“Paolo.” His bruising grip really hurt and she was fairly certain he knew it. She decided on another tactic. “Why do you dislike me so much? I thought we were friends. What did I do to make you so angry with me all the time?” She forced herself to ask the questions, mainly because she knew he would relax his hold on her, but partly because she really wanted to know.

It was the right way to approach him. Instantly his grip loosened and his face changed. Grew softer. “I don’t dislike you, Siena. Don’t be silly. You’re grown up now, and you know your grandfather has all but promised you to me. I don’t like you running around looking like you do where other men might take advantage of you.”

Siena wasn’t certain how to respond. She knew her grandfather was always matchmaking, and she couldn’t deny he always said when he was gone, Paolo would look after her. He sometimes went so far as to tell her he would plan the wedding of the century for them.

“Paolo.” She took a deep breath and let it out. “Nonno is always pairing me with someone. Just a few minutes ago he told me it was time for Elijah Lospostos to settle down.” Something dangerous moved in his eyes and she was suddenly afraid. “I’m not old enough to settle down. I still have to learn the business end of the winery right here at home. I’m not looking at anyone right now. Yes, I go to clubs to dance, but I’m careful about drinking and I don’t take men home. You know I don’t. One of Nonno’s men is always looking after me. I know they report back to you.”

“You go to his house and give him the message from your grandfather and give him the wine. You do not go inside with him. He’s a dangerous man. Your grandfather thinks everyone is his friend. Lospostos is not. Deliver the wine, talk a few minutes and get out of there. Do you understand me?”

“I hardly think I’ll be . . .”

“Do you understand me?” He roared it. His fingers sank deep again, and he gave her a little shake.

Siena nodded submissively when all she wanted to do was kick him very hard in the shins and claw his eyes out. She kept her head down so he wouldn’t see the rebellion in her eyes. “Yes, Paolo.”