Jennifer Faye - Wearing The Greek Millionaire's Ring

“Wow. That’s a lot to celebrate.”

He nodded and then glanced around to make sure none of his family were within listening distance. Once he was sure the coast was clear, he leaned closer to Stasia and lowered his voice. “I should probably tell you that my cousin and her fiancé applied to Infinity Island but were turned down.”

Stasia’s brows rose but she didn’t say anything.

“I just wanted to forewarn you because this ship isn’t that big, so you’re likely to run into them.”

“No problem. Thanks for the warning.”

He nodded. “I just wonder if it’s a good idea for them to get married.”

“Why? Don’t you like who your cousin is marrying?”

“It’s not that.” If anything, he really liked Anthony. “He’s a great guy. But Xander told me a little of how the system works on Infinity Island. Do you know how the process works?” When she shook her head, he continued. “It seems pretty involved. The legend or folklore or whatever you call it says if you don’t pass the test, it means you’re ill suited for each other.”

“Really? Do you think it’s true?”

He shrugged. Weddings were never of interest to him. “I just don’t want my cousin to be hurt. She’s a great person. Loving and caring.”

“I’m sure it’ll all work out for her.”

This was his turn to study Stasia. It definitely wasn’t a hardship. He could stare at her all day. She was beautiful in a very classic and stylish way. Her dark hair was straight and cut in a sleek bob that brushed over the tops of her shoulders. Her makeup only emphasized her vibrant eyes and her high cheekbones. She went for more color when it came to her lips. They were a deep rose shade. Her lips were pouty and inviting.

“Roberto?”

He jerked his gaze back to her eyes. He’d been busted staring. He cleared his throat and glanced away. What had they been discussing?

It took him a second to recall the conversation. “I’m not normally one to give in to such superstitious kind of stuff, but this is my cousin. She’s the closest thing I have to a sister.”

Stasia reached across the table and squeezed his hand. “I wouldn’t worry. There’s also this saying that love can overcome everything.”

“I sure hope you’re right.” And then he had a question for her. “If it were you, would you take the test? Would you want to get married on Infinity Island?”

Her eyes didn’t give away anything. “That’s not a fair question. After all, I’m related to the owners of the island. And as such, I’ve spent quite a bit of time there. It’s a gorgeous place.”

“And you still haven’t answered my question.” It was only then that he realized he was asking a widow about getting married again. He inwardly groaned at his thoughtlessness. “Never mind. I shouldn’t have probed. I guess it’s just a side effect of my job, always digging for information.”

He was about to take a drink when he noticed she didn’t have anything in front of her. “Can I get you anything to drink or eat?”

“Actually, yes. I’d love an espresso. I need the caffeine.”

It was only then that he noticed the shadows beneath her eyes. They were faint, as though they were covered up, and you wouldn’t even notice them unless you were looking for them. Something was keeping her up at night. And then he realized what it might be. She was still grieving for her husband. Sympathy welled up in him.

“I’ll be right back with caffeine.” He got to his feet and walked away.

He couldn’t even imagine what she was going through. It was just one more reason that remaining a bachelor was a good idea. Families were messy with entanglements, emotions and responsibilities. It was easier to just deal with himself.

He ordered two coffees. Though he didn’t rely on caffeine to get him up and going in the morning—that was what running was for—that didn’t mean he didn’t appreciate the flavor and warmth of a cup of coffee.

He’d picked up the coffees and started back to the table when he noticed a young guy headed straight for Stasia. He couldn’t blame the guy. She was a beautiful woman. And if she weren’t his friend’s sister as well as being a widow, he definitely would have pursued her. Nothing serious, but they’d have made some great memories together.

Roberto slowed down, unsure what to do. Maybe Stasia knew the man. Maybe she’d welcome the company. As Stasia smiled at the man, Roberto’s body tensed. He knew it shouldn’t bother him. It wasn’t like the guy was horning in on a date. They’d merely bumped into each other.

Maybe he should head over there and take his seat. After all, this was his time with Stasia. Was that a thing? Could friends claim time with each other?

Or perhaps he should head to his cabin. He could get some work done before meeting up with his family for dinner. Just then his phone vibrated, letting him know a new email had landed in his inbox.

But instead of withdrawing his phone to find out what required his attention, he continued gazing in Stasia’s direction. He wanted to be sure everything was all right before he moved on.

Stasia’s smile faded. He couldn’t hear what was being said, but the shake of her head let him know she was no longer interested in the man’s company. And yet the man didn’t move on. Instead the man reached out to touch her. Stasia quickly withdrew her arm.

That was it. The decision had been made for him.

Without giving himself time to reconsider what he was about to do, Roberto headed across the busy deck, weaving and bobbing around the vacationers. He did his best to keep an eye on the situation—it was what Xander would want him to do.

He wondered if Xander had picked this cruise specifically for his sister because he knew Roberto would be on it. If so, it was strange that Xander hadn’t mentioned anything to him.

The young man made himself comfortable in his chair and that wouldn’t do. Roberto walked up to Stasia. The easiest and fastest way to get rid of her newfound admirer was simple.

“Sorry it took so long, darling.” Roberto placed the coffee on the table and then kissed Stasia’s cheek.

He noticed the softness of her skin and wondered if her lips would be just as soft. The thought of sneaking in another kiss crossed his mind, but just as quickly he dismissed it.

As Roberto straightened, he noticed the gentle floral scent of her perfume. It was pleasant and fresh like spring. It so suited her because anytime he’d been around Stasia, she’d been sunny and energetic.

The man across the table sat there with his mouth slightly agape as his gaze moved between the two of them. Was it so hard to believe they were together? Sure, he was a few years older than Stasia, but he wasn’t an old man by any stretch of imagination.

“I...uh...” The man practically tripped getting to his feet. “Gotta go.”

And that was it. The guy turned and made a quick retreat to the bar. Roberto could only wonder if he was seeking a drink to calm his nerves or if he was about to try his luck with one of the young women sitting at the bar.

“What did you do that for?” Stasia’s eyes reflected her confusion.

The lack of a smile on her face led him to wonder if he was in trouble. “I saw the guy bothering you.” The guy had been bothering her, hadn’t he? He hadn’t misread her agitation with the young guy, had he? “You weren’t interested in him, were you?”

For a moment, Stasia didn’t respond. Roberto started to worry he was going to have to track that guy down and apologize. That was about the last thing he wanted to do on this trip.

At last, she shook her head. “I think he was hitting on any available woman on the cruise. I tried to tell him I wasn’t interested, but he was the type that didn’t take no for an answer.” And then her gaze narrowed in on him. “And you couldn’t think of any other way to get rid of him other than to act like we’re a couple?”