I frowned in disappointment. “We’re only going to the mall, right?” I shook my head. “Even Matteo has said the world thinks he is a businessman and I’m his wife. He avoids publicity—even photos. No one is looking for me, Roza. He’s just being overprotective.” I clasped my hands imploringly. “Please. I want to pick out my own dress.”
“Maybe I should call him.”
“He’s with Julian in a meeting. Don’t interrupt. We’ll go and come back. I’ll tell him later and deal with his displeasure.” I knew I would get a stern lecture, but it would be worth it.
“You’re right. We’ll go.”
At the mall, we went directly to her favorite store and quickly found a dress. Soft and flowing, it flattered me with its graceful lines and simple silhouette. It fell to my knees, the sleeves went to my elbows, hiding the scars on my upper arms, and the delicate peach color suited me. We picked shoes and then headed to the small salon located at the end of the mall. As we waited, Roza got a call, her face paling.
“What?” I asked, anxious.
“My mother has had a stroke and been rushed to the hospital,” she said, tears glimmering in her eyes.
I gripped her arm. “Oh no.”
“I have to go. We need to go.”
“No,” I gasped. “Roza, you go. I’ll get myself home.”
Her eyes widened. “I can’t do that, Evie. Matteo would be furious.”
I lowered my voice. “I’m in a salon. I’ll have my pedicure done, call a cab, and go home. I’ll explain to Matteo. Everything will be fine. Go to your mother.”
She hesitated, obviously torn.
I offered another suggestion. “I’ll call Geo as soon as you leave. He’ll come and get me.”
“Oh, that would work.”
“Go,” I urged.
“I’ll drop your dress off in the morning.”
“Fine.” I hugged her. “Go.”
She hurried away, and the technician called me over. Once I settled in the chair, I dug in my purse, my mouth going dry when I realized I had left my phone in the kitchen, plugged in. Alex had given it to me, with all the right contacts already listed, and I had never had to use it, so I didn’t know any numbers. I had no idea how to call Geo, Matteo, or anyone.
I took in a deep breath and relaxed. I would simply go back to Plan A. I knew the address. I could call from the gate and be let in. I had lots of money. I would take a cab and be home before Matteo arrived. I would tell him later, and although he wouldn’t be happy, he would admonish me, and that would be that. Maybe he would realize how over the top he was being and let up on his idea I needed security all the time.
I enjoyed having a pedicure, and the salon staff convinced me to have my nails done as well. They looked pretty, all polished and neat, the light color matching my dress. My toenails were bright in a rich rust color, and the technician added some sparkles to the big toe that made me smile. Using my credit card, I paid the bill and hesitated at the door.
For the first time in months, I was alone and free. No Blaine denying me, ordering me around. I had no security at my side, assigned by a worried Matteo. Marcus was great, but he hated shopping, and I always felt I had to hurry. I glanced at my watch. I’d been gone less than two hours. Surely another thirty minutes wouldn’t hurt. I could look around the mall, buy a few things for myself, and then I would go home.
I ignored the little voice telling me Matteo would be on the warpath over my decision. Instead, I turned and walked back into the mall.
I flexed my fingers, the bags in my hand getting heavier. I was tired and my feet hurt. I sat down on a bench, shocked when I realized I had been shopping for over two hours. I had forgotten the simple pleasure of window-shopping. I had never experienced the freedom of being able to buy anything I wanted, and I had lost track of time. I glanced at the bags at my feet with a grimace. I had bought a lot of things—including some items for Matteo.
It had felt nice to simply be Evie, shopping and picking out some items for my husband. It gave me a sense of normalcy that my life lacked. Somehow, though, I was sure Matteo wouldn’t agree.
I glanced up and noticed a man lounging on a bench across from me. He was playing on his phone, not looking in my direction, but there was something familiar about him. It occurred to me I had seen him through the window of one of the stores as I shopped. And again later.