Page 64 of Bound By A Promise
“I didn’t want you to see.”
“Camila, what happened?”
“I’m afraid Papá andel Patr?nwill say our marriage isn’t legal or something. I’m afraid they’ll make me stay in California.” More tears slid down my cheeks. “I want to be your wife.”
He pulled me against his damp chest and surrounded me with his arms. “I told Dario we were legally married by a priest.”
I blinked away the tears. “What did he say?”
“Fuck was a repeated word, but in between the fucks, he said he’d do what he could to help us.”
That gave me hope. “He said he’d help?”
“Stop worrying. I will not leave you behind with your family.”
“Or with Rei?”
“Fuck no. Not a chance.”
After a soft kiss, Dante stepped into his boxer briefs and put on the dark jeans he’d worn yesterday.
As he dressed, I realized my clothing dilemma. “I only have my sundress or the shorts, tank top, and sweatshirt I wore away from the house. And my dress…traditions…”
“Put on the shorts and we’ll ask Mia to help. I’m sure she has something you can wear.”
“I really don’t want to faceel Patr?nin short shorts and a hoodie sweatshirt.”
Once I had on the shorts, tank top, and hoodie, Dante headed downstairs, and I pulled my hair back into a low ponytail. It was as I was leaving the bathroom again that the bedroom door opened.
Mia entered. “Dante told me to come in. Are you okay?”
“I’m scared to death about what is going to happen today.” I reached for my own hands to keep them from trembling. “El Patr?nis on his way.”
Mia nodded. “He’s upset about the attacks on Rei’s and our house.”
“So, this isn’t about Dante and me?”
She reached for my hand and led me to the sofa near the windows. “Aléjandro spoke to Rei last night about everything. He said Rei took the news well. He was disappointed, but Aléjandro explained that you and Dante have a history.”
“Dante said Dario is upset.”
Mia pressed her lips together and shook her head. “He’s permanently upset. The only time he isn’t is with Catalina.” Shepatted my knee. “And Dante said she’s with him. That’s a good thing. This morning, Valentina discovered you were gone. Your bodyguard didn’t know that you’d left.”
I scrunched my nose. “Poor Miguel. It’s not his fault.”
“Emiliano told them what happened.”
My stomach twisted. “I should call my mother.”
“Probably, but I think they’re on their way. According to Aléjandro, Andrés called Jorge, furious. He wants the alliance broken. That’s why Dario is on his way too.” She inhaled and exhaled. “We knew there would be issues.”
“Issues. The cartel boss and famiglia capo dei capi are both coming here—that’s more than an issue.” I nibbled on my lip. “Can they make us unmarry?”
“I want to tell you no and not to worry.”
“You want to?” I asked.
“They made me marry. They made Catalina marry. They can probably annul your marriage.” Before I could respond, Mia went on, “You and Dante must convince them otherwise. Catalina and I are on your side.”