Chapter 16
Itake a deep breath as the college portal homepage finally loads on the library computer. This is it. The moment of truth that will determine my entire future.
Beside me, Martha squeezes my hand tightly, her nails digging into my palm. I glance over and see she looks as anxious as I feel, her eyes fixed unblinkingly on the screen.
“You ready for this?” Martha asks under her breath.
I let out a shaky laugh. “As ready as I’ll ever be.”
With trembling fingers, I type in my login details and hit enter. The screen changes, displaying a list of my courses this semester. As I move the mouse pointer over the exam results link, my heart pounds erratically.
“Just click it already!” Martha urges impatiently.
I take a deep breath and click. The page refreshes, and for a moment, all I see is a blur. Then, the individual letter grades come into focus, and I gasp, straight As across the board. Even in my most challenging classes, I’ve somehow managed to score perfect marks on every single exam.
“Oh my god,” I breathe, hardly daring to believe it’s real. “Martha, look! I got all As!”
Martha lets out a shriek that earns her a stern “Shhh!” from the mousy librarian at the front desk. But my friend is too excited to care, practically bouncing in her seat as she takes in my results.
“I knew you could do it!” she exclaims, beaming at me. “Didn’t I tell you that you were worrying for nothing?”
I can’t stop smiling, giddy with relief and lingering disbelief. “I know, I know, you were right. I should have had more faith in myself.”
After a month away from classes, I was convinced I had ruined my grades for good. But by some miracle, I’ve come through with flying colors.
Suddenly remembering Martha is also waiting on her results, I urge her to log in and check. She quickly types in her details, both of us holding our breath. When her grades appear, As across the board just like mine, we turn and wrap each other in a massive hug.
“We did it!” I laugh, squeezing Martha tight.
My friend laughs with me, practically lifting me up in her enthusiasm. I hear another louder “Shhh!” from the front, but we’re too thrilled to care.
“Can you believe it?” Martha says as we finally separate. “After everything that’s happened, we still kicked these exams’ butts!”
I grin and nod. It’s been a hell of a semester, but somehow we made it through. A week ago, I would never have imagined I could bounce back after missing so many classes.
Straight As. Even in classes I was convinced I had failed. Some part of me wonders if this is all just a dream and if I’ll wake up any minute to find out it was too good to be true.
Im still grinning at my perfect grades when my phone starts buzzing in my pocket. Pulling it out, I feel my smile fade as Lorenzos name flashes across the screen. For a moment, I consider just ignoring the call again. I hit decline and wait for the inevitable follow-up texts.
Sure enough, a few seconds later my messaging app chimes with a new notification. Taking a deep breath, I open it up and start scrolling through the flood of texts from Lorenzo.
Sara, I need to talk to you.
Pick up the phone!
Sara, please, I just want to know youre okay. Text me back.
I roll my eyes at the faux caring tone. As if he actually cares how Im doing.
The next texts are more aggressive.
Youre being childish and immature.
Im your fiancé, you cant just not answer when I call.
If I dont hear from you in the next 10 minutes, Im coming to find you.
Typical Lorenzo, thinking he can control me. I keep scrolling, deleting each message as I read.
A good wife answers her husbands calls.
Ugh. I shudder at the words husband and wife. As if Ill ever really be his wife.
Finally, Lorenzo tries guilt and manipulation, as I knew he would.
Do you have any idea how disappointed your parents will be to hear how youre treating me?
I dont want to have to tell your father about this, Sara.
Dont you care about our families? Think about what your behavior will do to our alliance.
I take a deep, calming breath as I select all the messages and hit delete. Lorenzos empty threats and emotional manipulation dont control me anymore. I look up at Martha and smile.
Everything okay? she asks knowingly.
Yep, all good, I reply. Lorenzo doesnt get to ruin this moment. Right now, all I care about is celebrating this victory with my best friend.
Again, my phone starts buzzing and flashing with an incoming call. I glance down and see Dimitris name and immediately, a wide smile spreads across my face. Of course he would know exactly when to call.
I swipe to answer, barely able to contain my excitement. Dimitri! Youre never going to believe this-
Let me guess, he interrupts with a teasing lilt. You passed all your exams with flying colors?
I roll my eyes but cant stop grinning. I should have known youd have insider information. Did you hack the school database just to find out my grades early?
Dimitri laughs; the sound sends a pleasant tingle down my spine. I would never do something so unethical. Dont sell yourself short. I knew you could do it, with or without my help.
Warmth floods through me at his words. I try to tamp it down and remain nonchalant. Is that so? Then what was the whole bet about.
That was only to spend time with you. No, joking aside, it was also an incentive to ensure youd stay motivated. But I never doubted your abilities for a second.
I shake my head but cant keep the smile off my face. Only Dimitri could be so simultaneously patronizing and charming.
Uh huh, sure. So I guess you already have this date you won all planned out then? I ask, unable to resist teasing him back.
Dimitri chuckles. Of course. What kind of gentleman would I be if I didnt properly prepare for our special evening?
His voice drops lower on the word special, flushing my cheeks. Get a grip, I scold myself. Dont let him fluster you so easily.
I clear my throat, aiming for a casual, disinterested tone. Oh? And where exactly will you be taking me?
Patience, printsessa. I want it to be a surprise. Dimitri clucks his tongue. But I will give you a hint - wear something elegant.
My mind races, imagining where Dimitri is planning to take me. Knowing him, its sure to be somewhere fancy and exclusive, meant to impress.
Hmm, elegant you say? Ill have to see what I can dig up in my closet then, I reply breezily.
I have no doubt youll look stunning, as always, Dimitri purrs. His smooth confidence makes me flush again. Ill pick you up at 7 tomorrow evening. Be ready.
With that, he says a brief goodbye and hangs up. I lower my phone slowly, my heart racing as I fully process our conversation. I have a date with Dimitri tomorrow night. Something I never imagined would happen, yet the idea fills me with more anticipation than dread.
Martha grins at me knowingly as I end the call with Dimitri. Well, well, it sounds like someone has a hot date tomorrow night, she says, nudging my shoulder playfully.
I roll my eyes but cant keep a giddy smile from spreading across my face. I guess I do. Dimitri insists on taking me out to celebrate my perfect exam scores.
As he should! Martha exclaims. Girl, you kicked those exams in the butt this semester, you deserve to be wined and dined.
I laugh, shaking my head. I mean, Im not complaining. It was part of our little wager and I guess rules are rules.
Uh huh, sure, just a silly bet, Martha says sarcastically. Its definitely not because you and tall dangerous have crazy sizzling chemistry.
I shoot her a look but dont argue. Shes not exactly wrong. Despite our history and backgrounds, we have always had an undeniable attraction. Which seems to be growing the more time we spend together.
In any case, you need a killer outfit for your big date, Martha continues matter-of-factly. We should go shopping.
I dont need anything new.
Martha gives me an incredulous look. Girl, please. You are NOT wearing some old raggedy thing from your closet. She grabs my hands, smiling eagerly. Come on, were going to find you a dress hot enough to make Dimitris eyes pop out of his head!
I hesitate, biting my lip. I dont know Martha
Come on, when was the last time you treated yourself to a fun shopping trip? she cajoles. You deserve this!
I have to admit, it has been a while since Ive indulged in retail therapy. Between classes, the engagement and everything else going on this semester, Ive barely had time for anything else.
Martha keeps ushering me outside, where the afternoon sun is bright and welcoming. You know how much you love hunting for cute new outfits, she reminds me with a playful nudge.
A small smile tugs at my lips. Shes right, I do love browsing the racks. And getting a sexy new dress would be the perfect confidence boost before my big date tomorrow night.
Sensing my resolve crumbling, Martha goes in for the kill. Plus, dont you have like a bajillion dollars from your monthly allowance burning a hole in your pocket?
I roll my eyes but laugh. Hardly a bajillion. Though my father does give me a more-than-generous allowance each month. I usually end up saving most of it.
Girl, you could buy out half the malls inventory! Martha exclaims. She links her arm through mine, grinning brightly. Come on, lets go have some fun. I promise as soon as we start shopping, youll forget all about your worries. You can think of it as a gift to yourself for killing those exams
Finally I feel myself giving in, smiling back at my persuasive best friend. Okay, okay, youve convinced me. Lets go shopping!
Martha lets out an excited whoop, immediately towing me across the quad toward the parking lot. Yes! This is gonna be so much fun. Now lets find you an outfit that will absolutely slay.
I let her enthusiastic energy sweep me up as we walk to her car. Marthas right, a carefree girls shopping trip is exactly what I need right now to get out of my own head.
As we cruise toward the mall with the radio blasting, I start to relax and look forward to a fun afternoon with my best friend. Martha sings loudly along with the music, making me laugh and temporarily forget about all my worries.
As we step through the automatic doors into the bustling shopping mall, Im immediately overwhelmed by the sights, sounds, and smells. Ive been here countless times before, but today it feels brand new.
The space is massive - three storeys of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options sprawling out before us. Natural light pours in from the arched skylights in the high ceilings, brightening the white-tiled floors that stretch on as far as I can see. Upbeat pop music plays over the intercom system, barely audible over the energetic chatter emanating from the dense crowds.
I take a deep breath, inhaling the mingling scents wafting from the food court - salty soft pretzels, greasy pizza, sugary cinnamon rolls. My mouth starts watering instantly.
Martha grins at me, linking her arm through mine. Where to first? she asks eagerly.
I look left and right, taking in the options. Straight ahead is Macys, with its polished displays of clothing and accessories. To the left I spot Forever 21, overflowing with trendy, inexpensive styles. And to the right is Nordstrom, gleaming and upscale.
Lets start in Macys and work our way down? I suggest. Im not sure what style of dress Im looking for yet, so a department store seems like a good place to browse different options.
Works for me! Martha agrees cheerfully. She tugs me into the stream of shoppers heading for Macys.
As we step inside, racks of colorful clothes sprawl out before us. I run my fingers lightly over the clothes as we meander through them. So many choices - flirty floral prints, slinky satin fabrics, eye-catching metallics. This is exactly the carefree indulgence Ive been craving.
We weave through the orderly aisles until we reach the expansive dress department. Racks upon racks of every style imaginable sprawl out before us. I run my fingers over the many fabrics and admiringly examine the details on several gowns before Martha tugs me toward the cocktail dress section.
Oooh, this would look so cute on you! Martha exclaims, pulling out a short emerald halter dress. She holds it up to me, assessing it with a practiced eye.
I admire the shimmery fabric. It is really pretty, I agree, taking it from her and draping it over my arm.
We comb through the racks, occasionally stopping to show each other potential options but nothing else seems to catch our attention. Then, Marthas face suddenly lights up. Aha! Sara, come here, I found it!
I hurry over, curious to see what dress finally meets her discerning standards. Martha holds up a short black number made of silky material that looks like it would cling in all the right places. My eyes widen.
Oh wow, I breathe. Thats... beautiful.
Try it on! Martha urges, shoving the hanger at me.
I take it and head to the fitting room, excitement building in my chest. Slipping the dress on, Im stunned by how incredible it looks - sexy yet elegant. The fabric hugs my body smoothly, the hem hitting mid-thigh. Its perfect.
I step out of the room, and Martha gasps loudly. Sara! Oh my god, you look AMAZING!
I cant stop smiling, doing a little twirl. I love it!
Martha grins, looking smug. See, I told you wed find the one. She gives me a little push toward the cash register. Now lets ring it up before you change your mind. Dimitris jaw is gonna hit the floor when he sees you in this!
I laugh, gathering up the dress eagerly. As we wait in line, I turn and pull Martha into a sudden hug. Thank you so much for this, I tell her sincerely. Youre the best friend ever.
Martha squeezes me tight. Of course, babe! Thats what besties are for.
I take one last glance in the mirror, smoothing my hands over the silky black fabric of my new dress. I went with simple black heels and just a touch of makeup - smoky eyeshadow and a swipe of bold red lipstick. My hair falls in loose curls around my shoulders.
I have to admit, I look good. Hot even. And its all thanks to Martha. I make a mental note to do something for her to show my appreciation.
As I apply a final coat of lip gloss, I hear a sharp knock at my dorm room door. I glance at the time on my phone screen - exactly 7pm. Of course, Dimitri would be perfectly on time.
Taking a deep breath to calm my nerves, I grab my small black purse and cross the room. When I open the door, his eyes immediately rake over me from head to toe. I flush under his intense gaze but maintain eye contact.
You look beautiful, he says after a long pause, his voice lower than usual.
Thank you. I offer him a smile. You clean up pretty nicely yourself.
And its true, Dimitri looks unfairly handsome in anything. The dark colors accentuate his tall, lean frame. He holds my gaze for a moment before offering his arm.
Shall we?
I loop my arm through his and let him lead me from my room, pulling the door shut behind us.
But instead of leading me outside, Dimitri guides me toward the stairwell of my dorm.
Where are we going? I ask, confused.
Youll see. Its a surprise.
We climb two flights up and emerge onto the rooftop patio. We stop in front of a nondescript door he unlocks and opens, gesturing for me to walk through. My eyes widen as I take in the scene before me.
Were on the rooftop terrace of my dorm building. Twinkling lights are strung overhead, mingling with the emerging stars. In the center sits an intimate table for two, with gleaming dishes and a bottle of champagne. Soft music plays from a speaker. Surrounding it all are dozens of flickering candles.
I turn to Dimitri in astonishment. You did all this? Here?
He smiles, looking pleased by my reaction. What better place than right here, where it all began?
Dimitri... I breathe. That’s so thoughtful of you.” I also feel relieved. I haven’t mentioned it to him, but I worry about Lorenzo telling me his men are watching me. Probably best if they don’t see me leaving my dorm all dressed up in a car with a man.
He smiles, looking pleased by my reaction. Of course. Only the best for you.
Im speechless, overwhelmed by the sheer romance of it all. The fact that he went through so much effort just for me...
Dimitri leads me to the table and pulls out my chair. I sit, marveling at the beautiful meal spread before me - seared scallops, fresh salad, and chocolate-dipped strawberries for dessert.
I cant believe you managed to plan all this without me finding out, I laugh.
Dimitri smirks. I have my ways. And your dorm roof is the perfect private location.
He pours two glasses of champagne and hands me one. The bubbly liquid looks golden in the candlelight.
To your success on the exams, Dimitri toasts. I knew you could do it.
We clink glasses, and both take a sip.
“To your successful results as well,” I add, as I know he scored high grades too. The champagne is light and effervescent on my tongue. Dimitri watches me closely as I set down my glass, his eyes smoldering. I feel a blush creeping up my neck.
Shall we eat? he asks.
I take a small bite of the perfectly seared scallop, savoring the rich buttery flavor as I chew. Across from me, Dimitri smiles, looking satisfied that Im enjoying the food he so thoughtfully prepared.
This is incredible, I tell him after swallowing. Did you make this? Seriously, you could open your own restaurant with cooking skills like this.
Dimitri chuckles, spearing a scallop with his fork. Well, Im glad the meal exceeded your expectations, baby. But no, I didnt prepare it. I find that I prefer to stick to other career paths.
I roll my eyes but laugh. Classic Dimitri and his casually criminal ways. We continue eating in comfortable silence for a few minutes, the flickering candles casting a warm, intimate glow over our rooftop refuge.
Eventually, Dimitri speaks up again. You know, I realized that you and I have rarely had the chance to simply talk. His eyes meet mine, more serious now. Tell me about yourself, Sara. Your family, your childhood. I want to know it all.
I shift in my seat, caught off guard by the request. Our interactions have always been centered around the drama and danger in our lives rather than on personal details. But I cant deny Im curious to learn more about Dimitris past as well.
Alright, I say slowly. I guess my childhood was pretty average, for the most part. My dad worked a lot, so I didnt see him much. My mom tried to give me a normal life, but well, is there normal in the Mafia?
I stab at a piece of salad absently with my fork. Things got more complicated when I went to high school. My dad started arranging meetings with potential husbands. He wanted me to get married right after graduation.
Itll make us unstoppable and untouchable. its for your own good. I heard that statement so much, I believed it.
Even just thinking about it makes my blood boil. Across from me, Dimitris expression darkens.
Thats when he introduced me to Lorenzo, I continue bitterly. I refused the idea of an engagement of course, insisted I wanted to go to college first. We fought about it constantly senior year. I thought I had won when I got accepted here and moved into the dorms.
I let out a hollow laugh. But clearly my dad was just biding his time, still determined to marry me off. And then, with Lorenzo pressuring him...
I trail off with a frustrated sigh, looking down at my plate. Just thinking about my father and Lorenzo makes my appetite vanish.
After a pause, I feel Dimitris fingers under my chin, gently tilting my head to look at him. His expression is fierce.
Sara, listen to me. You belong to me now. Your heart, your body, your soul, its all mine. You dont have to worry about Lorenzo. His thumb brushes my cheek tenderly. I will make sure no one will force you ever again.
My breath catches at the intensity in his voice. The promise behind his words.
Dimitri...
He leans closer, still cradling my face in his hand. Youre mine now, Sara. My woman. I protect whats mine, no matter what.