Return of the Italian Tycoon

“Is this your first visit?”

“It is. I’ve never done business in this part of the world before.” Though he had done business in a great many other countries.

As beautiful as the grounds were, Angelo’s attention was drawn back to Kayla. He had plans for her. A surprise after their big presentation. At first, he’d been hesitant, but now, seeing how weary she was, he was certain that he’d made the right decision. He just hoped she would relax long enough to enjoy it.

He still had the feeling that she was keeping something from him—something that was eating at her. But what was it? Was she worried that he’d make another move on her?

The thought left him feeling unsettled. Granted, he wasn’t that good at reading women. They were forever a mystery to him, but he’d swear that she was into him and his kisses. She’d come alive in his arms. He was certain that he hadn’t imagined that. So then, what had her putting an unusually big gap between them in the limo?

* * *

He was impressive.

Kayla sat in one of the plush chairs in the palace’s state room. Instead of taking a closer view of the ornate ceiling with large crystal chandeliers, the red walls with white trim, the huge paintings of historical figures or the priceless statues on pedestals, her entire attention was focused on Angelo as he stood in the front of the room in his freshly pressed navy suit and maroon tie. Every inch of him looked as if he’d just stepped off the cover of a men’s magazine. He was definitely the most handsome man she’d ever laid her eyes on.

And his presentation was truly impressive. If this didn’t sell the royal couple on the benefits of holding the royal wedding in Monte Calanetti, then nothing would. Angelo’s talk was informative while containing bits of entertainment. Sure, he’d gone over it with her back in Italy, but somehow here in front of the royal prince and his bride, it seemed so much more special—more dynamic.

“Monte Calanetti offers a variety of services from a world-renowned chef to the most delicious bakery.” Angelo moved off to the side while Kayla started the slideshow presentation on a large high-definition screen. “You can see here an overview of the village—”

With the slideshow up and running, Kayla’s thoughts spiraled away from the presentation she knew verbatim. Instead, she was amazed by the man making the presentation. Though he didn’t have the best one-on-one people skills, he was truly amazing when he was selling an idea. His voice was strong, sure and unwavering. His tone was cajoling. And his posture was confident but not cocky. No wonder he was the best in the business.

So then how in the world was he so inept when it came to dealing with people—people like his family? People like her? Why did he have to make it so tough to get close to him?

Why couldn’t he let his guard down and take a chance on love like the crown prince and his Cinderella bride? Kayla’s gaze moved to the soon-to-be couple, envious that they seemed to have it all—success, stability and most of all love.

But as they sat there surrounded by their staff, Kayla didn’t see any telltale signs of love. There were no clasped hands. No loving gazes when they thought no one was looking. No nothing.

Kayla gave herself a mental jerk. She was overthinking things. Of course they were being all businesslike. This was their wedding—a wedding that would have all of the world watching. That had to be their focus right now.

Still, there was something that nagged at her about the couple,

but she brushed it off. Whatever it was—bridal nerves or such—it was absolutely none of her business. She had enough of her own problems.

* * *

He’d nailed it.

Angelo wore an easy smile. The presentation had gone without a hitch. Everything had fallen into place just as he’d practiced it over and over again with Kayla in their hotel suite. He had a good feeling that Monte Calanetti would be in serious contention for the site of the royal wedding.

After the slideshow presentation was over, Angelo asked, “Are there any questions?”

“Yes.” The bride, Christina Rose, sat up straight. “I didn’t see anything in your presentation about the chapel. I’m particularly interested in it.”

Angelo’s gut knotted. He’d been wrong. His gaze sought out Kayla. He was certain that she’d be wearing an I-told-you-so look. But her chair was empty? Where had she gone? The next thing he knew Kayla was standing next to him. What in the world?

“Hi. I’m Kayla.” She sent him an I’ve-got-this smile. “The chapel is my part of the presentation.”

He moved away and went to take a seat. What in the world did Kayla have up her sleeve? He thought they’d settled this back in Monte Calanetti—no chapel presentation. His back teeth ground together as he remembered that call had been his.

Angelo leaned back in his chair while Kayla put photos of the chapel up on the screen with a pitch that he’d never heard before, but it sounded like music to his ears. So the little minx had gone behind his back and done exactly what he’d told her not to do.

And he couldn’t be happier.

After Kayla finished her short presentation, the bride spoke up again. “The chapel—you mentioned that it had just switched ownership—the new owner—have they approved the use of it for the wedding?”

Seriously? That had to be the first question. Kayla’s gaze momentarily strayed to him. He had no help to offer her, but he was anxious to see how she handled the question.

Kayla laced her fingers together. “At this moment, we have not obtained a release for the use of the chapel.” The bride’s face creased with frown lines. That was definitely not a good sign. “Knowing the chapel is of particular interest to you, we will make it a priority to secure its use for the wedding.”