Ryan's POV

But, that didn't last because now it was my time to be nervous. I turned off the television and laid my head on my pillow. I pulled her close to me so I could wrap my arms around her. I gave her a kiss on her cheek. "I hope you say yes because I can't live without you. I love you, Layla."

********************************
The next day - Monday

Layla's POV

I woke up to a pair of muscular arms wrapped around me. His grip was a little tight. I couldn't wiggle out if I wanted to. So, I tried to twist so I was facing him. I started playing in his hair and planted kisses on his face. Nothing. "Man is he a heavy sleeper." So, I tried screaming, "Ry-!"

He put his hand over my mouth. "Why are you screaming?"

"I couldn't move. Your grip on me was a little tight. Dang, you are a heavy sleeper. I played in your hair and even planted kisses on your face. You didn't even flinch."

He unwrapped his arms from around me. "Sorry." Then, I made my way to the bathroom for a shower. "Um, Layla, mind if I join you?"

"Um, how about no? Well, not this time." He got up off the bed and started to run towards me. But, I made it to the bathroom and locked the door. "Nice try, sugar. I was on the track team in high school and college."

He then said, "You're know you are now in trouble?"

So then I replied, "Not today, buddy. We got shopping for the fashion show." I don't know what he said after that because I turned on the water for my shower. About 20 minutes later, I felt nice and refreshed. But, I realized I just had on my underwear. "Shoot." I left my clothes in the closet in the room.

He is going to grab me, I just know it. "Ryan, can you grab my jeans outfit from the closet?" I didn't hear anything. So, I thought, "Maybe he went to eat breakfast?" So, I opened the door and ran to the closet. Wrong move. "You looking for this?" He had my outfit in his hands, but a huge smirk on his face.

"What's the magic word?"

"Please, Ryan can I have my outfit?"

"Nope. Try again."

"How about please 'Sugar Hot Lips?'"

"How about wrong again?" I tried jumping to grab it, but to no avail.

"Oh, come on! I'm standing here in my underwear! And, I am chilly."

He looked at me and started licking his lips. "I know you are. And, I am loving the view."

So I called his bluff and did a fake sneeze. "Achoo!" He started feeling bad and gave me my outfit. "Sucker."

"Sike!" I ran out the closet and locked the door. "Layla open the door!"

"What's the password?"

"I am going to wear you out!"

"Nope, wrong answer." I left him right there as I made my way downstairs to breakfast. "Layla!!"

I know he is when we do. But, right now I need to focus on shopping for the fashion show. About 30 minutes later, I heard, "Layla, you better run and hide!"

And, that is my cue to run. "See ya!" He stopped walking, so I don't know where he is. "Shucks. I am a goner."

"Ladies, when you are ready, I'll be outside." I snuck out the back door. While walking to the front, I saw a sleek, black limo. "I should be safe from Ryan in there." I asked him in Italian if he saw a tall, brunette male over 6 feet. He looked at me and said no. But, when he saw me open the door, he started laughing.

As soon I closed the door to get comfy, "Looking for me?"

"Dang."

I threw my hands up and said, "I surrender."

"Layla, you looked scrumptious and tempting in that lacy underwear. I'm ready too."

He pinned me against the window in the limo. "What can I say? I love lacy underwear. I tend to incorporate lace in a lot of my designs."

"I'll make a deal with you. I don't want our first time to be in the back of a limo. I need to be able to walk for the fashion show and the meeting tomorrow. After that, I am all yours. I promise, you can do whatever you want. I was actually prepared for it to happen here in Italy. I bought something that will blow your mind and you can rip it off. It will be worth it. Trust me."

Ryan's POV

"Deal. I guess I am anxious because it is going on three years since the last time. I am afraid I won't be good enough you. Like I have always said, 'You are special and deserve the best."

"I could never judge you because of that. Heck, it has been almost 5 years for me. Do you remember what you said when I locked you in the closet?"

"Yes, I remember."

"Focus on that, sugar. I'm telling you that with what I bought, you will not be worrying about your performance. Relax, Ryan."

We suddenly heard voices. "Hey, you two, unlock the door!" We looked at each other and laughed. Layla said something in Italian to the driver and he unlocked the doors. Then, we pulled off for shopping.

**********************************

Nolan's POV

I have been in Italy one day and already have had some 'fun.' She was screaming something in Italian. I had no clue what she was saying because I was in a groove on her body. She is going to be one sore Italian. But, that's not my problem. Besides, I just wasted my time. This chick is lame. I couldn't take it anymore.

So, I got up, grabbed her clothes, and threw them at her. Then, I grabbed my robe and headed to the door. After opening it, I pointed for her to get out. Again, she screamed something in Italian. But, this time she was not happy. Meh, I didn't care. After that. I went to take my shower so I could start getting ready for the fashion show.

********************************

Later that evening.

Layla's POV

The fashion show starts at 8 pm, with a reception to follow. By the time we got home, it was time to start getting ready. Ryan took his shower first. Then, I took mine. I told him I wanted him to be surprised when he saw my dress, so he got dressed in another room.

After putting on makeup, my dress and shoes, I made my way downstairs. Everyone was standing in the foyer.

"Well, how do I look?"

"Absolutely stunning, Layla." My cousin, Darlene said.

"You look like a model, girly."

I didn't know whether to be nervous or what because Ryan didn't give his opinion yet. But, after a few minutes, I saw the cheesiest grin ever. All he said was, "Wow!"

"Ladies and gentlemen, our limo has arrived, so let's head over to the fashion show."

The gentleman he is, Ryan let us walk out first and he even opened the limo door for us. I would love to add an Italian designer's clothing line to my stores. I also thought about adding accessories, such as handbags, sunglasses, and shoes. I really do love my business and want it to grow. That's why I am thinking of that merger idea my mom told me about. I was deep in thought when I felt Ryan grab my hand.

"Layla, are you okay?"

"I'm fine. Just thinking about ways to grow my business. I have always wanted to add accessories to my locations. If we start to branch out in Europe, that would be the greatest opportunity to implement it also in the US. And, I was also thinking about that merger idea that my mom talked about at the barbecue we had at my house. Menswear would be a great addition as well at. But, I don't want to give up what I have going now. And, I am concerned about my employees."

This time, he pulled me closer to him and wrapped his arms around me. Then he kissed me on my cheek, "Layla, I know you will do right by your employees and your business. And, whatever you need, I will do. Most of my clients are businessmen. I would definitely let them know about your locations. I do have several clients that are women. And, a couple of them are flirty, but I ignore it and let them know up front that I have a beautiful, sexy girlfriend and that it is unprofessional to flirt with me."

"Thank you, handsome." We had finally arrived at the fashion show. I had never been to one. But, after this one, I will definitely be attending more. The Italian media was there and they even had a red carpet.

"We have to walk through that?!"

My nerves started kicking in again. "Don't worry, Layla. You will be fine. Stick close to me and hold onto my hand. I have been to a red carpet event before - The Espy Awards. Just smile, wave and be yourself. And, another thing you got going for you is that you speak Italian if anyone asks you a question. Ladies, I'll get out first so I can help you out."

Once the limo driver opened the door, I saw the cameras flashing. Ryan got out the limo first. Then, he helped Alicia first, then Darlene and Jamala. Then, he grabbed my hand and I got out. As we walked up the red carpet, I did just as Ryan said. I also hear them whispering, "Who is that?, Is she a model?" I also heard, "They are attractive." And, a few whistles. After a few minutes, we finally finished walking the red carpet. "You all did a good job." Ryan said to the four of us once we were in the venue. Alicia pulled out the tickets and handed them over to the ticket person. Then, someone came and escorted us to our seats.

The seating area was packed with so many people. Alicia said her contact would be joining us so that she could help us network and introduce us to some people in the fashion industry. We got quite a few stares as we made our way to our seats. Ryan sat on the end seat and I sat next to him. He put his arm around me to let everyone know I was taken.

One guy even had the nerve to approach us and told me, "La bella. forse possiamo parlare più tardi." I told Ryan that means, "Your beautiful. Maybe we can talk later." He started to tense up and I saw his hand turn into a fist. But, I turned his face towards me and gave a him a passionate kiss. Then, I said, "Grazie per il complimentarmi. e, il mio ragazzo qui pensa che io sono bella troppo." (Thank you for the compliment. And, my boyfriend here thinks I am beautiful too.) I told Ryan what I said. He looked up at the guy and brushed him off. The guy finally got the hint and left. Ryan was getting looks too. So he did the same thing but had me sit in his lap. Then, he kissed me. "Boy, what are you doing to me?"

"You know you love it."

"You're right." I got off his lap and sat back in my chair. We saw a lady waving at Alicia and she came over.

"Hi, Alicia. Glad you all could make it."

"Thank you. Layla, I want to introduce you to Adriana Calvi."

"It is nice to meet you. And, this handsome gentleman next to me is my boyfriend, Ryan."

"I am looking forward to our meeting tomorrow. I am really excited about the opportunity to work with you. And, we already have investors in place. But, we will talk about that tomorrow. Everyone enjoy the show. I'll be back over once the fashion show ends." Adriana said to us.

Shortly thereafter, the MC made their way to the podium. "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the 2018 Silk Couture Fashion Show. We have so much in store for you. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the show."

There was several different designers showcasing their collections. I picked a couple that I would like to approach about my locations. About an hour into the show, I felt a hand pinch my butt. I flinched, then looked up at Ryan. He looked at me and whispered, "I couldn't resist."

Ryan's POV

She is right, I couldn't resist. 20 minutes later, Layla popped my arm. I looked at her and said, " What was that for?" She whispered, "You squeezed it this time."

"It wasn't me this time." So, that means someone behind us is about to get his hand broken. Nobody should be putting their hands on her at all. I had my arm resting on her chair. I pretended to turn around like I was looking for someone. Sure enough, some dude behind us tried to touch her again. I was pissed. So, I grabbed his hand and broke it. Then, I turned around and shot this guy an evil glare.

He screamed out loud in pain. Everybody turned to look at him. Security came over to escort him out. We didn't have any more interruptions during the show.

At the end of the fashion show, all of the models came out and received a standing ovation. The designers came out as well.

The MC introduced Alicia's friend who got us the tickets.

"Thank you one and all for attending. Before we close, I would like to introduce someone to Milan tonight. The outfit I am wearing today was designed by the young lady I am about to announce. If you ever visit New York City, I suggest you visit her boutique. Hopefully, we will be able to talk her into bringing a location here in Milan. You all will love her designs. So, all the way from New York City, please give a round of applause to Ms. Layla Jordan, owner of Layla's Fashion House."

We all looked at each other and cheered. Layla was shocked and frozen in her chair. I know she was nervous. "Come Layla. I'll go on stage with you." So, I held her hand and we walked together to the podium.

Nolan's POV

"Say what?! How does Layla know Adriana Calvi?! And, she owns Layla's Fashion House?!"

It is hard to get an appointment with Adriana Calvi. "How did she do it?"

Layla's POV

I was a nervous wreck walking up to the podium. Thankfully, Ryan went up there with me.

"Wow! Thank you all so much for the warm welcome. Excuse my nervousness at the moment. I always knew growing up that I loved fashion. And, thanks to my parents, the year my daughter was born, they helped my dream come true. To have my designs in Milan would also be a dream come true for me. And, I hope it will become a reality. Thank you to my parents, my daughter, friends and charming boyfriend standing by my side. Thank you all so much!!!" I blew a kiss to the audience. Then, Ryan and I went back to our seats.

Nolan's POV

One thing I can't deny is that Layla is beautiful and is wearing the heck out of that dress. I watched them walk back to where they were sitting. I saw Layla's cousin sitting with them. She was just as beautiful in her floor length gown. "I just got to have her!" Gosh she is beautiful. Ever since meeting her 4 months ago, I can't stop thinking about her. Is it because she rejected me or do I really like her? I know what I need to do, but don't know if I want to.

*********************************
Layla's POV

"You did a great job up there, Layla."

"Thank you. But, I was a nervous wreck up there."

"You, didn't seem like it, baby."

"You helped a lot with that." I glanced around to take in the atmosphere of my first fashion show. It was amazing! I saw Adriana walking over. "Holy cow, that is Marco Fiore walking with her!" The woman walking with them looks familiar.

"Noeli, is that you?" We both squealed like little girls.

"Wait until I tell Kam I saw you. It is really great to see you Layla. And, congratulations on your business."

"Thank you! And, it is great to see you too. We definitely have to exchange numbers. I miss our sleepovers and girl chats. These are my friends, Alicia and Jamala. And, my cousin, Darlene. This extremely, handsome man is my boyfriend, Ryan."

"This is my fiancé, Marco. Kam is married to his brother, Cris."

"That is how we actually met." Goodness, even his voice is sexy.

"It is an honor to meet you. And, excuse me for fangirling right now. And, congratulations on your engagement. I'm sorry I missed Kam's wedding."

"It's okay. I get that all the time. And, thank you."

Adriana then says, "Marco heard that you may be open to adding menswear attire to your locations."

"If you ever need a model, I would love to help out with your line."

"Really?! Ryan sugar, please catch me before I faint. This day just keeps getting better." He came over, stood behind me and wrapped his arms around me so I wouldn't fall.

"We have another surprise for you. But, let's get over to the reception. It is a short ride from here." We all left and headed over to the reception.

10 minutes later.

We arrived at the reception. Adriana had it arranged that Marco and Noeli would sit at our table. While dinner was being served, we talked about what was going on in our lives.

"Where do you guys live now?"

"Well, Marco and I live in California at the moment. Next year, we plan to get married and move to Florida with Kam and Cris. My mom passed away in June."

"Mama Jayde passed? I can't believe she is gone. I'm so sorry to hear that. I live in Long Island with my 5 year old daughter, Braelyn."

"Guess what? Kam is pregnant with twins. She is due in December. And, she adopted Cris' twins. They are just so adorable and cute. We just had a baby shower for her. We are going to have another in November. I'll call you with the dates."

"Great. I'll bring Braelyn so she can meet the kids."

"Hey Layla, would you like to be a bridesmaid in our wedding? We are waiting until after she gives birth."

"Is her mood swings that bad? And, I would love to be in your wedding."

"Yes they are. Cris calls me sometimes looking for help. And, of course you are going to need someone to walk with. So, your name is Ryan, correct?"

"Yes."

"If you would like to, you are welcome to be a groomsmen and walk with Layla."

Ryan said, "Thank you."

"Excuse me everyone. I need to find the restroom."

Ryan's POV

I watched Layla walk from the table. I saw some guys staring at her. I couldn't stop them from staring, but I sure as heck will break another hand if they touch her. She is mine.

"Listen, how long are you in Milan for?"

Marco answered, "We'll be here through Friday."

"I wanted to propose to Layla on Wednesday. I have a ring for her and both families are flying in tomorrow. If you both can make it, I would love for you to come."

"Of course. We will be there. I have an idea. I have a photo shoot on Wednesday. But, the model I was posing with backed out at the last minute. As long as you are okay with the type of photo shoot it is, it will be Layla's." I liked his idea and I was okay with the shoot. I have no need to be jealous. Layla is mine. "Here she comes."

Marco asked her, "How would you like to do a photo shoot with me on Wednesday?"

********************************

Layla's POV

"Seriously?!! I would love to! But, I don't have any modeling experience. And, what would I be modeling?"

"Layla, don't worry. You are a natural."

"Noeli is right. It is a swimwear shoot. You would be compensated for your time. And, you would receive royalty fees every time they are advertised - whether in a magazine, billboard, etc."

I looked over to Ryan. "I'm okay with doing it. Are you okay with me modeling a swimsuit?"

"It's fine, Layla. You didn't have to ask."

"Yes I did, especially if the ads go in magazines and on billboards. I want to respect your feelings. We are a team, sugar. We should make these decisions together."

"Thank you for considering my feelings. It means a lot, Layla. But, this is a big opportunity for you. You not only get to pose with Marco, but it could help expand your business even more. So, go for it. That is why you are special."

"I would love to do it. Thank you so much for the opportunity to work with you. What time is the shoot?"

"It's at noon."

"We will have a limo come get you, Layla." Adriana added.

I am so looking forward to this photo shoot. And, I could potentially add the swimwear line to my locations. I am so leaning towards opening up a location in Milan.

Ryan's POV

We had a good time talking and eating at the table with everyone. I fall more and more in love with Layla every day we are together. For her to care more about my feelings is beautiful. Music came on indicating it was time for guests to dance. "Layla, would you like to dance with me?"

"Why yes I would, kind sir." She put her hands in mine and let me lead her to the dance floor. Once there, she put her arms around my neck and I put my arms around the small of her back and put her close to me.

For a little bit, we were just lost in each other's eyes. Then she says, "It feels like a dream. I get to be in a photo shoot with a super male model. And, he is really sweet and kind. Not as sweet as you. Are you sure you are okay with me posing, possibly, in a bikini?"

"I am okay with it. And, at the end of the day, you are mine. No one is ever going to take you away from me." 

"She is going to be surprised when she sees the whole photo shoot."

More couples started to get up and dance. Her cousin, Darlene, was even dancing. So, I swung her around so she could see.

"Oooh, I see Darlene has found someone to dance with. He's cute too. For her he is."

"Good save there, Layla." While dancing, I saw Nolan out of the corner of my eye. And as usual, he was talking to some girl. Probably his 'fun' for the night.

Suddenly, Layla felt my hands to see where they were." Why did you do that?"

"Because someone just felt on my butt again."

Seriously? What is wrong with people? I twisted Layla around. As soon as I did that, the couple that was near us suddenly moved so that the guy was standing behind Layla. I saw his hand reaching for her butt again. I grabbed the guy's hand. Before I broke it, I told Layla, "Tell this dude in Italian that I am about to break his freaking hand for touching you."

"Perché sei toccare me? !! freaking pervertito !! preparare per sentire dolore!" (Why are you touching me?!! Freaking pervert!! Prepare to feel pain!) Everybody within an earshot heard what Layla said. Then, I broke his freaking hand. I grabbed Layla's hand and went over to wear the music was playing.

"Ask the man if he has a microphone. I want every man in this building to listen up." She asked the man for the microphone. "Layla, I want you to translate a message for me." I told her what to say and she pointed to me while saying it.

"Mi scusi, per favore? La mia ragazza e io siamo venuti qui per divertirci e potenzialmente espandere la sua attività qui. Ma, finora, ben due volte qualcuno l'ha toccata in modo inopportuno. Lo dirò solo una volta. Se qualcun altro la tocca, TI FER H !! Capiche ?!" (Excuse me please? My girlfriend and I came over here to have a good time and potentially expand her business. But, so far twice someone has inappropriately touched her. I am only going to say this once. If anyone else touches her, I WILL HURT YOU!! Capiche?!) Then, we walked back to our table.

"Did someone really do that to you, Layla?" Adriana asked her.

"It happened once during the fashion show. Ryan broke the guy's hand. And, a few minutes ago, somebody touched my butt. Ryan broke his hand too."

"That explains why that guy was escorted." Said Adriana.

Then, Marco excused himself and went over to where the music was playing and spoke his mind too.

"avvero, Milano? È così che trattiamo le persone ora - toccando in modo inappropriato la donna di un altro? La mia amica e il suo ragazzo sono venuti per espandere la sua attività e divertirsi. Cosa c'è di sbagliato in te gente? !! Se non si espande qui non avete nessuno da incolpare se non voi stessi. Ora, se sento Layla ancora una volta che è stata toccata in modo inappropriato, non sentirai solo dal suo ragazzo, ma sentirai anche da me. Adesso goditi il resto della notte." (Seriously, Milan? Is this how we treat people now - by inappropriately touching another man's woman? My friend and her boyfriend came over to expand her business and have fun. What is wrong with you people?!! If she doesn't expand here you all have no one to blame but yourselves. Now, if I hear from Layla one more time that she has been touched inappropriately, you will not only hear from her boyfriend, but you will hear from me too. Now, enjoy the rest of the night.)

Then he walked back over to the table.

"Thank you for doing that." Layla said to him.

"You're welcome, Layla. I hope what happened tonight doesn't change your mind about bringing your business here."

"Marco and his brother, Cris, are the investors I was talking about. Surprise!" Adriana said to Layla.

"Layla, don't worry about ever paying us back. Adriana spoke highly about you. I had a chat with Cris about it and we did a little research on your company. You are successful in the United States. So, we wanted you to be successful here on Milan."

Layla was speechless. And, I could tell she was getting emotional. So, I scooted close to her and wrapped my arm around her and the other arm, I put her hand in mine.

"I don't know what to say. Thank you and your brother so much for the support. This is the best surprise yet. You have a great guy there, Noeli."

"Well, it is not the best surprise yet. Wait until you see the photo shoot on Wednesday, Layla."

"The second home that I said was mine, is actually yours. It is yours for when you visit Milan. That is my way to show my support. Your designs are incredible, Layla. We will talk more tomorrow about everything."

"See, Layla, you have so many people behind you that want to see you become successful in Europe."

Then, I heard a voice I thought I would never hear again.

"Ryan Meyers, is that you? I thought I would never see you again."

***********************************

Thank you all for reading chapter 10. The pictures and videos are courtesy of Pixabay and You-Tube.

Can Stock Photos picture:

1. fashion runway - © Can Stock Photo / leszekglasner

Marco Fiore, Cris Fiore, Kam and Noeli are from my other story.

And, thank you all for the votes and comments. 😘😘