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  “I’m not him,” he whispered.

  Verna walked up to take their orders.

  As soon as they were alone, Arianna leaned forward. “I wish you asked me out a week sooner.”

  “Me too.”

  * * * *

  Isandro pulled Arianna toward the door. “Now that everything is fixed, there’s only an hour left, and you haven’t made any chocolate.”

  She meant to pout but couldn’t help smiling. “You off tomorrow?”

  He nodded.

  “Interested in helping make chocolate?”

  “Mmm, you’ll teach me your secrets?”

  “As long as you promise to come to me for all your sweet tooth needs.”

  “Already do. Every last one, now that you’re mine.”

  He didn’t say the three magic words, but Derrick overused those and clearly he didn’t love shit. Instead, he called her “mine.” That was better than hearing those three words from Derrick any day.

  “Does that…” She closed her eyes, shutting down the stupid question that was always dodged.

  “You want a label? It’s not too fast?” Isandro asked in a husky voice.

  Without daring to hope, she nodded.

  “I’ll be your boyfriend, lover, anything you want, Arianna. I’m not with anyone else. I don’t want another woman. You’re all I ever wanted.”

  That set her mind at ease. Derrick refused a label the last few years. He wanted a booty call and someone to pass the time with. Not a girlfriend, or lover. And she’d stupidly thought it was more.

  Isandro freely offered exactly what she’d craved from the asshole for years. There was no one else. He wanted her time, her attention, and he gave more than he got.

  Derrick was always taking, never giving.

  Isandro gave it his all. Her heart soared. He was so much better than anything she expected.

  “You’re sure?” she whispered, bringing her head up to meet his smoldering stare.

  “I’ve never been the love them and leave them type. I don’t play games. If we don’t work, we don’t, but I want to see if we do.”

  “I want us to.”

  He pulled her into his arms. “Me too.”

  Chapter 9

  Finally Friday, and Isandro could hardly wait to see what Arianna brought to the barbeque. Marissa stood in his kitchen while he prepared the marinade for the steaks. She wouldn’t stop staring at him.

  He finally stared back. “What is it, Marissa?”

  “You’re really happy, aren’t you?”

  He nodded, one corner of his mouth pulling up. “Yeah, I’m happy.”

  “What is it about her? Is it because she’s blond?”

  His eyes narrowed. “I like her sass, her smile, her body. There isn’t a thing I don’t like about Arianna, other than she has some self-confidence issues thanks to her fucked up family and her ex.”

  “Think her family will get in your way?”

  “No. She’s not like them.”

  “How do you know?”

  “Her mother is a piece of work. She blames Arianna for that asshole cheating. Calls her fat. Belittles her.”

  “To please her, she wouldn’t give you up?”

  His eyes narrowed. “This isn’t your situation, Marissa. She’s not Carson. She doesn’t care what they think. She lives her life her way.” The bastard had picked her up after a bad relationship and swept Marissa off her feet. She disappeared for an entire summer and came back married. Not that it lasted more than a week after she returned. Pussy assed little bitch caved to his mommy.

  “I thought that about Carson, and he crawled back to his family, leaving me in the dust.”

  Isandro slammed his hands on the counter and fixed a glare on his sister. “Stop. Arianna is part of my life, and that’s not changing.”

  She sighed. “And what about the asshole who kept hurting her? What if this is just a phase, and she goes back?”

  “You know what? Forget the steaks. I’m not bringing her over. I’ll have the twins over to hang out with us another night.”

  “No! Shit, don’t do that. I worry about you. You do the same about me.”

  “Yeah, and I never kept nagging you about some asshole I didn’t like either. I let you make your own damned decisions.”

  Marissa had a thing for the guys from the other side of town. All the rich pretty boys, who all inevitably had thrown her away for one reason or another. Douchebags who would only end up hurting her, and he held his tongue.

  Or the assholes who never lasted long because they couldn’t handle a strong, independent woman, who thought they could handle her chosen profession. Never took long before Marissa got tired of their macho bullshit and walked away.

  Isandro always supported her choices.

  “No, but you did make Randy’s life hell.” She smirked. “I never did thank you for that.”

  A laugh escaped. “I’m lucky you weren’t a cop back then. You would have busted my ass.”

  She snorted. “You did slash his tires.”

  He’d tried telling her once about one particular scumwad but figured out she didn’t want to hear it. So he gave her proof the guy wasn’t worth her time. He still remembered that day.

  Isandro had pulled into the theatre parking lot, where Marissa was working part-time. He saw Randy’s Pinto bouncing and sent his date inside while he reached into the glove box to grab a knife.

  He’d ducked beside the car and made his way around, making sure Randy wasn’t going anywhere. Then he called the theatre to let the manager know there was a Pinto with slashed tires.

  Marissa was the manager and came out to find the douchebag drilling the other girl. That was when Isandro snuck inside the theatre, joining his date. He knew exactly what would happen from there.

  “Asshole was so busy getting busy, he never noticed I slashed his tires. Not until you came out and started screaming.”

  She sighed. “Well, thank you. Unfortunately, I had to see him cheating to believe.”

  “Well, you didn’t listen the first time I tried to warn you about him. I wouldn’t have had to resort to such extreme measures.”

  A sneer twisted her lips. “Hopefully her catching Derrick in the act really did get through to her.”

  “Damn it, Marissa. She had to see to believe, just like you. Besides, no one has ever appreciated her, told her how beautiful and smart she is. She knows it, but she doesn’t expect anyone else to see it. And I do, and I tell her every chance I get.”

  “Because you’re pretty awesome when you aren’t being a brooding asshat like the other morning.”

  He rolled his eyes. “Not making that mistake again.”

  “So tell me more about her.”

  There were a million things he could tell her. However, this was his sister, so he kept it clean.

  Grinning, Isandro looked Marissa in the eyes. “She works hard for her business. She ships chocolate all over the country. Chocolate she makes. She has all sorts of awards for her product and shop. And she’s fucking gorgeous. So please, stop questioning why I like her, and be happy for me.”

  Marissa nodded. “I am. Honest. Maybe a bit jealous you found someone who makes you smile like that.”

  “You will too. And they better treat you right when you do.”

  Marissa smiled sadly. “Yeah, well, so far my job gets in the way. They think they’re okay with me being a cop, then they start trying to be all macho and shit, and that never goes over well. Or I pick a man who wants to submit.” She rolled her eyes.

  Isandro laughed. “A man will come along who wants a strong woman, who isn’t a pussy little bitch. Because I can’t see you going for someone who isn’t as strong as you are.”

  “Maybe he’s not out there.”

  “Sure he is. Maybe you’re looking in the wrong place.”

  * * * *

  Arianna moved around the kitchen, putting together her individual cakes. They were each different, and she knew a little about what Mariss
a liked from her monthly visits. Isandro was easy because he came in a few times a week for chocolates that rarely made it out of the store before they were in his mouth.

  God, why didn’t I pay more attention to him sooner?

  And Isandro gave her several hints about the twins. Almost done, then she’d close up shop a bit early. It was a lazy Friday after all. She turned around to find her mother strolling into her store.

  It was the first time in four months she’d been in the same room with the woman. She’d started avoiding her four years ago, less than a year after her father passed away.

  Until recently, she was accepting her calls, but they came few and far between. Arianna preferred the distance. Her mother showing up out of the blue made her wary.

  Mentally bracing herself, she plastered on her best smile and walked to the counter. “Good afternoon, Mother.”

  Her mother’s eyes narrowed. “You will be taking Derrick Dubois to Cherise’s party Saturday.”

  “No. I won’t.” She didn’t bother with an explanation. The argument wasn’t going to actually go anywhere.

  “Yes, you will, as a favor to your mother. This new man you’ve been wasting time on does not fit into the country club and cannot go.”

  “Not according to Cherise, and for a public party, they can’t stop me from bringing my boyfriend with me. It’s that, or I don’t go. I will not take Derrick. I dumped him for a reason.”

  “Because he wanted to make love to a woman who wasn’t going to smother him if she attempted to climb on top.”

  Arianna’s teeth ground together as she glared back at the hateful woman before her. “I’m not the reason he cheated. I will be respected by the man in my life or he won’t be a part of my life. Simple as that. Now you can take your snotty attitude and walk it out my door. I’m not going to the party for you. I’m going because my sister asked me to. Your opinion on the subject doesn’t matter.”

  “At least tell the police Derrick couldn’t have broken into this shamble of a store. Sooner or later he’ll take you back. Again.”

  “Oh no, he won’t. I always took him back, stupidly. No more of that either. He will not be with me again. I was blind before, hoping he’d finally change, but you know what? It wouldn’t matter if he did. I found the perfect man. Now you can leave.”

  Her face set in a stony semblance of anger. “You will tell the police—”

  Arianna slammed her hands on the counter and leaned forward. “I will not tell them anything other than what I told them before. Something is going on with Derrick. If he was the one who broke into my shop, he should be penalized, and I will be happy to press charges. You can bet your pretty little Lamborghini I will.”

  “Why are you such a difficult child? You don’t understand how our world works. You have to fit the mold so you can find a good husband who will take care of you.”

  Arianna threw her hands up and shook her head. “I don’t need a man to take care of me. I’m doing fine on my own. Now you can get out of my damned shop because I’m about to close and enjoy my evening.” She made a shooing motion. “Go on. I’m done with you. And if you haven’t figured it out, me not answering your calls means I don’t want to talk to you—well, here’s your flashing sign. I. Refuse. To. Talk.”

  Spinning, her mother huffed and stormed out of the shop. At least she didn’t threaten to buy the strip of buildings her shop resided in. Then again, she’d have to buy it from Arianna, and that was never going to happen. A couple years before, she bought the three shops and ensured no one could buy her out, back when her mother threatened to do just that. Granted, a chunk of that money came from her inheritance, but she’d already made it back and then some. She was pretty good at investments and clever about her business.

  Ella slipped through the door as Arianna boxed five cakes and set them in a basket she often used when she brought such desserts.

  Arianna still had a hard time believing Ella was better known as Raven Star, or that she’d given up movies over a year before. Soon after Ella opened her shop, she and Arianna became friends.

  “Hey, what was that about?” Ella asked.

  “My mother being a bitch,” she answered with a sigh.

  “She is a snob. Should I kick her out next time she comes to my store?”

  Arianna shook her head. “If she offends you, then sure. That’s up to you. I wouldn’t ask you to turn away paying customers for my benefit.”

  Ella’s brow pinched, concern filled her eyes. “Are you okay?”

  She moved to the counter and leaned forward. “Yeah. I’m looking forward to tonight.” She nodded at the basket. “I made individual cakes for Isandro and his family.”

  Ella grinned. “So thoughtful. Hey, I know you focus on chocolate, but have you ever considered doing wedding cakes?”

  Arianna’s face lit up. “You two finally set a date?”

  “Yeah. In the summertime. But I’ve had your cake and I love it. Would you be interested? I’d pay whatever you ask. We’re both easy when it comes to flavors. But you pay so much attention to detail, I can’t imagine you doing anything less than absolutely perfect.”

  “I’ll need to make a few practice cakes for you to see. You know, to make sure you really want to go through with me. But if you like what I do, I see no reason not to.”

  “Trent and I would love that. We’re trying to keep as much of the wedding planning, decorating, and everything to local businesses as possible. Besides the security, which hopefully won’t cause a huge fiasco, but you never know if word gets out.”

  “Oh, I won’t tell anyone about the cake…besides maybe Isandro.”

  Ella shrugged. “You’re the last person I’d worry about.”

  “Thanks.”

  “So, how are you and Isandro doing?”

  “Great. But I’m rethinking taking him to my sister’s party after my mother’s tirade.”

  “Why?”

  “He asked if I really wanted to go. I don’t. But it’s my sister. The one I actually like. Thought if I brought him, I wouldn’t feel alone.” Arianna rubbed at her face. “My mother made it clear he wasn’t welcome, and if he’s not going, I wouldn’t go. I don’t want to make a scene and want to avoid making Isandro or Cherise uncomfortable. I don’t know what the right answer is.”

  “Talk to him. See what he says. Tell him maybe he was right and ask him what he thinks.”

  “I will. Thanks. Look, I really should get going. I want a little time with Isandro before we go to his sister’s. She’s not really fond of me.”

  “Give her time. I understand they’re quite protective of each other.”

  “For good reason.” Arianna grabbed her purse and basket and smiled. “I’m excited about this cake. Please tell me I have time to plan and come up with recipes for you to try. In case it doesn’t work you’ll have time to find someone else.”

  “Oh, we want you to do it. I know wedding cakes are more complicated, but if you’re interested it’s definitely you we’re hiring.”

  “You’re sweet, but I want to practice before you say absolutely.”

  Chapter 10

  Arianna pulled up to the curb, and Isandro pointed at the driveway with an arched brow. Giggling, she pulled up next to Isandro’s truck.

  He opened the door with his sexy smile. “You’re early.”

  Her breath caught on the word early. If she hadn’t shown up hours before she was expected, she wouldn’t have caught Derrick, and she wouldn’t be with Isandro now. Doubt flared and she breathed, “That’s not a problem, is it?”

  The smile faded. “Of course not. We’ve had this discussion. And this gives me the chance to get a taste before we head over.”

  “Sorry. I know better. I do.” But she couldn’t help remembering what pushed her and Isandro together.

  He glanced away, then smiled. “Come here, beautiful.”

  She grabbed her purse and the basket before moving to climb out. Isandro swept the basket from her and took her
hand.

  “You do know how to make a woman feel special,” she murmured.

  “Oh, I’ll show you special once I get you alone.”

  “We are now.”

  He glanced at the house next door. “Maybe if my sister wasn’t a neighbor, outside would be an option.”

  She blushed and smiled sheepishly. “Let’s get inside, then.”

  Isandro made his way to the door, throwing it open for her. “These good on the counter? Or do they need the refrigerator?”

  “There are ice packs in the basket. They’re fine on the counter.”

  He set it down and closed the distance, wrapping his hands around her waist as he pulled her close. Warmth flooded when laid his mouth against hers for a slow, tantalizing kiss.

  Her toes curled at the passionate assault as he pulled her shirt slowly up her body, then over her head.

  He dragged his palms over her skin with a groan. “Been starving for you since you left this morning.”

  When his hands curled under her ass, she wrapped her arms around his neck and let him carry her to the bedroom. No effort, and she found that so incredibly sexy after being told she was a fat cow too many times to count.

  Isandro was tall, broad, had more muscles than she’d ever seen up close and personal, and he was hers. She dipped her head to kiss and nibble down his throat.

  She was slammed up against the wall. His iron length ground against her heat while one hand skated up her body to squeeze her breast through the bra.

  “Keep that up and we’re doing this right here,” he growled against her throat, before sucking behind her ear. “But I need you naked, and you’re in pants.”

  She giggled, leaning her head against the wall. “Then put me down and we can get rid of all these barriers.”

  He carried her the rest of the way to his room and stood her before his bed. “So fucking sexy, Arianna.”

  “You’re mouthwateringly gorgeous.” She opened her jeans, scooting them down her legs as she kicked off her heels.