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The Italian Obsession

Page 225

by T.L. Swan

“Murdered?” Jennifer gasps as she looks between us.

“We don’t know that.” I widen my eyes at Natalie to tell her to shut up.

“He was totally murdered.” Natalie scoffs. “Haven’t you noticed how much security Olivia has around her?”

Jennifer leans in toward the table. “I had noticed that,” she whispers. “I wondered why.”

“It’s just because he’s wealthy, that’s all,” I reply. “It doesn’t mean anything.” I frown over at Natalie. Thank God I didn’t tell her anything. Imagine if she knew the truth. I need to change the subject. “Oh, there’s a problem, though.”

“What’s that?” Nat asks.

“Enrico wants to have an engagement party in two weeks at the Lake Como house.” I shrug, feeling totally overwhelmed. “I have no idea how to organize it in that time. He said he will get a party planner, but I hate the thought. It’s so impersonal.”

“Oh.” Jennifer’s eyes widen. “I can do it. I was an event manager back home. I used to do this all the time. It’s a piece of cake.”

“Really?” I frown.

“Sure, and I’m not working right now. I could just work on it full-time.”

“Oh, I don’t want to impose.”

“It wouldn’t be an imposition. I would love to help out. I’d be happy to have something to do, to be honest.”

“That’s a fantastic idea,” Nat says. “Just pay her to do it.”

“Of course, I would pay you,” I say.

“If you like. I can invoice you when we’re done. I won’t charge much.”

“Don’t worry, she’s loaded.” Nat tips her head back and drains her glass.

“If you could send me the numbers and what you want, I can get started today.”

“Really?” I smile in wonder. “That quick?”

“Yes. Thank God my day is looking up. I thought I was going to die of boredom.” She thinks for a moment. “What’s the house like so I can organize flowers and decorations? Would you be able to give me a key so I can go and check it out today while you work? That way, I can start straightaway.”

“Yeah, sure.” I go to give her a key and then hesitate. No, I can’t do that. Enrico would have a fit. “I’ll have someone there to meet you.”

“Oh.” Her eyes hold mine. “Okay, whatever is easiest. I don’t want to bother anyone. I’m used to being in houses alone.”

“It won’t be a bother.” I smile. “The house is guarded all the time, so someone will be there.”

“Why is the house guarded?” She frowns.

“That’s the million-dollar question.” Nat raises her eyebrow.

“I told you, his family is rich. It’s just a precaution.” I roll my eyes at her dramatics. “Stop with the conspiracy theories, Nat. You watch way too much Netflix.” I stand. “I have to go. I’m going to be late for work.” I kiss them both on the cheeks.

“Email me the party details and I’ll get to it.”

“Okay, thank you.”

I leave the café filled with relief. Thank God I know someone who knows all about event management. The world is saved.

I’m not going to fuck this up.

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