L'amore: The Luminara Series

by SJ Molloy

  “I will make sure that I do everything I can to rectify this and protect you. I do not want you to worry. I have a great legal team backing me, but I need you to stay away from her. She is up to something. I am having her monitored in and out of work, but I do not want you out on your own while I am away. Suzanne is aware and is overseeing as much as she can, but I have hired help to track every last move she makes. Lexi, you need to keep this to yourself for now.”

  “Of course. Lucca, I’m sorry to put you through this. She hates me so much that she is willing to jeopardise your reputation to make a point, or stab you in the back, and it’s unfair.”

  “No, do not apologise or worry about me. I am untouchable. The girl is clearly messed up. It is you she is trying to hurt, and it is fucking killing me she is treating you like this and still interfering. I wish I was there to comfort you.”

  Messed up? I am messed up. She is more like an unhinged, crazy psycho.

  “Will you go home with Marco? I will call you later after my meeting with the planning team here.” He doesn’t even need to convince me.

  “Yes, I don’t want to be anywhere near her when you’re not with me. Lucca, I love you.”

  “Please be cautious and keep your phone on. I love you, dolcezza.”

  With these last words, my mind starts to run away from me. I just need to get out here. I grab my bag and switch on my phone, noticing dozens of texts and missed calls. I make a quick call to Mark and tell him something has come up and I need to go urgently. Then I text Jane and tell her I’ll have her and Kenny over for dinner very soon.

  I don’t want to go back upstairs and risk bumping into Kimberley, so I quickly exit the gym and slide in the back of Marco’s car. I ask Marco to stop by Mr. Carlin’s so I can check in on him.

  As well as Lucca, Cameron has left a series of voicemails. Ringing his number, I sing, “What’s on fire?” I know why Lucca has been trying to get me, but why is he going stir frantic crazy on me?

  “Where the hell have you been?” he shouts.

  “Hello, Cameron. It’s nice to hear from you as well.” I purse my lips in a thin line and press my thumb to my temple again with the pounding ache in my head.

  “Lexi, I’ve been trying to call. Have you spoken with Lucca yet?”

  “Yes, why are you so uptight? What’s your excuse?”

  “What did he tell you?”

  “All about that meddling little bitch Kimberley. She has some bloody nerve. Does Anna know?”

  “Know what?”

  It occurs to me Cameron doesn’t know what I’m talking about, and maybe I need to keep that information undisclosed due to legal prerequisites.

  “Never mind. What are you going on about?”

  “Forget it. Is Marco with you?”

  “Yes.”

  “Good. Tell Marco to call me when he stops the car.”

  “Why?”

  “Oh for fuck’s sake, Lexi, just fucking do it and stop asking questions.” I’ve had enough of this. First Lucca and now him. He making me more infuriated than I already am.

  “Don’t you take that tone with me, and I won’t until you tell me why.”

  “You’re sucking the life out of me, and so bloody stubborn. Fine. It’s a favour I need to ask him regarding Anna.”

  “Well, why didn’t you just say so?” I mumble.

  He sighs. “Just get him to call me.” He hangs up.

  How weird. He’s a mystery sometimes and clearly has himself in another love twist dilemma. Well, I knew this would happen eventually. He can sort this mess out himself.

  I spend two hours with Mr. Carlin. Marco says he has calls to catch up on so he will wait outside. I don’t know why he doesn’t just go then come back for me. I call Rachel and have a heart-to-heart with her and agree that we will stay friends, even if she and Cameron are not dating. I have always had a good relationship with her, and it would be a shame to lose it.

  Making another cup of coffee for myself and tea for Mr. Carlin, I call Anna to enquire if she knows anything, but she’s oblivious. Probably better that way, so I invite her over tomorrow night instead. She declines because she’s arranged to meet Cameron.

  Returning to the car, I hear Marco on the phone. “Yes, she is here … No … Yes … not yet … of course … absolutely we are on our way … si … si.”

  “Was that Lucca?”

  “Yes.”

  I don’t bother to ask what they are talking about—probably business. “Marco, could you drive me to Glasgow before I go home? I wanted to go to my hairdresser for a trim since I have a free afternoon.” I haven’t had my hair cut since long before I travelled to Tuscany, and I have a terrible headache. I always think when I get my hair trimmed I feel better and lighter.

  “I am sorry, Lexi, but Lucca has asked me to take you straight home.” I slump in my seat, annoyed I’m being imprisoned, and call him to give him a piece of my mind.

  He answers on the first ring. “Hey, baby, everything okay?” he asks with trepidation.

  “Yes, but I’d like to go to the hairdresser.”

  “I have asked Marco to take you home.”

  “I’m aware of that, but you can’t keep me locked up in the house. It’s only the hairdresser. You’re being unreasonable, and Kimberley is at the club so we won’t bump into each other.”

  I’m so goddamn angry. Not only is Kimberley upsetting me by deliberately trying to backstab me, now she has taken away my freedom? I feel like a prisoner and that doesn’t sit well. I spent far too many years as one, and I don’t appreciate being locked up now.

  “I will have your hairdresser come by tomorrow night, just trust me.” He sighs in exasperation. I bunch the ends of my long tousled hair in my fingers, noticing how dry the ends have become recently with the sun exposure and extra growth. It definitely needs a tidy. I frown and sigh.

  “Are you angry with me?” he asks.

  “Yes.”

  “Well, then I have a lot of making up to do when I get home,” he teases, using that sexy tone he uses when trying to seduce me.

  “Hmmm … I like the sound of that. You’re off the hook, Romeo, and only because I know you’re under a lot of stress today,” I say, relaxing my tense facial muscles to form a soft smile.

  “Thank you. God, I love you and I meant what I said about the making up. All. Weekend. Long. I promise.” Now I’m blushing and extremely excited for the making up. I think I can clear my schedule. After all, a promise is a promise.

  “Good, I’m glad. I’ll look forward it.” My stomach flutters in anticipation. It’s only been a day and a half and it feels like an eternity.

  After I hang up, I address Marco.

  “Marco, looks like you’re taking me home.” He smiles, nods, then drives on.

  Of course, he already knew I’d fold and crumble for Lucca.

  When we return to the house, I’m shocked to see two black SUVs sitting outside the front doors. Peter is talking to one of the drivers.

  “Who’s that?” I ask. We aren’t expecting anyone.

  “Wait here a moment please, Lexi.” He holds his hand up to motion me to sit back down. This day is getting odder by the minute.

  Marco steps outside and walks around the limo as do the two conspicuous men from their vehicles. They approach Marco and shake his hand. What on earth is going on? Peter heads off to the coach house moments later and Marco is left speaking with them.

  Both men are dressed in black suits with black sunglasses and ear pieces. They are both broad and well-built and smartly tailored. The taller one is blonde and looks very smooth while the other is stocky with a shaved head and a square jaw. They nod then turn towards the limo. I’m twitching to find out what the hell is going on.

  Marco opens the door for me, and when I’m out he introduces me to Lloyd and Devon.

  Nervously, I stand at Marco’s side and don’t offer my hand, still puzzled as to why they are here and who they are. It is making me extremely uncomfortable.
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  “Lloyd and Devon are private security agents who have been hired to protect you, so they will be on call from now on. I will still be your main driver and point of contact, but they will be on site permanently. Should Lucca or I not be available, they will accompany you everywhere. You are not to be left alone at any point.”

  Men in Black keep an impassive look on their face while I stare in disbelief.

  “I will see you both in the study in thirty minutes for a debriefing and a conference call with Mr. Caruso,” he directs to the Men in Black. Tears prick at my eyes, ready to flood. I can’t lose control, not here, but I can’t handle this.

  “Marco, tell me you’re kidding, right?” I almost stumble back against the limo door because I’m so shocked and off balance.

  “No, Lexi, I am not. You need to cooperate. It is for your own safety, and Lucca has your best interests at heart.” He doesn’t make eye contact, and I know he’s finding this hard, giving orders when he senses my hostility.

  “I don’t believe this. No offense,” I choke towards the stoic men.

  “No offense taken, ma’am,” the taller one replies.

  Ma’am?

  Turning my focus, I burn my blazing brown eyes right through Marco.

  “Marco, did you know about this?” I choke.

  “Yes. Lexi, I am sorry, but it is for the best.” His left eye twitches; I sense he has no control over it, like a nerve spasm, whether it’s because he’s lying or that he’s under pressure, I just don’t know. How can he say this is for the best? It’s a breach of privacy and I’m done with this ludicrousness.

  “The hell it is. He’s gone too far this time. Lloyd, Devon, I’m sorry to waste your time, but I don’t require your services, so please excuse me.” Moisture coats my eyes as I storm past them into the house and hobble into the kitchen, bearing my weight on the better ankle. I collapse in a heap on the floor, breaking down in uncontrollable sobs.

  I don’t even notice Rose hovering next to me.

  “Oh, Lexi … come here, petal.” Rose kneels down in front of me and wraps her arms around me. I cling onto her neck, inhaling her familiar floral scent.

  “Why is he doing this? He’s treating me like a prisoner! I don’t see why Peter can’t continue to drive me places.” I sob against her shoulder while she strokes my back.

  “Because Peter’s old and would not make a good security guard. He is better looking after the grounds for Lucca as his days of MI5 are long past.” She quietly chuckles.

  “I don’t understand? Why do I need security? It’s ridiculous. I’m suffocating. Rose, speak with him and tell him this is over the top.” They are bodyguards and I don’t even know them. How do I even know I can trust them?

  “I won’t be able to change his mind, petal. Everything he is doing is because he loves you. He must have a valid explanation. He’s only trying to protect you. I know it appears extreme, but he’s a wise man. A stubborn one, yes, but wise all the same. He’s also the most compassionate young man I’ve ever known, and this is from his heart.” She rubs my back and arm comforting me. “He’s not trying to hurt you. He had the security firm come and fix all the cameras today. I suppose after the night that ghastly girl broke in, he’s being extra cautious.”

  It’s plausible he’s worried about Kimberley breaking in, but then what can she do that needs two Men in Black to be on guard around the clock.

  “Why don’t you go and have a nice relaxing bath and I’ll make you some tea? Are you having guests tonight?” I’m so thankful for Rose’s wisdom and compassion in the absence of my mum, Granny, and Eleanor. Rose epitomises motherly love, and I feel very grateful for her love right now.

  Sniffling, I tell her Lucy is coming over.

  “Okay, what’s her favourite dish?”

  “Mexican.” I whisper.

  “Okay, well, beef enchiladas and chilli tacos all round. It’s been a while, but I do have an authentic, spicy recipe somewhere.”

  “Thank you, Rose. I really appreciate it.” I kiss her soft cheek once she calms me and brings me back to focus with her warm sensitivity.

  As I’m walking into the hallway to head upstairs, Marco and Men in Black are standing in the hallway entrance about to head towards Lucca’s study no doubt. Marco puts his hand out and lightly holds my wrist. He looks agitated, left eye twitching again.

  “Lloyd, Devon, Rose will show you to the study. I will be with you shortly,” Marco instructs.

  They nod and follow Rose through the grand hallway towards the study at the back of the house. Seeing them up close is quite intimidating—they are strong with a steel exterior that makes them look brave, enduring, and fierce. I sense they are fearless, and they both scare the hell out of me.

  “I wanted to say I am sorry.” Marco frowns, and it’s the first time I have seen him properly let his guard down.

  “No, it’s okay. It’s not your fault.”

  “Lexi, do not be hard on him. It is for the best, and it is not forever. They will be very discreet, and it will not inconvenience you, but it is how it has to be just now. It is a difficult time for Lucca. Try and understand this is with all good intentions and just be patient with him.” He undoes his top button of his shirt, as if trying to make himself more comfortable. “He mentioned that they would intimidate you, being men. There are no female operatives from the agency available just now, but these two men are the best, most reliable and trustworthy. Lucca has told me to assure you, you can trust them both, speak to him about it and he will confirm that.”

  Now I feel guilty, but I still think this is too far and over the top—verging on extreme. I think about the pressures Lucca has been under today and there is a chance Kimberley has made a threat regarding me. I would prefer female operatives if I need to have them at all, but I suppose at short notice Lucca is doing his best to protect me. If he says they are trustworthy, then I will need to try and learn to trust them in my own time, but I still want to hear it from him.

  “Okay.”

  He gives me a sympathetic smile then walks to the study to address Men in Black.

  In the suite, there is a massive flower arrangement sitting on the table in the living area in front of the French doors. Its decorative hues of blue, purple, and aqua are beautiful. Of course, there are blue orchids, but also blue hydrangea, which is the colour of that beautiful evening gown he gifted me, and indigo delphinium mixed in. It’s the nicest arrangement of flowers I have seen.

  ‘I love you, and will keep you safe, dolcezza, always and forever, all my love Lucca x’

  Rose knocks and comes in with a tray of tea and some baked shortbread. She sits at the table and joins me. Truthfully, I think she wants to make sure I’m a little more settled, and I love her warmth and kindness—it’s just what I need now.

  Chapter 24

  Devil’s advocate

  After Rose leaves, I light the new candle Lucca gave me and place it in the bathroom before switching the lights off. I have a long soak in the tub with Lucca’s tropical bath oil and only the small flicker from the candle. Feeling vulnerable, I wish his arms were wrapped around me right now. I leave my phone sitting on the marble ledge, hoping he’ll feel the need to call and explain this nightmare.

  I’m almost drifting off when Lucca calls. He’s concerned because I’m sure Rose and Marco have both told him I’m upset with the new arrangement. I answer with the intention of giving him hell but soften a little when I hear how fragile and apologetic he sounds.

  He sighs. “… Dolcezza?”

  “Yes, I am listening,” I croak but don’t cry. I’m too tired and have exhausted myself crying in Rose’s arms already.

  “Are you okay, sweetheart? Tell me what you are thinking. I need to know you are okay.”

  I close my eyes and protectively wrap an arm around myself in the water. I don’t know where to start so I blurt it out. “I’m a mess, Lucca. They just remind me of the escorts we had assigned by the police and our care team when we were leavin
g Australia after our escape; they even came with us on the flight back to Scotland. We had them stationed outside our hospital room and then our hotel room to keep the press away. It makes me think of the trauma and shock I went through, and how scared and intimidated I was being surrounded by strangers who were meant to protect us. To me, they were more of a threat. I associate security with being imprisoned, and that’s exactly how I feel now. Caged.” I pick up a curl of hair clinging to my shoulder and twirl it around in my finger while my bottom lip trembles.

  “Oh, sweetheart … I am so sorry … I had no idea. Christ … No wonder you were so upset. I tried to get females or at least one female, but there were none available at short notice. I know how you feel about strangers, but I did not think the security would trigger uncomfortable memories like that for you. Fuck … baby, I wish it did not have to be like this.” He pauses and sighs.

  “I need them there because it is a safety issue and keeping you safe is my priority, but if I thought for one minute it would trigger worries like this for you, I would have called and spoke to you about it first and asked them to come later so that they did not startle you. I need you to be brave, to believe I have your best interests at heart, and know that I love you and want what is best for you. I am sorry to cause you upset, but I need you to try, to try and be strong, for me?” His voice is so soft filled with compassion.

  “I will try. Can I trust them?” I ask, now pressing my lips together trying to mask the hurt in my voice and hold tears back.

  “Yes, yes of course you can. I would never put you in danger. Everything I have had to do has been for you, Lexi, with all good intentions and from my heart … for my love for you. Always. I would not deliberately hurt you, please believe me. I have spoken with Lloyd and Devon. They know how afraid you are and to be extra sensitive and know their boundaries. It is all I can do until I am home with you.” I lift my hand to my mouth and worry my fingers about in front of my mouth.