Chapter 9: She’s Different

WARNING SIGNS:

LANGUAGE THAT IS UNAMBIGUOUS

CURSING

VIOLENCE, GUN VIOLENCE

SELF-INFLICTED HARM

BLOOD, DECEASE, and GORE

LUCA’s POV

I was still in a stupor when Valentina and her father departed.

That lady. She wasn't your average woman. She had a certain something. I felt her authority as she spoke. When she twisted my hand back, I felt her power. She was also extremely attractive.

Her father was a horrible person. I could feel it. He was really repulsive. Valentina never spoke or laughed as much in his presence as she did elsewhere. I could sense their animosity toward one another. My parents gave me a big smile.

"Well, what did you think of her? She seems nice," Mom inquired. Sweet? I wouldn't use the word "sweet" to describe her. When she cursed, though, I liked it.

As he scratched the back of his head, Dad laughed. We don’t use the term "sweet" in the mafia. For fuck's sake.

"She's fine," I said without hesitation, even though she was more than good.

My father smiled and touched my shoulder. "That's fantastic, son." In two days, the wedding will take place. I'll have someone set it all up. And all you have to do is show up in a suit."

I nodded gradually as I digested the news.

I'm getting married in two days. I felt something, but I'm not sure if it was dread or anxiety. She was a complete stranger. She was able to stand up for herself, and my goodness, did she talk back.

After providing some more mundane details regarding the wedding and after party, my parents left soon after.

There would be an after party, naturally, any reason to get wasted. And with my pricey alcohol in my home.

I rolled up the sleeves of my black top to my elbows and poured myself a glass of whiskey. The amber-colored fluid would soothe me. I was on edge, which might be harmful.

My head was filled with ideas about Valentina that refused to leave. How might such a stunning creature be so deadly? She was not at all what I had expected. No way.

Her hair was a thick, dark auburn color, and her complexion was a warm, fair golden hue. I had the urge to touch it. And I had her body imprinted in my head, damn her body. The perfect combination of curves and muscles. I was most affected by her eyes. Stunning copper like rubies. I couldn't stop myself from staring.

Nico broke into my thoughts and asked, "So, what do you honestly think of her?" That jerk was still around, of course.

"She's..." I said, looking at my brother, who had his arms crossed over his chest and was staring at me.

"She's.." he said with a grin.

"She's different," I said as I opened and shut my eyes. Unlike other women," I said truthfully. She was, indeed. The manner in which she addressed me would have been unacceptable to anyone else. I could see such rage, ambition, and strength in her eyes.

He gave a nod. "Once you get to know her, I think you'll like her. She's as morbid as you are, as far as I can tell. He smiled and said, "By the way, you have a situation you need to deal with."

I frowned. "Why can't you deal with it?" I scowled at Nico, trying to avoid having my spirits dampened any more.

My brother still had work to do, even though he wasn't seated on the throne. Works he had to take care of.

"Because I am not the one in charge, dear brother." Have fun," he said. As he stumbled out, he appeared a little intoxicated.

I was once again by myself in my mind when he departed my home in a hurry.