Chapter 70 Elena
E LENA
For reasons beyond Elena’s comprehension, the Dawsons have come and sat themselves at the table right next to her and Christian for dinner, and they haven’t taken their eyes off her. Every time she sneaks a peek at them, they’re gawping at her.
Eventually, Christian notices it too. ‘What are you looking at, mate?’ he says to Mike.
Mike’s already ruddy cheeks turn even redder.
Christian puts his napkin down and stands up so that he towers over Mike. ‘Listen, Santa, I don’t know what your story is, but you need to stop staring at my wife.’ His voice is low. ‘Stay away from her. Do you understand me?’
Mike crosses his arms and gives Christian a defiant scowl. ‘What are you talking about? I don’t even know Elena.’
Mike’s voice is as loud as Christian’s is quiet, and people at nearby tables turn to stare.
Christian lowers his face to Mike’s. ‘Then how the fuck do you know her name ? ’ he says softly.
‘I heard people saying it! What’s your problem, anyhow? Why don’t you sit yourself back down and let me eat my dinner in peace.’
Gayle’s mouth is agape.
Christian’s jaw clenches.
‘Christian, please.’ Elena grabs his arm, but he flicks her off in one quick swipe. He turns on his heels and glares at her.
She knows that look.
Christian’s voice has lowered to barely above a whisper. His breath is hot in her eye. ‘There’s something going on with this guy. I know it.’
‘Elena! Christian!’ Rocco appears from nowhere and gives Christian a friendly pat on the back. ‘Is something the matter, my friend?’
Elena could throw herself at his feet with gratitude.
Christian’s posture softens under Rocco’s touch. ‘All good, mate. All good.’
‘Ah, bene.’ Rocco turns to Mike. ‘Signore, good news! Dinner tonight is on the house for you and for la signora.’ He drops his voice to talk to Christian. ‘Can I talk to you for a moment, my friend, about the, ah ... the private business?’
‘Sure, mate. Back in a tick, Ellie.’ Just like that, Christian’s mood lifts. He walks out into the lobby with Rocco, their arms around each other. The best of friends.
As soon as they’re gone Elena turns to Gayle and Mike. She’s trying not to cry.
‘He’s a menace, that husband of yours.’ Mike’s hands are trembling.
‘I know. I’m so sorry. I haven’t even had a chance to thank you both for all you’ve done for me.’
‘We’re the ones who should be sorry for putting you in danger,’ Gayle says, casting a look at Mike. ‘Are you still planning to leave him?’
‘Yes, I’m escaping on Saturday. The Bianchis are helping me.’
‘Is there anything else we can do for you, sugar?’ Gayle’s eyebrows are knitted together.
‘No, but thank you.’
When Christian returns, the Dawsons have left and Elena’s minding her own business, eating her stuffed artichoke.
‘The protest’s going to be epic .’ He swallows a mouthful of rosé. ‘I can’t believe I get to be part of something this big! It’ll be one for the history books. The meeting on Saturday’s at eleven.’
It’s like his run-in with Mike didn’t even happen.
‘That’s exciting.’ She smiles sweetly at him. ‘Saturday’s only two days away.’
Only two more days.