ECHOES OF US | 18+ ✔️

CHAPTER 16

MIA

With a satisfied smile spreading across my face, I carefully arrange two plates with a tantalizing assortment of rosemary and garlic-infused leg of lamb, fragrant rice, crispy roast potatoes, caramelized carrots, and tender green beans, generously drenched in gravy. Once the food is warmed to perfection, I carry it out to the deck and am struck by Maggie's efforts. With careful consideration, she had created an exquisitely romantic table arrangement—featuring a floral centerpiece, rose petals strewn across the table, patchouli scented tea light candles, chocolate-dipped strawberries, and a bottle of champagne chilling on ice.

Maggie, you sly devil!

It makes sense why she was so adamant about setting the table herself. Also, her sudden need to run an errand was just a clever ruse to give Dantè and me some private time together. A warm glow spreads through my chest and I'm bursting with gratitude for her thoughtfulness and generosity.

Just as I'm about to uncork the champagne, the silence is interrupted by the sound of Danté's footsteps. Stepping out onto the deck with his lip caught between his teeth, a smug grin plays on his face, revealing his cute dimple.

"My monkey's all good now," he remarks with a chuckle.

After our encounter in my bedroom, he mentioned needing to 'spank the monkey,' or 'choke the chicken.' When I naively asked why he needed to do such things, he found it so damn hilarious that he burst into a fit of laughter. I couldn't help but feel a wave of embarrassment as he explained afterwards what it meant, leaving my cheeks burning.

A flush creeps onto my cheeks again, but I focus on opening the bottle. With a gentle gesture, Danté reaches out to grasp it.

"Let me take care of that, bella."

Letting him handle the champagne, I return his gesture with a soft look, whispering, "Thank you."

"You're welcome."

He offers a warm smile, and I appreciate his consideration while settling in my seat.

"I'm glad you're here, Danté," I say, my voice carrying the depth of my gratitude and affection.

"Being here with you means everything to me," he replies, his eyes reflecting the same affection, his voice steady and sincere. After filling our champagne glasses, he takes his seat opposite me and lifts his glass. "To us, amore mio," he toasts, his voice a gentle caress.

"To us," I echo softly, clinking my glass against his, feeling the warmth of his words settle over me.

As I take a sip from my champagne, the taste lingering on my tongue, I revel in the quiet intimacy of the moment. It's hard to believe that someone as breathtaking as him could be captivated by someone as ordinary as me.

My eyes drink in his striking appearance. His attractiveness is undeniable, with chiseled features that make him look like a true Adonis. Even his chest looks perfectly sculpted, with a hint of it exposed by the open buttons at the top of his shirt.

Damn...

I wonder what he looks like without that shirt, with all those bulging muscles.

I savor every detail with admiration, especially his mouth that was on mine and my breasts not too long ago. My attention is drawn to his fingers, and I feel a sudden rush of desire as I instinctively squeeze my thighs together.

Hot damn...

Those fingers have some serious skills.

The sound of Danté clearing his throat with a pointed "Ahem... Mia to earth!" jolts me back to reality.