Leo Rossi: The Rise of a True Alpha (The Rossi Legacies Book 2)
Beautiful Bond Chapter 11

WINONA

Dubai. A city of ultramodern architecture, luxurious shopping malls and magical nightlife. With something to explore at every corner, rich with adventures for everyone to indulge in. Away from England, we had stepped onto a paradise on earth, and I was having the time of my life! We arrived yesterday morning and after resting for a few hours at our hotel; where we are sharing a room and a huge bed, we then headed out for some sightseeing. In the evening, Marcel had let me spend the entire time shopping, followed by dinner at a stunning restaurant. He was adamant I shop and shopping I did! I purchased something for everyone, from little Phoenix to Rosaline! Marcel wanted me to purchase things for myself and although I felt guilty I soon gave in and chose several items for myself. I allowed him to spoil me because I saw the way he was satisfied when I did purchase things for myself. I even bought him a few things. I enjoyed the entire experience and although I hadn't felt tired during the time we were out, the moment we got back to the hotel I had fallen asleep the moment my head touched the pillow.

Today, after an incredible breakfast from the balcony of our luxury hotel, we spent the morning at an incredible waterpark before returning to the hotel to rest for a couple of hours.

I am now getting ready for our date. Tonight, he is taking me for a romantic dinner, which he hasn't told me much about. I now look down at the dress I had selected last night at his request... I blush at the memory... (FLASHBACK LAST NIGHT)

I look around at the luxurious designer gowns that glitter under the lights of the boutique. We have been shopping for the last three hours and I still feel full of energy.

We had just stopped for ice cream; the weather is much cooler than the sweltering heat of the day.

"What are we doing here?" I whisper, awed at the gorgeous gowns that call to me.

But even in that treasure trove of dresses, there's one gown that my eyes fall upon that makes me slow down and stare.

It's a stunning satin sage, and it makes my heart skip a beat.

What a beauty!

"We are shopping for a gown for our date tomorrow night, and I want you in something pretty that I will enjoy unwrapping later." His deep husky whisper comes in my ear, making my heart hammer... Unwrapping...

I stare up at him before I glance at the approaching saleswoman.

I think I know exactly what dress I want...

"Can you wait at the desk? I want it to be a surprise." I say bravely, blushing lightly.

He smirks but nods before he walks away and I turn my attention back to the sage green temptation...

(END OF FLASHBACK)

I shake my head, looking over at the woman who had just finished getting my hair and makeup done.

"Thank you for everything. I'll get changed now." I say, unwrapping the tissue that holds the white lace bra and G string I had picked out for this trip.

"You are most welcome." She replies before she leaves the room.

I slowly remove my gown, staring down at my shimmering legs as I slip on the G string before putting the bra on and finally slipping into my dress. It fits me like a glove, and I admire myself in the mirror. Looking back at me is a woman who holds elegance and grace... one whose eyes shine with light. My eyelids are shimmering with gold and brown eyeshadow that creates a smoky finish. I have my cheeks bronzed and soft pink lipstick. My hair is pinned up in an elegant updo with a few tendrils framing my face.

On my feet, I'm wearing diamante strap heels that match the sheer bodice of my dress which contains some silver threadwork and gems. It has a plunging neckline with diamante studded thin straps, and the sage green skirt is pleated in multiple layers around the hips before it flows down in a fitted skirt. I put on the large statement earrings that I also picked out last night. I wonder if I was a little overdressed.

But tonight... is the night... it's ok to go all out right?

I place a hand on my stomach feeling nervous. I'm wearing the choker necklace Marcel had purchased for me along with the bracelet. Those two items will always remain special to me...

He had picked them out himself.

My nails are glittering with silver tips, and taking a deep breath, I take a picture for Azura since she wanted to see the end result and send it to her before I place my phone down on the bedside table. I won't need that tonight. I'm nervous...

I look at the door that leads to the lounge where I know Marcel is ready and waiting for me...

Here goes nothing.

I walk to the door, take a deep break and pull it open. My heart skips a beat when I spot Marcel leaning against the far wall, one leg propped against the wall behind him, arms crossed. He's wearing white pants, a white shirt with a few buttons open, paired with a blue blazer and tassel loafers. His hair is open. Falling around his face in his usually messy style that only makes him look a thousand times hotter.

He looks... incredibly handsome...

His eyes turn gold as he looks me over, his gaze running from bottom to top. I see him swallow, his eyes lingering on my breasts. My own heart pounding as he pushes away from the wall slowly.

His aura swirls around him as he advances on me, with that walk of his that radiates power and confidence.

I bite my lip when he reaches me, looking down, feeling very aware of my plunging neckline.

His fingers curl under my chin, sparks dancing through me as he tilts my head back.

"You look breathtaking Bellissima." He murmurs, his other hand snaking around my waist that feels tiny in his hand, and he pulls me against him, kissing me softly. 'I've never seen a woman more beautiful in my life. He adds through the link as his lips move against mine.

I'm unable to reply, melting into his caress that holds a thousand desires and sends an explosion of sparks through me. I grip his arm firmly, relishing in the feel of those lips against mine.

He moves back, twirling one of the loose strands that frame my face around his finger. "Let's go before I'm unable to stop." He murmurs.

My cheeks flush and I nod, allowing him to place his hand on my waist and lead the way from the suite.

We head downstairs to where our ride is waiting, ready to take us to our destination for our dinner date.

I stare in admiration at the Dubai fountain as a Bollywood song plays. We had arrived at the restaurant a short while ago and we are seated on the balcony of a private room that overlooks the water, and the famous fountain that is putting on an impressive show. "I'm sorry, it's just so beautiful." I say, blushing as I realise once again I got distracted by it. I turn back to Marcel and take up my glass of champagne.

"Carry on, I was enjoying my own view." He replies, making me blush as he drinks his own champagne.

I smile, staring up into those soft brown eyes. "So, tell me about yourself. Do you have any hobbies aside from travelling?"

He chuckles as he glances out at the fountain that dances to the rhythm of the music.

"Do I travel that much? But I would say travelling and visiting new places is my favourite, after all, what else can a single guy who has retired do?"

"That's true, why not. I like it." I say as I take a bite of my salad.

"Well, I think I'll have a new hobby soon... but aside from that, food, I love trying new food. Regardless of how unappetising it appears. Why not travel when you have the time to? What about yours?"

I blush, not missing that sexy smirk and what he is insinuating.

"Me... Well, as you know, I love fashion; I also love taking pictures of sceneries and I like to crochet." I say, placing my glass down. Marcel takes my hand and I turn towards him as he kisses it.

"They are very you." He says. Our eyes meet and I look away coyly. "What is your favourite colour?"

"I like white." I say without having to think of that one. "You like black, don't you?"

"I do, but I think the colour of your eyes has replaced that." He says, his fingers ghosting over my cheek.

"You think?" I tease, feigning an unhappy pout.

He smirks and leans over and pecks my lips. "No, I know it has, along with the colour of these lips... and this hair...

I bite my lip, his touch sending tingles through me as the song playing behind us ends.

A comfortable silence falls over us, and I can't help but smile in contentment.

Sitting back, I tuck into my food, savouring the delicious taste in my mouth.

"Mm, this steak is delicious." I moan in appreciation, blushing when I feel his intense gaze on me.

"I'm sure it's nowhere near as delicious as you." He replies so quietly, I almost miss it.

"I'm certain it is." I reply, blushing lightly.

"I can guarantee it isn't."

I raise an eyebrow, tilting my head as the next song begins playing, and I smile softly. "How can you be so sure?" "How about I tell you I told you so later tonight?" He counters seductively.

My cheeks burn before I am forced to look away from his burning gaze. He chuckles and I can't help but smile.

I can't wait for tonight too... but I also don't want this moment to end... just him and me, watching the beautiful show before us, the music clear in the night sky and his hand that rests on mine...

It's beyond perfect...

Our eyes meet and I smile softly.

Yes, it really is perfect and I'm glad I gave in.

-

An hour later, dinner is over, and I have just finished devouring the delicious, exquisite dessert that Marcel had chosen for us.

"That was one of the tastiest desserts I've ever had. Thank you." I say, feeling extremely full.

He stands up, nodding his agreement. "I'm glad you enjoyed it, although I can't take credit for it since I didn't make it."

I laugh softly as he walks to the balcony and we overlook the water and the fountain. "But you did plan this date, and it's been absolutely breathtaking in all aspects," I whisper, looking at the red rose petals that are lightly scattered across the wooden floors. The interior of the room is romantic and elegant and then, of course, the view. "Well, it's not every day that I get to take my woman on a date, and I think the first one should be memorable."

"It is... I won't ever forget this night." I say as I lean my head against his arm as he stands by my side. He kisses the top of my head before he moves until he is standing behind me and wraps his arms around me, resting them under my breasts as he kisses my neck softly. "Neither will I, Bellissima..."

I blush at the name he has given me; I like it... especially when it's in his deep gravelly voice.

I was once a woman, content with my daily chores being accomplished, at times I did think I'd replace someone who I'd fall in love with and maybe even have a small family with, but never did I think I'd have an Alpha for a mate, and a powerful, handsome one at that. One who fell for me without the bond...

Marcel Rossi...

My handsome, caring mate.

My heart skips a beat, and I slowly tilt my head up, kissing his lips.

"Dance with me." I say softly, turning in his arms. I lock my arms around his neck, and he obliges, gripping my waist as he touches his forehead to mine.

I close my eyes slowly, relishing in this moment as we sway slowly to the music. I won't ever forget this night... Ever.

He spins me out before twirling me back into his arms, my back pressing against his chest, and I gasp at the sudden move.

"I never knew you could dance so well." I say as we dance against one another and I swirl my hips, rubbing against him before pulling away and he twirls me out.

"I don't really dance, but it comes naturally enough." He brushes it off, smirking, and I can't help but roll my eyes in amusement.

He knows he's good.

"One of those Rossi talents?"

"Oh absolutely, although if you ask me to do the tango, it will be a big no." He chuckles, as he pulls me close once more, his hands going to my waist again.

I giggle at that, imagining him doing the Tango. "Actually... I can picture it, and you look utterly fine."

"Oh, so you're imagining me dancing now?"

I blush, it's not like I'm imagining him naked... My eyes widen as a rather explicit image involving a very naked Marcel appears in my mind and I'm certain my entire body turns a bright tomato red!

I bury my face in his chest, but he forces me back.

"Dare I ask what is going through that mind of yours?"

"Nothing at all! I was just imagining you doing the..." I trail off knowing he isn't buying it.

"You were imagining me naked." He declares. I look at him suspiciously.

He can't hear my thoughts yet, right? I mean, we aren't marked yet. "How do you..."

"I didn't know, lucky guess, but that blush and your reaction right now confirmed it." He remarks cockily, making me pout.

"Marcel! That's not-" I gasp when he yanks me close, his lips crashing against mine once more.

'If it makes you feel any better, I've imagined you naked and even dreamt of you...' He whispers, making my heart pound.

I lock my arms tightly around him, kissing him back.

'Then... let's make those dreams a reality! I murmur through the bond.

I feel him smile against my lips before he pulls away.

"Let's." He says huskily, placing a hand on my back and leading me out...