Passion 152 [Husbands Italian] - Attraction Uncontrollable (The Italian

Billionaire's Secretary Mistress) Sharon Kendrick

Uncontrollable attraction

The Italian Billionaire's Secretary Mistress

Sharon Kendrick

Passion 152

Simple desk ...

Ricardo Castellari ever seen Angie just as his secretary dowdy ... until she
paraded before him in a red silk dress that accentuates her curves at every step.
From this moment, he looks at her not once, but twice!
... The passion of the slave.
Angie can not resist a night of exquisite pleasure with Ricardo.

On

returning to work, she feels embarrassed and decides to quit. But Ricardo has
other plans: to be released, Angie should remain more time with him, but now as
his mistress ...

SCANNING: S ilvia
REVIEW: Alice Akeru

Translation: Angela Vianna

HARLEQUIN
B OO KS
2009

PUBLISHED IN ACCORDANCE WITH HARLEQUIN ENTERPRISES II

BV / S..rl
All rights reserved. Prohibited reproduction, storage or transmission, in
whole or in part.
All characters in this work are fictitious. Any resemblance to persons living
or dead is purely coincidental.

Original title: THE ITALIAN Billionaire'S SECRETARY MISTRESS

Copyright 2009 by Sharon Kendrick

Originally the publicad in 2009 by Mills & Boon Modern Romance
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CHAPTER ONE

It might be more sensitive because of the Christmas season or maybe it was

because of the cold weather. Maybe she was just tired, but something had to
change, had to change.

Angie's hands trembled and she watched them with

curiosity, as if they were someone else, but the short, unpolished nails showed they
were his. It was a foolish woman whose empty heart yearned for a man out of his
reach, a man who saw her as a woman and that was how would treat one of his
numerous cars.
Although Ricardo care for their cars with zeal, it was not an inanimate
object and functional, but a woman with own desires that would never be realized.
She should leave him, to leave him. If he was not careful, he would waste his life
loving a man who never love her, and sooner or later your dreams desmanchariam
when he chose a bride among actresses and models who used to hang out.
Ricardo Castellari, the man who occupied all his thoughts, was his boss.
But not for long. As the new year began, she would look for a job away from the
stunning influence of Italian black eyes, able to make a woman swoon with just a
lazy smile. However, lately he barely smiled: his mood was dark and his temper
was more unstable than usual. Unlike the ordinary, Angie did not know why.
- Cheer up, Angie, it's almost Christmas!
On hearing the words of junior secretary, Angie improvised a smile.
- Of course - she nodded gently, looking around the room. Christmas was
coming and elegant offices of "Castellari International" were filled with ornaments
and mistletoe branches hanging from the ceiling. When you install Office in

London, Ricardo banished the garlands he considered in bad taste, but gradually
accepted the colorful decorations that increased in number every Christmas. This
year, the room of desks seemed the cottage Santa Claus, Angie thought wryly, and
the other rooms were no less adorned. In each frame and portal had a silver
ornament, gold, red or green. Fax machines were decorated with small lamps. On
the street, the cafeteria was playing Christmas carols all day, and the day before the
band of the Salvation Army stopped the block and touched songs so beautiful that
Angie had to hold back tears while looking for a fiver in the bag. The time of year
was part of the problem, leaving her emotionally sensitive. Christmas always stirs
people, both in the collective aspect and the individual because crystallizes all the
hopes and fears and makes everyone dream, desire, yearn and make informed all
what they lack in life.
- Are you looking forward to the company's party tonight? - He asked the
junior secretary, a young woman named Alicia kind, hired recently.
Angie made a wry face surprise.
- You are kidding?
Alicia looked at her curiously.
- What will?

Everyone says it's fantastic, one of the most elegant

restaurants in London without save on expenses! It is true that Mr. Castellari will
be present all the time?
Angie knew that the secretaries were intimidated in the presence of his boss.
She had felt the same and looked furtively at the beautiful face, wondering how a
man could be so beautiful. The difference is that it was chosen personally by
Ricardo and promoted the incredible position of your desk, a sudden. Angie did
not know why he had chosen and only had been happy. But what now? Now, I
was not sure of anything. Sometimes wondered if his life would be simpler if he

had been among the other secretaries. At this point, he would have followed his
path, away from the intoxicating presence of the sexy Italian. She smiled at Alicia.
- Of course yes. He will stay until the end. - Until the bitter end, as he had
said Ricardo de harsh way. In fact, he did not like Christmas, but once a year and
forgot himself and met the expectations of employees. I spent a lot of money on a
Christmas party that would be even commented in February and gave a generous
bonus to everyone, including her. Angie sometimes wished he would give him
something more ... personal, but recognizing that it was useless to want the
impossible, she got up and took a tiny wisp of jersey skirt. - Actually, I'd better
provide some final details. I am hoping that Ricardo arrive at any time.
- Is it? - Asked Alicia jealous.
- Yes He's coming from the airport.. - Angie knew every detail of Ricardo
agenda, second by second.

A black limousine should be heading to central

London, and he should be stretching his long legs, sitting in the backseat. I would
have loosened his tie and be reading a document, or talking on the phone in one of
three languages that dominated perfectly. Or perhaps talk to the ital iano driver,
Marco, who also perfor nhava the role of bodyguards when needed. - Actually Angie looked at his watch - if the traffic is free, it must be ... - Your pager started
playing and she could not prevent his heart fired. - Sorry - she said with a smile
that belied his excitement. - It has come.
Angie practically ran to his room, attached to Richard's office. She gave a
sigh of pleasure upon entering the spacious and light environment. For more to
come in there, always surprised to be working in such a beautiful place. It was like
a postcard image. The offices of Castellari overlooked the vast and impressive
Trafalgar Square, and the location, known worldwide, was always beautiful with
its fountains and towering monuments, especially in the Christmas period. The

lights of the traditional pine sent every year by the King of Norway blinked. As far
as the eye could see, all the windows were decorated with colored lights. Angie
admired the scenery. It seemed ... Charming. And then she heard a familiar sound
of footsteps in the corridor steps she even recognize walking on the snow. She
prepared to receive it, pushing the face of fatigue traits and replacing it with the
calm of expression and efficiency that Ricardo was accustomed to expect from the
woman who was his right arm. But nothing could calm the pounding heart of
Angie when the door opened and she saw the beautiful and inscrutable face.
- Oh, Angie. You are here. Great. - He threw his coat and briefcase on one
of the leather sofas, and Angie felt a chill to hear his voice thick accent. The darkhaired Ricardo was disheveled, as if he had spent his hands on his head and the
knot loosened the tie, as she had anticipated. He smiled at her, grabbed a stack of
papers and began leafing through it. - Bring me the documents of the purchase
agreement "had posed", please.
- Of course, Ricardo - she answered quickly, while automatically took the
beautiful cashmere coat and hung. Angie wondered if her face would show their
grief. He had been out for two weeks and even be bothered to greet her. No hello
or how are you? If any of the other secretaries to replace, he would have noticed?
However, good secretaries do not bother because they seem invisible, and she was
proud to be a good secretary.
- The trip was good? - She politely asked to place the folder he had asked
on the table. He shrugged.
- New York is New York, you know. Bustling, vibrant, beautiful.
Angie did not know because he had never been in New York.
- I think it should be - she said, swallowing the question I would make: if he
found Paula Prentice, the woman with whom he appeared in all newspapers during

the year. Paula, with her blonde and tanned beauty, its beautiful white teeth and
whose body was elected as the "Most Desirable" for a men's magazine. While
Ricardo kept his romance with the California lover, she spent several weeks in
New York, and every time he returned, Angie watched anxiously looking for signs
that he was announcing that he intended to marry the stunning Paula. But he did
not announced. She felt relieved to know from the newspapers - because Ricardo
never discuss his private life with his secretary - they had broken romance.
- What about the acquisition of "De Camilia"? - She asked, referring to the
negotiations which had been the reason for the trip.
- And nervante! Frustrating - he translated, pulling his tie and looking at
her.
- I had already deducted, Ricardo.
- Oh? - He frowned. His sensible and shy secretary had passed frustrations
in life? He doubted. The only frustration that he imagined taking was unable to
make a new point of knitting, or your television broke. He watched coldly. - You
are doing a crash course in Italian?
- No! My Italian is poor, but I understand some expressions and curses
after working so long with you - she said dryly. - Would you like a coffee?
Ricardo gave a half-smile.
- I'd love to ... How did you guess?
Discouraged, Angie noticed how his voice sounded more serious to say the
word love.
- Of course I guessed, because ...
- Because ...
- You are predictable.

- I am?
- As predictable as sunrise. Within a minute you will complain about the
party tonight ...
- It's tonight? - Ricardo rubbed his head. - Madonna mia!
- See? - She murmured as he addressed the dearest coffee he had imported
from Italy. - Totally predictable.
Ricardo ignored the file folder and leaned back in his chair. Angie looked
for a moment and thought she was the only woman he allowed his caoasse.
Certainly, she was less shy than when he hired, but its appearance had not
improved. He noted absently straight skirt, a blouse and impeccable contained a
reaction typically Italian displeasure. She looked so bland, but maybe he was
wrong to criticize her appearance under the circumstances! After all, he hired just
for his quiet way. I was looking for someone to replace the dedicated matron who
worked with since it opened the office in London and who had retired to be with
her grandchildren despite his having insisted that she change her mind.
He had a busy day with an interview after the other, in which all candidates
appeared models and tried to convince him that all they wanted was typing your
letters and answering the phone. He was not fooled. He knew what he wanted and
did not want distractions in the office - women who crossed his legs and
descruzavam intended to reveal the alloys of socks, or be inclined to accentuate the
neckline of the dress. Ricardo saw his work as a rest period of harassment of
women, something that had become a constant in his life since adolescence.
Afternoon interviews were a succession of admirable highly qualified secretaries,
but who did not meet the requirement to work for it by its rules. None of the
candidates will blink to hear him say with a ruthless look of challenge he was
looking for a secretary old-fashioned, not a wizard, and of course never an equal;

he would teach him anything, and there was no prospect of a future promotion.
The offensive statement does not discourage the respondents, and yet, Ricardo
rejected the systematic and irrational way, because there was no he could not get to
bed before the end of the day. I wanted a desk, not a lover.
He was on his way home when spent by secretaries team room and turns a
pale figure leaning on a file. For the Italian sensitivity Ricardo, the girl had a
pitiful appearance: wearing a skirt than favored and hair up in a tight bun. He
remembered having looked at the clock and thought of how late it was. The
dedication of the young to work had left him in awe before occurred to him that it
was likely that she had no reason to hurry back home. A woman like her should
not have a row of men knocking at your door. Maybe she was the kind of woman
who lived in the job, he thought dryly. She noticed his presence, because it turned
and had covered her mouth with her hand, blushing when she saw him standing in
the doorway. Long ago that a woman did not blush before him, and he smiled.
- Can I ... Can I help you, sir? - She asked with the kind of deference who
knew who he was.
- Maybe you can. - He noted the shared room for several secretaries and
looked at her, noting her long fingers. - Do you know typing?
- Yes sir.
- Quickly?
- Oh, yes, sir.
- What would you say - he asked - if I asked you to make coffee?
Angie will lower your eyes for a split second.
- I wonder if you prefer black coffee or milk co m, sir - she replied gently.

Ricardo smiled. She was not the absurd expectation to participate in the
board, not the ridiculous attitude of modern women who refuse to serve men!
Angie had settled in his office the next day, and so far, was the best secretary he'd
ever had, mostly because she recognized his place and did not want to lose it.
More importantly, it does not fallen in love with him, despite worship him like all
women. The memories of Ricardo faded away when he felt the delicious aroma of
coffee and Angie put a cup of cappuccino before him. Cappuccino before lunch;
afternoon, she would serve you an espresso. She was like a balm for irritated skin,
he thought suddenly; momo one bath and after a long flight across the Atlantic.
Ricardo relaxed only for a moment. His stay in New York was troubled. The
actress with whom he had left during the year had refused to accept the end of the
affair between the two.

Why women lost their dignity as a man ended a

relationship? - He thought bitterly. It also had problems at home, in Tuscany ...

- Ricardo? - A small voice of Angie brought to reality.
- What?
Angie wondered what caused the contracted expression in the pretty face.
- You know the party will start earlier this year?
- No need to repeat, Angie.
- It's just a reminder.
Ricardo gave an angry sigh.
- What time?
- It will start at 7:30.
- The restaurant was already booked?
- Everything is ready. I am going there to check out the latest details. All
you need to do is attend.

He agreed. Maybe I could get some sleep.

- I'm going to my apartment to change clothes - He said. - Then I'll go
straight to the restaurant. There is nothing urgent to do here, is there?
- Nothing that can not wait until Monday. - She turned to leave the room
and he noticed the straight skirt that covered her buttocks of inelegant way.
Suddenly Ricardo remembered package left inside the car.
- Oh, Angie?
- Yes, Ricardo?
- You generally do not like tidying other women, right? - He asked slowly.
- I mean, for the office party.
Angie stopped, managed and turned to face him with a kind expression of
curiosity. The question was not only unexpected, had been extremely unkind,
though she be sure he had not had this intention. Of course she arranged for the
party, but his style was different from the other girls. It was inevitable, considering
his age. When you have little more than twenty years it is easy to buy one of the
cheap and embellished dresses displayed in the Christmas windows. Without
spending much money, you can get a look who spent hundreds of dollars. But
when you have 27, it is different; there is always the risk of common opinion.
Angie managed its budget very carefully and dressed according to their means.
Your entire wardrobe was conservative, with classic clothes that never would come
out of fashion. The previous year, she had worn a lovely beige dress knitting and a
pearl necklace.
- Oh, I play something on the body - she said, determined not to let him see
her hurt.
- I have a gift for you in the car - he said kindly. - When I leave, I will ask
Marco that bring for you.

Angie was surprised. A gift? In general, he gave her some gift cards along
with the Christmas bonus and a bottle of wine from the family winery in Tuscany,
she never drank. He never had given him something personal. The heart of Angie
lifted flight, although she wondered if it had not intended to appease her. Perhaps
he had realized that she intended to leave him and tried to convince her to stay?
No, Ricardo would never be so subtle.
- Our - she said, and shrugged with satisfaction, not knowing how to react.
- What kind of gift?
He looked her up and down and smiled.
- Something to wear - he muttered. - Something for you to use at the party.

CHAPTER TWO

Angie choked by pulling the last tissue paper layer and removing the dress
box. His face turned as red as her satin silk that flowed through his fingers. She
was happy to be alone and no one could see her. Ricardo was really suggesting she
wear that? It was the kind of unique dress that usually appeared in magazines, and
even she had heard the stylist whose name was printed on the label. Angie
swallowed. The dress must have cost a fortune. For a mad moment she thought
she might auctioning it one of the internet sites. But what if Ricardo found out? It

would be very unpleasant if he knew that his ungrateful secretary planned to sell
the gift he had given her and that had cost so expensive.
Angie approached the dress of light. It seemed so light that shone like a red
syrup layer. She had an unusual feeling, a mixture of curiosity and anxiety, the
desire to discover if someone like her would be able to wear a dress like that. You
should try it? Just to see ... She entered the office bathroom, where Ricardo
eventually showered before leaving to direct some dinner. Angie took her skirt
and blouse. The first thing she noticed was that it would be impossible to use the
bra under her dress, unless he were strapless. His underwear was as conventional
as the rest of your wardrobe, and its main function was to remain invisible. She
got rid of her bra almost furtively, put the dress and was terrified when he heard
someone entering the office. Ricardo had said he did not expect anyone!
- Hello - the el shouted anxiously.
- Angie?
Angie opened the door carefully, saw Alicia and let out a sigh of relief.
- Yes, what is it? - She asked quickly, despite the difficulty of efficient
seem to feel the softness of the tissue that surrounded her as a sensual breath.
Alicia was admired.
- What are you doing?
Angie thought to answer that it was none of his business, but maybe Alicia
could tell him the truth.
- Would you give me an honest opinion of what I intend to wear to the
party? - She asked. Alicia smiled.
- Of course.

Angie left the bathroom, and when he saw Alicia's expression, he knew he
had been right to ask their opinion.
- I'll take it right now.
- Do not you dare take it off! - Alicia said with energy. - Come to the light
and let me see straight. Oh, Angie, do not believe it's you. You look beautiful.
No one ever called her beautiful, and Angie would not be human if you do
not deliciasse with the unexpected and spontaneous praise. At that moment, she
saw his picture in the huge mirror reflecting the sky of London and could not
believe. He never understood why women were spending hundreds of pounds on a
dress a copy could be bought at any store for a sum much more accessible. Now
he knew why: how could a simple piece of fabric is cut and sewn to make the
woman who wore it seemed so ... so ... Angie swallowed. The red silk was geared
to your body as the peach cream, outlining her breasts and buttocks. It could be
vulgar, but it was not, because the fabric was magnificent and emphasized
attributes that she could not have. Revealed sensuality and elegance, without
bragging availability.
- Oh, Angie - Alicia said breathlessly. - You look like a princess.
- I feel like a princess - said Angie slowly before pulling away from the
mirror, shaking his head. - No, I could not use it.
Alicia looked at her, puzzled.
- Why not?
- Because ... - Why what? Why is transformed into a person she did not
know? Why she will know how to handle this new Angie that she was excited and
sleek, the way she always thought that a woman should feel before a party? Or
was it because Ricardo you bought that dress? This was the most unbelievable of
all detail: Ricardo had bought it for her! Does he imagined me dressed like this

when you first purchased? - She thought, her heart full of anxiety. If it were the
case, it would not be wrong to stop using it?
- You need to use it - Alicia said firmly. - Otherwise, you will never
forgive.
Angie let himself be persuaded, telling herself that someone so young and
updated on fashion as Alicia would not allow her to make a fool of herself. She
even allowed herself to follow Alicia to a store in Oxford Street to buy a pair of
high heels that matched the dress and a bag, and drop the hair and brush them until
bright. Despite already conformed to the wet sand tone, Angie arrived to find that
her hair was bon ito. She accepted all the conse children of Alicia and applied two
mask layers on the eyelashes and a layer of a fancy lipstick on her lips.
All these preparations have made it terribly delayed. Rather than being the
first to arrive for the first time was the last. In general, when he entered a
restaurant, Angie was brought to a discreet corner where calmly take a drink until
the other guests arrived. But not tonight.
That night, when the doors of one of the restaurants freq u ented London
opened and Angie put the high-heeled shoe inside the hall, something very strange
happened, and she realized. There was a complete silence and deep before the
noise of the resumed talks. She was scared, sure that it was not imagination. A
waiter came out of nowhere and was surprised when she mentioned the table
Castellari. The man gestured for her to follow him. Crossing the room, Angie
realized that everyone watched. Why they looked at her? - He thought terrified.
Discreetly, she ran a hand through rn to the hips, trying to loosen the skirt that
clung to her buttocks. All seemed well until she spotted the huge table occupied
by Castellari employees and Ricardo seated at the head, looking at her in a way
that never looked before. Angie was nervous. And if he did not like the dress?

And if he was embarrassed for having given such a personal gift to your secretary?
She smiled at him, but he did not return. On the contrary, he continued to stare at
her with puzzled look, a look that does not bother to hide or when beckoned her
over.
Angie stopped in front of him, and Ricardo looked as if she had suddenly
sprouted wings or horns.
- Is there something wrong? - She asked hesitantly.
Wrong? Ricardo's mouth went dry. He would not put it this way: is that
until that moment he had not realized that his secretary had the most attractive and
sensual pair of breasts he'd ever seen, and the silky fabric the stroked like a
language. He swallowed. Also had not noticed that Angie's waist was so narrow,
that his hips were curvilinear, that his buttocks were voluptuous and her legs were
so long ... Long enough to ...
- Ma che ca ... - Ricardo began, and stopped. He scowled when a waiter
addressed him in Italian and replied dryly, leaving the bewildered man. Then he
nodded to Angie, pointing to the empty chair beside him. She could hardly believe
their luck and sat down. In general, there was a contest to decide who would sit
next to him, and ended up Ricardo indicate who would be at his side as she looked
from afar. But tonight he was not looking for anyone, except for her.
- What are you intending? - He asked.
Angie was confused.

Never seen him give a look like that.

An

incomprehensible rage shone at the bottom of the black eyes. Why he looked like
that?
- What you mean?
- You look ... - For the first time, lacked the words.
- You did not like the dress. This is it?

He shook his head.

-. It is not that - he replied, trying to take her eyes off the deep neckline of
Angie, unable to.
- So what?
Ricardo put the napkin in her lap, happy to hide the bottom of the body.
How could I tell her she did not look like Angie? And he felt more at ease with the
simple and old-fashioned Angie than with this sexy creature who attracted the
lustful eyes of every man in the restaurant? And he was excited, which was not
only inconvenient, but also unexpected? Ricardo shook his head.
- I did not expect ...
Angie had ever seen Ricardo Castellari speechless. Never.
- I did not expect what? - She challenged him, but deep down knew what
he meant and that hurt her more than he could imagine. He did not expect her to
be so well with the dress. Angie was not vain, but he was no fool. People noticed
the reaction, turns his own image in the mirror and knew he was completely
different. Now, their only chance to feel like Cinderella ran the risk of being
ruined by threatening and dark look of Ricardo. - If you're implying that the dress
is not suitable for the occasion, remember that it was you who told me to use it,
and it was you who bought it for me - she snapped.
His face was even more serious, and he started to say something - perhaps
most insulting - but it turned out to shake his head and give a casual smile.
- Excuse my lack of finesse, Angie. You ... The dress fell well you - he said
slowly, refusing impatiently for the bread basket offering you. It was a curious
way of speaking, typically European, and she perked up upon hearing it, but the
last thing she wanted was to increase their level of enthusiasm when it came to his

boss. Angie accepted the glass of champagne that the waiter offered him and took
a sip.
- Really?
God, yes.

Ricardo felt like someone just take a bitter medicine and

discovers that he is sweet like nectar. He gave the dress to Angie for convenience
and laziness, and it surprised him. It was time that he was not impressed with a
woman. He reminded himself that he spent most of his time with her. It was she
who made his coffee and gave the shirts coming from laundry. Ricardo took his
glass of champagne thoughtfully. I had to remember that he was in the company
of the party, and, moreover, would not see Angie until after New Year's, when she
would return to be the same as always and he would have forgotten her sultry
image.
- So what are you doing for Christmas? - He asked casually, picking up a
shrimp dish and wishing his erection disappeared.
- Oh, you know ... - Angie took another sip of champagne. It was delicious.
- Family things.
Ricardo put the fork down. Of course he knew. Sometimes, I thought he
could write a book on the subject - particularly about the problematic Italian
families. But Angie's family should be different ... He twisted his lips into a smile.
- I suppose you plan to visit your parents? Let me guess: a typical and cozy
Christmas English, around the tree?
Angie's expression did not change and she took another sip of ura drink, not
because I wanted because it was getting dizzy, but to disguise. She forced a smile.
- Well, to be honest, no. As you may know, my father is dead and my
mother is desperate because my sister is divorcing.

Ricardo surprised. He should know? Maybe she had told him and he had
forgotten. He admired the silky flowing hair Angie and wondered why she had not
used them thus more freq u ence.
- Si, si ... Of course. - He shrugged, he looked for a monosyllabic and polite
response, not a comment like that, but it was Christmas and Angie deserved him to
be gentle. - The situation is difficult ...?
Angie knew his boss very well and knew when he would ask something
because it was what we expected and not because he was interested in the answer.
Though always prone to instinctively satisfy Ricardo wishes, facilitating his life,
tonight she was not willing to play the role of secretary and protective. He to ask
you something for a change. She had devoted her life to not ask about it? Angie
thought the uproar that would have to face in frantic calls she and her mother
would receive sister, the feeling of not being able to help, as they were too far
away. Ricardo imagined flying to Tuscany, to the beautiful castle of the family.
Unlike her, the New Year it would be full of exciting expectations: new challenges,
probably a new girlfriend ...
- Actually, it's difficult - she admitted. - In particular at Christmas, because if
you remember, my sister lives in Australia and we are not there to support it.
Ricardo looked discouraged for the fish dish which replaced the shrimp.
- Yes, I imagine it's not easy.
Angie doubted. Ricardo had many qualities irresistible to women, but
empathy used to be one of them. She leaned forward and stared at him.
- Imagine yourself? - She asked with deliberate intention.
Ricardo was so mesmerized by the neckline of Angie as she leaned did not
hear a word and forgot what he had just said. She expected an answer and he opted
for the safest route, one that always worked and that charmed women.

- Why did not you tell me everything? - He murmured.

Angie opened her mouth, surprised by Ricardo give you carte blanche to do
confidences. He was actually being kind to her, and even sympathetic. He gave no
attention to anyone else, and the worst is that, try as he might avoid, she felt a faint
hope that he might at last see her as a woman.
- My sister has called, hysterical, because divorce is being very painful - she
said.
Ricardo shrugged.
- Ah, but this is the nature of divorce. - He looked at her and felt a light scent
penetrating his nostrils. Maybe she ever used scent ... If it were true, why he never
noticed? He noticed that one of the waiters was so fascinated by Angie as he. He
stared at the boy until he moved away. - Your sister and her husband were married
for love? - He asked, leaning back in his chair.
- Of course! - Angie replied defensively. The question of surprise picks, and
she thanked the diffused light of the candles that hid the red in his face to hear him
talk about love. Ricardo shrugged.
- Well, there's the reason they broke up like a nutshell.
Angie frowned.
- I did not understand.
- No? It is very simple. Never marry for love: not a reliable reason.
Someone nudged the back of Angie, she turned and broke one of the
traditional paper cones full of surprises that offered him, blessing the break that
gave him time to think of some kind of answer. I do not want him to see his foolish
and naive disappointment for him cherish so little love.

- You do not really think so, do you, Ricardo? - She asked in a deliberately
cheerfully.
- Si, Piccola - he said gently. - Of course I believe because it is absurd that a
man and a woman commit the rest of your life based only on a temporary
attraction, caused by chemistry and by sexual desire. Love is just a fancy word that
describes this relationship.
- What do you think they should do? - She asked in a trembling voice. Look for a wedding agency?
- I think a couple should seek the greatest number of affinities between the
two and try to keep the marriage for the sake of the children. This is increasingly
rare these days, it is easy to divorce. - He took the glass and smiled. - Of course
there is a way to increase the chances of success of a marriage. - Ricardo realized
that made the union sounded like a card game, but Angie continued to stare at him,
fascinated!
- How?
- Choosing a bride twice younger than the groom.
Angie almost choked on his drink and his face turned red.
- Sorry, what I say?
He looked wryly.
- Did you hear me very well.
- I thought my ears were wrong.
- Why are you so shocked? - He asked, casually. - The recipe has worked for
Italian men for centuries. My parents were married in this way and were very
happy, until the death of my father. This type of joint ensures the best combination

between the sexes: an experienced man who guides a young virgin. He will teach
you the fine art of pleasure and it will offer you many years of fertility.
Angie felt her throat close.
- You are and ...
Ricardo leaned into her, reveling in his rage and wanting her more than is
recommended, but he did not care.
- I am what, Piccola?
- Revolting. Antiquated. Should I continue? - She replied, trying to swallow
the excitement that his nearness made her. The real reason for his anger was not so
much decanted and noble right of women, but the fact that Ricardo criteria to
choose a bride to exclude. She was not young, nor virgin. It was unfortunate: she
really imagined that erased Angie Patterson had a chance with him? In this case,
leave the job was not just a vague desire, hopefully become a necessity. - Do not
believe you defend this old-fashioned view, Ricardo - she scooped dryly.
Rather than feel embarrassed by the criticism, Ricardo smiled like a cat who
just won a plate of momo milk.
- Oh, I speak my mind, is dated or not. I never pretend to be different, Angie
- he muttered.
She thought that the synthesized: Ricardo had always done what he wanted,
and the combination of beauty, brains and charisma helped him. Never mind that
he defended outdated concepts and to be seen as archaic. He did not mind because
he needed not to care. Rich, powerful and single, he walked through life the way
he wanted, and would not now that would change. Why should?
Forget the elegant dress and try to forget their unwanted feelings for him,
she told herself. Angie is just and example serve for the other secretaries, reveling
in the party.

- Who wants to blow another cartridge? - She asked cheerfully.

Ricardo sat back and watched as she took a colored bracelet one already
open cartridge and put on the wrist with good humor. He realized that it was
usually in a good mood and that was the kind of discreet person who went
unnoticed, but that kept the company's wheels turning without requiring attention
or recognition for their work. He talked to Angie as would not be able to talk to
another woman. Where the world would be if there were not people like her?
Ricardo was shocked to occur you a disturbing thought; God forbid that someday
she wanted to leave him. He treated her well? It made him all the praise that a
secretary of the level hoped for? Ricardo's attention was diverted to the snowflakes
he saw through the window. It was unusual snow in London, and the night would
be cold. His eyes were attracted by the red silk and a vein began to throb in his
temple. The night was very cold, especially in a dress like that. Just then, he saw
another waiter look at Angie with undisguised interest.
- How are you going back home? - He asked suddenly.
She was silent for a moment.
- House? - She echoed, sticking his spoon in the pudding.
- I assume you have one - was the curt reply. - Where you live?
The question to hurt more than it should. She knew all about it: the size of
the shirt, the hotels we liked and preferred wine. I knew the mother birthdays and
Ricardo brothers and always reminded in advance so that he would send them a
gift. It was not news she inevitably ended up choosing gifts, why not that's what all
good secretary do? Angie knew where he enjoyed skiing in winter and where
tanned in the summer; and that he never ate pudding, but, occasionally, eat a dark
chocolate bar with coffee. She even knew what kind of flowers he used to send to
women during the conquest - dark color pink roses - and the gift of consolation that

used to give the finish a novel - pearl earrings with diamonds that she bought with
be happy. After spending five years satisfying every desire of Ricardo Castellari
and facilitating his life, he did not even know where she lived!
- Stanhope - she said, putting down the spoon.
- Where is it?
- It is in Picadilly Line, just before Heathrow.
- But that's far away.
- You're right, Richard. It is far away.
- How do you go there?
What did he think?
- Flying in my broom - she said jokingly.
He stood. Angie, playing? Was he drunk?
- I'm serious, Angie - he muttered.
- Oh, that's right, I'll subway. - She tilted her head to the side and felt the
strange sensation of silky hair over her shoulders. - Just as I always do.
Ricardo thought about the night journey from the subway that would be full
of drunks celebrating Christmas, and the type of reception that she would have to
go wearing that slinky silk dress that he had committed the folly of giving him. He
thought of the thin waist of Angie and the way her breasts seemed to defy gravity
and threatened to jump out of the neckline. No wonder the waiters surrounded her
like a pack of wolves throughout the night, until he looked at them menacingly,
making it clear that tipping would be impaired. He would be prepared to sit back
and let her go out alone? It would be like throwing a lamb among lions!
- Come on, put your coat - he ordered sharply. - I'll take you home.

CHAPTER THREE

For a moment, Angie looked at Ricardo, perplexed and her lips parted.
- Do you ... Will you take me home?
The black eyes flashed Ricardo.
- I will.
- You mean the subway? - She asked, trying to imagine his billionaire boss
watching her on the treadmill.
- No subway.. - He suppressed a gesture of disgust. - In my car.
- You can not take me home in her car - she objected. - You drank.
- Can I have drunk - he said dryly - but i g u then the drink, unlike you.
Believe me, there are few things less attractive than a woman who shows signs of
being drunk.
- This is a sexist remark.
His eyes twinkled.
- But I'm a very macho man, Piccola. I thought we had already agreed on
that.

Angie swallowed. There was something very exciting when he spoke that
way to her, with a half threatening way, through provocative. But Piccola meant
little, right? Angie down the corners of the lips; hardly a compliment ...
- Are you saying I'm drunk?
- No, but I am saying that you have taken enough alcohol to act so ...
uninhibited. I think we should not go home alone. It would not be safe. Also, I will
not drive. That's what paid the salary of Marco. Take your purse and let's go.
Suddenly, it seemed authoritative, as if speaking to one of the models who
used to meet and which appeared once in office to meet him on his way to a
dinner. Angie saw one of the employees of Human Resources watching them with
a strange expression.
- People do not go ... talk, if we go out together?
He looked at her coldly.
- Why would they talk about? - He said indifferently. - I'm just giving a ride
to my desk.
That certainly put in its place!

Marco was waiting with the car engine running. Angie sat in the back seat,
forgetting that wearing a skirt that was almost half the usual time, and had a
beautiful piece of thigh. Ricardo's blood boiled and he looked away, turning to the
window while initiated a path that seemed endless.
They passed several similar houses and cars, parked one after the other,
formed a long line on the edge of the sidewalks. The shops were boring and some
were already closed. A group of teenagers was standing in a street corner,

smoking. Ricardo frowned. Surely he did not pay him so little that she needed to
live in a place like that.
The car stopped in front of a house, he turned to Angie and saw that she was
leaning comfortably on the bench. Were you sleeping? His head rested on soft
leather and her lips were parted. Her hair fell over her shoulders. Nothing was
efficient and serious desk, he thought. He gently shook his shoulder and noticed
how her skin was soft. When she uncrossed her legs, she revealed a wonderful
piece of thigh.
Angie started out of the drowsiness that heat and the car's balance had
caused him. When he opened his eyes, he found that the dream was not over: there
was Ricardo, leaning over her, his face drawn by the light and shadows, bright eyes
and smile that easily passed the arrogance to sensuality. For a moment she was lost
in depth look and his heart stopped at the thought that he would kiss her, but I had
too fancy for a day: the dress, the car and driver. It was almost midnight and the
carriage turn into a pumpkin. She blinked and left the comfort of leather seats.
Mouth went dry and searched her purse on the floor.
- Thanks for the ride.
- Do not mention it. - He did not move, and even a little dizzy, Angie
remembered manners. He had turned km of their way to take it home. She noticed
that he had eaten little during dinner. Offer him a cup of coffee, she thought. Of
course he will refuse because it would be strange, inappropriate. Ricardo at the
door of your home!
- Um, I would like to have coffee?
Ricardo was about to send Marco take Angie to the door, but something in
her voice stopped him and made him swallow the automatic refusal he intended to
do. Maybe it was the curiosity to see how someone like her lived in a world so

different from his? Suddenly, he felt an inexplicable curiosity, like a tourist in a

foreign city he found a mysterious and dark maze and wanted to find a way out.
- Why not? - He asked, indifferent, opening the car door for her.
Angie was surprised. During all the years I worked with him were close, but
never so close as now. She felt an intoxicating aroma of sandalwood and virility
invade it in an irresistible way. Her hands trembled as she got out and his heart
raced to stick his key in the lock, trying to remember the state it left the apartment
before leaving in the morning.
Overall, it was organized, but it was also human. And if he wanted to use the
bathroom, where she had left three pairs of silk stockings hung over the tub to dry?
Angie invited Ricardo to enter the room and tried to feel proud of the small
apartment, but could not stop seeing it through his eyes. The small living room was
furnished with old upholstered she tried to embellish with colorful blankets.
Nothing could disguise the horrible wallpaper under several layers of paint she
teimara to spend on it, and the kitchen seemed to have been mounted in the past
century. The only concession that Angie had Christmas off to buy a pine branch
and shove it in a pot. At least the green foliage and red berries give some life to the
environment.
- I need ... I ... I'll put the kettle on! - She said and ran into the bathroom to
collect her underwear. Angie threw his clean socks in the closet, and sadly noticed
the tub and worn toilet. She prayed that Ricardo did not ask to use the bathroom.
When she returned to the room with a tray of coffee, she found him standing
looking out the window. When he turned around, her heart jumped. He had taken
off his jacket and tossed on the sofa backrest. Never its Italian elegance been so
evident as now, in contrast to the humming of the apartment. Embarrassed, she
handed him a faded cup, which featured the emblem of a sports team. Faded as

everything in your life, she thought. Or is the presence of Ricardo - so vibrant, full
of color and charisma - which made their lack of confidence danced before her like
a dark ghost? Angie waited for him to make any comments educated about your
house, but he did not. He kept the distant air that had in recent weeks - a tension
and contention that accentuated his usual alpha male surveillance.
- It's okay, Ricardo? - She asked anxiously.
Ricardo had been km away and when his thoughts cleared, was surprised to
see in the living room shy of Angie, holding a cup of coffee he did not want to
drink.
- Why you do me this question?
- You looked so ... Oh, I do not know. You Lately it seems more tense than
usual.
He narrowed his eyes. She was spying, invading areas that do not concern
him? However, her face showed concern, as always. Moreover, he could talk to her
in a way she could not with other women, because the relationship between boss
and secretary was very close, but without being intimate. With Angie, it could be
opened - it would eliminate all the problems with its practical sense. Ricardo put
the cup on a table and shrugged.
- Problems at home - he said,
Angie knew, much as he had lived in London or anywhere else in the world,
Italy would always be his home, especially Tuscany.
- It has something to do with the wedding of her sister? - she asked.
He looked suspicious.
- How do you know that?

Angie ignored the accusation. I knew how much he was reserved about
family matters, but surely he realized that she could hear most of their phone
conversations, especially when he lost his cool. Or does his usual invisibility led
him to ignore this simple fact?
- I heard you ... - she hesitated.
He gave her a sharp look.
- Heard what, Angie?
- A discussion ... - she said gently.
Furious, he slapped his hand on the thigh.
- This means that you heard me tell my sister she is very lucky to be her
fianc an aristocrat? She's lucky to have gotten a Duca you want to turn it into
wife? Soon she will be a duchessa!
Angie looked at him helplessly. Sometimes he was terribly snob, she
thought. She found the rebellious and carefree sister of Ricardo few times and did
not imagine Floriana as a member of the Italian aristocracy. Watching the ruthless
face of Ricardo, he thought that he should be a terrible brother, always dictating
orders and demanding obedience. He felt a certain pity for Floriana and decided to
defend it.
- But surely the social position of the man is not as important as the feelings
she has for him. ... She loves him?
The Ricardo's lips curved.
- Oh, please ... Let's not get into the realm of fantasy, Angie, even more
because I thought I made it very clear how I feel about "Love" tonight. Aldo adores
her. He is a very wealthy man, with centuries of tradition, and provided the
Floriana stability that was missing. It is honored that he has chosen to be his wife!

It will give you a great house and a great lifestyle, and she will give you the heir he
needs to perpetuate his lineage.
- Lineage? - She echoed, puzzled.
- You have a problem with that, right?
- It takes a lot sangfroid to talk about marriage this way.
- It is cold-blooded, is just practical - he retorted. - I think you do not agree,
not Angie, with all its vast experience in weddings?
The cruel comment hurt her, as intended, but also increased the wrath of
Angie. He spoke as one will marry her sister to the highest bidder!
- You did not forget to mention something important? - She asked. - You are
cynical about love, but what about passion? It exists?
Passion. The word fell into Ricardo consciousness like a stone in the
stagnant water and triggered a wave of reactions. It was a strange word to use for
off Angie, and yet, it seemed appropriate immensely since she was dressed in the
color of passion. He felt his heart race and a sudden heat in the bowels, as
happened in the restaurant. The temptation mocked him, reminding him that the
pleasures of the flesh were a dim memory of late. Surprised, he realized how long
did not sleep with a woman, and, understandably, looked at the neckline of Angie,
where white skin contrasted with red silk.
- Passion? - He repeated, feeling a vein throbbing in his temple. - What do
you know about love?
- I ... I read books - she answered quickly, aware that exceeded the limits.
- Only for the books? - He teased, kindly.
Suddenly Angie realized that the atmosphere had changed and that there was
not only dangerous, but also desire the air. Was it his imagination, or the body of

Ricardo is alert and enrijecera a voltage signal? It was like an athlete who is
mentally ready to start the race. He looked just as he had done when he saw her for
the first time wearing the dress she had given him, but now there was something
else, something that even she recognized as a sign of desire. Angie senses
sharpened, and she blushed. Deep down, she knew that the situation was absurd.
Ricardo was wrong to be there. Marco was waiting in the limo. She felt like who
looks murky and dangerous waters and includes the likelihood of diving.
- Look, it's late and I will not hold you back. Thank you ... thank you for the
ride, Ricardo - she said. - And the dress, of course. I loved it. - Speaking, Angie
knew it was likely to never wear the dress again, the places she freq u entava
would not be high, and it would draw too much attention to the dress - something
she hated. Also, she did not feel herself. Why would a woman like her would use a
dress that probably will cost more than it used to pay for the home mortgage?
- It was a pleasure - he said, trying to ignore the pain becoming stronger in
their guts. The sudden anxious expression on Angie's face made him worried. I
should tell you not to give importance to dress? Tell you that ... - Angie - he said
gently to notice the slight tremor on her lips.
Angie had ever heard the voice of Ricardo as theme.
- What? - She murmured, looking so beautiful and firm face he loved.
When she looked up, Ricardo felt her perfume and sniffed, unable to take
her eyes off of the loose hair that fell like a sheaf of wheat. Angie's eyes were
darker and neither seemed hers, and his lips glistened with a voluptuousness that
he never realized. He felt the danger, but could not pull away. Maybe he was
bewitched by the brilliance of Angie, her body wrapped in red that drew him like a
mermaid, in such old charm as the world.

Suddenly Ricardo let himself be dominated by a strong desire too much to

resist and pulled her arms, telling himself that he should not do it, that it could not
happen, she would stop. The filed and contained Angie would stop. But the
rationality of Angie seemed es tar off, because she tape lanai with an intensity that
seemed to reflect what he felt and bit his lip to contain the urgency of desire itself.
He kissed her and she responded as if it depended on his life.

CHAPTER FOUR

Ricardo's mouth covered her lips Angie and she shivered under fresh
pressure because the power of that kiss exceeded any fantasy she had with him.
And she had several. Ricardo kissed her! To her! A million stars exploded at the
head of Angie and the blood burning in his veins. Was I dreaming? No! Dreams,
no matter how real they were, did not make the heart beat so hard that its noise
threatened to deafen it; would not suffer the weak knees like a patient gets out of
bed after a long period of immobility. Dreams not caused, co m such precision, the
feeling that the hand of the beautiful boss provoked covering her body, as if it was
his prerogative.
- Ah - she moaned, unable to believe he was in the arms of Ricardo
Castellari and he kissed her so long and deep that she thought she would pass out

from sheer pleasure. I must have looked wrong, but she did not remember nad that
seemed to him so cer. She grabbed him by the shoulders and he grabbed her
buttocks. Angie clung to his body, with undisguised satisfaction at the caress so
intimate. - Ah!
- You like this? - He murmured.
- Ah, yes. Yes!
Almost involuntarily, Ricardo closed her eyes as she pressed against him. He
felt the soft touch of Angie's breasts, a clear invitation that took him by surprise.
He had not planned to kiss her and could not predict the strength of his own
reaction to that kiss. The right would he retreat then and blame the wine and the
sentimental Christmas mood for something that should never have occurred. But
he did not. In fact, I wanted the opposite, because his desire grew with delicious
quickly and soon be satisfied, inexorably.
- Ricardo - she gasped, helpless, in his ear.
The way she spoke his name sealed his fate. Until then, he would be able to
put an end to that madness, but the little moan made him lose control.
- What? - He asked sharply. - What it was?
The words seemed to go out alone, but as Angie could contain them, had
passed most of his life repressing them?
- I ... I want you.
- Now? - He murmured, hiding a smile on Angie's hair because his frank
surrender the bookstore need to contain. He should control. She was his secretary!
But it did not matter: as she squirm in his arms, all that mattered was the need to
possess her, to see if the body under the dress would fulfill the tempting promise
hidden by red fabric that desire crazy left the night whole. Deliberately he pressed
his body to Angie, and she moaned into his mouth as he felt that his hand slid

under the neckline of her dress. She trembled with anxiety when he wrapped him
one of her breasts and stroked her nipple.
- Ah - she moaned again, writhing and shoving the nails on the back of
Ricardo, through his shirt. She was impatient, he thought with a pang in his heart.
Very impatient. Again, the voice of reason rang in his ears, demanding him to stop
the madness, but the requirement of your body spoke louder and he could not help
himself. Angie pulled her dress up and stroked her amazingly firm buttocks but her
sweet ultimate goal was covered by underwear. Away from the lips of her lips, he
looked at her, pulling the elastic of her panties. - We'd better we take it, right?
Angie was so excited she could barely think, let alone speak. His lips were
dry and his heart racing, but an alarm sounded. He no could continue what he was
doing and that gave him an unimaginable pleasure, and undress her there, without
asking permission, so that sex - if sex would - would conseq u ence of passion and
not a rational agreement ? Thus, taken more by passion than by cold lucidity, he
did not realize that she was relatively inexperienced until it was too late to stop.
She thought of the possibility of Ricardo take off his underwear - a type of caleon
that resembled a biker shorts and she had bought not be marked under the adhesive
fabric of the dress. The last thing she imagined was that he would take it off! I
would be disappointed with what you would see under a small belly and hips
whose only praise that had already deserved out that would be great to conceive?
How could she be compared with the models and actresses perfect body that it
used to take to bed? Angie shuddered, a mixture of fear and excitement, because he
touched her bare skin. Failure to respond to your question Ricardo made him
caress her hair, letting them slip through your fingers. Somehow, the gesture made
her feel provocative, besides the fact that he brushed his lips around his neck.

- Suddenly you stood very still, cara mia. - The words sounded like a poem
and the light kiss like butterfly wings that followed was wonderful. Tremendous
satisfaction, Angie swallowed his insecurity. She did not care! He did not mind the
caleon or with other women, not because they are in their cramped apartment
instead of the elegant places he used freq u ent. All that mattered to him was
Ricardo, the only man she ever loved in fact, though I could never tell you.
Certainly not tonight! She pressed her lips to ear Ricardo.
- Yes, take it - whispered.
Excited, Ricardo looked around the room. You should do it there? There was
a small couch and the floor was lined with a threadbare carpet. There was nothing
more that antiertico that room.
- We go to the room - he said eagerly. - Come on, show me where it is.
Angie folded his hands in his and guided him to the room with her heart
pounding with excitement and anxiety when trying to see the place with Ricardo's
eyes. But there was no time to wish that the place seem more cozy and the bed was
greater because Ricardo hugged her and kissed her again, before turning attention
to their clothes.
- Now ... where was I? - He opened the zipper dress that fell to her feet in
Red Hill. Then came the bra: it opened with terrible efficiency and released him on
the floor. Only caleon the delayed; It was with some effort that he managed to
pull it off and throw it aside while caressing the skin that bared his tongue.
Angie gasped and held her breath as he licked her womb, as if he did not
believe that he would continue his erotic journey. Ricardo buried his face in the
soft junction of her thighs and Angie shuddered. She should be embarrassed by his
employer to act with such intimacy, but all I could feel was a wild and delirious
excitement as he pushed to bed. She did not dreamed of this for the last five years?

Angie Ricardo unbuttoned his shirt, anxious, and thought he heard one of the
buttons fall to the ground.
- Oh, man. Slowly ... Slowly. - He laughed softly. I was surprised, but
excited by the impatience of Angie, as she put the wallet, mobile phone and keys
on the table beside the bed. - Wait a minute.
Angie did not want to wait. She felt like someone who has just seen a
rainbow and is charmed by her ethereal beauty, but is sure that it can disappear at
any second. She loved that man. She had loved him for years, and that was the
conseq u natural ence your feelings. The last thing he wanted was for him to
change his mind and give up making love to her. It was destined to spend the
lonely life, I would have at least one glorious night to remember in the future. With
a boldness that never experienced, Angie tried to take the Ricardo belt. He groaned
and held.
- No - he interrupted.
- But ...
- I'm too excited to let someone undress me - he muttered, freeing up the
pants and the rest of the clothes. Suddenly, he was as naked as she, and laid him on
the bed. The narrow mattress sank with the unexpected weight of a man next to
her. Angie was aware of the long legs that involved and the power contained in
your muscles.
- Ricardo - she whispered. Ricardo was in his bed and into his arms. She
wanted to ask if it was really happening to her, to him, the two, but could not find
words to formulate the question.
- Do you use birth control? - Angie shook her head, he swore in Italian and
took a condom in his wallet. - You want to put to me?

-. Do not you ... you put - she said, suddenly embarrassed, annoyed at not
knowing how to do it and for fear that your nails could hurt him ... But his concern
disappeared when he started to kiss her again . A beautiful mouth seemed to have a
mission to go every centimeter of her body. Angie relaxed and his desire has
intensified, dragging it like a feather in the midst of the gale. When Ricardo took
over and within it, Angie squealed. He stopped short, with a query expression.
- Please - he said in a supreme effort. - Do not tell me you're a virgin.
Angie felt there was something strange in the tone with which he spoke,
something dark that threatened to destroy the fragile beauty of the moment.
- No - she murmured. - Of course I'm not.
The "clear" reminded him that only amused. Ricardo smiled slightly and
began to move, leading her to madness, torturing her, taking her to the limit and
stopping. He demonstrated his self-control and the technique to rn the famous ara
until she begged him not to stop. Gasping for prayer that resounded in the air, he
finally broke free and felt she shuddered under him, clinging to his shoulders with
a faint groan. He accompanied her, loving the feeling of spilling his seed inside of
Angie's body, although he felt some bitterness because the moment of orgasm was
the closest I came home from his strong body feeling weak. For a moment he lay,
feeling sleepy as always, try as he might avoid. This time he really struggled
against sleep, not wanting to wake up the Angie bed the next morning, but his legs
were heavy and Ricardo felt he would lose the battle when his eyelids closed. Was
that a way that nature created to keep the man next to the woman with whom he
had just made love? - He thought sleepily.
Lying next to Ricardo, Angie held her breath until you hear the rhythmic
breathing that indicated he had fallen asleep, but did not dare move, afraid to wake
him or undo the spell. Surely, some kind of magic invaded his life that night. How

else to explain that her beloved Ricardo were lying beside her, naked and satisfied
after making love like ... like ...? She swallowed. It was the most wonderful
experience of your life. Off everything she hoped it would be, like the books said
they should be and she did not believe. She believed love him for years, but the
intimacy of making love with him had magnified his feelings for thousand.
Her heart jumped because she dared to hope it was not something unilateral.
Ricardo would not make love to her like that, unless it meant something to him,
would you? She turned carefully to observe it. Illuminated by orange street light
through the window, he seemed carved in some precious metal, like a museum
statue. Her hair seemed darker, dark as a moonless night, and thick eyelashes black
eyes hid her two semicircles formed on his face. Angie had never had the
opportunity to watch him up close, and plunged in its beauty, noting how his
cheekbones were high and matched perfectly with the brown skin. And now? She
yearned to touch him, by petting her hair and run your finger on the perfect line of
her chin, down to the firm chest, and perhaps even lower. Should wake him with
caresses as men like according read in some books? Or would it be better to let him
sleep? Ricardo had been under so much pressure lately ... In the confusion caused
by the future marriage of his sister, he was occupied with various complicated
negotiations and should still feel the strain caused by the time zone difference.
Would not it be better to let him sleep ... And in the morning, who knows?
Angie smiled. It would be Saturday and neither would work. Then she would wake
up with kisses - as many as he wanted - and make you a coffee. I could persuade
him to stay in bed while she would go to the corner store, which did not sell the
sophisticated things with which he was accustomed, but had croissants which were
delicious if heated in the oven and covered by strawberry jam.

Angie gave a satisfied sigh and snuggled into the pillow. That morning, she
felt desperate and ready to look for another job that depart from the boss's
proximity, and now ... And now? She buried her face in the pillow. Now I felt as if
the world had been reborn under the power of magic. What a difference a few
hours could make!

CHAPTER FIVE

Stained ceiling came into focus and Ricardo quickly closed his eyes. When
reopened, the ceiling was still there. And he ... he. Ricardo held her breath as she
realized that there was someone lying next to him and froze to remember who it
was. Angie! The memory of the previous day's events hit him like an unwanted
wave. He giving her dress. The Christmas party. The wine added to tiredness by
time difference and little food. Damn dress! And then ... He brought home and
grabbed ... And she willingly allowed. His heart pounded in his motionless body,
lying in smaller bed I've ever slept since I was a child. He did not risked turning his
head, afraid to wake her. Without the dress, she did not seem the mermaid from the
night before, but he knew Angie, despite the loose hair. His head was tucked into
the pillow, his face was flushed and the duvet had slipped, revealing a pink nipple.
He felt dread to see her worst nightmare come true. I was in bed, naked, with his
secretary! For a moment, he was carried away by thoughts drawbacks, by the

memory of soft skin Angie, his reaction undisguised pleasure to be caressed by it,
how kissed him - as his first kiss. Ricardo blocked the sensual memories firmly.
And now? He moved his leg carefully toward the edge of the bed, he noticed that
she sighed and stopped.
- Good morning - she whispered hoarsely.
Ricardo froze. The voice had the tone passionate and devoted that he knew
so well and that women always wore after making love with him. He turned to
look at her, hardening before the look of adoration that she drove him. She was not
to blame, the female reaction is different from men's. Just give them an orgasm for
women to imagine all sorts of madness. With a little tact, madness would be
forgotten. He had to be very careful, because Angie respected. As his secretary!
- Good day. - His smile was brief and casual, and most importantly, elusive.
The kind of smile that he would give to be late for a meeting. He leaned over and
kissed the tip of her nose with the right dose of careless affection that showed that
he did not think badly of her, but not fed false hopes that the situation would
further.
The sooner she understood the better. Ricardo pulled back the comforter and
swung her legs out of bed that had not seemed uncomfortable last night, but now
seemed a cage. Angie looked at him.
- You'll have to raise?
- I need to go to the bathroom.
Angie smiled. Of course he needed. It sounded so close.
- It's there.
- I think I can find alone - he said dryly.

Ricardo did not seem embarrassed by their nakedness, and Angie watched as
he left the room, studying his muscles greedily. Brunettes and strong legs
contrasted with lighter buttocks. She should be ashamed, anxious, insecure, but
was not. How could, after great sex last night, when he had made her feel a real
woman for the first time in his life? Ricardo was naked in his apartment and
everything seemed so natural!
Wishing he had a chance to brush your teeth, Angie ran his hands through
his hair and straightened the bed, waiting for him to kiss her again, but his heart
sank when he entered the room and began to take his clothes off the floor, as if
clothe them. She sat very straight, unable to hide the sadness in his voice.
- You will not ... though, are you?
- I have to go. - He had to go, to clear his thoughts, get rid of it and restore
order and normalcy in your life. Of course she realized that that episode, however
nice it was, was regrettable and should be forgotten as soon as possible. However,
while sitting, Angie left the duvet falling to her waist and her hair spread over her
breasts. For a split second he forgot that it was Angie and it was enough to arouse
in him a new wave of desire. His body reacted, and by the size of her eyes, he saw
that she noticed.
- You really need to go? - She murmured, forgetting pride amid the desire to
be in his arms again.
The mouth of Ricardo hardened the same extent as their bowels throbbed,
and he recognized the provocation of the question, reminding himself that he was
not before an innocent young man, but of a sexually mature woman with own
desires as his.
- If you keep looking at me with these wide eyes and showing her beautiful
breasts, not be able to get out of here, bellezza mia. - An unknown gleam in his

eyes caused a shiver of apprehension in Angie's body, but she ignored him. I did
not want to doubt, she wanted him. And he wanted too, was what she saw in his
eyes, and his body show it overtly.
- Who is asking you to leave? - She challenged softly.
Ricardo thought for a while and let your clothes. He approached the bed and
looked at her. He realized an invitation in dark eyes and parted lips Angie, whose
pink nipples swelled under his gaze. Suddenly, he wanted nothing more than to
kiss them and caress them. He pulled the comforter, straddled her, looked at her
with intense desire and hugged her.
- Ricardo! - She whispered as he pushed her onto the mattress.
- Ricardo! - He mimicked sarcastically because he was furious with her and
with himself for giving in to temptation, having decided that it was time to leave.
The morning light, he knew that this only prolong the madness, but the desire
weakens the man, and, as much as he knew he should go, nothing could prevent his
lips caress the Angie's nipples. - Is that what you wanted, right? - He felt it
trembling under the touch of the hand down until it reaches the moist heat between
her legs. - It is not?
- Yes Yes.
- This also?
Angie closed her eyes.
- Yes.
- This is it? - Ricardo moved his fingers insistently. - And now?
- You know I do! - She gasped and forgot his doubts, telling herself it was
glorious to be familiar with his body, grab him by the hips, kissing him again and
feel his weight as he put on it and entered his body, raising -a to an unknown place

and leaving it to fall slowly, delighted. Later, she stroked, still trembling, seeking a
different kind of intimacy and some assurance that what they had to do was not the
craziest.
- Ricardo ...
A nerve trembled on her face she stroked.
- Hmm?
- This was ... it was ...
He gave her a kiss on the forehead and walked away.
- This was sensational sex Piccola, and probably should never have
happened.
Angie thought he was joking, teasing her, but all it took was one look at the
stern face and she knew he meant it, which was confirmed precisely the fact that he
get out of bed.
- You're leaving?
This time he was dressed in suit and demanded to see the crumpled shirt.
- I have to go. - He did not say why, and Angie tried to remember that he
would meet that day. As far as she knew, no. She smiled.
- You do not want to eat anything ...?
Ricardo thought an awkward and prolonged meal in front of an old table,
and contained a trembling shoulders.
- It is tempting - he murmured - but fear not having time.
- Oh? So now you're busy? - She hated herself for asking and noticed that
his voice had a new tone, angry. The old Angie would never have asked a question
like that Ricardo or await an answer with so much hope.

Ricardo did not answer and went to the room, where he sought the jacket
that had been hanging on the sofa backrest. He heard the sound of bare feet and,
still wearing his jacket, he turned to find her watching him. Angie tied strips of a
silk kimono, and he sought a way to tell you all been a unique adventure without
saying the exact words.
- Look, Angie ... I had so much fun ...
Angie was not a complete idiot and Ricardo knew enough to know when he
dispensed someone. I had seen him do it many times during business deals. She
interrupted, hiding his hurt on the attitude he had adopted.
- What about Marco?
- Marco? - He repeated blankly.
- His driver and bodyguard. Remember? We left him sitting in the car last
night.
- Marco can take care of himself.
Angie looked out the window, wondering how Ricardo's car and his driver
have been received on the narrow, busy street where she lived.
- He's gone!
- Of course it was. It usually wait ...
Angie turned slowly.
- In general it expects what, Richard?
He took silk tie and slipped into his jacket pocket.
- Nothing.
- No, please tell me. Or maybe I can guess? - She felt a heavy heart and
sweat trickle between her breasts, but should face the truth head-on. Not knowing
erodes people and insecurity destroys them. As every time his parents said to

amazed little girl that nothing was wrong. In fact, his father was very ill, and when
she discovered the seriousness of her case was almost too late to say goodbye to
him properly. - Do you have a specific time for their nightly adventures? - She
asked. - If you do not show up on time, he knows you got lucky?
Ricardo did not respond to the charge.
- It was you who said, Angie, not me.
She blushed.
- So I was right.
Ricardo pursed his lips. She wanted him to feel bad? Why? She almost
asked him to take her, and had provoked him all night crossing and uncrossing her
legs inside the car.
- Do you think this was the first time this happened? - He looked at the
beautiful breasts under the thin kimono. - Not for us both, I suppose.
Angie flinched.
- You do not have to make me the kind of promiscuous woman!
He shrugged.
- Again, it was you who said Angie. How do you say in England ... "If the
shoe fits ..."?
She wanted to fly over it and slap his arrogant face, but what good? As if a
woman could make a man suffer as Ricardo ... Wounded and angry, she opened
her mouth to defend his honor and closed it, because no good. She could talk until
purple and would be a waste of time. Ricardo believe what he wanted, as always,
and believed that her sister should be grateful for marrying an aristocrat, even if the
result was a loveless marriage!

Angie straightened her shoulders and looked up, searching for dignity dose
in the little that was left to him.
- I think you should go, right?
Ricardo did not move, intrigued to see anger Angie and looking for the best
way to calm the situation. It was not worth giving much importance to something
that should never have happened, and he did not want to harm the perfect working
relationship that existed between the two. Angie would not want to throw away a
well paid job only because both were carried away after a few drinks. Perhaps,
after a few days, she felt relieved that he had common sense. Ricardo tried to ease
the tension with a rare indulgence smile.
- Look, let's forget what happened, agree? - He suggested simply. - Let's get
everything back to how it was before.
He really thought that everything would be so simple? Angie told silently to
ten. If he knew how she wanted to take the rest of the night cold coffee and playing
in his arrogant face! But if she showed her indignation or her hurt, he would think
she cared, which was not true. Not anymore. How she could care for a man who
had a stone for a heart? A man who could take her to heaven and bring her back in
his arms, and the next morning, making her feel like a cheap woman?
- Just go - she repeated, opening the door for him and avoiding looking at
him, scared him to see her tears of shame and humiliation.

CHAPTER SIX

- You're not eating anything, Angie.

- I'm not hungry, Mother.
- Oh, do not give me that, honey. It is Christmas Day. Come on, eat some
more!
Angie kept a smile and obeyed, forcing himself to chewing a forkful that
threatened to choke her. It was how she felt, since it is raised in the morning and
watched some presents under the tree with a feigned enthusiasm. If they knew the
truth, she would have preferred to stick your head under the duvet and stay in bed
all day instead of celebrating! From the outside, its Christmas seemed perfect, with
snow falling on the town where his mother lived and all the doors of the houses
adorned with colorful garlands. The scene could be photographed and placed in a
Christmas card, and all be misled. She watched the traditional Mass in the small
chapel and talked to people who knew since childhood. Then back home by ra tra
silent ject covered in white and she and her mother opened the presents. That had
always been a painful time for mother and Angie felt his deep suffering had
nothing to do with the fact that the anniversary of her husband's death. The marital
difficulties sister did not help. The calls from Australia succeeded with astonishing
regularity. Angie wondered how his sister would pay the bill amid a costly divorce
proceedings, and also doubted whether the adiantassem links, since consisted
primarily of Sally crying and complaining of how much was unhappy with the
"Australian idiot."
- Believe me, Angie - she sniffed. - Being single is an advantage! Not the
Angie's point of view.

At the time, she felt the loneliest person in the world, an uncomfortable
feeling enhanced by regret having gone to bed with Ricardo. Ricardo. Angie
swallowed the rest of the food and tried to stop the nausea. No matter what she said
or did, or tried to fill your day with everyday tasks to distract her head, her
thoughts insisted on returning to the Italian arrogant. The brightness of physical
pleasure had gone out quickly to learn that he regretted what had happened. The
sudden Ricardo exit the apartment had left with the feeling of abandonment and
ridiculous. She soon realized that the cherished dream of ending up in the arms of
his boss not resulted in what she expected.
Ricardo did not want, unless it was to meet her calls and to type your letters.
He even wanted her enough to want to have sex with her on another occasion. He
had come so quickly that morning that seemed to be running away. If she fed some
hope that he would change his mind, that he call her to apologize for the untimely
departure and to say he wanted to see her again outside the office, had given up.
The Castellari Signor had remained in a deafening silence. In addition, there was
another problem: what she would do to get back to work after the holidays would
end? It should act as if nothing had happened? Should gladly serve Ricardo coffee
and forget as he departed the face of her hair and kissed her? Should forget as his
tongue treading a path to a very intimate part of his anatomy? C praying with
remorse, Angie bit her lip. There was only one certainty: there was no way to
continue that job.
Before Christmas, she already was sure could not work forever with
Ricardo, but that vague desire now had become a necessity. So he returned to
London, she would start looking for another job.
- Are you okay, honey?
The mother's voice interrupted his thoughts and Angie put down the fork.

- Yes mom. I'm fine.

- Since arriving, you are distracted. There is nothing wrong there, Angie?
Angie managed a slight smile.
- No of course not. There is nothing wrong. - What woman could tell her
mother who had broken all the rules that would climb the career ladder? Never mix
business with pleasure. Never fall in love with a man who is light years ahead of
their class. And never go to bed with her boss after the Christmas party.
- How's your friendly boss?
Do the mothers can read thoughts?
- Oh, he ... he's fine. Successful as ever.
- It is what I read in the newspapers - the mother murmured approvingly. You are very lucky for him saving her secretaries pool.
Angie almost winced at the words her mother had chosen, but then again,
she had not had the same feeling to be promoted so quickly? Ricardo was as if he
were a knight in shining armor who galloped into the office and rescued on his
white horse. However, in their eyes, at that time, her boss did nothing wrong,
however it was irascible. In a way, she got used to worship him, delighted by the
way he "saved". The truth was quite different. He only realized he'd just find a
woman who would live on the basis of his life, to be content with what he was
willing to give him. She spent long hours and not started helping him to comply
with any term in exchange only an occasional smile or a twinkle in his eye. Just
because he had done the unthinkable, everything had taken a new turn.
If Ricardo had not bought her the kind of dress she normally would not use,
she would never have turned into another person - someone who was no longer
herself for just one night - and he would not have treated as if it were Angie . He
treated her like a woman he'd just be fascinated. He had taken her to the bed and

had shown him as a man can make a woman feel beautiful. Just because she
dazzled awakened the next morning, wondering who might have some kind of
future did not mean he would feel the same. Rather, he wanted to erase the red
dress woman and replace it with the old and familiar Angie version - the faded
secretary he could barely see. She doubted that was possible, and, most
importantly, wondered if it was what she wanted. Resume life as usual, after all
that had happened?
- What will he do on Christmas? - Mom asked cheerfully.
Angie shrugged.
- The same. Will spend it with his family in Tuscany.
- In the castle?
- Yes, mother ... In the castle. They are all preparing for a wedding. His
sister is going to marry a duke next year.
- A Duke?
- Well, they call it Duca, but it makes no difference.
- Oh, Angelina - sighed the mother. - It looks like a fairy tale.
Yes, it seemed, Angie thought bitterly. But it was as elusive as any fairy tale,
with all the winding and dark secrets stirring under a thin layer of apparent
perfection.
Angie became agitated to imagine going back to work. He looked his insipid
image in the mirror and tried not to remember how had been different with
shimmering dress she had worn during the party. For the first time in her life, she
realized how the clothes could make someone unfold, and how they could make a
man - even such a lovely man and Ricardo - look at her with obvious desire. She
hung the red dress in the closet, vowing never to use it again, but realized that his

entire wardrobe gave him the look and the feel of being a piece of wallpaper. She
always lost in the crowd, unnoticed, but suddenly this perspective terrified her.
Feared taking up completely invisible, inside and out. If not careful, the destruction
of their dreams to throw a well from which he could not get out. No longer wanted
to live life that way. His clothes had been expensive and it could not replace your
wardrobe from one day to the other. I would not trade it for the kind of cheap
clothes that you do not fell well, but might be able to improve it by buying some
accessories carefully chosen for settlement after Christmas

Angie was in a huge department store in Oxford Street, running her fingers
through a vaporous collection of scarf. She put a red scarf on his face and decided
that maybe the vibrant colors accentuate the color of your skin in a way that the
brown and gray could not. He bought a wide belt of brown leather that left its
incredibly narrow waist, and another black lacquer; a beautiful green velvet scarf
that accentuated the green dots of her brown eyes; Soft brown leather boots and a
pair of black high heels. Colored beads chains costing little and renewed the
appearance of any dress - was what told him the seller of the jewelry section.
When she entered the new job could not be classified by colleagues as someone
dull, like a person that no one noticed. Think of it as radiant and lively Angie
wearing a set of bracelets that jingled when she moved. But the most daring she
left last: went into a hair salon with a defiant expression and with her hair loose
over her shoulders.
- You can cut them? - He asked.
- You want something in particular? - He asked the attendant.
- Something sophisticated - Angie said, blushing - but nothing exaggerated.

For her, the new haircut, boots and belt were a way to update its image
without losing its essence, but could also be a shield under which to hide. The way
to work, after the year-end holidays, Angie closely was nervous, but on the outside,
looked cheerful and carefree. The snow had melted and turned into mud, but the
owner of the cafeteria encouraged by declaring that she was the best thing he had
ever seen that year.
- Oh, it's because we're only on the second day of January! - She smiled. If
you were closer, he would have noticed the figure had stopped briefly outside the
window. Although determined not to sneak at work as if embarrassed, Angie felt
her heart race when she entered the building carrying a raspberry muffin. With an
almost hysterical insistence, she repeated to herself that Ricardo had nothing
scheduled until lunchtime and it should not be in office.
But it was. Sitting at his desk, leaning on the chair and your legs straight, he
leafed through a sheaf of papers and looked up when he heard her enter. He
frowned.
Angie hung up her coat and prayed able to transmit the exact dose of
friendly interest that could demonstrate by a boss after seeing him for the last time,
when he dressed. Ricardo was impassive, and Angie heart twitched.
- Happy New Year! - She said nervously. - How was the Tuscany? Agitated,
I hope. There is less time for the wedding.
He ignored the question and balbuciados comments and looked her up and
down with an admired twinkle in his eye. When he spoke, his voice was soft, with
a tone she had never heard and did not recognize.
- Well well well. And what is this, please?
Angie stared at him, asking God to his face tranq u yl did not betray his
nervousness to be alone with him again. She did not want to feel excited like that.

All she wanted was to stay neutral during the time that would have to wait until
you can hand him your letter of resignation and out the door without looking back.
- What is it what? - She asked quietly, though his heart beat like a hammer.
Ricardo looked at her coldly. He prepared for a very different encounter. Expected
- and feared - Angie entered the office with red eyes, resentful and clearly
demonstrating their displeasure. I expected her to hit the coffee cups on the table
and that his memories of that night incredibly erotic gradually vanished, as he saw
his disconsolate appearance. She did not look a bit disconsolate. Ricardo frowned.
What changed? He was sure that the simple wool dress she wore was not new, but
apparently suffered a dramatic transformation. Maybe it was the tight belt that
called attention to the narrow waist and the tempting volume of Angie's breasts, or
maybe it was just because he now knew the dress hid a valuable treasure. He felt a
lump in my throat.
- You ... you cut his hair - he said suddenly.
He noticed! Angie felt a twinge of satisfaction, but came back to reality. Do
not be ridiculous. He noted that finally you changed hairstyle. Big deal! After all,
she touched the newly trimmed curls.
- You're right. Did you like it? - The question came out unintentionally. It
would have sounded like the desperate cry of an abandoned lover to be valued in
the eyes of the man who had left?
Ricardo watched. Unfortunately, the question required him to continue
looking for her, and that was the last thing he wanted. Or rather I wanted, but
looking at it only reminded him of his silky, pink skin, and as she groaned as he
possessed. At the time, she had nothing pink or soft. It looked bright and luminous,
like a spoiled cat want to be petted. He made an effort to divert the eyes of Angie's
breasts and examine your new hairstyle. He liked? It was hard to judge because his

head was filled with images that fought to win your attention. Angie with her hair
pulled back, as used to use; Angie with hair spread on the pillow; and now Angie
with curly hair in to rn the face, revealing a long, graceful neck. Ricardo shrugged.
- It's fine.
Suddenly Angie understood what was to be convicted of a weak approval.
So stop asking her, she told herself. Act normal, the way you behaved before
spending the night with him. The problem is that she did not know it was going to
get. She had loved him for a long time and to rn ara expert at hiding his feelings
behind a comfortable working relationship that both had forged. Now, everything
was out of place and looked strange. Now, she experienced what would have
Ricardo as a lover, and that memory dominated his thoughts.
How could focus on financial reporting, he is still thinking about how his
lips touched his body as if they were the stroke of a pen? Remember how it was
insensitive the next morning, she told herself. Remember how you were full of
love for him, and as he stepped their feelings with their arrogant Italian shoes.
- I'll make some coffee - she said.
- I do not want coffee.
- But I want. - Angie looked away from Ricardo cutting look and started
filling the sophisticated coffee he settled upon arrival, and that produced a cafe that
rivaled the nearby cafeteria. Only when he put the cup of hot coffee on his desk
was that she realized he still looked at her, and she could not eat at ease raspberry
muffin that would serve him breakfast. I could also not ignore the accusation look
he drove him.
- There is something wrong, Ricardo?
- I'm just wondering why you came to work dressed as one goes straight to a
party.

Angie pretended to be offended, but, deep down, was overjoyed. He noticed

his clothes. Great. And disapproved. Even better.
- I do not think this is an accurate description of a simple wool dress that
you've seen several times - she said coolly. - Do you agree?
Ricardo made a sound that resembled a grunt of discomfort. Greater
discomfort was the twinge he felt in his gut. He was exaggerating, and it was time
to stop. He should be grateful that she had the good sense to not make a scene and
did not wish to discuss what happened after the Christmas party. He pursed his
lips. However, Angie's motives for improving the wardrobe were evident. Women
are so transparent! She thought he would go to her and rip her dress, right? I
thought him to lie down on the table and he would take his ...
- Something wrong, Ricardo?
Restless, he got rid of sensual reverie.
- Why?
- You have a strange color, that's all.
He glared at him. Angie dared mock him?
- Do me a coffee! - He sent.
- But you just said ...
- No matter what I said, Angie ... Make me a coffee, please ... Since this is
one of the things I pay you to do!
Not for long, she thought angrily, as he stood up and walked to the coffee.
She felt Ricardo's gaze burning her while preparing coffee, and tried to
control the shaking of hands. When she put the cup before him carefully, he
grabbed her by the wrist.
- So, are you enjoying your flirtation with that man? - He asked.

The Angie heart raced as he touched her and she looked at him, puzzled. As
if she could look for another man!
- What a man?
- The owner of the adjacent cafeteria.
Angie wanted to laugh, but realized he was serious.
- Do not be ridiculous, Ricardo. - He squeezed her wrist.
- I saw her way to the office, winking at him. Swinging his hips like women
do when they are sure of your sexual power.
Although the accusation was ridiculous, the Angie heart raced and she felt
her own pulse in the fingers of Ricardo. Does he also felt it ?, she wondered. He
would be affected by contact with it as much as she had been affected to feel his
touch on the skin? She pulled her arm, startled by how quickly that brief contact
and almost insolent the desire to melted by him.
- You're being ridiculous!
- You think? I know very well the desire to sign a man. - His gaze was
steady, but inside, he was furious - with himself, more than anyone else - because
she showed a tremendous coolness he was far from feeling. His desire was to get
out from behind the desk and kiss Angie until she begged him to make love to her.
He wanted to get lost in her sweet tenderness again ... Instead, he stared at her. Who knows? I may not be the sole beneficiary of her favors sweet.
Angie looked at him in disbelief, but could blame him for making such an
accusation? She had not been to bed with him bluntly? Ricardo did not know she
only had a boyfriend in life, and that was a disaster.
- You ... really think so, Ricardo?

He did not know what to think. His list of rules turned inside out and flew
out the window during the incredibly sultry night she had spent with her, and he
acted so out of the ordinary. As if he cared about what she did!
- What do you do and with whom does is none of my business. You can
have as many boyfriends want. You are free. - He paused. - Like me.
It hurt her more than anything he had said. He made it clear that what
happened between them had been only something fortuitous, a one-night stand.
Well, she did not react, and he would never know how much she loved him. How
loved him, she corrected quietly.
- I know, Ricardo. If you do not mind, I'd rather not discuss what happened.
I thought we'd settled this. - Or rather, he decided. Angie smiled slightly. - It was
unfortunate, it was a mistake that should never be repeated. So the faster we forget,
the better. Do not you agree?
For a moment, he was confused. It was he who should speak that way. It was
he who used to establish the boundaries of any relationship, and others simply
agreed. She had dared to speak in error? Forum a mistake to spend the night in the
arms of Ricardo Castellari! He considered hug her, kiss her, and let her say, then,
that everything had been a mistake. As if she could! But he did not need to prove
their sexual power to anyone, let alone for yourself. Maybe Angie had made it
easier to face the episode with indifference, although she could be faking closely
and wanted him to kiss her again.
- It has been forgotten. Never mind - he muttered with a shrug. - Now, bring
me the reports will pose, please. Then would you arrange a conference call with
Zurich to discuss the merger of Close. Oh, and make an appointment for me to
experience the fear that I will use in my sister's wedding.
- It will be a pleasure - she replied firmly, while consulted the file.

The rest of the day they barely spoke, except when it became necessary.
Angie plunged into work and stayed late, after Ricardo left to prepare for an
elegant dinner at Somerset House, where there was a beautiful skating rink and a
wonderful view of the river. It would take a woman to accompany him? - She
thought jealous, looking at job listings. Of course it would! A man like Ricardo
Castellari would ever alone to a party like that, Angie thought, during the long
journey to his home and in the cold apartment that awaited her.
She spent the day trying to act as a good professional, but there was no
ignoring the tension between her and her boss, try as they might keep away from
each other. As she ag u entaria that kind of environment in which the mere
presence of Ricardo mocked her, reminding her of the pleasure he had given her
and never would give again? She could not bear. Angie looked at the blank screen
of the computer and began typing a letter, applying for a job.

CHAPTER SEVEN

- You can come to my office for a moment, Angie?

Angie looked up and was startled to see his boss standing in the room door
of the secretaries - a place he rarely visited. At the same time, a murmur ran
through the room and all the women fluttered in their chairs. She was talking to
Alicia because heavy rain had made her give up going out for lunch and hoped that
Ricardo only to return much later. He was with her hair and wet clothes and glared
that left frightened. Angie gave an embarrassed smile and pointed out the rest of
his sandwich.
- Of course, you mind if I ...?
- Why does not bring with you? - He interrupted. - I want to talk to you now.
Angie blushed up, took the rest of the sandwich and threw it in the trash. He
tried to ignore the knowing look of Alicia and the exchange of glances between the
other secretaries. He felt humiliated by him talk to her like that, especially in front
of other people and after she faced several embarrassing questions about how out
to be taken home by Ricardo, the car and driver, after the Christmas party. Since
return-ara to work, earlier this year, she had become expert in the art of escape. I
did not like to lie, and what else could I do besides giving confusing answers or tell
half-truths to a young impressionable as Alicia? Admitting he had spent a night of
passion with her boss would hardly be the ideal example of the secretary of paper
for the girls team.
She followed Ricardo, trying to keep their firm floor, but he had longer legs
and she fell behind.
- Is there something wrong? - She asked, panting, they reached the office in
coverage.
- Close the door - he said imperiously. Angie swallowed.
- Ricardo ...
- I've had to shut the door.

She obeyed with trembling hands. He felt the uneasiness invade it, as he
waited he hung his wet coat by rain.
- Did something happen? - She asked. He looked her up and down and
watched as the dress outlined her breasts.
- You bet.
Angie raised her eyebrows anxiously.
- Nothing wrong with the family, I hope.
Ricardo looked at her. It was typical of Angie bother with the others, but
now he wondered how much of that complacency would be feigned, hiding a
woman he quickly discovered not know. Maybe he did not know actually. To be
honest, the macho side of Ricardo was surprised with the ease with which Angie
spent Secretary of the lover. He always had classified as a woman who would be
shocked if he tried to seduce her, and show him the front door instead of
welcoming it into his body with such passion, leaving him tremendously excited.
He was furious with himself for his thoughts roam a path that caused conseq u
predictable ences in your body.
- Do not try to change the subject! - He snapped.
- I have not tried.
- Tell me, Angie - he said with a dangerous softness. - You wanted to tell me
who plans to leave?
Angie panicked and tried to think. Yes, she had sent several resumes, but
had obtained no answer. There was no evidence that anyone had checked his
references to occupy any position. It was not called for any interviews!

- Well, I'm not going away, in the strict sense. I'm thinking about leaving
and I applied for some jobs, but was not selected for any. I had not even an
interview.
- Do not you think - cut Ricardo, trying to master his anger and his growing
frustration - it would be right to give me some kind of warning about their plans?
Even more after working for me for so long? You did not think I was this kind of
courtesy?
For a moment, Angie had to control the temptation to give him back his
accusation. She wondered what he would say if she dared challenge him. Ricardo
demonstrated some type of consideration for her to run out of the apartment, as if
she threatened?
- I meant to tell you!
- When?
- I was waiting for the right time. - She looked at him, knowing that when
Ricardo was angry as now, it was better to be careful. - How did you find out?
- How? - He said with an angry growl. - When one of my biggest
competitors came up to me in an elegant dinner last night, and asked if I thought he
would have a chance to get their hands on the best branch secretary?
Angie blushed, all happy.
- But this was not some sort of compliment? - She asked. - So much for you
as for me?
- How did you do with this? - He gently asked, wondering why she blushed.
Were you hiding something? She would have appreciated the car and driver more
than demonstrated? I would have seen a side of life that she would like to have - a
side that charmed women the first sign of wealth? Maybe Angie had accepted the
fact that he knew her too well to have her as a lover, and, with its new and

inexplicable aura of sensuality gained when using the red dress, intended to find a
more receptive millionaire it. That would explain the new haircut and the most
attractive wardrobe. Ricardo pursed his lips. - How can you be a compliment in the
business world everyone knows - except me - you're leaving? You know, in this
business, good secretaries are worth gold!
- Exactly! - Angie said. - It is a compliment for the table. You do not
understand? He values me, and as conseq u ence, he greets your judgment!
- My self-esteem is not so low that I need to value me through my staff - he
interrupted dryly.
- No, I guess not.
- It was the "lay hands" on you left me concerned about their safety and also
something more - he said, indifferent, and paused as he watched. - You've been
bragging about the night we spent together, Angie?
She was furious and shuddered to realize the hateful suggestion.
- Of course not!
- Are you sure? - He asked ironically. - There've been bragging to the
secretaries, for having managed to put his claws in chief and he is a great lover?
News travels fast, you know, especially when it comes to something as sensational.
It was enough. The blood boiled Angie. Although he knew that the answer
was foolish, his anger was such that she could not help himself.
- Miserable - she cried, flying in the direction of Ricardo. I hated him for
making her feel like a profiteer any if only for one night had obtained a trophy. You think you're big deal, right?

His reaction was instant and firm. He easily held the slap she intended to
give her and held her by her wrist, pulling her. That was a danger, because she felt
the heat that Ricardo's body emanated and his powerful close.
- My importance has never been in question - he hissed. - Do not think that
made me look like a fool?
- That's all that matters to you, you arrogant pig - your reputation?
He laughed. With its insulting words she had sealed their own fate. In effect,
the professional relationship was over, and therefore there was no reason for him to
abstain than she wanted, and she also wanted, judging by the way her lips trembled
and her eyes widened in a way that he could dive into them.
- No, piccola, that's where you're wrong - he said with gentle irony. - Right
now, I worry about something more important than my professional reputation.
He kissed her fiercely, almost like a punishment. Angie tried to fight him
and herself, but soon realized that he would lose the battle. Anger made her shiver
and wish weakened. After all, Ricardo made her feel alive. Vibrant.
- Ricardo - she whispered between his lips, grabbing him by the shoulders as
if he were the only solid thing in the world and she needed to save; as if to say his
name aloud to convince herself that he was real. - Oh, Ricardo.
The unmistakable thrill of Angie hit unexpectedly voice, and Ricardo felt his
blood boil, he spent the year-end holidays zigzagging between trying to calm the
anxiety that his sister was getting married and the evening reminder that with
Angie with the passage of time, he wondered if in fact happened and how he had
let happen. Now, feeling the softness of her body in his arms again, he knew
exactly why. The desire - pure, powerful and strong - running loose in his veins as
he stroked her breasts covered by cas h Emire that intumesciam under the thin
wool.

- Ah - she moaned, clinging to his body and pulling him by the neck. Angie
did not protest when he pushed her to the floor and stroked her body as those who
recognize something familiar by touch. She arched her body against his, eager to
undo any space between them. He kissed her neck.
- You're driving me crazy, you know?
- Go crazy - she said, feeling her dry lips.
Ricardo tried to tell himself that he should stop, but his thinking was soon
interrupted by another question: Could undress her there? There would be time to
let her naked on the office floor so he could feast your eyes with pink and silky
smoothness Angie's body while making love? No. The situation was already
absurd, and it would be sheer madness. And if anyone came? He lifted her dress
quickly. No one would dare enter without knocking, but he could wait no longer.
Angie shuddered as he slid the lips of her neck to the chin and sought her mouth.
She responded with fervor to the provocation that kiss and felt that he pulled his
socks.
- We should ... be doing this? - She cooed.
- Si - he muttered, tossing aside stockings and stroking it under her panties
until she arched body.
- Ah - she moaned.
- Open my pants - he asked in a trembling voice.
Angie did so with extreme care, opened his belt and deftly pulled the zipper.
Ricardo moaned with pleasure. She never had sex that way, without worrying
about nothing but the pressing need that united them. The clothes were just a
barrier to be removed with the utmost speed and efficiency.
- Please Ricardo - she asked as he had just undress her.

- Please what? - He teased, putting the condom.

Angie leaned his head back.
- I will not beg - she purred.
- So, I'll stop. It's what you want? - He asked gently.
Angie opened her eyes and realized that his words did not match with your
desire to look, and suddenly, she decided to forget the little games and the struggle
for power. All that mattered was him, and always had been.
- No, do not stop - she said, and spoke with all my heart. - Make love with
Me.
Even if it did not agree with the choice of words - I would not love that
quick sex - he was in no position to argue. All he could do was go in her body as if
it were taken by a force greater than their own will or his lucidity. All he felt was
that she melted to receive it, clinging to her body. All he heard were the soft moans
of Angie and the cry of pleasure she gave to reach orgasm, and he drowned with a
kiss, until it was his turn to reach the ecstasy and the world disappeared. It took
some time for him to regain lucidity, and for a moment, all that Ricardo did was to
record the sensations of the body, which seemed to shine, and the breath mo rn the
Angie in her neck as she gasped with pleasure. She hugged him tightly, as if he did
not drop it ever, while his last orgasm waves throbbed, keeping it trapped inside.
He heard her sigh, satisfied, and started to walk away with unexpected reluctance.
- You better pack your clothes - he said brusquely.
The harsh words interrupted the reverie of Angie and she opened her eyes.
Expected that passionate interlude ended with words of tenderness, had just
suffered a huge disappointment. There she foolishly fantasizing that Ricardo could
really like her, and completely deceived. How could a proud and refined man as
Ricardo like a woman who made him take her on the office floor with reckless

abandon? Slowly, Angie sat still a little dizzy, and now feeling empty, and picked
up his underwear, blushing with embarrassment.
- I need to ... get me - she said, stumbling barefoot to the office bathroom.
After signing in, she tried to compose herself, giving thanks for Ricardo, with his
European practicality, have insisted on installing a bidet. However, when washing
up, Angie felt even more decadent, and blushed as she remembered the reaction he
provoked him to touch her, which resulted in a shaky sense of insecurity. Smelling
of soap, she looked in the mirror, refreshed your face with cold water and tried to
fix the freshly cut hair with your fingers, but nothing could calm the turmoil within
her.
She wondered if Richard would have left office during his absence. Maybe it
was easier for both if he came back later and pretend that nothing happened, the
wild and erotic interlude had not occurred. But he was still there, the floor raised
and already dressed. I was leaning against the huge table, like a king waiting for
some subject, when Angie came up the head. She had to have sex with him, the
more incredibly exciting sex she's ever imagined. Sex he had caused, and that she,
obsessed with him, consented with pleasure. Therefore, it would not act as if
nothing had happened, and, moreover, needed to know where you stepped. Angie
took a deep breath.
- And now, Richard?
He looked at her half-closed eyes, or rather looked at the curves of Angie's
buttocks while she collected and wore shoes. She straightened and something
curious happened ... Ricardo swallowed. Except for the light pink color of the face
and the extra glint in his eyes, no one would think it had to do something besides
write down a simple saying. He remembered how she contorcera under his body

and started to get excited again. As an insignificant woman like her could leave
you so excited? His eyes flashed.
- You applied for other jobs. No longer want to work for me.
It was a matter of necessity, not something that Angie wanted, because she
wanted to Ricardo, he would never give him. He never love her, and sex was only
an insufficient substitute. A pleasurable substitute, it is true, but that if continued
over time to leave destroyed. And that would destroy certainly, so she refused to
continue ...
- No - she lied - I do not want.
Ricardo smiled. Maybe it was the best solution for them, in view of what
had just happened.
- I have a proposition for you. I think that will be satisfactory for both of us he said quietly.
Angie knew Ricardo enough to sense danger.
- Pro ... proposal? - She cooed.
- You know I will travel to Tuscany for my sister's wedding.
- Of course.
His eyes lit up.
- I want you to go with me.
Angie was confused.
- You are kidding?
Ricardo smiled. If she left the job, it would be a nuisance and an
inconvenience. He could not stand anything interfere in perfect flow of your life,
but could handle a break. What he could not tolerate was the fact Miss. Negligible
take him crazy with desire, and he can not get her head. She had entered into her

skin like an invisible and persistent itching. He would wake up at night,

tremendously excited, thinking that was lost in the soft body of Angie. This
situation could not continue Once he saciasse his desire for her, living together at
work would become unbearable. Ricardo knew the only way to satisfy an appetite
is to feed it! Therefore, he would, would own his glorious body as many times as
desired. Then she could go away and each follow their path.
- No - he said seriously. - I'm not joking. I want you to go with me to
Tuscany.

CHAPTER EIGHT

Angie did not want to go. She did not want to go. The words echoed in his
head like a mantra, but words, no matter how earnest they were, nothing changed
when facing the power and determination of Ricardo Castellari. Furious, Angie put
the last silk blouse neatly folded in the trunk and closed it, looking at the clock. At
any time, Marco would pick her up to take her to the airport. Her heart sped up, his
hands were sweating cold and she felt sick.
Out bribery, blackmail! As Ricardo dared insist that she accompany him to
Tuscany, to attend her sister's wedding? - She asked him during the conversation
he had after passionate sex in the office.

- Apparently, you will like my secretary - he answered. - But we know you

will be playing another role to perfection: that of my lover.
- But Ricardo ...
- Say no more. I do not accept objections. The solution is perfect - he said
thoughtfully. - My mother would not allow me to take a house lover, but no one
will know that you play both roles with perfect efficiency, cara mia. You can give
me sweet delights distracting me from unnerving preparations for the wedding
party.
- But why, Ricardo? - Her babble. - I mean, why me?
He examined almost impartially, and Angie realized, for the first time, how
much black can be cold, because his eyes were cold to landing on his dejected face.
- Because you provoked in me an inexplicable desire, cara mia, and I see no
reason not to satisfy you until we're both satisfied. Have you ever decided to leave
his job. We will ensure that, when you do, neither repent.
He spoke impersonally, as if it were an object, not a person. Angie was filled
with revolt.
- What if I do not agree?
He pulled her arrogance and kissed her almost with indifference. She
shivered in his arms.
- You will not refuse - he said. - You want me too much to resist.
Angie tried. Oh, she tried to control the desire to cries of his body, shaking
his head and muttering not. Then the smart Ricardo used his trump card. If she
agreed with the trip, he would let her leave like to return to England.
- But I have not got another job! - She protested.

- How about if I give you six months' salary? We consider it a bonus for
good performance at work.
Angie hesitated for a moment. Not felt well with the proposal. It would be
wrong to accept that kind of agreement, but at least it would preserve his sanity,
and besides, she did not deserve some sort of bonus for all the hours devoted to
Ricardo over so many years? After all, she shrugged and agreed. He kissed her
again, teasing her and proving that her body could not deny how much she wanted
him.
She took the bag and watched his pale face and pursed lips that reflected in
the mirror. It was true. She wanted, but his desire was not simple like his, but
complex and permeated by deep feelings that refused to die, no matter how hateful
and inaccessible that Ricardo proved. To convince herself to get rid of that love
which never have a happy ending. Outside this thought that led him to agree to the
outrageous plan of Ricardo. Angie knew only the man lived at work - an executive
of renowned success. Never seen him wearing something other than a te rn it, or
naked. If you spend a whole week with him, perhaps realizing who he really was:
an arrogant man, flawed, unworthy of his love. She prayed that this was the case,
because the alternative would be terrifying. Not bear to think what could become
one of those women who wasted his life pining for someone who did not care for
her.
The doorbell rang. Angie gave a finishing touch hairstyle. Marco should be.
Ricardo flew to Tuscany last night, and she would not have to endure his presence
during the flight. However, would have to face Marco. She had not seen the driver
of Richard since he left them in front of the apartment after the Christmas party.
He should have waited for a long time, before concluding that the boss would

spend the night with her. Angie liked Marco and did not want him to think she was
a frivolous woman.
- How long will take to the airport, Marco? - She asked, after he placed his
luggage in the trunk and they have joined the traffic.
- We arrive early, Signorina. Traffic is free - said hi taliano. The tone respei
toso the driver left Angie calmer. He seemed to judge her, she thought quiet.
Angie never traveled first class. His experience with planes had simply two
tours to Spain. The trip was a waste: it looked indifferently delicious slices of roast
beef that had been offered; the chocolate mousse not attracted. I was too nervous to
eat, but took a glass of champagne that temporarily gave him some courage to face
encounter with Ricardo. The courage abandoned her when she came out and saw
him waiting in the arrivals area. He was not wearing the perfect and under custom
made suit. He seemed more relaxed and at ease, was almost unrecognizable. Angie
could not help but admire him as he approached, though she told herself he was a
cruel man who had imposed him the role of lover during his stay in Tuscany.
After years of loyalty, he could not just let her get away with ad ignidade
that you left, erasing it from your life? The stunning view of Ricardo chased the
anguished thoughts of Angie. He wore a black jeans that accentuated the firm
contour the hips, and reminded of things that would forget. A dark sweater and a
leather jacket completed the adventurous image. His hair was disheveled and
brown skin transmitted vitality and health. Despite the apparent calm, nothing
could disguise the unmistakable look of longing that shone in his eyes when he
saw her approach. He looked her up and down with a cheeky look, and for a
moment, Angie was dazzled by him want her indeed. He, Ricardo Castellari,
powerful tycoon, wanted - a simple desk. Himself had told him that, shaking his
head in bewilderment, as if I did not believe.

It was unbelievable, was not it? There she was, the humble Angie Patterson,
crossing the arrivals hall, walking toward the man who focused the attention of
everyone around her, she should not take advantage? Relax and enjoy? - Mocked a
voice inside her. There is nothing to be ashamed, she told herself. I'm single, he
too, no one is being harmed. Angie straightened her shoulders, lifted her chin, and
walked over to him with its new high-heeled boots.
- Hello, Angie - he murmured, giving a slow, lazy smile.
The Angie heart jumped, but she told herself she should not see anything
special about the moment tenderness of Ricardo look. What man would not feel
one hint of affection for the woman who had owned in his office floor, the day
before? The only reason she was there was so he could repeat at will that erotic
interlude. That look did not mean that suddenly, Ricardo feel something deeper for
it.
- Hello, Ricardo - she said coolly.
He noted Angie behavior with a wry smile.
- So you brought some of England's cool with you?
- What did you expect? I was jumping for joy after the blackmail that
brought me here?
- Do not be melodramatic, Piccola. You could have easily stayed at home.
- And miss a chance to settle this issue and out of your life? - She challenged
him angry.
- Now Angie - he muttered. - And I thought you would not be able to resist
the lure which has for me.
She looked around.
- Shh! Can anyone hear!

Ricardo shrugged and grabbed the bag she was carrying. Angie did not
protest.
- We are speaking English - he replied gently. - We are in Italy, where
people are not so repressed when it comes to this subject.
- How do you distort everything going for it! - She replied dryly. - One
minute you defend the thesis that the virgin should marry older men; in the other,
you claim that the Italians are liberal when it comes to lovers.
- But that's the difference between lovers and couples in perspective - he
muttered, distracted.
The statement reinforced the unfavorable position of Angie and offended
more than it should. She put the passport in the bag and decided to change the
subject.
- What did your sister when he heard that I was coming?
- She is delighted, though a little confused, but I think this is a prerogative of
all brides. Shall we?
Angie expected to see another car with driver, the preferred means of
transport Ricardo. She imagined that the presence of a third person could dilute the
tension between the two, but realized that Ricardo wanted to drive when the valet
arrived, bringing a bright red car. She swallowed. Would be alone. They would be
confined in a small space, and your senses have reacted to the proximity of
Ricardo. The Angie's pulse quickened as they gathered to traffic and took the
direction of the mountains. She turned to the window, fearing that he realized on
his face the conflict that faced. Or worse, the desire in his eyes. Despite her fears,
she calmed down a bit, distracted by the lush beauty of the countryside and the car
balance.
- It's amazing - she said.

- The way I drive?

- No - she laughed, despite the nervousness. - The field in the country.
- Of course. It is the most beautiful country in the world - he said. - We have
beautiful cities and ancient villages, beautiful beaches and lush plantations. Look
up and see the pure white marble that beautifies the mountains, Angie. It's the same
marble that Michelangelo used to carve his David - the largest sculpture in the
world.
Angie noticed the pride and fervor in the voice of Ricardo. That was a side
he never shown him oddly exhilarating. It would be naive to expect that living
eliminate her feelings for him? And if it happened the other way and his passion
increased as he grew tired of it? It taught him a lesson: it should be protected at all
costs. The car made a turn, came bouncing in an isolated track and stopped. Angie
looked at Ricardo.
- It's not where you live - she said to hear him turn off the engine.
- No.
The perplexity in Angie's voice was genuine.
- What do we do in the middle of ...
- This. - He hugged her with a piercing look. - What I wanted to do from the
moment that I saw at the airport with this feigned air of "butter does not melt."
Kiss her, Angie.
She thought he might have kissed her at the airport, but maybe it was a very
public display of affection by a secret lover. They could have been seen by people
he knew and who later would ask questions that require answers. She was there as
a secretary, and the relationship between them should be hidden, as if he was
ashamed of what he did.

- I ...
- Shh. - He silenced her with a kiss and immediately deleted all objections.
Angie heard him moan with pleasure and, for an instant, delighted by being in the
arms of Ricardo again, to be able to stroke her hair and let her scent to invade. A
desire to shiver went through her body.
- Ricardo - she sighed.
- Angie - he muttered, pulling away to look at her. - You drove me crazy
with desire. It's crazy, but I could not stop thinking about yesterday, about how we
... - His hands seemed to be controlled by the memory, and began to caress her coat
until they reach the bar, on the knees of Angie. She held her breath as she felt the
fingers of Ricardo slowly roam his thigh. Sure, she p ensou anxiously. I'll leave
that and le touch me just for a minute and then I will stop. Angie closed her eyes
and let him proceed to the top of her thighs, which made her sigh. She felt the heat
rising inexorably, the breasts intumescerem. A clamorous desire had been absent
from his life for so long that she almost forgotten outside reactivated by Ricardo
and now it was burning like a flame.
- Ricardo! - She grabbed his face as he reached his most intimate and
sensitive point. The barrier formed by the socks and panties did not diminish his
growing desire. Angie felt a lump in his throat and his face burned. She felt that he
pulled the belt of her coat. I wanted to have her there, in the car, a Tuscan lane! His
secretary and secret lover! Although his body protesting, Angie pulled away from
Ricardo's arms.
- Stop - she whispered. - Stop it right now! - She whispered between her lips
swollen with desire.
A vein throbbed on the forehead of Ricardo.
- You do not want me to stop.

Perhaps her body did not, but his dignity demanded it, and he thought it
would end with the little he had left, using his sexual prowess, just as it had with
your heart?
- Ah, yes, I do. - She pushed her shoulders tightly. - You want me to come in
your house and know your f superfamily with his face all flushed and disheveled
hair, clearly demonstrating what we just did?
- They will not care about your appearance - he said insolently.
- I find it hard to believe - she said, enjoying seeing Ricardo's wrath for her
to have him annoyed. - And even if it is true, I care. I'm here as your desk,
remember? Must maintain a standard, a certain decorum that do not intend to spoil
with a "kneading" quickly in the car!
- A "kneading" real quick? - He repeated, disgusted.
- How do you call him?
- Do not you think it would be a pleasant experience?
- Yeah. - She felt insecure. - I would not say no. You're very good at it, but I
refuse to join your home giving ammunition to judge me negatively.
Struggling to control his panting and trying to ease the ache in his gut,
Ricardo looked at her. It was not a little game of cat and mouse, he realized,
perplexed. She was being sincere. Does she thought, resisting, let him bewitched?
He could not remember a woman who had despised his sexual advances. For a
moment, an involuntary respect exceeded its sentim then of frustration. He AFAS
tou, gave a snap with the language and started the car engine.
- Ricardo ...
- Do not talk to me while I'm driving! - He thundered.
- But ... you left the handbrake on.

He released the brake with a pest and wished that your body get rid of
painful stiffness as easily. She tried to concentrate on the road now seemed strange,
even to have it covered so many times. He would pay in bed that night - thought
angrily. She would suffer the same torture of frustration that had imposed him. The
car's heavy atmosphere, they did not speak more until after you went down a full
mountain curves and enter a small village. Angie looked out the window, delighted
with what he saw. There were small houses and shops have closed, a school and a
beautiful church of gray stones. A river ran through the city with its clear and rapid
waters and disappeared amid the pastures. Ricardo climbed one of the highest hills,
stopped at the top and let Angie appreciate the vision that used to leave people
breathless, no matter how rich and bored they were.
- The home of Castellari - he said with unmistakable pride tone. - "La
Rocca".
Angie forgot everything and looked at the family home, he used to mention.
She had always known it was a castle, and even commented about it with her
mother, but seeing it in fact for the first time, left her gaping. It was really a castle!
The old building emerged stones in the midst of the wonderful landscape, with its
walls topped by towers and its rounded windows overlooking a garden full of tall
cypress trees. Against a backdrop of the mountains, there was an orchard whose
trees hung several lanterns, perhaps to lighten the bride's path on the way to the
altar.
- Oh, it's beautiful - Angie sighed, turning to him with a surprised look. - It
is the most beautiful place I've ever seen.
The sincerity of the review calmed Ricardo somehow, and he nodded in
agreement and recognizing a more genuine enthusiasm that interested. Never
brought a woman up there, he realized surprised, until he remembered why. Bring

a woman here represented something serious, suggesting an ongoing commitment

that he did not want. Not for a moment he underestimated the power of attraction
of the venerable place that dominated all the lands around them. This was a place
that people, especially women, coveted, and that was why he kept them apart. The
relationship between him and Angie was different. He did not bother to refute
suggestions that that relationship might take something more serious, or watch
what he was saying. The relationship with her was based on honesty and mutual
desire, without false romanticism. He entered the iron gate and stopped in front of
a huge wooden door. The lobby was huge, outlined by aged wood and lit by a
fireplace. A sleepy cat looked up, stretched and went back to sleep.
- Come and meet my family - said Ricardo, getting the Angie coat and then
the jacket he wore. He checked his watch. - It is likely to be just finishing lunch.
Angie followed him through a maze of corridors, toward the sound of voices
speaking in Italian and it did not sound friendly. A woman had just protesting and
arguing with a man. They came in an elegant dining room. Angie had no time to
realize the environmental splendor because there was more remarkable that wealth
and history contained within those walls. She frowned. A man and a woman would
sit on opposite sides of the table, but there was no joy or playfulness in their faces.
Judging by the expression of both, could be reading a will. The tone of the skin and
naturally stylish clothes indicated they should be brothers. Both looked like
Ricardo, but the look of Angie was soon drawn to the pale face and contracted the
future bride and desperate gleam in his eyes. Soon it occurred to him that she did
not look a woman about to live the happiest day of his life, but a woman walking
quickly toward doom.

CHAPTER NINE

- Do you remember my sister, Angie? - Ricardo asked to enter the room.

Angie smiled and prayed not to show the shock he suffered when reviewing
the sister of Ricardo. She looked like a skeleton. The high cheekbones of his face
formed a shadow over the nose. Undoubtedly, the weight loss was caused by
something beyond the natural nervousness that preceded the wedding.
- Of course yes. Hello, Floriana. It is a pleasure reveals ... and
congratulations on the marriage.
A shadow crossed the lovely face of the girl and she improvised a smile.
- Hello, Angie - she said. - What ... glad you came. My mother apologizes
for not receive it personally. She is talking to the staff of the catering and waiting
to meet you at dinner time, as well as my maid of honor ... She is also English.
- You did not forget to mention someone, Floriana? - Said a soft voice from
across the table. - I'm sure the guest of Ricardo looks forward to meeting the Duca.
Angie turned to the grumpy man, reclining lazily in his chair, wearing riding
clothes.
- I think you do not know my brother, Romano? - Ricardo murmured.
Angie shook her head. Surely, she would remember if I had known. So that
was Roman Castellari, another target of the gossip columns, like most unmarried
and attractive Italian billionaire. The two brothers looked pretty, with her black

hair and imposing stature, but the expression on the other was even more ruthless
than that of Ricardo, and he had an incredible air of coldness. Angie knew that, of
the two, he was the oldest, and managed the extensive family estate in Tuscany.
- No - she said nervously. - But I've heard talk too much.
Roman took a distant smile and raised with graceful dexterity to shake
Angie's hand, examining it with a cynical interest.
- Good things, I hope?
- Oh, I could not tell Whatever Ricardo tells me is confidential - she replied,
playing and trying to break the atmosphere of tension, but the Floriana gloomy
gaze remained the same.
- It was very convenient you bring your desk - Roman said with arrogance. I hope you do not plan to work all the time you get here, Rico.
- I have one or two important business at hand - Ricardo murmured. - I
decided that Angie deserved a little fun, since it threatens to leave me.
- Really? What a shame. You should make her change her mind. It's hard to
find good secretaries. By the way, we installed in the west wing of the house, that
is, at the other end of your room. I hope not make it tough, if they have to ... work
late. - Romano looked at his brother with an air of ironic challenge and Angie
froze. He knows, she thought. He knows we are lovers and not approve.
- You'll meet my bridesmaid later - Floriana said. - It is a village hotel with a
group of girls. Roman thinks fill us home would only slow, although we have
plenty of room.
Angie felt a pang of envy and licked her lip with his tongue. Ah, stay in the
village, away from that cold house, heavy environment and family complications.
- Maybe I can go up now to unpack?

- Of course - said Ricardo. - I'll show you the way.

- Have fun - Roman muttered. - Hope to see you at dinner. Do not over
work.
Angie did not say a word the way to the bedroom, where he found his
briefcase as if by magic, brought by any employee invisible. Without regard for the
enormous bed or the magnificent view descortinada the window, she turned to
Ricardo, furious.
- His brother know! - She accused.
- You know what?
- What do we ... What are ... Lovers!
- We are? - He murmured, hugging her and away from a face of the lock of
hair from her. - You made me wait so long I almost forgot.
Halfhearted, she tried to push him, but his body seemed to have s own idea.
- He knows - she repeated.
- He does not know. You are just assuming. So, Angie? - He took her chin. Are you embarrassed?
I was? She was angry with himself because he is there, because they leave
easily carry, like a sheep going to the slaughter. Why accept so little of it when he
wanted more. But ashamed? Angie shook her head and looked into his eyes. He
felt his heart race and was taken by the desire for him to caress.
- No, I'm not ashamed - she whispered.
- So kiss me.
- No.
- Kiss Me, Angie. If my brother guessed, as you said, why bring fame to no
avail?

Ricardo's argument destroyed their objections, and his lips took his
impossible strength, burning the places where he played. When he kissed the curve
of her chin and her neck, she threw her head back. He opened the zipper of her
dress in one motion and dropped it at his feet with the ability of those who had
years of experience.
- Piccola - he murmured, incredibly excited to come across modest clothing
low Angie. Despite the rush, any other woman would have moved heaven and
earth to buy a sexy underwear, worthy of the mistress of a millionaire. But not
Angie, and despite knowing that she had done it more as a kind of outrage, there
was something in the absurdly innocent practical bra, socks and underwear.
- You're ...
Not being used to being naked in the middle of the afternoon, Angie was on
the defensive.
- What?
- You look beautiful - Ricardo murmured, realizing with surprise that he was
being sincere. Something in his voice left Angi and goose bumps as much as those
of the experts who recognized all over her body, touching her gently and with
extreme precision. Your senses awakened and the blood ran through it as he
burned his skin with caresses. Why not take all the pleasure he offered her and stop
wanting the impossible? Why not match him in the room, although subordinate to
it on the outside? Angie stroked underneath the sweater.
- You too - she whispered back.
Her Anxiety contaminated Ricardo and he pulled away to take the jeans and
the sweater, giving a teasing smile before pulling her into bed. The legs of the two
intertwined and she kissed him, hugged him and pulled him on the body with a
greed that caused him a short laugh of pleasure. For a moment their eyes met, and

he then went into her body with a slow movement, firm and eagerly awaited that
made her moan until he silenced her with a kiss. Angie began to shake. It seemed
to be in another dimension, as if the merger of his body with his it was fate that
nature reserved for him. Even her orgasm seemed to be in slow motion and
occurred at the same time as his, that groaned helplessly.
Later, Angie lay in Ricardo's arms, stunned by what had just happened for a
while, they were embraced, and the proximity was as good as what had gone
before.
- Ah - she murmured, after all.
Idly, he stroked her hair.
- It was good?
- Fantastic. You know it was.
Ricardo found himself suddenly asking a question that had never done the
other woman.
- As I left me compared to your other lovers?
Angie considered inopportune question, but partly wished he knew she did
not behave that way with men.
- I think you know it's a wonderful lover - she said quietly. - As for
comparisons, I think that is hateful, but if you must know ... There was only one
man before you, and it was a disastrous experience.
Ricardo felt the skin freeze. Why does she always had more than needed,
making the answer to a simple question to be filled with meaning? It would be easy
to think of Angie lived as a woman, not as someone who is disillusioned and
preserved after suffering just an experiment.
- What a shame - he murmured, casually.

Angie turned to enjoy the beautiful profile of Ricardo.

- It seems that there was a huge tension ... in the dining room.
Ricardo shrugged.
- My sister is getting married the day after tomorrow. What did you expect?
She hesitated.
- There is a difference between nervousness and tension, Ricardo. She
seemed to have had an argument with his brother.
- It was because she insisted on having a bridesmaid that Roman did not
think proper.
- But the decision is hers, not his. It has nothing to do with it.
- Surely, you have nothing to do with it - he said, rubbing his chin and
yawning. - I'd better go.
Angie noticed the weariness in his face, the dark circles, and despite his
rough attitude, she was moved. Caring for Ricardo was a hard habit to be broken.
She stroked her hair and saw that he relaxed and his eyelids quivered, as if he
resisted sleep. Why not let him get some sleep?
- Close your eyes - she whispered. - Just for a minute. - She pulled the
covers, snuggled up to his body and heard him sigh while she. Soon after, he heard
the slow breathing: Ricardo slept.
Angie woke up much later. He was hungry and remembered that they had
not had lunch. He thought of waking Ricardo, but felt he stretched beside her.
For a moment, Ricardo felt he was the most comfortable place in the world.
His knee was caught between two soft thighs, and he felt the slight female
breathing over your shoulder. He let himself soak in the sensations that shivered
his skin, before realizing where she was. Then he swore softly in Italian.

- Che and now? - He said sharply, glancing at his watch. He sat up, furious. Why the hell do you let me sleep?
Startled, Angie looked at him.
- Because you seemed to be in need.
He jumped out of bed, grabbed his jeans and began to dress
- Madre di Dio! - He exclaimed angrily. - You changed his tune! Instead of
worrying about what my brother would think of your behavior, you decided to
induce me to stay here with you.
- I do not induce you to do anything!
- You covered me with the duvet - he accused.
- This is a heinous crime?
For Ricardo, was a trap. A trap as seductive as the big eyes of Angie and
your body mo rn soft oe. He shook his head.
- I do not want to spend half the day in your room - he said.
- So, do not pass! No one holds here, Skirt!
- Oh, of course I will leave - He wore the sweater and turned his back as he
closed the zipper jeans, wanting to escape the temptation of her breasts uncovered
Angie and her pink skin. After mentally take a cold shower and control, he turned
to her, looking her usual coolness.
- Right. You better know what's going on. It will be a formal dinner in the
castle. You need to wear something appropriate. You brought your laptop?
The statement left the head dizzy Angie, to think what would wear to attend
a formal dinner, but the subsequent question brought her back to reality.
-. I do not ... I did not think he needed.

- Really? - He asked coldly. - Then I'll have one for you. I want you to make
the reconciliation of Devonshire's accounts. There are many beautiful places here
where you can work. - He walked to the door, saw the hurt look of Angie and
stopped. - What's wrong, Angie? It is expected that you work. After all, that's why
you're here. Sex is just an additional benefit.
It was the most hideous thing he could have said, and he deliberately done,
but Angie did not react. Would you not be pleased to know how deep the hurt.
When she learn that his purposes were completely different?
- Of course - she said, as if nothing would give him greater pleasure. - I can
also arrange the portfolio will pose.
- If you need to - he said.
Ah, was worth pretending not to hurt her, just to see the rare insecurity of
expression in Ricardo's face, thought Angie.
- Close the door when you leave, please - she said.
- I want to take a bath.
When he left, Angie did not go to the bathroom because he thought his
wobbly legs not ag u entariam the weight of his body. He sat on the bed and
wondered what he was doing there. I thought it would be easy? In a way, yes,
which he proved how much had been blind. Always associated arrogance with
Ricardo, but she also was not arrogant? He thought he could control his emotions
in and out of his arms, but could not. Women are not done this way, or rather it
was not. When he made love to her was easy to imagine that it was true; that the
years of silent devotion bear fruit, after all, and they were the perfect couple. But it
was not true, and they were not a couple. It was all just sex - something he was
expert.

To be honest, it was likely that every woman he took to bed feel the same
way, wanting him to hold her and tell her he loved her and could not live without
her. However, it would not happen in a million years. Deep down, she knew, but
when would begin to believe? Nothing would change unless it would cause a
change, and therefore need to be strong to protect yourself.
For the first time, Angie watched the room and admired its beauty. Brocade
curtains hung from the windows and the cushions on the couch were covered with
beautiful fabrics. There was an old desk, polished and very pretty. Angie unpacked
and went into the bathroom, as modern as the castle was old. Creamy soaps and
shampoos were lined up on a shelf. She washed all traces of travel and Ricardo
before setting out all pink and fragrant bath. It is wrapped in a huge toweling robe
and returned to his room, where he saw a laptop on his desk. He wasted no time to
make clear the place she occupied! I had given him specific tasks, shortly after
arrival. Angie took a brush and began to untangle wet hair. The work could wait. I
was tired of being the helpful Angie and doormat. Angie accepting the crumbs that
Ricardo was playing him. Gradually, she began to realize that Ricardo treated her
that way because she consented! Do not allow more than he treated her like that.
The decision strengthened, and seeing that lacked two hours for dinner, Angie
dried her hair carefully and sat down to read a book. The book was very
interesting, and she was glad for scoring forget Ricardo and watch the storyline.
Was so amused that he saw the time, there were only thirty minutes to dinner.
Angie maquiou quickly opened the wardrobe and thought it would have the
courage to use the only dress that would be suitable for a big event like that. He
shone provocatively in the closet: it was the red dress she could not resist bringing
and vowed never to use. It's strange how a nice outfit can be as seductive, and
Angie was not silly, recognized that the dress had its own power. In addition, its

conservative clothes were uninteresting and dull, no matter how she tried to cheer
them up with accessories. How could fail to use it? Her hands trembled as she put
the dress because it was more than a dress, carrying a meaning: Ricardo had
bought for her; she had worn on the day Ricardo slept with her; off those clothes
that had made Ricardo could see through it, and to see it pass as a woman. It would
be too suggestive clothing to meet his mother? - She asked, turning in front of the
mirror. No. The designer was world famous and Italian women are known for their
ever present elegance. Ricardo's mother will not care what I wear, she thought. To
her, I'm just one of the child employees. She barely notice me.
Someone knocked on the door and Angie heart quickened. Ricardo approve?
He might try to kiss her, to soften it after his show of anger? This time she would
not. When she opened the door, he came across a shy girl, dressed in a uniform. A
maid like me, thought Angie. I hope she does not receive the "benefits" that
Richard mentioned this afternoon.
- Buona sera - she greeted hesitantly. - As you chiama?
The English the girl was as precarious as the Italian Angie, but she gave a
big smile.
- My name is Marietta. You ... do you follow me?
- Of course. Thank you. - It's strange how feelings change suddenly. The
fear of finding Ricardo, Angie spent for the fervent wish that he had come for her,
and all her courage faded. How to enter a room full of important unknown - all
invited, unlike her? Some members of the aristocracy were present. Perhaps they
looked at it and judge less Angie heard the murmur of voices and the clink of
glasses coming down the stairs. She took a deep breath, told herself that her
appearance was great, but inside, shaking like a leaf in the wind. She smiled and
walked toward the guests - a true rainbow dresses that contrasted with the dark

menswear. It was a charming and bright group. Some people looked at her, and
others turned to see her. All that Angie could see was the dim glow Ricardo's eyes
following every move she made.

CHAPTER TEN

- Well, well, well. I see you decided to dress as a mermaid to the party
tonight, piccola. - His voice was soft but his eyes said otherwise. He looked at her
provocatively and licked his lips with his tongue, remembering Angie how they
had spent the afternoon, reviving with painful clarity the intoxicating picture of the
two making love. Angie shook her head and tried to focus.
- It was you who bought me this dress, Ricardo - she protested, taking a
glass of Prosecco in the tray of a passing waiter. - The goal was not to use it? - She
looked around and realized with relief that close to what some women wore, her
dress was discreet. - Unless you think it is not appropriate for the occasion.
Ricardo thought for a moment. The only poor thing was the fact that the
dress reminded him of what lay beneath.
- You know very well that it is suitable. In fact, you're the most beautiful
woman in the room.
- You're not being sincere.

- Si, man - he said - I am. Now, you better come with me to meet my
mother.
- I would love to. - She blushed when receiving unexpected compliment, and
looked around the room. - Where's the bride?
Ricardo scanned the room and did not hide his disapproval.
- She has not yet appeared.
- Bride's prerogative to be late.
- Only on the wedding day - he replied dryly. - There are still two days.
- What about the groom?
- The Duca is one that is beside the woman with diamonds.
- All are using diamonds.
Ricardo laughed.
- There, near the fireplace, but do not stare, Angie. It would be impolite.
Angie did not look. Sufficed to see him glance to amaze and lower your eyes
for your drinking glass, trying to compose himself. Floriana could not be marrying
him! Angie took a sip of wine. The Duca was elegant, but, judging by the wrinkles
on your face, u should have almost cinq enta years and seemed to be going bald.
He looked old, compared to the beautiful young Italian woman. Angie looked up
and saw the cold Ricardo look, as if daring him to make an obvious comment, but
why should she? As he had said, it was none of your business.
- Floriana is a lucky girl - she said politely.
- Yes - he agreed. - It is. Now, come and meet my mother.
Angie was aware of the stares that followed them as they crossed the room.
They stopped in front of the family matriarch.

- Mamma, I told him I would bring with me Angie? I think they'd spoken on
the phone several times.
Despite the high heels, Ricardo's mother was surprisingly tiny and elegant.
His silhouette was slender as a girl, and she wore a couture dress, silk wine, and a
pearl necklace. The two shook hands, and she noted Angie up and down with
interest.
- After all, we met - she said in perfect English. - The woman who makes the
life of my son runs like clockwork, according to what he tells me.
Angie was surprised to hear others praise and happy to Ricardo have walked
away to talk to his brother. The two men dominated the room like a pair of
beautiful and bronzed statues.
- It is not easy - she joked.
- No, I suppose not - said Mrs. Castellari, dryly. Then she looked at Angie
and smiled. - You look very pretty. I did not know your taste in clothes was so
refined, honey.
There was an awkward pause while Angie thought of what to say. Who had
been a Christmas gift Ricardo? I would not give the idea that it was a very intimate
gift for a boss to his desk, which displeased his mother?
- Thank you - she said.
- At least I know Ricardo is paying him properly, as can dress as well.
Angie nodded and lifted the glass to his lips that now looked like stone. The
elegant lady walked away to greet another guest, hoping to disguise the
embarrassment caused by her innocent comment. Mrs.. Castellari nothing hinted.
Thought to be meeting Secretary of Ricardo, and had not realized before that the
secretary in question was also her lover, which made an innocent comment about
the salary to take embarrassing. At that moment, an expectant murmur ran through

the room, and everyone looked at the ladder to see Floriana come down. Beside her
was a clear skin young and curly hair and red, very different from the
Mediterranean girls. Must be the maid of honor, thought Angie. The black dress
Floriana sparkled and her hair was pulled back in a bun by small clips of
diamonds. Her necklace, also diamonds, seemed an ice waterfall. Angie realized
that she looked like a porcelain doll, not someone of flesh and blood. At the same
time, dinner was announced, and for Angie relief, Ricardo walked her to the table.
- Surely there will be no place to sit so many people at once - she whispered.
- Wait and see.
The dining room, which was huge, was lovely, lit by hundreds of tall candles
and perfumed by lilacs. There was only one table, covered with a linen cloth on
which gleamed golden silverware and crystal glasses. Angie sat next to a nice man
who had spent the holidays in Brighton and was eager to practice their English.
Across from her, she sat the young groom's cousin, clearly bored and wanting to be
somewhere else. At the other end of the table, near the Ricardo's mother, Angie
saw the Duca talking to a feisty Floriana. On opposite sides of the table were
Roman, frowning, and the maid of honor redhead, who measured all the time.
What would be among them? - Angie thought, picking up her napkin. The
atmosphere made the previous party to the wedding of her sister seemed paradise.
Although delicious, the meal was too long. Angie was satisfied d fter the
second dish, but nin Guem noticed or cared if she ate or not. She told herself she
was glad Ricardo not be close, but your emotions and your rationality fought a
tremendous conflict. Longed by Ricardo caresses, try as he might to convince
himself it was foolish for wanting it. It would have shown his emotions? When she
looked away from the unwanted glass of sorbet, her eyes met his. The black eyes
seemed to mock her and Ricardo gave a sultry smile. Angie swallowed. He was so

... sure of himself, so sure of it, that, even though she said or did, would fall into
his arms as he snapped his fingers ... And it was true: despite solve not make more
paper doormat, she counted the seconds missing to hug him again.
After dinner there was a dance in a huge hall decorated with flower garlands
and gold and silver balloons. Apparently, all the important people had attended.
Angie told herself that surely Ricardo not to invite to dance, and if he did, she
would refuse. She would tell her it was quietly entertain your guests, not their
employees. I was wrong. He invited her to dance, and she did not refuse. How
could, with heart racing and his skin shivering as he touched his arm?
- Enjoying yourself? - He asked, hugging her.
It was Angie function end the pleasure of Ricardo to tell you that this was
the strangest room he had ever seen a wedding dinner's Eve. In addition, his
thoughts went out as he hugged her. The sensations began to bombard it,
weakening its resistance already so precarious. Angie was aware of Ricardo
perfume and family contact her. It was not a good dancer, but not needed because
he was driving with a safety that made her float.
- Huh? - He murmured next to Angie's ear.
- I'm having so much fun - she answered truthfully, because at that time did
not imagine another best place to be.
- Me too. - He squeezed her waist and saw her blush. Angie's lips parted, her
pulse quickened. Suddenly, Ricardo felt the urge to kiss her. Screw the ball, he
thought. And damn them invited with their prying eyes. He swallowed hard and
pressed against the body, to show her how much she had left him excited. - If
you're lucky, tomorrow I'll take you for a ride.
The Angie's heart skipped. If you're lucky. Perhaps the intention was not
being condescending, but that's how it sounded. Maybe it was because at the same

time, he shamelessly squeezed her hips against his body, demonstrating

excitement. It was just a silent and arrogant display of sexual self-confidence, but
mocked his romantic conception of dance, and Angie felt a fool. She pushed him
away, ignoring the protests of the body.
- I'm sorry, but I'm afraid have to work tomorrow.
Ricardo looked at her blankly.
- Working?
- That's what you got me a laptop.
He was so frustrated that at both understood that she could have spoken
Greek.
- But you worked this afternoon - he said quickly.
- No, I not worked.
- No?
Angie gave a serene smile.
-. There I took a long bath and then read a book.
A vein jumped at the Ricardo temple. It would be the beginning of a
rebellion, Angie abusing his position only because they had to rn ado lovers?
During all the years I worked for him, she never refused to obey an order.
- That was not what I wanted you to do - he said.
- That's what I wanted - Angie replied.
- I pay you to do what I want - he pointed out cruelly.
-. You do not pay me to be his secretary. - The words came out
unintentionally. She was furious with what he had told her, and suddenly she did
not care for being in the middle of the dance floor.

- Do not you think I've worked too much overtime to recognize that you
deserve a break? If you trust me when it comes to business matters should believe
when I tell you I need a rest!
Ricardo was speechless for a moment and then smiled.
- Oh, man, his rebellion is so exciting I can not wait to take her to bed again.
If I knew the wildcat you hiding all these years!
- It was you who made me wildcat - she answered without thinking.
- Really? So you should thank me. - He stroked the Angie's hips as if
demarcate their territory and whispered next to her ear.
- Sorry if I leave you now, but if we continue with this, I will soon drag her
into some dark corner and undress her, which will not look good, does not it?
Without another word, Ricardo walked away, leaving Angie heart pounding
and all flushed. Maybe he wanted to show that his interest in her was purely
physical? Angie felt dizzy and weak, and thought about how long it might quietly
escape from prying eyes following her. She walked to one side of the hall and felt
someone touched her shoulder. When he turned, he saw it was Floriana. Up close,
the doll's appearance was even stronger, and Angie saw that the girl's lips were
discolored.
- Beautiful party - Angie said, forcing a smile.
- Thank you. - The Floriana's smile did not match the look. - Would you like
to see my wedding dress, Angie?
- I? - Angie, surprised.
- Please. You would, right? I thought all women to like wedding dresses.
Angie told herself she should be honored.
- Of course. I would love to.

- Come with me, but ... Come quickly, before Roman accuse me of
abandoning the guests. - Arm in arm, as if they were longtime friends, the two
traveled through one of the long corridors around the ballroom and climbed a
ladder. When Floriana opened the bedroom door, Angie saw the gleam of ivory
satin, trimmed with Chantilly lace.
- Oh, it's beautiful! - She exclaimed, thinking that this was the dress that any
woman would dream. - Absolutely beautiful.
- Is not it? - Floriana said, closing the door.
Angie turned and watched with concern.
- Floriana ... Is something wrong?
The girl was silent. He rubbed his hair and dropped a precious staples that
held the bun. After all, she agreed to give up who resist.
- I can not marry Aldo. I can not!
Angie saw that she trembled and hugged her, noting how was thin and weak.
- Listen ... Every bride is nervous - she said, noting that repeated what
Ricardo told her and she did not believe. - It is perfectly normal.
- No! - Desperate, Floriana walked away. - Is not that, believe me. All say
they are nervous, but it is not. I got myself in a situation that should never have
entered. It's like living a nightmare, Angie. I can not keep this up!
Angie looked at her, uncomprehending.
- Why are you telling me all this?
- Why are you out - Floriana said firmly. Angie was surprised. - You must
be sensible, since Ricardo works for so long. You will not say what you think I
should hear. Will you tell me what I should do.
- This is a huge responsibility. - Angie protested.

- Please ...
- What about your brothers? - Angie. - You can not talk to them?
- They? You are kidding. They are so excited about this wedding that are
able to drag me down the aisle! - Floriana said bitterly. - There are two tyrants!
Angie thought about what to say, but could not face the frightened eyes of
someone who had spent his wedding eve panic and pretend that everything would
be fine the next morning.
- Aldo ... The Duca know how you feel?
- I tried to talk to him, but he did not listen to me - whispered Floriana. - Is
determined to get married and will not allow everything to be canceled. When I
talk, it's like nothing I had said. For him, I'm sort of trophy, his innocent virgin - at
least that's what he thinks.
Angie realized what he had just said Floriana and its possible conseq u ences
in the future. Virginity was a key factor in that union? She remembered what
Ricardo had said, about wishing to marry a virgin, and concluded that yes.
- Do you fear taking on marriage and leave her disappointed husband with
your sexual experience? That, Floriana? If it is, I'm sure if you explain ...
- No - Floriana broke into shrill voice. - That's not it. The reason is much
simpler, Angie - she said, disconsolate. - I do not love ... not like a woman to love
her husband.
Angie said nothing. What could I say? There had been surprised. It had to be
blind not to notice the lack of attraction between the couple. She put her hand on
Floriana arm.
- You need courage to tell him - she murmured. - You need. - Angie left
Floriana sitting on the bed and went to his room.

He took off his red dress, took the makeup and lay down, exhausted. The
comfort of soft bedding eased their fatigue, but she worried about the result of the
revelation of Floriana. You should tell Ricardo? Suddenly she remembered the
words of Floriana: "They're so excited about this wedding that are able to drag me
to the altar!" Ricardo would go so far? Angie doubted, but what about Romano?
Angie's head throbbed. The tiring and hectic day had left her exhausted and
she ended up sleeping. He woke to feel naked, warm body of Ricardo beside him
and realize that he kissed her breast.
- Ricardo? - She murmured sleepily.
- Were you expecting someone else?
- I ... Ah!
- Oh, what, Piccola?
- I need ... - She tried to forget the blessed feeling of his tongue over her
skin, and tried to push him away. - Ricardo ... I need to talk to you.
- Not now.
- But ...
- I said not now - he muttered. - I waited all night to do this.
Angie told herself better than to argue dawn. Midnight passed and nothing
could do. She could tell in the morning, in daylight. In addition, his reasoning was
limited by the fact that he kiss her, and she want to dive into that kiss. He rn or to
the center of the world, and, for her, nothing else existed. Dreamily, Angie pulled
him by the hair and kissed him back as he began to make love to her, erasing
everything that was not pure pleasure.
Later, his lips still glued to her a happy kiss, Ricardo recalled when they
were dancing, how wanted to kiss her. Kiss her? His eyes opened quickly. This

was getting dangerous. It was crazy. Beside him, Angie stretched and began to
sleep, but Ricardo kept his eyes open; I knew he had to get out of bed before they
give in to the temptation to sleep there. It was not just the comments of employees
but also of his own reluctance to wake up next to her. He waited until he was sure
that Angie was asleep, got out of bed and got dressed in the dark.
It was very cold when Ricardo got to his room, where he slept a deep sleep.
He woke up with the noise of doors slamming, and, still sleepy, thought it was part
of the strange dream he was having with Angie. It took some time to realize that
someone knocked at the door of his room, and it was day.
- What the hell's going on? - He muttered.
Roman appeared in the doorway, still buttoning his jeans. His face was a
mask of fury, and he shouted a few words in Italian to his brother. Minutes later,
Ricardo was dressed and ran to the Angie's room.
She had just left the bath. Wrapped in a towel, with wet hair, Angie was
sitting by the window reading a book with an innocent look that belied his prowess
in the bedroom. Ricardo felt a mixture of desire and anger.
- Ricardo! - She exclaimed when she realized her fury. - Did something
happen?
- You're going to tell me - he cut. - What do you know about the
disappearance of my sister?
- The disappearance? - The book slipped from her hands, and Angie lifted
his heart beating so hard it seemed to deafen her. - Why? What happened?
- This is what we intend to find out - Ricardo replied dryly. - My brother told
me he saw you and Floriana leaving the party last night. What did she say to you?
Angie swallowed. She should have told you last night. Should.

- Other than ag u entaria take the wedding forward. And that ... that did not
love Aldo.
- Then she entrusted her secrets?
- Yeah I think so.
- Why you - a stranger?
Angie thought how much he would support know the truth.
- Perhaps because she thought no one else would hear - she whispered.
His face was impassive.
- What did you say? - The question was an accusation, and Angie realized
that Ricardo was not interested in the truth or feelings, but wanted to facts which
could handle. She ignored the flash of disdain in his eyes and tried to concentrate,
telling herself that she would not be intimidated.
- I told her it would be best to talk to Aldo and solve everything with him.
This is what she did?
- That's what she did? - He gave a bitter laugh - No, Angie. It was not what
she did. What she did was leave a note that made my hysterical mother and the
castle into chaos. She took the passport and is on his way to England with the lady
of honor idiot, unless I and Roman we can stop them!
Angie covered her mouth with his hand.
- Oh my God!
- You did not notice that my sister usually have this type of behavior? You
did not know she had an affair with a man, an Englishman whom she thought to be
in love at school? And now he reappeared and was able to get that crazy my sister
believed still loved him?

- No ... Of course I did not know. - Angie faced the fury of Ricardo look. But that would not matter, Ricardo. It is her life. She is old enough to make their
own mistakes - if any. And it's not necessarily a mistake just because you do not
agree! You can not force her to do what you want!
- You did not think ... - He stepped forward and saw her bite her lip, but he
was so angry he could not think. - You did not think I should discuss the matter
with me?
- I wanted to tell you ...
- But not last night, right?
- I was late, you were tired.
- And you, man, I could not wait ... - he said something in Italian that Angie
did not understand and did not need to, because, of course, out rude. - You only
thought in your fucking pleasure! - He scooped cruelly and saw that she cowered.
- Actually, I wanted to tell you, but you slipped out of my bed in the
darkness, like a thief! In retrospect, what would you do, Ricardo? When someone
is as confused as Floriana, what's the point involve someone like you who has the
sensitivity of a mosquito?
Ricardo clenched his fists.
- How dare you speak to me like that?
- Do not talk to me about hierarchy in a time like this! - She said angrily. Either Floriana is old enough to marry, or you do not. If so, you must learn to fight
for herself without accepting the advice of two brothers who treat her like a puppet
just because they want to control the world and all who live in it!
Ricardo's nostrils twitched with aristocratic disdain.

- Enough! You understand nothing of this matter, Angie. You are one of my
employees and is here as my guest.
- Not from now. I ask dismissal!
He looked at her coldly.
- You better pack your suitcase. I'll have someone take you to the airport.
The place is in chaos, and makes no sense you get.
Angie swallowed.
- My desk is clean when you return to London.
He approached her face to face, noting, with a kind of masochistic
satisfaction that the Angie's eyes grew darker.
- Spare me the melodrama, man. You will empty your table when I say.
- But you said ... - she argued, painful breathing difficulty. - You said I could
go away and that would give me six months' salary, if I came to Tuscany with you.
- Say? Now, considering their behavior ... I changed my mind. - He gave a
smile of satisfaction. - This verbal agreement between lovers comes down to your
word against mine. If I were you, next time would require something in writing.

CHAPTER ELEVEN

During the miserable flight to London, Angie told herself she did not care;
Ricardo would not dare blackmail her to work in conditions that now would be
unbearable; he would not justifiable and legal reasons. However, the result was
quite different. Angie consulted a lawyer friend of a friend, and he told her that his
employer exercised its right. For a moment, she thought to ask if the fact that they
are lovers make a difference in the case, but gave up. At best, it would not look
professional, and at worst ... might seem immoral, as if she were one of those
women trying to climb the career ladder by unscrupulous means.
Angie was also concerned about Floriana, and wondered if he had done the
right thing. If she had counted all the Ricardo that morning, I could have prevented
the disappearance of Floriana? She shuddered when entering the subway on the
way to work. Since coming to London, I felt a cold trembling. Also I was
apprehensive because the day before will receive a Ricardo-mail stating that
arrived from Italy and would return to the office the next day, before leaving for
New York over the weekend.
Angie bit her lip. With a little luck, he would travel throughout most of his
notice period and, in the interim, she could find a decent job - managed to score
two interviews for the following week. Angie hoped Ricardo came in to rn of the
l0h, but fate conspired against her. Both entered the building exactly the same
time, met in the middle of the spacious lobby of marble and looked at each other
like two strangers.
- Hello, Angie - he said in a distant voice.
The last time I saw him, he shouted at her, but now reencontravam a public
place, and perhaps for that, he appeared to much civility. She replied in the same
tone.
- Good day.

Angie was forced to share the elevator with him, but the presence of two
girls accounting prevented any attempt at dialogue. The silence weighed on her,
and Angie began to sweat cold, trying to look for something else other than the
beautiful face that still made his heart melt. Ricardo watched. She was pale, he
thought, and seemed to have lost weight. It would be possible in that short time?
He was hardened: so what if she lost weight?
Why care? Angie's stubbornness helped to aggravate a family situation that
was already complicated. The elevator door opened and he gave her passage,
conscious of its light scent and shine of your hair. He followed her to the office,
unable to ignore the sway of her hips, though he told himself over and over again,
during those days, the case between them was over and that when he got to
London, to ask what he had seen in Angie. So what went wrong? Why I feel like
hug her and to seek comfort and passion on your lips? He did not know, and,
unaccustomed to uncertainties, Ricardo felt strangely nervous. After Angie hung
up her coat and blew her nose for the hundredth time, she turned to him.
- How will Floriana?
He saw the worry in her eyes and a slight tremor in his lips.
- I should be angry with you - he said - for wasting precious minutes after
she fled the castle.
Angie grabbed the only positive word in the comment.
- Should I?
He sighed.
- I thought about what you told me about Floriana make their own mistakes,
and realized that I and Roman exaggerate our role of surrogate parents.
- Did you find her? - She asked.

- Yes She's in England.. - He pursed his lips in a strange smile. - After all,
she's getting married.
- Getting married? But How? - Angie asked, confused. - She told me she
does not like Aldo, and I believed.
- It is not Aldo.
- What?
- She plans to marry the Englishman, Max, with whom he was involved for
several years. It seems that, at the time, he decided to do what he thought right and
broke up because they were both very young. The prospect of seeing her married to
another was enough for him to put on his knees and return to her life, and that
Floriana found out what he really wanted.
Angie eyed him warily.
- How did your family react?
- The reaction was varied, as you can imagine. - All he knew was that his
sister was ecstatic, and her brother Aldo were livid, and his mother, strangely
happy. She clearly told him and the Roman love was the only reason for someone
to marry! The statement Ricardo knocked from his throne of complacency. During
lifetime he had the illusion that just because his father was almost twenty years
older than his mother, the two had struggled to keep a marriage of convenience.
Apparently, he had been wrong.
- I'm glad that everything has worked out for her - Angie said.
- It?
- Yes. No one should marry such reluctance - she said quietly, and began to
cough.

Ricardo noticed the red nose that contrasted with the almost translucent skin
Angie.
- Are you okay?
- I am. Just I picked up a ... ah-ah-tchim!
He frowned.
- You should not be working.
- It's just a cold.
- You should not work - he repeated firmly.
She gave him a look of defiance.
- I thought I would not have the option to miss, Ricardo. I thought I should
work every second of my notice. I thought ...
- Angie - he interrupted sharply. - I said it all in anger. When I stopped to
think regretted. I understood a lot. The main thing is that I do not want you to go
away.
Is not it ironic how something you always wanted to hear loses the power to
charm her, when it is said too late? Life is a matter of timing, Angie thought
bitterly.
- I was irrational - he continued to see her dead.
She smiled.
- This is nothing new.
- Let's forget what happened?
Angie looked at him. Despite being intelligent, he was sometimes obtuse, or
perhaps innate arrogance led him to think that always get what he wanted. He did
not realize.
- We can try - she said evasively.

- So will you stay? - He asked with a smile.

Angie said nothing. Before she ever resist the power of that look.
- I can not do this, Ricardo.
He stopped smiling.
- Why not?
- Because I can not. Not now. Not once were lovers. We never come back to
have a professional relationship as we had before. You will find another secretary.
- I do not want another secretary - he said, clenching his fists.
- But you'll have, and all will be well. You do not like change, that's all. Angie felt oddly strengthened, despite their knees tremble to the rhythm of the
band that started playing in his head. - The fight we had is irrelevant. I had
already decided to leave before it. It's what I do not understand?
- But why? - He repeated.
Tell him, Angie ordered herself. Explain the feelings and emotions that
commanded some of his attitudes, and never see him again.
- Because sooner or later, our ... case will end, and it will be impossible to
work together.
Ricardo grimaced in annoyance. I was not used to being contradicted; it was
he who used to dictate the rules.
- This is not a case, as we are not married - he said stubbornly.
Angie noted that he had not denied the end of the novel.
- How do you define it?
- A relationship? - He said with a shrug.
Angie realized her doubtfully. If it was not so painful, she would laugh.
- Yes, a working relationship, nothing more. We never went out together!

- Is that what you want? - He asked. - Exit?

- No - said Angie, frustrated.
- No? There's nothing you want further? - He said, hugging her and kissing
her with an eagerness that does not bother to hide. Through the fog that seemed to
form in his head, Angie felt filled with the desire, but pushed while still had the
strength.
- You'll catch my cold - she claimed, feeling that their teeth began to chatter.
Ricardo frowned and put a hand on her face.
- You're burning! This is not cold. You have a fever. - He made her sit on
the couch. Then he made a call and spoke to someone in Italian. - Si, si ... sudden. When turning off, he grabbed his coat and Angie bag. - Come on, Piccola.
She looked at him blankly.
- What?
- I'll take you home. You need rest.
- I do not ...
- Please do not argue with me, Angie. Not this time.
She followed him vaguely aware of the stares watching them, especially
when they came to the reception. Sitting in the limo suddenly occurred to her that
Marco was a very strange way to reach Stanhope. Only when they parked in front
of a beautiful old building and a concierge ran to open the door and push the
elevator button is that Angie realized that Ricardo has not taken her home. At least
not to her house.
- What are you doing? - She said, sniffling as he held her by the arm and the
elevator rose at the speed of a jet. - I thought it would take me home.

- You think I'd let you in that tiny apartment and miserable? Alone without
someone to look after you?
- Do not need anyone to take care of me - she said stubbornly.
- Need, yes.
Angie gave up arguing because Ricardo carried her in his arms until what
appeared to be the main suite. Her head was spinning when he put on a huge bed.
Then he undressed with great efficiency and detachment, leaving her with only her
bra and panties. He covered her with a blanket and called the doctor.
- I do not need a doctor - Angie protested, despite shaking violently.
The doctor arrived soon after, put a cold stethoscope on his chest and took
his temperature.
- Fever it is too high - he announced.
Angie tried to cover herself with the quilt, but Ricardo stopped her.
- You have a fever - he scolded firmly.
- You should ensure that your girlfriend take plenty of water - said the
doctor. - And to take the painkiller. This flu is spreading is very strong, but she will
be healed in a few days.
Angie wanted to clarify that it was not girlfriend of Ricardo, but it was like a
steam train chiasse in your head. She tried to lift his head from the pillow.
- I can not stay here for ... ah-ah-tchim ...
- Rest - said the doctor sternly.
- I'll make sure she rests - said Ricardo, relentless.
Actually, it was almost a blessing and was worth getting sick because Angie
had never been so spoiled. When she was a child, her little sister, Sally, always got
all the attention. Sally off daddy's girl and been so devastated when he died he had

stolen the attention should be directed to the mother. Angie always protected. The
loyal Angie, who always took care of others and never complained. For two days
and two nights she floated a semissonolncia. Once, she had a blurred vision of
Ricardo with the sleeves of the shirt rolled up, wetting his body with a sponge
soaked in warm water. She made an attempt to cover the body with trembling
hands, but he pulled the warm breasts of fever and looked at her sternly.
Ricardo thought about what Angie would say if he knew that the night
before, she had clung to him and begged, delirious, he did not let go. It had taken
all his willpower to cover it with cotton sheet rather than lie down beside her and
take her as she asked.
On the third day, Angie woke to the smell of coffee and felt the feeling that
someone had removed the stuffing cotton in her head. Blinking rapidly, she looked
around, amazed, and saw the huge room in disbelief. Ricardo was the room! She
was in his bed, alone! She admired the decor. The furniture was old and shone like
silk; on the walls, there were landscapes of Tuscany. A vase of white roses
perfumed the room, and the windows provided a beautiful view of Green Park.
Angie enjoyed sheet of softness and got up to find that wearing a silk nightgown.
Where she appeared? Her legs were so weak that it was difficult to get out of bed,
but in the end, she managed to steady herself and walk to the bathroom with the
safety of those who have been there before, though not remember. Angie looked in
the mirror and took a shock: his hair was all ruffled and his face was gaunt - should
have lost weight almost 2 kilograms - but the color returned to her cheeks and her
eyes sparkled. She found a new toothbrush and a bar of soap. It is refreshed and
tried to comb your hair with Ricardo brush. When she returned to the room, he
heard the sound of a radio noise and activity somewhere in the house and decided
to investigate. Ricardo found in the kitchen preparing coffee with tremendous

efficiency. He wore dark trousers and a silk shirt, was barefoot and his hair still
wet from the bath.
He heard her go and watched her intently. Angie blushed, not because he
was almost naked - he had seen her wearing a lot less - but because, somehow, the
situation seemed closer than ever. But it's not, she reminded herself, it is a false
intimacy.
- You look better - he muttered. - Much better.
- I feel better, Ricardo. - She crossed her arms. - What happened?
- Have you been sick - he said quietly. - That's all.
- Have you been ... been ...
- Not now. Please sit. - He pointed a leather chair full pads. She sat grateful
because his legs were still weak.
- Coffee? - He asked.
Angie wondered if occurred to him that their positions were reversed: he
was taking care of her.
- Please.
- Something to eat? You must be hungry.
- Hungry.
- How about eggs?
- Would be perfect.
He hummed as it melted butter, and ten minutes later they were sitting side
by side, drinking coffee. Angie savored the moment, though knowing it would be
painful to recall it later. They had never had that kind of closeness, and despite
storms in living working in the background had always formed a duo. She thought
that, after all, would separate amicably, as he deserved that long partnership.

- Thank you, Ricardo - she said quietly. - For taking care of me so well.
- I do not want your thanks.
- Still, you deserve them. - Angie saw him smile and wanted to scream,
"Stop smiling." Stop making impossible not to love him and be arrogant again!
However, she knew she was fighting a losing battle, no matter what he did. She
had loved him while he was impossible, despite all the misunderstandings and
angry words. Always love Ricardo Castellari and why we had to leave him.
- Anyway, after this delicious breakfast - or is lunch? - I think I'd better get
out of her neck.
It was a foolish and inadequate expression, Ricardo thought. There was
nothing he wanted more at that moment to have Angie clinging to his neck.
- Why do not you here for a while?
- Stay? - She asked her heart racing.
- Why not? Here you will be more comfortable than in his apartment, and,
above all, employees will have to serve it. I go to New York.
Angie was disappointed. How could it be so pathetic? She thought he would
invite her to live with him just because had the privilege of caring for her during a
prosaic flu?
- It is a very kind invitation, but I can not accept.
- Of course it can, Angie. Enjoy a little luxury for a change.
She took a sip of coffee to disguise his embarrassment. If he wanted her to
feel like Little Orphan, had. I could imagine her delight with central heating and
quiet with soft carpets? I feel sorry for her for having to return to the tiny
apartment after almost an hour's drive?
- I do not want to abuse your kindness - she said firmly.

Ricardo noticed the pride and stubbornness on her face and sighed. Angie
was still angry, as it should be. Perhaps with a little rest and time she forget
everything.
- You are not abusing. I want you to stay here. Enjoy, and we'll talk when I
get back.
- We'll talk.
Ricardo was close enough for her to feel the warmth of his breath, but not
enough to kiss her.
- Let's see how you feel about everything when I get back, huh? It is absurd,
Piccola order?
Damn! He knew how to be irresistible! How could she refuse an invitation
that he wanted? But if I stayed there, supposedly to recover, ran the risk of building
castles in the air, giving more meaning to the situation than Ricardo intended.
- You know I do not take no as an answer - he said gently.
- In this case, I think I will have to accept.
He smiled.
- Here are the keys. I wrote down the security password to enter the
building. Enjoy.
- When are you back? - She asked.
- Not until a week. Stay as long as you want. Now if you'll excuse me, I need
to stop to pack.
That new kind of Ricardo was unexpected and Angie did not know what had
caused, and nor should believe. He even tried to kiss her. After a short time, he
reappeared, wearing a suit and carrying a bag and a suitcase.
- I'm going. Get enough rest, you know?

Angie nodded and he left. She hid behind the curtain and watched him get
into the limo. When the car joined the traffic and disappeared, reality hit.
I am in the apartment Ricardo. He told me to stay as long as desired. He's
taking care of me when I'm sick, and, unless I hallucinate, this morning it was
almost ... cari nhoso. That would have been a signi? It would be naive to suppose
that did not, or would be foolish to assume that yes? It was a waste of time to
formulate a chance. Angie stood at ease. The TV, which she found under a sliding
screen that was huge. Ricardo had a vast collection of videos, including some
subtitled Italian films. Some more, and she found an office full of books and a
comfortable sofa. As soon as she felt better, he went out and took a walk through
Green Park and wandered through some shops. I did not intend to shop, but it was
amazing afford the luxury of being close to the shops of the West End.
The next day, Ricardo phoned at lunchtime. Would attend a meeting and I
wonder if it was okay. Angie said yes. He was silent, as if to say something and
had changed his mind.
- How is your sister? You will probably get divorced? - He asked suddenly.
Angie realized that both had problems sisters.
- I think so. I did not know anything after the last hysterical message, and it
seems that she does not read the e-mails.
- Call her.
- No, honestly ...
- It to Phone, Angie - he insisted.
She hung up feeling tenderly. Ricardo had never seen so kind. When the
phone rang later, she thought it was him again.
- Hello - she answered in a soft voice.

- Hello. - It was a female voice, soft and accented the United States, which
sparked Angie's memory. - It's the maid?
For a moment, Angie thought it was an oversight.
- No, it's ... it's the secretary of Ricardo Castellari.
- Oh, hello. Here is Paula, Paula Prentice. I'm a friend of his.
- Can I help you, Miss. Prentice? - Angie, trying to ignore the turmoil in his
heart.
- He's with my red dress. A dress that never used. It is beautiful and Rico
sent him to do especially for me. It would be a waste not to use it.
Suddenly it all made sense. Of course, Ricardo had not bought her a present
that would require imagination and work. He had deceived her, giving her the dress
of another woman. It had been a matter of time and place certain - or wrong. If it
were a movie scene, Angie would have dropped the phone, choking, or off, but,
despite being a fool who becomes a meaning in a careless gesture, she was also an
efficient secretary.
- Of course, Miss. Prentice - she said quickly. - Do not worry. I'll look it up
and send it to the lady.
- Thank you.
After hanging up, Angie froze for a few minutes. After all, he looked up at
the sky and watched the stars, remembering the night he won the dress, his naive
satisfaction by Ricardo have given him something so personal. This had made her
feel first woman in life, and that became the point he wanted to sleep with her.
He'd fantasized that she was the other - the woman for whom he actually bought
this? Was that what he thought to possess it with such passion? It was another staff

Angie bit her lip and looked distractedly around, as if he saw the apartment
Ricardo for what was in fact: a strange country. She had been stupid enough to
think that there would be a place for it? However, it does not come tumbling down.
All he needed was to keep busy, do something.
Angie knew exactly what to do.

CHAPTER TWELVE

A warm breeze lifted her hair, and the noise of the sea soothed her as much
as massage that had submitted earlier. Angie spent a little more sunscreen on the
nose and yawned. When it comes to heal a broken heart, nothing better than a
beach in Australia, she decided, lifting her face to the sun.
- Aunt Lina! Aunt Lina!
A child ran to her, covering her with wet sand. She laughed when the fouryear-old nephew threw herself into his arms.
- Hello, Todd. Do you like to swim?
- Mom says I'm a fish.
- So, you should swim very well! - Angie saw her sister approaching,
wringing water from hair bleached by the sun. Since they were children had not
gone to the beach together, and everything changed. When they were girls, Sally

was considered the beauty of the family, but since Angie arrived, everyone
commented as the two looked like - what made her happy, not to imply that she
was beautiful, but because it gave you the feeling of having a place, of belonging
to the family. Angie smiled at his sister.
- As the swimming lesson?
Sally smiled.
- Fantastic, even though I was exhausted. I'd better go home and prepare the
barbecue tonight. You want to go with me?
Angie stretched and shook his head.
-. I Do not think I'll stay a little longer ... I'll soak up the sun while I can.
You want me to take care of Todd?
-. He is not tired. I hope he take a nap. - She hesitated as he took a towel. Listen, Angie ... I do not know how to thank you.
- No need to thank - said Angie honestly, because it was good to worry
about the problems of others for a change. She acquired a new perspective of time
spent with Ricardo, which served him to talk to her sister, and furthermore
harnesses to meet his nephew.
- Now, you deserve - Sally said. - If you had not caused me to recover
judgment; if you had shown me what I risked me to lose because of trifles ...
Angie agreed. He arrived at the home of her sister, Sydney, heartbroken and
decided not to talk about it because it would be too painful. The feeling of being
betrayed burned like flesh-living and self-esteem had been destroyed. She tried to
assess whether the sister's marriage was doomed, as supposed. Had remembered
the heavy atmosphere that preceded the Floriana wedding date, and an idea
occurred to him. There had never been any doubt that Sally and Brad were
completely in love to get married.

- Try to remember how much you loved Brad when she married him - she
suggested Sally. - Start from there. - Miraculously, one simple advice had begun a
process of reconciliation. The Sally's husband was working too hard and felt
stressed; Sally felt abandoned. A gulf had opened between them, and, over time,
had become deeper, however, in the background, the two still loved each other.
Angie realized that sometimes an outsider, who cared and who pointed out the
obvious, could cause a double face him their conflicts differently. Sally had much
to be grateful in your life, but simply failed to recognize. Meanwhile, Angie had
dedicated himself to know his nephew, which had provided time and space to Sally
and Brad get a little alone, and contributed to the revival of love between them.
- What about you? - Sally asked one night while taking a glass of wine. You are so beautiful lately, Lina. There must be a man ...
There was, and there was not. There had been a man. A man who played
with her, but never reciprocate her love for him, despite the undeniable physical
attraction. Angie decided not to prolong his agony telling everything to his sister.
The sooner forget, faster recover. Therefore, trying to convince herself, she
declared to Sally that there was anyone in particular.

Angie wore a T-shirt Todd and heard Sally give a whistle.

- Oh, God. I think the gods have left a man fall from the sky, and it's coming
towards us!
- You're married - joked Angie.
- You are allowed to look. He's beautiful. He's ... Lina, it's coming this way!
Angie instinctively turned to look at the man who spoke his sister.
Perplexed, she recognized him at once: the tousled black hair, firm muscles of the

slender body. Although there were many beautiful descendants of Italians in

Sydney, Ricardo Castellari stood out.
- Who is he? - Todd asked when she saw her mother and aunt put aside.
- Yes - Sally said, turning to her sister. - Who is this man?
Angie could not speak, feeling a lump in my throat. What was he doing
there? I had come to create more confusion in your life, when she tried with such
difficulty living without it?
- He's my boss - she said slowly. Sally looked at her in amazement.
- Your boss is so beautiful? Your boss who, incidentally, comes looking for
her on the beach with a guy who want to shake her or ...
- Or what, mom? - Todd asked.
- Nothing, dear - said Sally quickly. - Here he comes, and, judging by the
expression, you better run and hide away!
The Angie heart beat like a drum under the little green bikini triangles
bought one of Sydney stores. She knew it would be inevitable find it again, but not
here and not so early. He had not had time to build your defenses, nor to practice
indifferent expression he intended to do when the time came. The gleam in his eyes
was nothing friendly. Ricardo stood before her, and for a moment, just stared.
- Hello, Angie.
- Hello, Ricardo - Angie swallowed. The two stared at each other.
- Nobody is going to introduce me? - Sally complained. - I'm Sally, Angie's
sister.
- My name is Ricardo Castellari. Nice to meet you, Sally, but I need to have
a private conversation with his sister, if you please.

- Sure, sure - Sally agreed. - Come home later - she told Angie. - Come on,
Todd.
- Who is this man, mother? - Todd asked.
- It's a friend of Aunt Lina. Come on ... You'll see it later. I think it will.
Angie watched her sister and nephew move away and his throat went dry.
Although the beach was full of bathers, the world seemed to have reduced if only
the two of them, facing each other as opponents. What right did he have to look so
angry?
- What are you doing, Richard? - She asked coldly.
Angie's indifference made Ricardo felt desire to hug her and kiss her lips
rebels.
- What do you think I'm doing here? - He asked indignantly. - Why you left
suddenly and melodramatic way and traveled without saying a word about their
fate?
The courage to Ricardo was unbelievable.
- What do you think? Paula called ... Do you remember Paula, the beautiful
actress from California who you dated for almost a year ... She asked her red dress
back. Her dress! The dress I foolishly thought it was mine, because you gave me
for Christmas!
Ricardo frowned.
- Is that what this tra ta, Angie? A damn dress?
- Yes! - She shook her head. - No!
- I'll tell you about the dress.
- I do not mind the dress!

- Well, I care ... So you better listen! - He took a deep breath. - Paula ordered
the dress for a fashion stylist and put on my bill, saying nothing. It was what she
used to do. She wanted to marry, I do not ... So we parted. Much later, the dress
was delivered to my hotel in New York. I did not want any contact with Paula and
decided to keep the dress. I wanted to donate it to a charity auction, but something
made me give it to you that day.
Angie knew very well what was the "something": he thought his appearance
dull could be improved through reform, and gave the dress to the desk awkwardly,
not imagining the devastating effect it would have. Hurt, Angie tried to hold back
the tears that would make it dismantle before him.
- No matter how or why you gave me the dress ... But if you'd been honest
from the beginning, would have helped.
- What? Giving a dress to a woman and tell her that he was made to another?
- He muttered. - So I know a little female psychology to know that this would be a
fiasco.
- Sure, you have a lot of experience when it comes to female behavior! - She
said cutting mode.
- Maybe I did ... But none of them was as stubborn and annoying as you're
being now, Angie Patterson.
Tired, she shook her head, recognizing that other value had to dress. I could
not continue to blame Ricardo. A simple gift, and she reacted as if he had given her
an engagement ring.
- Either way, it does not matter - she whispered. - The dress is just a
symptom of the disease. He made me understand how I have been foolish. I should
thank the dress.

Ricardo frowned. She looked so delusional as he had been during fever,

when he had seen her so helpless and vulnerable and bathed and fed like a kitten.
- What are you talking about?
She could never make him understand, unless you tell him, however painful
it was.
- The dress ... turned me into someone I'm not - she cooed. - In someone
who would fit in their world. I do not belong to your world, Ricardo, and I will
never belong. We should not have gone to friends to lovers.
- You do not mean it, Angie.
- Ah, yes, I do. - It was very difficult to say, especially with him standing
before her, stubborn and firm expression. She had loved for so long that it seemed
to be natural. With a heavy heart, she realized she had not done the most important
question. - So, what are you doing here, and how to find out where I was?
- I asked his mother - was the simple answer. He raised his hand to stop her
to do another question. - I'm here because I want you to come back.
The suffering tearing, and tears invaded Angie's eyes.
- I can not go - she whispered. - No matter what you say, I can not work for
you, Ricardo. You do not understand?
- I do not want you to work for me - he said, shaking his head impatiently.
- You do not want? - She asked, confused.
- No way ... I have given his place at Alicia.
- Alicia?
- Si She's great ... You already told me that.. Good potential for the position
of secretary, and of course it does not challenge me like you used to. - However, no
woman had challenged, and none of them put on a par with him except Angie. For

the first time in his life, Ricardo's voice failed to see a wary glint in her eyes. He
realized that all was not available to them, according to his will. Once, he would
click his fingers and Angie would come running, but she had changed, just like
him. She built barriers to protect himself, and he would need to knock them down.
The dignity and the pride Angie only reinforced his desire for her. - I want you to
stay with me, cara mia ... As my companion, not as my secretary. Mia Donna.
Sometimes it takes losing something to recognize its value. It took a little while for
me to realize why the days seemed so sad ... And a little more to see what was in
front of my eyes long ago. - Love. Something he learned not to believe, excluding
the limits supposedly secure a perfect marriage. The facts demonstrate that his
conviction was illusory, and her heart had left as helpless as any other man. When
he returned from trip and discovered that Angie had disappeared, had been stricken
with excruciating pain. Ricardo took her hand and kissed Angie. His eyes glittered.
- I'll tell you something I've never told another woman, Piccola. I love you
with all my heart.
Perplexed and heart pounding, Angie shook her head in disbelief ... Without
daring to believe. I feared the pain he would feel if he was not sincere.
- No, you do not love me. You do not believe in love, remember? It does not
exist. It's all a matter of "chemistry" and desire.
He cringed to hear her repeat your words.
- I've been a fool - he admitted. - An arrogant fool, but sometimes you need
to feel to believe. I love you, Angie - he repeated fondly.
Angie could not control the heartbeat. Yes, he was arrogant, but that was a
trait as dangerous as attractive. She thought the woman was when he said those
words, so desperate for him to love her, that had been desolate with the statement;
their self-esteem was so low that it would be content with any crumb that he gave

him. Now she had changed, and cared not what it was or where it came from. True
equality is to give and receive love on a level plane.
- I need to tell you why I love you? You like? - He went on. - Where do I
begin? Because you are beautiful inside and out. Kind, sweet, strong and sexy.
Why is not afraid to tell me what you think. And because I had not realized that
someone was to rn or a friend might be a wonderful lover. - Suddenly, he realized
she was wearing just an emerald green bikini. I was so focused on convincing her
that not noticed the beauty of your body - something that also happened the first
time. - Do you believe in and stou saying, Angie? You are torn or part of my life as
much as the beating of my heart.
Angie was fascinated and frightened by the poetic tone Ricardo. Trembling,
she stared at him with moist eyes, hardly knowing what he was offering her, but
one thing she knew: Ricardo always told the truth.
- Say it again - she whispered.
- I love you.
- Another time.
- I love you - he said, smiling.
When the last bitterness barrier collapsed, she held him by the neck and
pressed her face against his.
- I love you, Richard - she murmured. - I Love much.
He laughed, and who knew him would be amazed at the lightness of her
laughter. He brushed a lock of hair Angie's face.
- So why are you crying, cara mia?
She looked at his face and worshiped his heart turned upside down.
- Because I'm very happy!

Under the generous sun of an Australian beach, oblivious to swimmers and

surfers, Ricardo Angie squeezed in his arms and wiped her tears with kisses,
concluding that female logic is really a mystery.

EPILOGUE

- You want to get down now? - Angie took care of the hat and walked to the
window to admire the beautiful garden of the castle. - We have plenty of time, but
it's best to arrive early a time as important as this. In addition, I want to take a look
at the flowers of the church.
Ricardo gave a mischievous smile and looked at her.
- Just a minute. First, let me to admire.
Angie wore a dress wine that contrasted with clear skin and large green eyes.
In the head, a tiny vaporous hat matched the dress. She was elegant, he thought,
and very beautiful. Attached to the approval brightness of black eyes, Angie
blushed satisfaction. For a man who had defined as a skeptic about love, he will
correct with perfection, she thought. They had married soon after returning from
Australia. Ricardo had chosen that way, insisted, and Angie could not resist. He
wanted to demonstrate the depth of his feelings for her and charm her.

A beautiful spring day, married in the small castle stone church of Castellari,
under a bright blue sky and birdsong echoing the heartbeat of the bride. A soft tulle
layer stifle the sound of his footsteps on the ancient stones to cross the chapel on
the way to the altar, where awaited a proud groom. Todd followed her, dress page.
Roman was the best man, serious and puzzling, and perhaps slightly unfavorable to
marriage, Angie thought, hoping to win their sympathy. Basically, Roman valued
family as much as Ricardo and would do anything for the new sister were
welcomed in her womb.
Floriana had been unable to attend the wedding. Outside rushed to the
hospital because of complications in early pregnancy that started on honeymoon.
Angie wanted to postpone the wedding, but Floriana and Max not allowed. After
all, had been a false alarm. Floriana had been sent back home and, in time, gave
birth to a beautiful boy. The old discussions have been forgotten with the arrival of
a new life to the family. Ricardo and Roman were passionate nephew. Angie was
moved when she was invited to be the baby's godmother.
She adjusted her hat and looked at her husband, handsome in his dark fear.
- You know it's an honor in Italian families - he asked tenderly, coming up
and hugging her shoulder - be the godmother of the first child?
Angie took the bag and nodded. A smile lit up his face.
- Yes, I know - she whispered. - But I already feel honored to be part of this
family, and even more honored to be your wife, sweetheart.
- Nope, the honor is mine - he said, kissing her and letting out a sigh. - Do
you think it possible to be happier than we are, cara mia?
She thought it would be quite possible, and that later she would tell him
why. When they returned Rocco of the baptized and stay alone, she would give
him the news he so hoped.

Meanwhile, more a quiet kiss, delicious and perfect as the life she led with
Ricardo, his love, his soul mate, his partner.

End