Unguarded Moment (25 page)

'Has she forgiven Leon yet?' Alix asked anxiously.

'Yes—he was summoned back to Italy for the signing of the contracts.'

She said slowly, 'And Monty? How has she taken the news? She never liked me and…'

'Monty was the only other person who knew the truth from the beginning. It was she who rented the place in Northumberland where Bianca and her sister lived until you were born, and she looked after Bianca afterwards too. She didn't dislike you really. She simply adored Bianca and rejected anything that might harm her—a category into which you, my sweet, were instantly slotted. She was horrified when Bianca decided to take you into the household. She thought it was a sentimental act that would betray Bianca in the end. I don't think you'll find her so hostile in the future.'

She said ruefully, 'I keep telling myself I'm dreaming, but that any moment I'll wake up, and I'll be alone again.'

'I'll prove you're awake,' said Liam. 'I'll pinch you.' And did so, very softly and sensuously.

Alix gasped, and slid her arms up around his neck. The pressure of his hard body against hers was making her senses swim, and she had to concentrate in order to think coherently.

She said, 'When are you taking me to see Bianca?'

'Later,' he said huskily. 'It's selfish of me, Alix, I know, but I want you to myself for tonight at least. When the full story breaks none of us will have any peace for days, until the next sensation comes along. Do you think you'll be able to bear it?'

'I can bear anything,' she said, 'as long as I know that you love me.'

'I love you, Alix,' he said, then, wickedly, 'Want me to prove it?'

'By pinching me again?' she teased.

He kissed her, his mouth lingering on hers. 'Among other things. When did you say your friends would be back?'

'Not for hours,' she confessed. 'They're celebrating their wedding anniversary.'

'How very considerate of them!' He put his arm round her, and began to walk with her up the stairs. 'This time next year, they can help us celebrate ours.' Alix laughed shakily. 'You make it sound wonderful.'

'That,' he said, 'is because it will be wonderful. We'll make it wonderful for each other. For the rest of our lives,' she said, and smiling with the promise of joy, she went willingly into his arms.

FETTUCCINE ALFREDO

When in Rome, do as the Romans do. Good advice, particularly when it comes to eating! One of the most delightful and popular Italian dishes is Fettuccine Alfredo. It's quick and easy to make—and delicious to eat!

What you need: 

1 lb. fettuccine noodles

8 cups of water, salted

6 eggs 

3 cups heavy cream 

1/2 teaspoon salt 

pepper to taste

2 cloves garlic, crushed

1/2 cup butter 

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese 

parsley, chopped

What to do:

In a large saucepan, bring water to a boil, add fettuccine noodles, partially cover and simmer for 7 to 10 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, thoroughly beat eggs and cream together with salt and pepper. Add garlic to mixture. When noodles are cooked—they should be slightly chewy—drain into a colander and run under cold water then under hot to remove starch and prevent noodles from becoming sticky. Turn noodles back into the saucepan, place on low heat and add butter. Stir until butter is melted. Add egg mixture and mix in until noodles are thoroughly coated. Add Parmesan and stir until cheese is well distributed. Turn into a large serving dish. Serves 6 to 8.
Buon' appetito
!