“I’ve thought of you every night this week.” His words are soft, gentle, a caress along my exposed skin. “And each morning, I woke up and realized that I’m an asshole.”
“That’s an understatement.”
He chuckles at my sass. “I’m trying to apologize, Elisabet.” I nod for him to carry on because frankly, I’m enjoying him groveling. “I want you in my bed, in my home, and by my side.” Honesty burns in his eyes, his expression serious. “Tell me you’ll give me another chance to prove myself to you.”
“What if I said I’ll have to think about it?” I cross my arms in front of my chest, which causes me to brush against the crisp linen of his shirt.
He tips his head to the side as he regards me. “Then I’ll wait. Just outside the door every morning and every evening.”
“And what’s that going to accomplish?” I challenge. Even though my heart is thudding against my ribcage, wanting to leap into his hands, I need to know that this isn’t just Rome being his charming self. I need to know he realizes his mistake.
“It’s going to make you see me, Elisabet. The man who fell in love with you,” he tells me quickly. “I am stupid at times, and this was me putting my pride before you, and that was my mistake. I should’ve allowed you to talk to me. And I should’ve gone to him with you. To sort it out.”
I consider his response, my thoughts going back to Marco and him giving me the legal documentation showing that I was, in fact, not married to him. His legal influence was enough to ensure that if anyone were to search for me, they’d think I was his. Even my father. And when I asked him to give me my freedom so I could move on, he thankfully relented.
“You should’ve.” My voice comes out breathy, and I mentally chastise myself for allowing him to get to me. I want to be strong with him, to show him that I’m not bothered by him being here, but I can’t lie to myself or to him. I need this man like I need my next breath.
“I’d like to make it up to you,” Rome says as the corner of his mouth tilts wolfishly.
Rolling my eyes, I say, “Sex isn’t just going to make everything better, Rome.”
“I meant dinner at Seduction,” he says on a chuckle. “And since you brought it up, yes, that’s on the menu as well.”
“I don’t think Mia would appreciate you whipping it out in her restaurant,” I bite out, causing Rome to laugh out loud. The sound vibrates through his chest, and I can’t stop myself from grinning.
“Those patrons should be so lucky to see what I’m packing, sweetheart,” Rome challenges with a naughty glint in his eyes. His cocky nature is back, and the air between us feels less stressed than it was moments ago. But he can’t just saunter in here and expect me to forgive him.
“Fine. Dinner. That’s all.”
“I remember you saying that a while ago, and it didn’t really hold up. Did it, Elisabet?” he asks, the words a whisper along my mouth as Rome leans in to feather his lips along mine.
My thighs clench and my body reacts to his nearness. The spicy scent of his cologne engulfs me. The bell above the door jingles loudly as I notice Mia walking in with a massive grin on her face.
“Finally,” she sighs. “Are you finally coming to your senses, Rome?”
I can’t stop laughing at the incredulous expression on his handsome face at Mia’s question. “I blame your friend over here for my senses not sparking as they should.” He takes her hand and presses a kiss to her knuckles. “It’s nice to see you again, Mia. How is Camden?”
“He’s fine. Told me you’re heading this way to apologize to Elisabet. Which brings me to the dinner booking you made for tomorrow night.”
“It’s a special request.” The shift in his eyes makes me wary when I notice Mia looking at me, then glancing at him.
“What are you two hiding from me?” I ask, looking to Mia and then Rome, who steps back, holding his hands up in surrender. “Don’t act innocent.”
“It’s just dinner,” Mia says, reaching out to touch my arm. “I promise.” With a wink, she smiles.
Narrowing my eyes, I shake my head. “Oh, I’m sure it is.” My teasing tone has her giggling, and I know something is up. They’re hiding Rome’s plans, but I allow it because if I had to be honest with myself, I’m enjoying seeing a man groveling on his knees.
“I have to get back to the office,” Rome tells me. He leans in, kissing me on the cheek before he turns to Mia to say goodbye. He reaches the door, but before he walks out, he smiles at me from over his shoulder. “I’ll pick you up tomorrow at six,” he tells me, and then he’s gone.