And Sam felt beautiful, truly, for the first time in her life. Even though her dress was simple and her hair hadn’t been styled by a professional and she’d done her own make-up. She felt confident, and sexy, and most importantly loved.
Milo appeared at their feet and Rafaele lifted him up and that was how they finished their wedding dance—in a circle of love, the three of them.
Over in a corner of the marquee stood Alexio Christakos, Rafaele’s half-brother. He’d been best man, done his duty and given his speech, made everyone laugh. Made the women giggle and look at him covetously. Even now they surrounded him, waiting for their moment to strike, for the slightest gesture of encouragement.
Alexio grimaced. He was starting to feel claustrophobic. Hell. Who was he kidding? He’d been feeling claustrophobic on his brother’s behalf ever since Rafaele had told him that he was getting married and had a son!
He shook his head again and grimaced when he saw Rafaele kiss his bride for the umpteenth time. Alexio looked at her. He guessed she was pretty enough, in a subtle and unassuming way, but he couldn’t see how she made Rafaele turn almost feral whenever another man came close. Even Alexio had been sent none too subtle hands-off signals from the moment he’d met her.
Alexio wondered how it was possible that Rafaele couldn’t see that she must be marrying him only for his security and wealth. Had he become so duped by good sex that he’d forgotten one of the most important lessons they’d learnt from their dear departed mother? That a woman’s main aim in life was to feather her nest and seek the security of a rich man?
Alexio mentally saluted his brother and wished him well. He told himself he’d try not to say I told you so when it all fell apart. Mind you, he had to concede the kid was cute. His nephew. He’d actually had quite an entertaining time with him earlier, when he’d looked after him for a bit between the wedding and the reception. Still... He shuddered lightly. He had no intention of embarking on that path any time soon, if ever...
Alexio stopped focusing on his brother and his new wife and son for a minute and took in the crowd around him. From nearby, a gorgeous brunette caught his eye. She was tall and lissom, with curves in all the right places. She looked at him with sexy confidence and smiled the smile of a practised seductress.
Alexio felt his body stir, his blood move southwards. It wasn’t the most compelling spark of attraction he’d ever felt...but when was the last time that had happened...? Alexio ignored that voice and smiled back. When he saw the light of triumph in her eyes at catching the attention of the most eligible bachelor in the room, Alexio forced down the feeling of emptiness inside him and moved towards her.
* * * * *