Page 46 of Crimson Fate
When I enter, Nico is already there, brewing a pot of coffee. Based on his bloodshot eyes, I would guess he was on watch for most of the night.
“Morning, boss,” he says, slightly startled when he sees me.
“Morning,” I reply. “Did you get any sleep?”
“Bah, I can sleep when I get you both back home safe,” he answers.
“Nonsense, you can’t do your job on no sleep. I’m taking Gia out on the boat today. You should rest up while we’re gone.”
“Yes, sir.”
“Did someone say boat?” Gia says from behind me. I turn to see her wearing my shirt and nothing more.
“Yes, someone did,” I say with a smirk, unable to tear my eyes away from her. “I thought we could spend the day out on the water. Just you and me.”
Her eyes light up with excitement as she saunters over to me and wraps her arms around my waist. “That sounds amazing,” she purrs, her lips brushing against my earlobe.
Nico clears his throat, a knowing smile playing on his lips. “Boss, I’ll make sure the boat is ready for you. Just give me a few minutes.”
“Thanks, Nico.” I nod, grateful for his understanding.
As he disappears into the depths of the home, Gia pulls back slightly, her gaze locking with mine. “What was that phone call about earlier?” she asks, concern etching lines on her forehead.
I take a deep breath. “It was Amelia. Nothing important.” I lie, not wishing to delve into our family drama.
Gia studies me for a moment, her eyes searching mine for any hint of deception. “Are you sure?” she asks, her voice laced with skepticism.
I place a hand on her cheek, my thumb gently stroking her soft skin. “I promise, it’s nothing to worry about. Just some family stuff that Amelia needed to discuss.”
She sighs, seemingly satisfied with my answer. “Alright,” she says, leaning into my touch. “As long as you’re okay.”
“I’m more than okay,” I reply, my voice filled with sincerity. “Especially after last night.”
Gia blushes, a warm flush spreading across her cheeks. “You’re such a charmer,” she teases, playfully nudging me.
I chuckle and give her a quick kiss on the lips. “Only for you. Now, what sounds good for breakfast.”
“Oh my God, do you have the stuff to make pancakes?” she inquires with a groan.
Laughing, I nod, pulling her closer. “I bet we do.” I move to the pantry and peer inside. “Pancakes it is,” I announce, removing the box of pancake mix.
Together, we start rummaging through the fridge and cabinets, gathering all the remaining ingredients. As we work side by side, our movements synchronized and effortless, a sense of calm settles over me. The worries of Amelia’s impending trip to Russia momentarily fade into the background, replaced by the joy of being with Gia.
As the pancake batter sizzles on the hot griddle, filling the air with its tantalizing aroma, Gia leans against the kitchen counter, watching me with a soft smile.
We enjoy our breakfast together, giving me a small glimpse at what everyday life as Gia’s husband might look like. I never realized I wanted the routine feeling of it, but I’m suddenly intrigued.
Within a couple of hours, we have lunch packed and are on the boat, ready to set sail. “Beautiful day for a trip out to sea,” Gia says as she takes a seat next to the captain’s chair, and the way she seems so comfortable, it’s as if she is destined for it.
“Couldn’t have asked for better,” I reply, my eyes scanning the horizon where the ocean meets the sky as I move into my place at the helm.
As the coastline shrinks behind us, I find myself lulled by the rhythm of the waves. The wind whips through Gia’s hair, her laughter carried away by its playful gusts. She looks so carefree, so alive.
“I can’t believe a week ago we weren’t even on each other’s radar,” she notes.
“Me neither,” I reply, my gaze locked on her face. “It doesn’t feel real.”
Gia smiles and reaches out to take my hand, intertwining our fingers. The warmth of her touch sends a jolt of electricity through me.