Chapter 78 Dance With Me
Dakota's P.O.V.
I can feel Ari's eyes on me while I talk to his dad. I slipped the little piece of information in there about me being a virgin because I thought it would turn him off. Men who like to sleep around with different women usually don't like virgins because they're afraid they'll get clingy. However, Ari's eyes lit up, and I don't know how to take that.
I was shocked when Galdino suggested Ari help us find out who killed our grandfathers. Although I think it's a good idea to involve someone from the Buccheri family, I don't want Ari to be a distraction. I hear music playing in the other room. I glance out and see some people dancing.
"I'm going to return to the other room. Galdino, would you like to dance with me?" I smile at him, and he glances behind me at his son with a smirk.
"It would be my honor." We stand and begin to leave when Ari stops us.
"Hey, what about me?" I turn to look at him.
"You're a big boy. I'm sure you can find someone who can stay on her feet long enough to dance with you, even though you’d prefer her on her back." Galdino chuckles as we walk out of the room.
"I've never seen him take an interest in anyone as he has with you. It's quite entertaining to watch you put him in his place." There's a slow song on, giving us a chance to talk.
"Is that why you suggested he help us?" Ari is standing at the bar, staring at us. Galdino shrugs.
"Maybe. I do think it will be helpful to have someone from our family helping you, but I also believe he can learn a lot from you." I sigh and glance at Ari again. A woman is trying to talk to him, but he ignores her.
"What do you think the other families will think about our families getting along? I'm sure there's already talk just from tonight alone. Will that put bigger targets on our backs?" I could talk to my uncles about this. However, I don't think that's a good idea. They won't be happy with Ari coming to the compound, but they also have no say in it.
"It may, but I'm sure you still have Christov's security. Make sure you vet everyone. Have someone look into everyone's background. I don't care how well you think you know someone. In this business, you can't trust anyone. If you need anything, you can reach out to me at any time. I know there are some things you may not want to discuss with your family. Someone is coming to take the next dance." I see Ari rushing over to us as the song ends.
"Thank you." He kisses my cheek and whispers before Ari reaches us.
"Don't be afraid to give him a chance. He's a good guy. He just hasn't found a woman to challenge him." I nod as he pulls away, but don't reply. I'm not looking to get into a relationship with anyone. I don't care if he is sexy as hell.
"Can I cut in?" Ari asks, but it's as though he's daring his dad to say no.
"That's up to Dakota." They both look at me, and part of me wants to say no. I don't want to encourage Ari, but I decide to give in when I see how eagerly he's waiting for my answer. Why am I a sucker for puppy dog eyes?
"I guess one dance won't hurt." I ignore Galdino as he laughs while walking away. Ari's eyes light up as he takes me in his arms and pulls me against him.
"I'm not like your bimbos. I can stand on my own two feet without looking like I've been riding a horse all night." I try to move away a little, but he holds me tighter.
"I'm doing this for your own good. I want everyone here to think you're hands-off. Do you really think I just go around screwing any woman who spreads her legs?" I look up at him, and his face is so close.
"Try to convince me you don't. I'm not trying to date or fool around with anyone. I have other things to focus on right now." I hope I sound convincing because it's true. I'm not enjoying being wrapped in his strong arms at all. It's honestly pretty annoying.
"I have been with a lot of women, and I'll admit that I was only with most of them once or twice. Every woman I have met only wants me because of my money or name. I've never been able to have a real conversation with a woman about anything that matters. It's really sexy hearing you talk about business and not falling all over me." I look into his eyes, and I'm speechless. He's serious. He places his hand on my bare back where the cut-out is, and it feels so warm.