‘We need to talk.’
‘What about?’
‘About Giacomo—’ he tensed, then continued ‘—about my father.’
Her eyes grew wider. ‘Yes?’
‘I’ve decided to end—’
A phone beeped on the counter. A look of unease slid over her features as she wiped her hands and activated the message. A few seconds later, all trace of colour left her cheeks. ‘I have to go.’
He frowned. ‘Go where?’
‘Midtown. I’ll be back in an hour.’
‘I’ll drive you—’
‘No. I’ll be fine. Really. I’ve been cooped up in here all afternoon. I need the fresh air.’
‘Fresh air in New York is a misnomer.’ He continued to watch her, noting her edginess. ‘Is it your parents?’
Her fingers twisted together. ‘No, it’s not.’ Sincerity shone from her eyes.
He nodded. ‘Fine. I just wanted you to know, you have my backing one hundred per cent. After the party, I’ll have the papers drawn up to provide the funds you need for the restaurant.’
‘Th-thank you. That’s good news.’ The definite lack of pleasure on her face and voice caused his spine to stiffen. She reached him and tried to slide past.
Unable to help himself, he caught her to him and kissed her soft, tempting mouth. She yielded to the kiss for a single moment before she wrenched herself away.
‘Amante—’
‘I have to go.’
Before he could say another word she snatched her bag from the counter and walked out of the door.
Narciso stood frozen, unable to believe what had happened. By the time he forced himself to move, Ruby was gone.
CHAPTER ELEVEN
RUBY ENTERED THE upscale restaurant at the stroke of six and gave her name.
A waiter ushered her to a window seat. It took seconds to recognise the man at the table. Shock held her rigid as she stared at him.
Without his mask, Giacomo Valentino bore a striking resemblance to his son. Except his eyes were dull with age and his mouth cruel with entrenched bitterness.
‘I knew I recognised you from somewhere, Ruby Trevelli,’ Giacomo Valentino said the moment she sat down. ‘The wonders of modern technology never cease to amaze me. A few clicks and I had everything I needed to know about you and your parents.’
She tensed. ‘What do you want?’
‘A way to bring my son down. And you will help me.’
She rushed to her feet. ‘You’re out of your mind.’
‘I met with your loan shark today,’ he continued conversationally. ‘As of three hours ago, I own twenty-five per cent of your yet-to-be-built restaurant. If you walk out of here, I’ll call in the debt immediately.’