I Want To Be Yours (15 page)

“There will be no need for you to use his flat in future, or he yours,” Nico responded in a chilling, hard voice.

Mari started to placate him, but Richard had other ideas.

“Mari and Alex are welcome to my place at any time. In fact, she can keep the key. One never knows when I may be needed again.” He grinned unrepentantly.

Nico breathed harshly and leaned menacingly across the table at him.

“Over my dead body, or better yet, over yours. Carvine, if you value your golden head, I strongly suggest you stay the hell away from my family, or not even your mother would recognize your carcass.” He muttered the words through clenched teeth.

Mari was puzzled by Nico’s anger. She squinted at him with growing suspicion.

“You couldn’t possibly think there was a relationship between Richard and me, do you?” Mari regarded Nico inquiringly. A cold dread settled deep in her chest. This couldn’t be happening again.

“You may not have a relationship now, but it was evident that you did have one by your numerous visits to his flat in the past three years. You were not very discreet in conducting your affair.”

Richard laughed out loud at the accusation, in a fit of amusement so great tears streamed down his face.

Everyone looked at him as though he’d lost his mind!

Mari gave him a cold glare as he sobered and started to respond to Nico’s accusation. “Stay out of this, Richard.” Mari had no idea whether his response would have been helpful or whether he would continue to torment Nico. She was adamant that their contretemps stopped immediately. Nico would learn to trust her, or there was no point in them getting married the next day.

“You’ve had me investigated?” She was incredulous. The silent, grim set of his mouth was answer enough. He continued looking at her coolly.

“That’s so underhanded, Nico! You’re such a
bloody
control freak, and a ruthless bastard! Then you have to compound it by once again jumping to wrong conclusions about my behavior. You convicted me without even a hearing in my defense.” Mari was aware their heated discussion was drawing unwanted attention, but she didn’t care. She felt violated, and his continued distrust hurt like hell.

“I hope you hire better investigators next time, because their information is severely flawed. Yes, Alex and I stayed at Richard’s flat on numerous occasions when I had to go to London, but your spies should have also reported that each time we were there, he was out of the country.” Feeling dead inside, Mari spoke in an emotionless voice. She held her hand up to forestall Nico’s response.

“I knew he would recognize that Alex was your daughter. She looked too much like you, so we went to London when there was no chance any of you were in the city. Since you continue to view me as a promiscuous woman, there is no need for this marriage tomorrow.” Mari took her engagement ring off and threw it at him. She stood suddenly, pushed back her chair, and stormed from the restaurant.

“Wow!” Richard ventured.

“There was nothing going on with you two?” Nico had to ask, slipping the discarded ring in his pocket. He was still numb from the tongue-lashing Mari had given him. He was ashamed of his contribution to the hurt he’d noted in her eyes.

“What a bloody cock-up! I doubt Mari’s even aware that there were other men in existence when you were around, Nico. She looks right through all of us and has done so for years.” Brad shook his head in awe at Nico’s cluelessness.

Nico regarded them all intently as each of the other men nodded their heads in agreement with Brad’s statement. Raking his fingers through his hair in agitation, Nico closed his eyes and swore with creative, graphic disgust.

“Fuck, I’ve handled that badly. I doubt very seriously Mari will be in a forgiving mood any time soon.” He grimaced on his observation.

“So, gentlemen, since this is my last night as a single man, I feel the need to get smashing drunk!”

“Ah, Nico, don’t you think you should go and talk to her?” Jarrod asked, with concern etched in his expression.

Nico laughed humorlessly. “Mari has no other alternative but to marry me tomorrow. I still have our daughter. And quite frankly, gentlemen, if I go back to our room before she remembers that, she’ll make sure I’m rendered one hundred percent sterile.” Nico finished with a self-deprecating smirk on his lips.

They spent the rest of the night, until the early hours of the morning, in a local bar, and then ensured Nico was returned safely to his darkened suite and solitary bed.

***

Waking from a light slumber, Mari barely heard Nico’s arrival in the early hours of the morning. She reclined on her bed, fuming at his arrogance and assured belief she would marry him no matter what he did to offend her.

Mari had returned to the room indignant and deeply hurt by his continued distrust. Maybe she had to take responsibility for his assumption that she was eager to hop into bed with the first available male, since she had never said no to him, and in fact was always eagerly ready for his possession. Regardless of what had given him that impression, she had to sort out their impasse now, before walking down the aisle later that day.

Acknowledging that she was already hopelessly in love, she knew that if they didn’t resolve their issues, she’d always regret it. The fact that he still had Alex was not a motivator. She was confident that, if she were to try, there were other options to getting Alex back. Also, there was no way Nico could keep Alex away from her; the bond between mother and daughter was too strong.

Mari crept silently into Nico’s room. He was stretched out on his back, his large frame dominating the California-king bed. He was still clothed, with his shoes discarded and his dress shirt fully unbuttoned. As she approached, Mari noted that Nico’s eyes were open and alert. The two simply stared at each other across the chasm that separated them.

“Come here.” Nico opened his arms for her to come to him.

Mari didn’t hesitate, but climbed onto the bed and draped herself on top of him.

He folded her in his embrace, soaking in how good she felt against him.

“I’m sorry for believing those things.” Nico whispered close to her ear, holding her tight around her waist. He was afraid to touch her anywhere else. His silk shirt was soon drenched with her silent, anguished tears. Acknowledging again that
his
anger and jealousy had done this to her, he was gutted to realize he had so thoroughly and unintentionally hurt her. This was not his proudest moment.

Unlike before, her hurt now hurt him.

Not only was she the mother of his child, she had become his life. He had been going through the motions of living while they were apart, but having her in his life gave him purpose, made him stronger, more determined to succeed and provide for his family.

He vowed that the lessons learned from his dealings with Celina would no longer influence their relationship. The bitter poison of his past would no longer play a part in their lives. His experiences were all interwoven patterns in the fabric of his life, but no longer would he allow the ugly bits to dominate that fabric. The resentment and anger slowly drained away, to be replaced with undiluted, liberating love for Mari and his daughter.

Finally letting the startling love he felt for her give him solace, he held her tighter and rocked her gently, whispering soothing words in the dark of the night.

Her tears ceased after a while and she fell asleep in his arms. He gently rearranged her, spoon-fashion in his arms, making sure she was in a comfortable position. Reaching for his mobile, he issued new instructions for later that day.

They slept.

Chapter Eleven

When Mari woke,
she was alone in Nico’s bed. Remembering the chaotic rollercoaster of the day and night before, she grimaced with lingering emotion. While she was grateful for Nico’s apology, an apology she’d not expected, it hadn’t resolved any of their issues. The comforting warmth of his rugged masculinity had beckoned and rendered her incapable of voicing her concerns. His sincere remorse had completely disarmed her. The ensuing tears had been cathartic.

Lyn was already in the suite, however, busily gathering all of the items needed for the bride to get dressed, and coordinating her appointments for the day.

Mari declined breakfast, but accepted coffee and then went for a three-mile jog on the beach before undertaking the many appointments she had set up for the day. Nico had left a note advising that Richard would walk her down the aisle and they would see her at the ceremony. Although the men were staying on the estate, she didn’t encounter anyone en route to the beach.

With the jog invigorating her body and clearing her mind, Mari went through the day both anxious and happy at the same time. She was happy to be marrying the love of her life, finally, and anxious because she hadn’t been able to talk to Alex all day. She wanted to speak to Nico about it, but she hadn’t been able to contact him all day, either. Mari was surprised how quickly she had adopted the habit of relying on Nico. It both frightened her and made her grateful, afraid to depend on someone else when she never could have in the past, but happy that she and Alex were no longer alone in the world. They were now part of a large, extended family.

Nico had sent her presents throughout the day, She’d received her eight-karat emerald-cut diamond and platinum engagement ring, which she’d thrown at him the night before, with a note in his strong, bold writing: “Don’t remove again!” Next, he sent her a stunning Cartier diamond necklace, followed by a matching diamond bracelet that arrived as she took a break for a light lunch, and Cartier diamond drop earrings were delivered while she dressed. Each gift had the same note in bold script. “Thank you for our daughter,” she read out loud, touching the heavy cream-colored card with an unmanicured fingertip. By the time she was dressed, Mari was grateful that Nico traveled with such heavy security, because between the clothes and the jewelry, she was certain she was draped in millions of dollars.

The delicate Vera Wang lace dress had a low-cut neckline with sheer lace edging that provocatively but tastefully displayed her generous cleavage, and an inset Empire waist, from which yards of silk fell gracefully to the floor. The dress was embroidered with Swarovski crystals in the bodice and flowed elegantly over her stunning slender-but-curvy figure. With a side slit that ran mid-thigh, her honey-toned long legs would be visible with each lithe stride.

Her hair was worn in a sophisticated upsweep. Caught up at the back, her tresses were adorned with a diamond tiara on loan from an exclusive jeweler on the island. A sheer, fine lace cathedral train extended three yards behind her. Strappy gold five-inch Manolo Blahnik sandals completed her outfit.

Mari blushed upon noting the reaction of the ladies assisting her to dress. Lyn, the makeup artist, and the hairstylist sighed, smiling in awe at the beautiful picture she presented.

A knock sounded at the door. Lyn indicated that it was time to go and that Richard had arrived to escort her down to the ceremony.

Mari nervously left the safety of her bedroom to meet Richard in the sitting area of the suite.

Already feeling beautiful from her team’s complimentary response, her confidence was further bolstered by Richard’s reaction. He gave her a long, appreciative whistle, followed by, “Nico’s one lucky bastard!”

On their descent down the spiraling stairway, as Lyn held her train, he kept her thoroughly entertained with outrageously raunchy banter.

They stepped onto the cobblestone path in the full glare of the sunshine, and proceeded down the path that led to the Infinity pool, which they would have to pass to enter the terraced Versailles-style gardens where the wedding ceremony was to be held. Richard kept up the relentless teasing to distract her, and to settle her nerves.

“Are you ready, kiddo?” Richard asked as they arrived at the pool area.

She knew she was doing the right thing, but she couldn’t help the brief moment of panic that assailed her. This step she was taking was enormous.

“Yes, I think I have waited for this moment all my life.” She stopped and looked at Richard for assurance.

He simply smiled encouragingly.

“Nico and Alex are my world. I love them so much!” Mari breathed deeply, trying to calm her frayed nerves.

Mari gazed at the setting of her wedding as they stood at the entrance of the garden, suddenly astounded at the spectacular setting before her. The aisle was lined with a white, shimmering carpet outlined with red roses along the sides. White ribbons with red and white roses draped the chairs, and the archway was adorned with exotic tropical flowers and red roses. Stunned, Mari took in the presence of so many guests in attendance. Her breath stopped on the sight of one special guest in particular.

Alex barreled down the aisle to meet her mother with excited squeals of “Momma, Momma, Momma!” As her little legs eliminated the distance between them, she almost tripped on her long, beautiful ivory dress, so similar to Mari’s. She propelled her pint-sized body into Mari’s skirts.

All of the adults in attendance laughed at the toddler’s uninhibited display of happiness. Mari reached down, scooped Alex into her arms and hugged her tight, raining kisses all over her face.

The sound of the opening bars of Jesse Powell’s “You” filled the garden. Mari immediately locked on to Nico’s elegant presence at the end of the aisle.

He remembered!

It was her song, the one she’d always associated with him, and the one they’d last danced to. The jolt of utter love infusing her heart at the sight of Nico standing with the priest at the altar made her feet seem like they were walking on air. Nico was so breathtakingly beautiful. Her pulse quickened and suddenly she couldn’t wait to reach his side.

“Thanks, Richard, for escorting me this far, but I think this little girl and I have to go get our man!” Smiling with the sudden desire to solidify their family, she held Alex hand and they continued along the red-petal-carpeted aisle with light, slow steps and with a gentle roll to her hips, completely in sync with the music.

Nico grinned then, seeming to enjoy her confident, provocative strides.

She smiled tremulously back, not missing a beat in her graceful glide down the aisle.

Alex, not to be outdone, happily danced along with her mother, enjoying the spotlight.

Nico claimed his family halfway up the aisle with a firm grasp of Mari’s waist. He picked Alex up and anchored her on his hip. After a slow, lazy perusal of Mari from head to toe, Nico gave her a smoldering gaze, leaving little doubt of his appreciation of the incredible vision she made. His grip tightened around her body, demonstrating more effectively than words that he considered her his. He kissed her lips softly, gently nipping her lower lip. He raised his head and held her gaze for a few silent moments before leading his family to the waiting priest.

They were married a few minutes later, and sealed their union with a much more satisfying, lengthy kiss that was only interrupted when Alex insisted on getting in on the action. They turned with blinding smiles to welcome and join their guests in a lavish reception, held right there in the gardens.

Nico’s parents, his two sisters, and brother were there, along with their children and spouses. But what shocked Mari more than anything was meeting his mother. She’d had no prior warning that his mother’s mocha skin was darker than hers.

How had I not known that about him?

Mari’s next door neighbor Audrey was there with her family, as well as executives from Brennan and from the Darian Group who had worked with Mari in the past, and Barbara the caretaker from the crèche at Brennan had been flown in for the wedding. There were more than thirty people in attendance, including the children. Mari was touched at Nico’s thoughtfulness, considering she had not expected any guests at their wedding. He had gone to a lot of trouble to make the day incredibly special and memorable.

Forget the jewelry and designer clothes he’d given her… her friends and extended family were the most beautiful gift he could have given her today. And she loved him even more for it.

His parents welcomed her to the family and again thanked her for the gift of Alex, who had disappeared in the tropical garden to take part in a rambunctious game of hide and seek with her cousins.

Lord only knew if Alex’s ivory dress will make it through the day!

They spent a few minutes chatting with his parents before they were inundated with well-wishers. His mother was the typical no-nonsense Italian, infused with a wicked sense of humor. His dad, whom she’d met before in the office, was an older, more laid-back version of Nico, both in appearance and personality.

“Well, Mrs. Darian, you are a very gorgeous bride. How soon can we get out of here without offending our guests?” Nico whispered close to her ear.

Mari smiled. “Speaking of guests, when did you arrange all of this?”

“Last night after you left me at dinner. The guys and I got busy on the phones and arranged two private jets to transport everyone here.” He regarded her with a smile.

“Why? That must have been hugely expensive and inconvenient for everyone,” Mari asked, puzzled by his attitude and apparent change of heart.

“I told you last night that I was sorry for hurting you again and I wanted to make amends,” Nico said softly, whispering sincerely. “Every bride should feel special on her wedding day. However, I don’t think that anyone anticipated a bride as beautiful as you.”

“I’m profoundly grateful for everything you’ve done today. Everyone’s presence, especially our daughter’s, has made today one of the happiest days of my life.”

“And the happiest?” he asked.

“That was the day that Alex was born. Nothing could top that.”

“You can express some of your gratitude now,” Nico whispered, pulling her closer.

“Nico…” Mari tried unsuccessfully to disengage from him and whispered unsteadily. “I never knew your mother was black.”

“Why? Do you have a problem with my skin color?”

She punched him in his rock-hard stomach, hurting her hand in the process. “Ouch!”

“So much sass!” He grinned at her. “You’re not supposed to be so sassy to your amazing husband.”

“Well, my husband was being a dick!”

“Don’t lie. You think I’m even sexier after meeting my parents, right?”

Mari rolled her eyes at his one-track mind. But she had to admit, it gave him just a little more swag.

“I think you should kiss me and make it better.” He tenderly nipped her lower lip.

“I didn’t hit you there.”

“No worries. One of your kisses will ease the pain anywhere on my body,” he murmured against her mouth. He began with a gentle, leisurely exploration of her lips before sliding his tongue over hers.

His flavor burst on her tongue. The solid security of his arms was intoxicating. She quickly overheated and returned his hungry kiss with equal fervor. Nico gently stroked her back, trailing his fingers along her spinal column. He ravenously devoured her lips, the kiss becoming more erotic and urgent.

They abruptly pulled apart as the teasing catcalls and whistles from their guests penetrated their passionate interlude. “You’re right, this isn’t the time or place. But very shortly I
will
have you all to myself. It has been too long,” Nico whispered huskily.

“You’ve probably destroyed whatever lipstick I had on!” she cried anxiously.

Nico laughed unrepentantly and kissed her hard again before turning to greet their abandoned guests. Mari took a few minutes to slip away to the bathroom to repair the damage that Nico’s advances had made. Lyn was waiting in the wings to assist.

She looked in the mirror at the stranger she’d become. Never before had the sparkle in her eyes been so bright, nor the glow in her cheeks so luminous. Never had she felt like laughing outright, for no apparent reason. The warm reception from Nico’s family was a surprise, but she was so grateful for that. Any doubts she had about her skin color being an issue for them had been completely dispelled. They had embraced her and Alex as if they had always been a part of their family. She was truly happy for the first time in her life and wished that the day would never end. She exited the bathroom to collect her daughter and husband, and enjoy the rest of their wedding day.

Mari looked across the garden at her daughter, still running around happily, playing with her cousins and knew she had made the right decision for them. Since birth, Alex had had no one but her mother to call family. Now she had a multitude of relatives and people to lend support if something should happen to her. This marriage was the right thing for her daughter.

She looked up and caught Nico’s gaze as he conversed in the corner with a group of men including his father and brother. The total respect and love the men had for each other was apparent in their interaction. They were men of great power and wealth, and it oozed through in their proud posture. Mari maintained his mesmerizing gaze for a moment, before joining the women at a shaded table in the garden.

“Mari, I’m so happy for you,” Audrey exclaimed. “You two look like you’re so much in love. I get goose bumps just from the way you look at each other.”

“Thank you,” Mari said softly. She didn’t want to tell her friend that what she was witnessing was pure lust, not love. Maybe love on her part, but Nico would never love her.

“This wedding is like a fairy tale. Your dress is so beautiful and the setting so exotic. Nico arranged for my family and me to remain here for the week at the resort. He’s so generous!” Audrey gushed.

“We are truly grateful to you and your family for being there for Alex and me over the past four years. You were there for us during my pregnancy, when Alex got sick and I didn’t have a clue, and there for us when we needed something done in the house. Who else would tell me where to find the most reliable plumber or electrician? Thank you for everything.” The two women embraced warmly.