select a pair of ruby red Louboutin platform pumps and put them on. As a finishing touch, I wrap a silver chain belt around my hips.
Back in the bathroom, I put my hair up in a bun and quickly do my makeup. Diamond stud earrings, a wrist full of bracelets, and my necklace complete the look. I add a quick spritz of perfume before I join my husband in the living room.
His eyes open wide when he sees me and he whistles his approval. “I never tire of looking at you. You look amazing today, amore,” he says, as he approaches and kisses me on the cheek.
“Thank you. I feel amazing. I’m getting into this nice clothes concept. Incredible what a nice pair of pants can do for a girl’s mood.”
“I do believe I’ve created a monster,” Enzo replies, laughing.
I grin. “You could be right.”
Just then, Cassie comes out from her room and stops in her tracks, staring at me. “Damn, Ava. If I wasn’t standing in your living room, I wouldn’t have recognized you. You look hot, girl!”
“Thanks, Cass. Some recent purchases.”
“From where? And dang, those shoes are to die for.”
“Neimans and yeah, the shoes are bad ass, no?” I spin my foot around so she can see the famous red-bottomed soles of my shoes.
“I’m proud of you. Not that long ago, you were still clipping coupons looking for sales and outlet stores. Now you march into Neiman Markup and throw down $500 for shoes.”
“She threw down $1000 for those shoes and another thousand for the outfit,” Enzo announces with a hint of pride in his voice.
“A thousand dollars for shoes?!? Ava! That’s insane. Are they lined with gold or something?”
“No, Cassie, they are not lined with gold.” I roll my eyes. “They are very comfortable though. I can work in them all day.”
Cassie leans against the arm of the couch. “Well la di da, Mrs. Milano,” she replies, cackling. “Money suits you, signora ,” she teases, using one of Enzo’s many nicknames for me.
I try to keep a straight face but I can’t. Laughter overcomes me and I’m reminded once more why I love this girl so much. “You’re a nut, Cass.”
“Yes. Yes I am. Anyway, I’m sorry to hear about your gramps. I’m free this weekend if you want me to fly out with you since Enzo can’t make it. I could use the break.”
“I would like that, Cass. Thank you. You sure Chris won’t mind?”
“Nah,” she says, waving her hand in the air. “He’s in the midst of like three different websites so he could use a break from me.” She laughs at her own comment.
“Okay, well that’s wonderful. I’ll book our tickets later tonight.”
“Cool. You guys going to work this early?” she asks.
“No, Enzo has an interview to do and I’m just tagging along to bask in his glory,” I respond.
“Ava, you have your own glory,” Enzo says, chiding me.
“Hardly. Anyway, I like living in your sunlight. It’s warm here.” I kiss his cheek before he can say anything else, and grabbing my handbag from the console table, I pat the dog and head to the garage door.
“Grayson is coming today. We have to go downtown. He’ll be driving us.”
“Perfect. I get to keep my husband’s attention on me the entire time.”
“Your husband’s attention is always on you, my love.”
“Oh gag me with a spoon, you two!” Cassie exclaims.
Enzo laughs which causes me to smile. He has the best laugh. I’m continually amazed at how his laughter transforms him from serious businessman to regular guy; even if it is for just a moment.
A knock at the door signals Grayson’s arrival. We say goodbye to Cassie and the pup and head out.
“Morning, Mrs. Milano, um, Ava,” Grayson says.
Smiling, I reply, “Morning, Grayson. How’s it going?”
“Pretty good. How are you?”
There’s a sweetness to his voice that reflects his genuine concern for me. It warms my heart knowing this big, tough looking guy is really a softie underneath it all. “I’m doing well, thank you for asking.”
He
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