouldn’tcontrolAriana.Shehadherwayofdoingthings.WaysItriedtotellherneeded

improving.Butshewouldn’thearanythingIsaid,whichaddedtotheanxietyIfelt.

****

Itookinadeepbreathascourtbegan.Thedistrictattorneygaveheropeningstatement,makingmeout

tobeacold-bloodedkiller,andnowitwasAriana’sturn.Iwatchedasshetookinadeepbreathbefore

standingupbeforethejury.Bradlookedoveratmeandshookhishead.Hestilldidn’tagreeaboutmy

decision,andthefactthatArianalefthimoutofamajorityofthecase,evenwhenItoldherandhimto

bothworktogether.

Iwatchedhermovement,herbodylanguage,andlistenedtohertoneasshegaveheropening

statement.Itwasenduringyetforthright.Shewaspoised,confident,spokefreelywithease,andthere

wasn’tanervousnessabouther.Iwasontrialformurderandtheonlythoughtsrunningthroughmyhead

werehowmanywaysIwasgoingtofuckhertonight.

ChapterForty-One

Ariana

ThepictureWendyGrahampaintedforthejuryinregardstoLucawasnotaprettyone,butIwasn’t

worried.Shecalledherfirstwitness,Randall,thebartenderfromthePeninsulaHotel.Whenshewas

finished,Icrossexaminedhim.Secondwitness,Marta,thecleaningstaffwhofoundGinaBurroughs’

body.ThirdwitnessfortheprosecutionwasDetectiveJacks.Iwasgoingtohaveafielddaycross

examininghim.

“DetectiveJacks,coulditbepossiblethatMr.Russoisbeingframed?”

“No,”hespoke.

IglaredathimasIsteppedclosertothewitnessstand.

“Don’tforgetyou’reunderoath.”

“Iknow.”Hespokewithacockyattitude.

“DoyouremembertheVictorRothcase?”Iasked.

Henarrowedhiseyeatmeandthenclearedhisthroat.

“Yes.”

“Andwhatwastheoutcomeofthatcase?”Iasked.

“VictorRothwassetupbyhisbrother.”

Myeyesfixatedonthejury.

“SoeventhoughthegunthatwasfiredthatshotMalcomWhitehadVictorRoth’sfingerprintsallover

itandgunpowderresiduewasfoundonhishands,itwaslaterfoundthathewasinnocentbecauseyou

refusedtolookintoanyotherpossiblesuspects,eventhoughcertainevidencewasobtainedandbrought

toyourattention?”

Heswallowedhard.

“Yes.”

“SoI’llaskyouonelasttime,DetectiveJacks.CoulditbepossiblethatMr.Russowassetup?”

Helookedaroundthecourtroomandrubbedthebackofhisneckbeforeanswering.

“It’spossible.”Heglaredatme.

“Wasotherevidenceinthiscasebroughttoyourattentionofthepossibilitythatsomeoneelsehada

motivetokillGinaBurroughs?”

“Objection,yourHonor,”Wendyspoke.

“Overruled.I’dliketohearwhatDetectiveJackshastosay.”

“Nothingsubstantial,”heanswered.

“Isn’tittruethatIcametoyouandaskedforyourhelpininvestigatinganotherpersonofinterestwho

wasconnectedtoGinaBurroughsandyourefused?”

“Objection,yourHonor.She’sbadgeringthewitness!”Wendyexclaimed.

“Overruled.Answerthequestion,detective.”

Hesatthereandslowlyshookhisheadashiseyesstayedlockedonmine.

“Yes.”

“IsittruethatyourefusedtolookintoitbecauseIwouldn’thaveadrinkwithyou?”Mybrowraised.

“Andpleaserememberyou’reunderoath.”IwalkedovertothetablewhereLucaandBradsatand

pickedupmyphone,holdingitupinfrontofhimindicatingthatIhadrecordedourconversation.

“Yes,”hespokethroughgrittedteeth.

“Nofurtherquestions,yourHonor.”Ismiled.

ItookaseatnexttoLuca,whohadaburningrageinhiseyes.Ididn’ttellhimaboutDetectiveJacks

becauseIknewitwouldpisshimoffandthatwasthelastthingIneeded.Itwastimeforalunchbreak

andweweretomeetbackincourtintwohours.

“Whydidn’tyoutellmethatheaskedyoutomeethimforadrink?”heangrilyspoke.

“Forthisveryreason,Luca.Lookatyou.You’reangry.”

“DamnrightIam!”Hepacedaroundthelobby.“Howdarehe!”

“Ididn’tneedyousayingsomethingtohimandriskhimoranyoneelsefindingoutaboutus.”

“Youstillshouldhavetoldme,Ariana.”

“Ididwhatwasinthebestinterestofmyclient.Nowdropit!”

“Iwanttoheartherecording,”hespoke.

“Thereisnorecording.”Islylysmiled.

Francowheeledhischairovertous,placedhishandonLuca’sback,andlookedatme.

“You’redoingagreatjob,Ariana.Iwaswatchingtheexpressionsonthejury’sfacesafteryoucross-

examinedthatdetective.Theseedofdoubthasbeenplanted.”

“Good.Nowlet’sgograbsomelunch.I’mstarving.”

Istruggledwiththedecisiontodosomethingforthepastcoupleofdays.ItwassomethingIdidn’t

mentiontoLucabecauseIknewhe’dtellmenotto.Itwasalongshot,butaswewereeatinglunch,I

decideditwastherightthingtodo.

“Excusemeforamoment.Ineedtousetherestroom,”IspokeasIwipedmymouthwithanapkinand

gotupfromthetable.

Uponenteringthebathroom,IpulledoutmyphoneanddialedOlivia.

“Hey,how’sitgoing?”sheasked.

“It’sgoingfine.Ineedyoutodomeafavor.”

“What?”

“FileasubpoenaforWilsonGarrett.I’mcallinghimasawitness.”

“Areyousurethat’sagoodidea?”

“I’msure.Withanyluck,hewon’tevenmakeittothewitnessstand,butIwanthiminthatcourtroom.”

“Okay.I’monit.”

Afterlunch,courtresumedandtheprosecutioncalledCharlieHenderson,theforensiclabspecialist.

OnceWendyfinishedherquestioning,Icross-examinedhimandafewotherwitnessestheprosecution

drummedup.IpurposelytookmytimeanddrewoutmylineofquestioningsoSamcouldn’tbecalled

untiltomorrow.IneededWilsonGarrettinthatcourtroomsoSamcouldseehim.

“Courtisadjournedandwillresumetomorrowmorningatnineo’clock.MissWilliams,MissGraham,

Ineedtoseeyouinmychambers,”JudgeKingsleyspoke.

IplacedmyhandonLuca’sarm.

“Gohome.I’llmeetyouthere.”

“Becareful,Ariana.IknewwhatyouweredoingandsodidJudgeKingsley.”

“Don’tworryaboutme.I’llseeyousoon.”

WendyandIsteppedintoJudgeKingsley’schambersandtookaseatacrossfromhim.

“MissWilliamsdeliberatelytookhertimecrossexaminingthosewitnessestostallthecourt,”Wendy

spoke.

“Don’tberidiculous.”

“MissWilliams,”JudgeKingsleyspoke.“Inoticedthataswell,andIwanttomakeitverycleartoyou

thatyouwillnotwastethiscourt’stimenormine.Therewasonemorewitnesstobecalledbeforecourt

adjourned,andwecouldn’tgettothatwitnessbecauseofyourshenanigansinmycourtroom.Nowwe’ll

bebehindtomorrowaswellandthatpissesmeoff.”

“I’msorry,yourHonor.Iwasonlytryingtobeasthoroughaspossible.I’malittlebitnervous.Thisis

myfirstmurdercaseandmyclient’slifedependsonmyabilitytoprovehe’sinnocent.”

“No.You’reuptosomething.JustlikeMr.RussowasalwaysuptosomethingandIwon’tstandforit.

Considerthisyourwarning.Doyouunderstand?”

“Yes.Iapologize,yourHonor.”

WhenIarrivedhome,IfoundLucasittingonthecouchwithhislaptop.Kickingoffmyshoes,Isethis

laptoptothesideandclimbedonhislap.Iwrappedmyarmsaroundhisneckandkissedhislips,

somethingI’dbeendyingtodoallday.

“Didyougetscolded?”Hesmirked.

“Yep.I’vebeenwarned.”

“Samwasthelastwitnesstobecalledforthedayandyoudidn’twanthimuponthatstandyet.Why?”

“BecauseIfelttherewasn’tenoughtimetocrossexamhim.Icouldn’tverywelllethimleavethat

courtroomwiththenotionthatIknowhekilledGinaBurroughs.”

“You’rereallysmart.Didyouknowthat?”Hesoftlybrushedhislipsagainstmine.

“Yes.Iknow.”Ismiled.

“Whatmakesyouthinkhe’sgoingtoconfess?”

“He’sgoingtohavenochoiceonceIgetfinishedwithhim.”

“Becareful,Ariana.Wendywilldoeverythingshecantostopyourquestioning.Youbetterbe

prepared.”

“Iwillbe.I’mgoingtoworkonittonight.Playouteverypossiblescenario.”

“YoucandothatafterIfuckyouandwehavedinner.I’llhelpyou.”

“Sowehavetofuckfirst?”Igrinned.

“Yes.Itwasastrugglekeepingmycockundercontrolwhilewatchingyouinthatcourtroomtoday.”

Hisfingersbeganunbuttoningmyblouse.

ChapterForty-Two

Ariana

“MissWilliams,yourturn,”JudgeKingsleyspoke.

“Thankyou,yourHonor,”IsaidasIstoodupandapproachedSam,whowasonthewitnessstand.I

lookedbehindmetomakesureMrs.Butlerwasseatedinthecourtroom.

“Goodmorning,Mr.Butler.”Ismiled.

“Goodmorning.”

“You’vebeenapartneratRusso,Greggs,&Butlerforhowmanyyears?”

“Abouttwoyears.Hisgrandfathermademeapartnerrightbeforehehadhisstroke.ButI’veworked

thereforeighteenyears.”

“AndhowlonghaveyouknownLucaRussopersonally?”

“Sixyears.Webecamefriendswhenhisgrandfatherbroughthimonafterlawschool.”

“Wouldyousayhewasagoodfriendtoyou?”

“Yeah.Hewas.”

“Hewouldthrowyouandyourwifeanniversaryparties,birthdayparties,andevenhaddinneratyour

house.Correct?”

“Yes.”

ItookinadeepbreathbeforeIcontinuedquestioninghim.

“Youtoldthepolicethatyoudidn’tknowthevictim,GinaBurroughs.Correct?”

“No.Ididnotknowher.”

“SoyounevermetherwhenMr.RussowasthedefenseattorneyforMissBurroughsinamisdemeanor

caseayearago?”

“No,”hespokewithconfidence.

WalkingovertothelargescreenTVthatsatoverbythejurybox,Ipickeduptheremoteandturnedit

on,displayingthesecurityfootagefromthehotel.

“ThisisGinaBurroughsatapproximatelythreethirtyonthedayofhermurder.Shewasmakinga

phonecall.”

“Objection,yourHonor,”Wendyspoke.“WhereisMissWilliamsgoingwiththis?”

“YourHonor,IhavephonerecordsfromMissBurroughs’phonestatingthatthenumbershedialed

whilestandinginthatlobbybelongedtoMr.Butler.”

JudgeKingsleynarrowedhiseyeatSamandthenbackatme.

“Objectionoverruled.”

IturnedbacktoSam,whowasfidgetinginhisseat.

“That’simpossible,”hespoke.“I’veneverspokentothatwoman.”

“Canyouexplainwhythereweremonthlydepositsoftwenty-fivethousanddollarsmadefromawired

accountinyournametoMissBurroughs’bankaccount?Ifyoudidn’tknowher,whywereyougivingher

money?”

ThecourtroomdoorsopenedandWilsonGarrettsteppedinside.WhenIturnedbacktoSam,Inoticed

apalelookovertookhisfaceandhebeganlooseninghistie.

“Doyouneedsomewater,Mr.Butler?”

“Yes,”hespokewithashakyvoice.

ThebailiffhandedhimaglassofwaterandIresumedmyquestioning.

“I’llaskyouagain,Mr.Butler,whywereyoudepositingmoneyintotheaccountofawomanthatyou

nevermet?”

“Objection,yourHonor!”Wendystoodupandspoke.

“Overruled.Answerthequestion,Mr.Butler.”

“I—Ipleadthefifth,yourHonor.”

Isighed.“Didyouknowthatthevictimwastwelveweekspregnant?”

Heglaredatmewithrageinhiseyes.

“Ipleadthefifth.”

IneededtogethimtoconfessandIneededtodoitnow.Walkingovertothestand,Ipointedmyfinger

athim.

“Youpaidherthemoneytoquittheagencysoyoucouldkeepherasyourmistress.Youcouldn’tstand

thethoughtofherseeingothermenbecauseyoufellinlovewithher.”

“OBJECTION,YOURHONOR!”

“Sustained,”hespoke.

“Butshedidn’tstopseeingothermen.Didshe?Sheusedyouforyourmoneyandstillranherbusiness

ontheside,keepingitasecretfromyou.Sheplayedyou,Mr.Butler,andyoudidn’tlikeit.”

“Objection,yourHonor!MissWilliamsisleadingthewitnessandthisquestioningiswayoutofline!”

“Sustained.MissWilliams,thisisyourlastwarning.I’llholdyouincontemptifIhaveto,”Judge

Kingsleyshouted.

“Itpissedyouoffsobadlythatyoukilledherandyourunbornchild!”Ipointedtohim.

“IDIDN’TKILLHER!”hestoodupandshouted.“HEDID!”SampointedtoWilsonGarrett.

Thejurorsgaspedandthemayheminthecourtroomescalated.JudgeKingsleypoundedhisgavel

severaltimes,demandingorder.

“Soyou’resayingMr.GarrettwastheonewhokilledGinaBurroughs?”Ispoke.

“Yes.Hekilledher.I’msorry,Luca,”Samspokeashestaredathim.

WilsonGarrettgotupandattemptedtoleavethecourtroombutwasimmediatelystoppedbythepolice

officersinside.

“Youweretheonewhowantedherdead!”heshouted.“Itwasallyouridea!”

“AnditwasyourideatoframeLuca!”Samshouted.

Iswallowedhard,closedmyeyes,andletoutasighofrelief.

“YourHonor,I’maskingthatallchargesagainstmyclientbedismissed.”

“MissGraham,whatdoesthestatesay?”

“ThestatehasnochoicebuttodismissallchargesagainstMr.Russo.”

“Casedismissed.Mr.Russo,you’refreetogo.Thiscourtsincerelyapologizesforanyinconvenience

wemayhavecausedyou.”

“Thankyou,yourHonor,”Lucacalmlyspoke.

Walkingbackovertothetable,Ihuggedhimtight.

“Counsel,Iwanttoseebothofyouinmychambersnow!”JudgeKingsleycommanded.

Ididn’twanttoletLucago.Icouldn’tlethimgo.ItwasoverandallIwantedtodowascry.

“Iloveyousomuch,”hewhisperedinmyear.

“Iloveyoutoo.IhavetogotalktoJudgeKingsley.I’llmeetyouinthelobby.”

“Hemayholdyouincontempt.Sobeprepared,”hespoke.

“Idon’tcare.Aslongasyou’refree;that’sallthatmatters.”

Iletgoofhimandheadedintothejudge’schambers,whereWendyGrahamwasalreadysitting.

“Youractionsinmycourtroomwereinexcusable,MissWilliams.”

“I’msorry,yourHonor.”

“Youknewexactlywhatyouweredoing,andIhaveafeelingthatI’mgoingtobeseeingalotofyou.

So,I’mgoingtoletyouoffwithawarning.Thisistheoneandonlytimeit’sgoingtohappen.Ifyouever

causethatkindofchaosinmycourtroomagain,Iwillhaveyouthrowninjail.Understand,younglady?”

“Yes,yourHonor.Ifullyunderstand.”

Hesatthereandshookhisheadindismay.

“ItpleasesmethatyouprovedMr.Russowasn’ttheonewhomurderedthatwoman.And,sohelpme

God,ifIeverseethetwoofyouinmycourtroomonopposingsides,Iwillremovemyselffromthecase

andyouwillbeassignedanotherjudge.”

Iswallowedhard.“Yes,yourHonor.”

“MissGraham,youbettergoandgetchargesfiledonthosetwowhoconfessedtomurderingMiss

Burroughs.”

“We’realreadyworkingonit,yourHonor.”

“Nowgetoutofmychambers.”Hesighed.

AsWendyandIwerewalkingoutofhischambers,sheplacedherhandonmyarm.

“Goodworkinthere,Ariana.”Shesmiled.“Youwon’tbedefendingMr.Butler,willyou?”

“No.Infact,I’llgiveyoueverythingyouneedtoputhimawayforalongtime.Lucawillalsobe

prosecutinghimforembezzlement.”

“Ah.Embezzlementandmurder.Nice.”Shegrinned.“Haveagoodday.”Shewalkedaway.

Icouldn’texplainthefeelingthatresidedinsideme.Itwasexcitementandreliefallmixedtogether.I

neededtocomposemyselfbecausethetearswerestartingtoform.IsteppedintothelobbyandsawLuca

talkingwithhisgrandfather,Brad,andSheila.

“Comehere,younglady.”Francosmiledasheheldouthisarms.“Thankyouforeverything.You’rea

damngoodlawyerandthisisonlythestartforyou.Congratulations.”

“Thankyou,Franco.”Ikissedhischeek.

“I’msorry,Ariana,”Bradspokeashewalkedovertome.

“Forwhat?”

“Fordoubtingyou.Idon’tthinkIcouldhavepulleditoff.IcanseewhyLucalovesyousomuch.”He

smiled.

“Hedoesn’t.”

“Comeon.Yeshedoes.Hejusttoldme,butIalreadyknew.Iwasjustafraidhisfeelingsforyou

wouldgetinthewayofthiscase.Ididn’tmeantobesuchadick.”

Placingmyhandonhischest,Ispoke,“You’renotadick,Brad,andIunderstandwhyyoufeltIwas

thewrongpersontodefendhim.IfIwereinyourshoes,Iwouldhavethoughtthesamething.”

“Areyoureadytogo?”Lucaaskedasheputhisarmaroundme.

“Iam.Let’sgohome.”

Assoonaswesteppedoutsidethecourthousedoors,wewerebombardedbyreporters.Lucagavea

statementfirst,thenIfollowed.AswewerewalkingtotheBentley,Iheardsomeonecallmyname.

“MissWilliams?”

IturnedaroundandsawMr.Yorkstandingthere.

“Onyourknees,Mr.York.”Ismiled.

“Ohcomeon.Seriously?”

MysmilegrewwideasLucastoodtherelaughing.

“Fine.Youdon’thavetogetdownonyourknees.”

“I’msorryforwhatIsaid.Mr.Russomadetherightdecision.You’reareallygoodlawyerandI

apologize.”

“Apologyaccepted.Nowifyou’llexcuseus,Mr.RussoandIhavesomecelebratingtodo.”

ChapterForty-Three

Luca

PuttingeverythingbehinduswaseasytodooncewegotoutofNewYorkandflewtoBarbadosfora

muchneededvacation.BeforeArianaandIleft,westoodontheothersideoftheglassofthe

interrogationroomandlistenedtoeverythingWilsonGarrettandSamButlerconfessedto.Thecalltothe

hotelthatwasmadefrommyofficetoreservearoomwasmadebyWilsonwhenheposedasoneofthe

mailcarriersatthefirmonedaywhenheknewIwasincourt.SamwastheonewhoslippedRohypnol

intomydrinkwhenIbentdowntopickupGina’spursewithoutherevenknowing.AfterIpassedoutin

theroom,WilsonGarrettmurderedherandtookmyhand,placingitaroundtheknife,leavingimprintsof

myfingerprintsalloverit.Thenheremovedmyshirt,staineditwithherblood,andshovedmeintoa

laundrybinandwheeledmeacoupledoorsdowntotheotherroom.HeneededtomakesureIwasoutfor

severalhours,sohepouredahalfofbottleofscotchdownmythroatandthendumpedtherestofitout,

makingitlooklikeIdrankthewholething.Allbecausehewantedrevengeformurderinghispartner

whomhelookeduptoasafatherandforgettingoffthemanwhorapedhissister.

Ariana’stheorywasright.SamdidagreetopayGinaonamonthlybasistobehismistress.He

convincedhertoquittheescortagencyandseenooneelsebuthim.Hetriedtocontrolher,buthergreed

formoneywasstrongerthantheholdSamhadonher.Shestartedherownprivateescortbusinessand

continuedseeingthemensheregularlysawfromtheescortagencywhereshepreviouslyworked.When

Samfoundout,hegavehertheoptiontostoporelsehewouldstopmakingmonthlydepositsintoher

account.Ginathreatenedtogotohiswifeandtellhereverything,includinghowhewasembezzling

moneyfromthefirmandthebaby.

ItwasnoaccidentthatSamandWilsonmet.Wilsonhadbeenkeepingtabsonthefirm,plottinghis

revengeonme.WhenhesawSamwalkintoabaronenightafterafightwithGina,hefollowedhim

insideandtookaseatnexttohim.AfterSamhadonetoomanydrinks,hetoldWilsoneverythingthatwas

goingon.Wilsonofferedhimawayout,althoughSamhadnoideawhohereallywas.Beingadesperate

manwiththeriskofhiswifefindingouteverything,hetookWilsonuponhisoffertokillGina,butfora

price:Ahundredthousanddollarsandagreeingtoframeme.Itwasthatnighttheybeganplottingher

murder.

WilsontoldhimthatheneededtomakethingsrightwithGinaandtellherthathefinallyacceptedthe

factthatshewasgoingtokeepherbusiness.SamhadGinagetaroomatthehotelthatnightsinceitwas

hisbirthdayandI’dbethere.Hetoldheritwouldbeagoodideatohavemecomeuptoherroomtotalk

aboutherbusinesssinceIwasherattorneybecauseshe’dwanttobeprotectedatallcostsifsomething

happenedwithoneofherclients.Hehadhercomedowntothebarattenthirty.Thatway,shecould

attendhispartyandnoonewouldsuspectathing.Healsotoldhertobookaspaappointmentforsixa.m.

thenextmorningandhe’dmeetherthereforamassageandthentheywouldgobacktotheroomafterand

makelovebeforehehadtogototheoffice.WilsonGarretthadafemalefriendofhisimpersonateGina

andcallthehoteltomakesuretheysentsomeoneupatsixa.m.tocleantheroom.

“Here’stoabeautifulvacationwithabeautifulwoman.”Ismiled,holdingupmyglassofscotchaswe

weresittinginloungechairsbythehotelpool.

“Tous,”shespokeassheclankedherglassagainstmine.

“There’ssomethingIwanttotalktoyouabout,Ariana.”

“Okay.Thissoundsserious.”Shegrinned.

“Itis.NowthatSamnolongerworksformeandisgoingtobeputawayforaverylongtime,I’m

goingtohavetochangethenameofthefirm.”

“Yeah.Iguessyouwouldhavetodothat.RussoandGreggsstillsoundsgood.”

“IwasthinkingaboutRusso,Greggs,&Williams.”Ismirked.

“Areyouserious,Luca?You’reofferingmeapartnershipatthefirm?”

“Iam.Youdeserveit.”

“You’renotjustdoingthisbecauseI’myourgirlfriend,areyou?”Shenarrowedhereye.

“No.You’readamngoodlawyerandyouclearedmeofamurdercharge.Thatrightthereis

partnershipworthy,don’tyouthink?”Iwinked.

Shesetdownherdrinkandstraddledmeontheloungechair,wrappingherarmsaroundmyneck.

Instantly,mycockstartedtogethard.

“Idon’tknowwhattosay.”

“Sayyes.NobodyturnsdownapartnershipatoneofthetoplawfirmsinNewYorkCity.”

“Whatabouttheotherassociates?”

“Iftheydon’tlikeit,theycanfindjobselsewhere.Idon’tcare.TheonlythingIcareaboutishaving

youasapartneratmyfirm.”Ibrushedmylipsagainsthers.

“Isthatall?”

“No.”Ismiled.“Actually,thereissomethingelse.Whenwegethome,Iwouldlikeyoutomovein

withme.”Ipushedherhairbehindherear.“Iwanttosleepnexttoyoueverynight,andIwanttowakeup

toyoueverymorning.Iwanttoshowerwithyou,makecoffeeforyou,andhavebreakfasttogether.Iwant

toseeyouwalkingaroundinnothingbutyourpanties.”Ismirked.“AndIwantyourclotheshangingonthe

othersideofmyclosetsowhenyou’renothomeandIam,Iknowyouwillbesoon.Iloveyou,Ariana,

andI’veneverwantedanythingmoreinmylife.”

“Iloveyoutoo,Luca.”Sheplacedherhandonmycheekastearsfilledhereyes.“Iacceptyouroffer

ofpartnershipatthefirmandIwouldlovetomoveinwithyou.”Shesmiled.

Ipulledherintoanembrace.

“Thankyou,baby.Youhavenoideahowhappyyou’vemademe.”

“YesIdobecauseIfeelthesameway.MylifewassuchamessbeforeImetyou.Thensuddenly,

everythingstartedtofallbackintoplace.”

“Ithinkweneedtogobackuptotheroomnow.”IsmiledasIkissedherlips.

****

OneMonthLater

AfterwereturnedfromBarbados,ImadeArianaapartneratthefirmandmovedherthingsfromher

apartmenttomine.Sinceshewasinalease,Idecidedtobuyherapartmentfromtheowner,withanoffer

hecouldn’trefuse,andrenttheplaceoutmyself.Fullyfurnished,ofcourse,sincetherewasnowayIwas

movingoutallthatfurniture.Thingsatthefirmreturnedtonormal.TheclientswholeftusafterIhadbeen

arrestedapologizedandbeggedformetotakethemonagain.NewclientswerecominginandAriana

wasinhighdemand.IhadneverbeensoproudofanyoneinmylifeasIwasofher.Buttheonethingthat

stillremainedaconstantburdentoherwastheissuewithherfamily.Nomatterhowhardshetriedto

forgetit,shecouldn’t.Itwasastruggleshecouldn’tovercome.

Onenight,whilewewerelyinginbedwithmyarmwrappedsecurelyaroundherandherheadonmy

chest,Idecideditwastimetohaveatalkwithher.

“Ithinkit’stimeyoutalktoyourfamily,”Ispoke.

“What?”Sheliftedherheadandlookedatme.“Whywouldyousaythat?”

“Because,Ariana,youwillneverhavepeaceinyourlifeifyoudon’t.”

“Ihavepeaceinmylife,Luca.IhaveawonderfuljobIlove,abeautifulhome,friends,andyou.”She

smiled.

“Theliestillhauntsyou.”

“Noitdoesn’t.Whatmyfamilydidisunforgivable.MyGod,whyareyoutakingtheirside?”she

snappedassheclimbedoutofbedandslippedonherpantiesandnightshirt.

“I’mnottakinganyone’sside.You’rerestlessatnightandsometimesyoucalloutyourmother’sname.”

“Idonot!”shespokewitharaisedvoice.

“Yesyoudo,sweetheart.Ithinkit’stimetoputallthistorestandspeaktothem.”

“Well,Idon’tcarewhatyouthink.”Shestormedoutofthebedroomandintothekitchen.

Jumpingoutofbed,Ifollowedher.Icouldsenseahugefightcomingon,butIdidn’tcare.

“YoudocarewhatIthink.AllI’msayingisthatyouneedtositdownandtalkwiththemandsettle

things.I’mnotsayingyouhavetotalkeverydayafterorevenvisitifyoudon’twantto.Butthiscan’tgo

on.Youdeservetobehappyandcontent.”

“Iamhappyandcontent,”shespokeassherestedherhandsonthekitchencounter.

“Apartofyouishappyandtheotherissadandlost.Ican’tevencountthenumberoftimesyoujust

zoneout,andIknowit’sbecausewhattheydidtoyouisheavilyweighingonyourmind.Moresonow

thatthetrialisover.”

“That’snottrue.”Shelookeddown.

Walkingovertoher,Iplacedmyhandonhershoulderandsheshookherheadandwalkedawayfrom

me.

“Don’t,Luca.Thingsaresogood.Don’truinit.Justletmehandlethingsmyownway.WhatIneed

fromyouistorespectthedecisionsImakeregardingmyfamily.”

Iletoutalongsigh.Wecouldbeatthisallnightandnothingwouldchangehermind.

“Okay,baby.I’msorryIbroughtitup.”Iwrappedmyarmsaroundherfrombehindandkissedtheside

ofherhead.“Youdowhatyouhavetodo.Iwon’tmentionitagain.TheonlyreasonIdidisbecauseIhate

seeingyouinsomuchpain.Yourhappinessisallthatmatterstome.”

Sheturnedaroundinmyarmsandlaidherheadonmychest.

“Iamhappy,Luca.Youmakemeincrediblyhappy.HappierthanI’veeverbeeninmylife.AllIwant

todoisbuildalifewithyouandonlyyou.Idon’tcareaboutanyoneelse.IhaveacareerandamanI

loveandthat’sallIneed.”

ChapterForty-Four

TwoWeeksLater

Ariana

Iwassittingatmydesk,staringatthebeautifulrosesLucagaveme,whenhesteppedintomyoffice.

“Hey,Iwasjustthinkingaboutyou.”Ismiled.

“IjustreceivedacallfromJulia.Sheaskedmetogetholdofyousinceshecouldn’t.Yourfather,or

shouldIsaygrandfather,hadamassiveheartattack,”hespokewithsadness.

Myheartstartedpoundingoutofmychestastearsformedinmyeyes.

“What?Ishe—”

“He’sinCCUatBostonGeneral.IhaveJefferywaitingdownstairstotakeushometopackabagandI

haveaplaneonstandby.Justsaytheword.”

Islowlypushedmyselfupfrommychairandswallowedhard.

“Willyoucomewithme?”Isoftlyspoke.

“Ialreadyplannedonit.”

Swallowingthehardlumpthatformedinmythroat,IwalkedovertoLucaandtookholdofhisarm.

AfterJefferydroveushomeandwepackedabag,weheadedtotheairportwhereLucahadaplaneready

andwaitingtotakeustoBoston.Iwasquietontheplane,thinkingaboutthemanwhoraisedmeashis

own,andIprayedtoGodthathewasgoingtobeokay.

LucahadarrangedforacarservicetopickusupfromtheairportandtakeusstraighttoBoston

General.ThethoughtofseeingmyfamilyterrifiedmeandLucaknewit.Heheldmeontheplaneandin

thecar,makingmefeelsafe.

“Thankyouforcomingwithme,”Ispokeasmyheadlayonhisshoulder.

“Youdon’thavetothankme.Iwascomingwhetheryouwantedmetoornot.Iknowhowdifficultthis

isgoingtobeforyou.But,”hekissedmyhead,“itdoesn’thavetobe.”

“Youjustdon’tunderstand,”Ispoke.

“Idounderstand.Morethanyouthink.Butthisisatimewhenallfamilyneedstocometogether,

regardlessofwhatanyonedid.Aman’slifeisontheline,sweetheart.Amanwhoyou’resomadatbut

stilllovewithallyourheart.”

Tearsfellfrommyeyes.Lucawasright.Ididlovehim,andifanythingweretohappentohim,Ididn’t

thinkIwouldeverbeabletoforgivemyself.Lucareachedover,grabbedatissue,andhandedittome.

“Dryyoureyes.I’mhereforyoueverystepoftheway,sweetheart.Youdon’thavetodothisalone.”

Idabbedmyeyeswiththetissue,liftedmyhead,andkissedhischeek.

“Iloveyou,”Isoftlyspoke.

“Iloveyoutoo.”

WearrivedatthehospitalandLucahelpedmefromthecar,refusingtoletgoofmyhand.Whenwe

tooktheelevatoruptotheCCU,IaskedthenursebehindthedeskwhichroomJohnWilliamswasin.

“Areyoufamily?”sheasked.

IlookedatLucaforamomentandthenbackatthenurse.

“I’mhisdaughter,ArianaWilliams.”

“He’sinroom410,butIthinkyourmotherisintherewithhimnow.He’sonlyallowedtwovisitors,

soyourfriendwillhavetowaitinthewaitingroom.”

Lucaclaspedmyshouldersandkissedmyforehead.

“Youcandothis.I’llbeinthewaitingroomifyouneedme.”

****

Luca

IwalkedintothewaitingroomandsawJuliasittingtherenexttosomeoneIpresumedwasherhusband

andAriana’sfather.

“Luca,”Juliaspokeasshegotupfromherchair.

“Julia.”Inodded.“I’msorryaboutyourfather.”

“Thankyou.IsArianahere?”

“Yes.She’sinwithhimnow.”

“YoumustbeLucaRusso.I’mTomBrooks,Ariana’s—”

“Father.Iknow,”IspokeasIshookhishand.

“Haveaseat,”Juliaspokeasshesatdownandpattedthechairnexttohers.“Howisshe?”sheasked.

“Scared,”Ireplied.

“I’mhappythatthingsworkedoutforyouwithyourtrial.”

“Youcanthankyourdaughterforthat.She’sanincrediblewomanandlawyer.Infact,Imadehera

partneratthefirm.”

“Wow.Sinceyou’rehere,Itakeitthetwoofyouare—”

“Inarelationship?Yes,weare.IloveArianaverymuch.ShemeanseverythingtomeandIwilldo

whateverIhavetoinordertoprotecther.”

“Doesthatincludekeepingherawayfromus?”Tomasked.

“That’snotmydecisiontomake.It’sAriana’s,andIwillstandbywhatevershedecides.”

“Thankyou,Luca,fortakingcareofher.”Juliaplacedherhandonmyarm.

****

Ariana

Islowlywalkedinsidetheroomandmygrandmotherliftedherheadfrommygrandfather’sarmand

lookedatme.

“Ariana,mysweetgirl.”Shebegantocry.

Shit.Itookinadeepbreathandslowlywalkedovertoher.

“I’mhereforhim,”IspokeasIlookedatmygrandfatherlyinginahospitalbed,hookeduptoseveral

machines.“Ican’tdealwithanythingelserightnow.”

“Iunderstand.Thankyouforcoming.He’llbesohappytoseeyouwhenhewakesup.We’veallbeen

soworriedaboutyou.”

“I’mfine,sothere’snoneedtoworry.”

“He’sgoingtobeoutforawhile.Whydon’twegograbacupofcoffee?”

“Yougo.Ifyoudon’tmind,Iwouldliketobealonewithhimforawhile.”

“Sure.”Shegaveasmallsmile.“It’sgoodtohaveyouhome,Ari,”shespokeasshelefttheroom.

Takingaseatinthechairalongsidehisbed,Iplacedmyhandonhisandstaredathim.

“Areyouokay?”Lucaaskedashewalkedintotheroomwithhishandstuckedinhispockets.

“Heusedtotakemetotheparkallthetimeandwe’dflykitestogether.Justmeandhim.Hecalledit

our‘daddy-daughterdates.’AsIgrewolderandflyingkiteswasn’timportantanymore,he’dtakemeto

themarinaandwe’dsitonthedockwithourfeetinthewater,watchingtheboatsgoby.We’dtalkfor

hours.Justthetwoofus.HetoldmethatIcouldbeanythingIwantedtoandwhateverobstaclesIfacedin

life,Iwasstrongenoughtoovercomethem.NowthatIthinkbackonthoseconversations,Ithinkhe

wantedtotellmethetruth,oratleastpreparemeforit.”

Lucawalkedovertomeandclaspedmyshouldersfrombehind,softlymassagingthemwithhis

magicalfingers.

“Helovesyou,Ariana.Yourfamilyisfightingtokeepyouandyou’refightingtoletgo.Asmuchas

youwanttohatethemforwhattheydid,youcan’t,andthesooneryouacceptthat,thesooneryoucanfind

thepeaceyou’researchingfor.”

Mygrandfatheropenedhiseyesandslowlyturnedhisheadandlookedatme.

“Pumpkin.”Averysmallsmilecrossedhislips.“Youdidn’thavetocome,”hespokeinasoft

whisper.“Iwouldn’thaveblamedyou.”

“YesIdid.”Tearsfilledmyeyes.

“I’llleavethetwoofyoualone,”Lucasaidashekissedthetopofmyheadandwalkedoutofthe

room.

“Who’sthat?”

“Theloveofmylife.”Ismiledasatearfelldownmycheek.

ChapterForty-Five

Ariana

Mygrandfatherhadquadruplebypasssurgeryandwasonhiswaytomakingafullrecovery.Itwasa

fewdaysbeforeChristmasandthedoctorgavehimclearancetocometoNewYorkfortheholidays.I

insistedwespenditbackinBoston,butmyfamilysaidtheywantedtohaveChristmasNewYorkstyle.

Whateverthatmeant.Weallsatdownandhadalongtalk.Atalkthatlastedaboutsixhours.I’dalmost

lostmygrandfather,anditwasthenthatIrealizedthatlifewastooshorttoholdagrudge.Lucawasright

allalong.IcouldneverfindthepeaceIwassearchingforaslongasIshutthemoutofmylife.Hetoldme

toreflectonallthegoodtheyhaddoneformeovertheyears.Howmuchtheylovedme,tookcareofme,

andnurturedme.MaybeIjustneededalittleguidancetoclearthepathofresentmentandangerIwalked

downsotheroadtoforgivenesscouldbepaved.

AsweweregettingdressedfortheChristmaspartyLucawasthrowingforthefirm,heseemedalittle

off,andIcouldtellsomethingwasbotheringhim.

“Areyouokay,babe?”IaskedasIwalkedovertohimandhadhimzipupmydress.

Therewasamomentofsilencebeforeheansweredmyquestion.

“I’mnothappy,Ariana,”hespoke.

Anervousnesssettledinthepitofmystomach.

“What?”Iturnedaroundandlookedathim.

“I’mnothappy,”hespokewithaserioustonethatfrightenedtheshitoutofme.

“Why?”

IcouldfeelmyselftrembleforIdidn’tknowwhatthehellhemeant.Thingswereperfectwithus.Orat

leastIthoughttheywere.

“Ithoughtyoumovinginwithmeandbeingapartneratthefirmwouldmakemehappy.Butit’snot,”

hespokeashiseyesstaredintomine.“Iwantmorethanthis.”Hegentlysmiled.

“Whatdoyoumean?Luca,you’rereallyfreakingmethefuckout.”

Heinhaledasharpbreathashereachedinsidehissuitcoatpocket,pulledoutasmallbluebox,got

downononeknee,andtookholdofmyhand.

“Iwantyoutobemywife.Iwanttomarryyouandtakecareofyoufortherestofmylife.Havingyou

asmygirlfriendjustisn’tenough.Iloveyoutoodamnmuch.”Heflippedthelidtotheboxopenand

smiled.“Willyoumarryme,Ariana?”

Thehandhewasholdingbegantoshake.Infact,mywholebodywasshakingfromheadtotoe.

“Yes.Yes.Yes.Iwillmarryyou,Luca.”Ismiledasthetearsbegantofall.

Hepulledthethree-caratprincesscutdiamondringfromthebox,slippeditonmyfinger,andbrought

myhanduptohislips.Hestoodupandplacedhishandsoneachsideofmyface.

“Iloveyou—forever.”

“AndIloveyou—forever.”Ismiledasourlipsmet.

“IwasgoingtowaituntilChristmasmorning,butIcouldn’t,”hespoke.“I’vehadtheringforafew

daysandit’sbeenkillingme.Iwassoafraidyouwouldsaynooryouweren’treadyyet.”

“Iwouldneversaynotoyou.”

“Really?BecauseIremembertheothernightwhenIwantedtodosomethingtoyouandyousaidno.”

Hesmirked.

Icouldn’thelpbutletlaughterescapefrommylips.

“Thatwasdifferent!Butwhoknows,maybeyou’llgetluckyonourweddingnight.”Igrinned.

Helookeddownathispantsandthenbackupatme.

“Lookslikewe’regoingtobelateforourChristmasparty.”

“Idon’tcarehowlateweare.”Ourlipscollidedonceagain.

ChapterForty-Six

EighteenYearsLater

Luca

“Great,they’reatitagain,”Kennedyspokeassheandhertwinbrother,Ryan,walkedintothekitchen.

“Doyouhavetohavemake-outsessionsinthekitchen?Gotoyourroom,forgodsakes,”Ryanspoke.

Ibrokeourkiss,andArianaandIglaredatthem.

“Istheresomethingthetwoofyouneeded?”Iasked.

Theybothheldupwhiteenvelopesintheirhands.

“Isthat—”Arianaexclaimed.

“Yes.”KennedybitdownonherbottomlipjustlikeArianaalwaysdid.

“Well,openthem.”Ismiled.

Thetwoofthemtookindeepbreathsastheyopenedtheirletterstogetherandreadthem.

“Igotin!”Kennedysmiled.

“SodidI!”Ryanshoutedandthetwoofthemhigh-fivedeachother.

“Iknewyouwould!”Arianascreamedasshehuggedthemboth.

“Congratulations,baby.”IkissedKennedy’shead.“Congratulations,son.”IsmiledasIhuggedhim.“I

knewyoubothcoulddoit.Thiscallsforacelebratorytoast.”

Iwentintothecabinet,pulledoutaspecialbottleofchampagneIhadsavedforthisoccasion,andtook

outfourglasses.Handingeveryonetheirdrinks,Iheldupmyglass.

“Tomytwobeautifulchildren.Thebestthingsinlifeareyettocomeforyou.Congratulationson

gettingintoHarvard.YourmomandIloveyoubothverymuchandaresoproudofyou.”

“Thanks,Dad.Welovebothofyoutoo.”Theysmiledasweallclankedourglassestogether.

“We’regoingoutwithourfriends,”Ryansaid.

“Yeah,we’llseeyoulater.”Kennedysmiled.

“Behomebymidnight!”Ishouted.

“Twelvethirty!”Arianayelledastheyflewoutthedoor.

Ilookedoveratherandcockedmyhead.

“What?”sheasked.

“Whydoyoualwaysextendtheircurfewbyahalfhour?”

“It’sabignightforthem.Letthemhavetheirfun.”

Ihookedmyarmaroundherandledhertothecouch,wherewebothsatdownbythefireandputour

feetuponthecoffeetable.

“Ican’tbelieveourchildrenwanttobelawyers,”Ispoke.

“Ican.Lookatwhotheirparentsare.”Arianasmirked.

“They’llprobablybebetterthanus.”Isighed.

“WiththeirIQs,theyalreadyare.”Shelaughed.

“Justthink.Whentheygoofftocollege,it’lljustbethetwoofusagain,”Ispoke.

“Iknow.”Shesmiled.“I’llmissthemdearly,buthavingyoualltomyselfinthishousesounds

amazing.”

“Shallwestartpracticing?”IgrinnedasIplacedmyhandupherskirt.

“Whatiftheycomehome?”

“Youextendedtheircurfew.Theyaren’tcominghome.”

Ileanedinandbrushedmylipsagainsthers.Afteralltheseyears,Ifoundmyselfmoreattractedtoher

thanever.Therewasnootherwomanintheworldmorebeautifulthanmywife.Sheclimbedontopofmy

lap.Ourkisswasaspassionateasitalwayswas.Myfingersstartedunbuttoningherblouseandmycock

wasashardasarock.Wehadthewholenighttoourselvesanditdidn’tmatterwherewemadelove.

Suddenly,thefrontdooropened.

“Hey,we’rebackandwebroughtsomefriendswithus,”Ryanshouted.“We’regoingtohangdownin

thebasement.”

“Mom,canacoupleofmyfriendsspendthenight?”Kennedyaskedasshesteppedintothelivingroom

andhalted.“OhmyGod!Stopit!”

“Howmanymoremonths?”Arianaaskedmeasshestillstraddledmylap.

“Notsoonenough.”Isighed.

BooksbySandiLynn

Ifyouhaven’talreadydoneso,pleasecheckoutmyotherbooks.Escapefromrealityandintotheworld

ofromance.I’lltakeyouonajourneyoflove,pain,heartacheandhappilyeverafters.

Millionaires:

TheForeverSeries(ForeverBlack,ForeverYou,ForeverUs,BeingJulia,Collin,AForeverChristmas,AForeverFamily)

Love,Lust&AMillionaire(WyattBrothers,Book1)

Love,Lust&Liam(WyattBrothers,Book2)

HisProposedDeal

LieNextToMe(AMillionaire’sLove,Book1)

WhenILiewithYou(AMillionaire’sLove,Book2)

ALoveCalledSimon

ThenYouHappened

TheSeductionofAlexParker

SomethingAboutLorelei

OneNightInLondon

TheException

CorporateA$$

ABeautifulSight

TheNegotiation

SecondChanceLove:

RememberingYou

SheWritesLove

LoveInBetween(LoveSeries,Book1)

TheUpsideofLove(LoveSeries,Book2)

Sports:

Lightning

AbouttheAuthor

SandiLynnisaNewYorkTimes,USATodayandWallStreetJournalbestsellingauthorwhospends

allherdayswriting.Shepublishedherfirstnovel,ForeverBlack,inFebruary2013andhasn’tstopped
writingsince.Heraddictionsareshopping,goingtothegym,romancenovels,coffee,chocolate,
margaritas,andgivingreadersanescapetoanotherworld.

Pleasecomeconnectwithherat:

www.facebook.com/Sandi.Lynn.Author

www.twitter.com/SandilynnWriter

www.authorsandilynn.com

www.pinterest.com/sandilynnWriter

www.instagram.com/sandilynnauthor

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6089757.Sandi_Lynn

Document Outline

DEFENSE
Chapter One
Ariana
Chapter Two
Luca
Chapter Three
Ariana
Chapter Four
Luca
Chapter Five
Ariana
Chapter Six
Luca
Chapter Seven
Ariana
Chapter Eight
Luca
Chapter Nine
Ariana
Chapter Ten
Luca
Ariana
Chapter Eleven
Ariana
Luca
Chapter Twelve
Luca
Ariana
Chapter Thirteen
Luca
Chapter Fourteen
Ariana
Chapter Fifteen
Luca
Ariana
Chapter Sixteen
Luca
Ariana
Luca
Ariana
Chapter Seventeen
Ariana
Luca
Chapter Eighteen
Ariana
Luca
Chapter Nineteen
Ariana
Luca
Chapter Twenty
One Month Later
Chapter Twenty-One
Two Weeks Later
Ariana
Chapter Twenty-Two
Ariana
Luca
Chapter Twenty-Three
Ariana
Chapter Twenty-Four
Luca
Ariana
Chapter Twenty-Five
Ariana
Chapter Twenty-Six
Luca
Chapter Twenty-Seven
Ariana
Chapter Twenty-Eight
Luca
Ariana
Chapter Twenty-Nine
Luca
Ariana
Chapter Thirty
Luca
Chapter Thirty-One
Ariana
Chapter Thirty-Two
Luca
Chapter Thirty-Three
Ariana
Chapter Thirty-Four
Ariana
Chapter Thirty-Five
Luca
Chapter Thirty-Six
Ariana
Chapter Thirty-Seven
Luca
Chapter Thirty-Eight
Ariana
Chapter Thirty-Nine
Luca
Ariana
Chapter Forty
Ariana
Luca
Chapter Forty-One
Ariana
Chapter Forty-Two
Ariana
Chapter Forty-Three
Luca
One Month Later
Chapter Forty-Four
Two Weeks Later
Luca
Ariana
Chapter Forty-Five
Ariana
Chapter Forty-Six
Eighteen Years Later
Books by Sandi Lynn
About the Author

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