The Italian's Unexpected Heir

Then the image morphed as he envisioned Sylvie laughing at something. A man moved next to her, placing an arm around her waist and pulling her gently to his side. She melted into him. The love in her eyes—

Enzo’s thoughts screeched to a halt. The smile that had been playing on his lips turned to a distinctive frown. Not that he had any claim over Sylvie. They may have shared a night—a special night—but it was over. And he wanted her to be happy. He just didn’t want to think about her being happy with someone else.

“Enzo, are you out here?” Sylvie’s voice was carried on the morning breeze.

It was though his thoughts of her had drawn her to him. Of course, that was silly. Things like that didn’t happen.

“I’m over here.” He took a sip of his quickly cooling coffee and then he turned to her.

“Good morning.” She sent him a smile.

Was it just him or did she look a bit on the pale side? It was probably the party last night. It had been hugely successful, but it had to have been a lot for her to set up so quickly. And then it had run late into the evening.

He suddenly felt bad for not ending the party sooner. But after he’d eaten the delicious food and amazing cake Sylvie had baked, which he didn’t believe could have come out of a box, he’d had a renewed energy. He’d made his way around the room talking with everyone who took time out of their busy lives to show up.

And gifts. There were gifts for him. A smile tugged at his lips, knowing people cared that much. There were books, wine from competitors, which were gag gifts, a wall hanging and more. It had been an amazing night. And it was all thanks to Sylvie. Sweet, sweet Sylvie.

He moved toward her and pulled out a chair from the table. “Here. Have a seat.” When surprise registered in her eyes, he added, “You must be tired after all you did yesterday.”

She hesitated then she sat. “Just a little tired. Although, I have to admit I was asleep last night as soon as my head hit the pillow.”

“I bet. You really went above and beyond.” And then he realized to his horror that he’d been so caught off guard last night that he hadn’t thanked her. At least, he couldn’t remember doing it. He sat next to her. “Thank you so much for the party. No one has ever thrown me a surprise party.”

A smile lit up her face. “You’re welcome. But it wasn’t just me. Everyone chipped in and helped.”

“But it was your idea and that cake, it was so good. I wanted to have some for breakfast but I couldn’t find where you hid it.”

“I... I didn’t hide it.” The smile slipped from her face. “I’m sorry. It’s all gone.”

“I’m not surprised. It was delicious.”

“I can bake you another one.”

“Are you kidding?” When he saw the serious look on her face, he said, “I don’t want you to go to all of that trouble.”

“I would.”

“I know you would. And I really appreciate it—appreciate you.” Now, what had he gone and added that last part for? It sounded too intimate. Too much like they were involved. Or maybe he was overthinking things. “Let me get you some coffee—”

“No.” When he turned to her, certain he hadn’t heard her right, she said, “I... I’ll get some later.”

“Later? Since when don’t you drink coffee as soon as you wake up?”

She shrugged. “I think I’ve been drinking too much of it. My stomach has been bothering me. So I’m taking a break.”

“Maybe you’re getting sick.”

She shook her head. “I feel fine otherwise.”

His gaze searched hers. What was going on with her? Maybe she’d overdone it yesterday. Or maybe it was stress over the pending sale of the estate.

Buzz. Buzz.

His phone vibrated in his pocket. He didn’t want to be interrupted now. He wanted to make sure nothing serious was going on with Sylvie. But when he checked his caller ID, he couldn’t not answer it.

“Happy birthday,” Bianca said.

Gia echoed her words.