Page 163 of Our Chaotic Love Affair

“Sorry,” Melody said, still laughing. “Austin’s being ridiculous. He’s doing animal sounds and Timothy thinks it’s the funniest thing in the world.”

“I can hear.” I smiled despite my worry. “How’s my favorite nephew?”

“Perfect. Exhausting. I haven’t slept more than three hours in a row in two months but I’ve never been happier.” She paused. “Wait, why are you calling? Aren’t you supposed to be on your romantic Rome vacation?”

“I am. I’m sitting in the piazza right now.”

“Without Cash?”

“He’s late. Which is weird.”

“How late?”

“Twenty minutes.”

“Cleo, he’s fine. He probably got held up.”

“You’re right. I’m being ridiculous.”

“You’re being in love. It’s cute.” Timothy squealed in the background. “I have to go. My child just spit up on his father. Call me later. Send pictures. I’m a little jealous of your worldwide tour. Jealous but happy.”

“You know I will.”

I hung up and tried to shake off the worry. Cash was fine. Everything was fine.

My server appeared. Marco, the same one from our first visit. He’d recognized me immediately when we’d arrived in Rome two days ago. He’d insisted on giving us the best table and treated us like royalty.

“Signorina,” he said, setting down a glass of champagne. “Compliments of a guest at the bar.”

I blinked. “I’m sorry, what?”

“A gentleman. He saw you sitting alone and wanted to send you a drink.” Marco smiled. “He said you are very beautiful.”

“Oh. I’m actually waiting for someone. My boyfriend. I appreciate it, but I can’t accept this.”

“He insisted. Said you would want it.”

That was presumptuous. I looked toward the restaurant, trying to see who was at the bar. “Can you point him out?”

“He asked me not to.” Marco’s smile widened. “But he said to tell you: when in Rome.”

My heart stopped.

When in Rome.

Just then, music started. Not from speakers. From actual musicians. A string quartet emerged from somewhere and took positions near the fountain. The melody was familiar. Something romantic and sweeping.

The piazza’s string lights blinked on all at once, even though it wasn’t quite dark yet. People at other tables started looking around, murmuring.

What was happening?

I stood up, looking for Cash. I wanted him here with me for whatever was happening. And I wanted the protection he provided.

A man walked out of the restaurant. Tall. Dark hair. Perfectly tailored suit. Moving through the early evening light like he owned the world.

Cash.

He walked straight to me. I couldn’t breathe. Couldn’t think. Could only stare.