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I sighed and crumpled the card. “The American,” I said, throwing the card in the trash. How the hell was I going to dispose of these flowers before Devin got home?
We went back outside and found Rafe arguing with Stefano, his youngest, about why he couldn’t run around the pool. I marched up to him and dragged him out of earshot from Eva and the kids.
“Are you gossiping again?” I asked.
“About what?” he asked.
I pushed him out farther into the yard. “Did you tell Eva that I’m dating Blake?”
He scrunched his nose. I suddenly had a fleeting image of Dad. He used to do that.
“I mentioned that I thought someone was interested in you. I didn’t name names.”
“Do you believe that?”
“Uh, did youseeall those flowers, Luna?”
“I meant before today!”
“He hasn’t been subtle,” Rafe said with a shrug.
“Then why would it be appropriate to make him a driver on our team?”
That had Rafe stumped. “Because we need the money and the exposure. It’s about the team, not your love life, Luna. You can make your own decisions.”
I shook my head. “This is the last time I’m going to tell you. Stop gossiping and don’t meddle in my life. And I mean it.”
* * *
Sunday afternoon I picked up my dress from my uncle’s place, who said he would be by the party later. I then had my hair and makeup done, and I made sure to drag Eva along. We returned home just in time to get dressed. My nephews were playing the piano all dressed in their little tuxedos. I quickly dressed and waited with the boys for the limo to come for us. I showed them Devin’s racing trophies and his collection of model cars. They were careful to handle them with great care.
The moment the limo arrived, Rafe herded everyone into the car. As we drove, I stared at my brother. I wondered what he’d been telling his wife about Blake Carlton. Rafe had always let on that he knew nothing, but deep down he probably knew more than I could imagine. If we’d been closer, would he tell me what he knew? Would he open up to me? Instead of spreading rumors behind my back?
“We are going to make the announcement around ten,” Rafe said to me. “I want to make sure everyone is there.”
“That’s fine.”
“I thought we would make the announcement together.”
“All right,” I said. The last thing I wanted to think about was a joyful announcement of Blake Carlton being on my team.
The party was being held at the most expensive restaurant in the city. When we arrived, guests had already gathered. By the looks of all in attendance, I knew it was going to be a long night. I put on a wide, fake smile and greeted all the guests. Potential sponsors were here, and I needed to woo them all.
With my best public smile, I continued greeting guests, pretending to care about their lives. I hated this party and wanted to fly away someplace. Maybe Montreal to visit my friends, or California to spend time with my grandmother. I wanted to be anywhere else. Especially when I saw Blake heading my way.
“You look exquisite,” he said, kissing each of my cheeks.
I forced a smile. “Thank you.”
“Where is DNF?”
“In Milan. Working.”
“Too bad. I have you all to myself tonight.”
He took my hand and led me from the crowd and into a quiet corner. I don’t know why I went. I should have turned around and left. I didn’t owe Blake a thing. Since he’d come into the picture, all he’d done was mess up my happy life.
“Did you get my flowers?”
