Page 312 of Valentino

Fuck.

I call Francesca.

“Hello.”

“Hi, what are you wearing tonight?” I ask.

“I have no idea, nothing fits me. I’m literally the size of an elephant.”

“Excellent.”

“How is that excellent?”

“Because that leaves more of your clothes available for me to borrow.”

She giggles.

“I’m on my way.”

6.30 p.m.

I walk out of the bathroom and Valentino’s eyes drop to my toes and back up to my face before he lets out a low whistle. “Anna.” He practically dives off the bed to take me into his arms. “Dear God…. You look incredible.”

I screw up my face as I run my hands over my hips. “Is it too much?”

I’m wearing a silver Chanel dress and sky-high heels, it’s satin and drapey, completely backless. My hair is out and in big curls and my makeup is all sultry with red lipstick.

“Too much?”

He circles me like a lion, undressing me with his eyes. “You could never be too much.” He pulls me into his body and kisses me. “I am too much.”

I feel his erection up against my stomach.

“Agreed,” I huff. “You are too much.”

“I can’t help it.” He chuckles as he holds me close. “You shouldn’t be so utterly gorgeous, my love.”

“Looks fade, Val.” I smile.

“But hearts don’t.” He kisses my temple.

Swoon….

“I feel nervous.”

“Why?”

“Well, you know.” I turn toward the mirror to look myself over. “First time seeing everyone.”

He puts his hands into the suit pockets of his black suit and I look him up and down. “You look pretty gorgeous yourself, Mr. Leone.” I straighten his bow tie.

“Shall we go?”

“Uh-huh.” I glance down. “Oh…should I take my ring off?”

His face falls. “If you want to.”

“I mean, I thought we weren’t telling anyone yet.”