Page 22 of Desire

“You don’t have to worry about me anymore. I’m a grown-up.” But even as she said the words, she knew that Joey wouldn’t change the way he acted toward her, and maybe that was a good thing.

“Well, at least Dante’s there too. He can make sure you don’t get into too much trouble.”

If Joey only knew.

Emma attempted to steer the conversation toward more lighthearted territory. But just as she was about to ask about his latest deployment or how his new base was treating him, an unmistakable sound filled the air—the distinct hum of a powerful engine.

“Speak of the devil,” Joey said as the sound grew louder. “Looks like Dante’s arrived.”

“I’ll go get the door,” their mother said. “I haven’t seen Dante in such a long time.”

“I can’t wait to see his face,” Joey said, ducking inside the living room.

Yeah, me too.

“Ah, Dante!” her father exclaimed, striding forward to greet him with a firm handshake. “Glad you could make it.”

A moment later, Dante stepped inside, looking every bit the commanding figure Emma had come to know and admire. He was dressed casually in black slacks and a button-down shirt. The slacks were perfectly tailored, hugging his lean frame, and the shirt was a crisp, deep black. His sleeves were rolled up to his elbows, revealing toned forearms.

“Dante, it’s so wonderful to see you.” Her mother threw her arms around him.

Dante returned the embrace formally but warmly, his eyes sliding past their mother to see Joey, who had just popped back into view.

“What?” Dante said, huffing out a surprised laugh.

“Bro,” Joey said, giving Dante a hug once her mother stepped away.

“When did you get in?” Dante said as they pounded each other on the back. “Why didn’t you let me know?” Dante’s gaze slid to Emma at the question.

“I wanted it to be a surprise,” Joey said.

“I’m surprised,” Dante said.

Emma couldn’t interpret the warning look Dante shot her, but it made her knees a little wobbly and a sweet anticipation stirred within her.

“I hope you’re hungry,” her mom said. “I made enough to feed an army.” She bustled off to the kitchen.

Emma had hoped this would be a dinner where Dante would feel welcome again in her family’s house. But she sensed some tension between him and Joey. Or maybe she was just imagining it.