Chapter 6 Irresistible Charm

“Then it’s your decision. I don’t like forcing anyone,” Antonio said indifferently. He knew that he shouldn’t let himself go too far and that coercion had never been his style. If she wasn’t willing, he wouldn’t push. The mafia boss glanced at Rose one last time before turning to walk away. However, Rose had no other choice. She hurried to block his path, determined to get some answers. In that instant, all her fear of him vanished. “Wait! We need to talk. Where do you think you’re going?” She called out, standing firmly in his way. Antonio raised an eyebrow, his expression cool. “Talk?” “Yes. I just want to know what kind of work you’re offering,” Rose replied. Antonio smirked, a mischievous glint lighting his eyes as an idea crossed his mind. He stepped closer to her, his sudden movement prompting Rose to back away, step by step. Before she could retreat further, his firm hand reached out, pulling her against his broad chest as he wrapped an arm around her waist. “You!” she gasped, her body stiffening at the unexpected contact. “You wanted to know what kind of work I had in mind, didn’t you?” Antonio’s voice was calm, but his unwavering gaze pinned her in place. “Yes,” Rose stammered. “But... let me go!” “I’m giving you your answer right now,” he replied smoothly. Rose struggled against him, her hands pressing firmly against his chest to push him away. “Enough! I don’t want to work for you anymore. Let me go—I’m leaving,” she said, her voice trembling but firm. Antonio’s sharp eyes roamed over her face, taking in her fiery expression. He was intrigued. The first time they met, she had boldly teased him, yet now she seemed hesitant. Why was she holding back? “Don’t you want to know? Tease me, and I’ll tell you,” He said, his voice laced with challenge. “No!” Rose snapped, her answer immediately and resolute. Rose, you need to leave now. Get out of here as fast as you can! She told herself, her heart pounding. Antonio leaned in closer, his piercing gaze never wavering. Her bright, defiant eyes drew him in, making him curious to discover more about the woman before him. He bent forward slightly, narrowing the space between them. But as his face drew closer, Rose leaned back, her hands still pressing against his chest. “You were teasing me just the other night. Why not now? There’s no one else here—just the two of us,” he said, a sly smile curling his lips. Antonio laughed suddenly, his deep, resonant chuckle filling the room. Slowly, he released her, his amusement taking even him by surprise. It had been years since he felt this lightheartedly. Rose stared at him, puzzled by his unexpected laughter. Taking advantage of the moment, she quickly stepped back, creating as much distance between them as possible. Antonio returned to the sofa and sat down, his demeanor calm once more. Rose, still wary, kept her eyes locked on him. “Have a seat,” he said, gesturing casually to the sofa opposite him, as if nothing had just happened. Rose hesitated, unsure if she could trust him. Finally, she approached the sofa and sat down—but as far away from him as possible. Antonio nearly laughed again at her exaggerated caution. “Am I really that scary? You didn’t seem to think so the other night—” “Let’s get to the point, shall we?” Rose interrupted quickly, cutting off any mention of their previous encounter. “I want to know exactly what kind of work you’re offering.” “A model,” Antonio replied succinctly. “A model?” Rose repeated, her tone skeptical. “Yes. And I won’t force you,” he said, standing. “If there’s nothing else, I have business to attend to.” “Wait!” Rose called after him, stepping forward. “We’re not done yet. I still—” “Let’s continue this conversation another time. I’m in a hurry today,” Antonio said, cutting her off. But as he turned to leave, he paused, turning back to her. “Oh, and one more thing,” he added with a smirk. “Next time you come to see me, don’t wear a dress like that. I might lose control and end up pulling it off you.” Rose froze, her face flushing crimson as Antonio walked out of the room. Does he have to be so blunt?! She stood there, torn between embarrassment and irritation, glaring at the door long after he had left. That evening, a lavish party was held at a grand white mansion. The guests arrived in droves, mingling among the opulent surroundings. This was a gathering of the wealthy elite, complete with exquisite food, rare wines, and beautiful women hired to entertain them. Antonio entered the venue with his usual stoic demeanor, ignoring the admiring glances from women as he walked past. The lively music did little to stir him; he felt detached from the opulence. Finding a quiet corner, he waited for the evening’s highlight—a prestigious wine auction. The centerpiece of the auction was a rare bottle of red wine from 1869, one of fewer than sixty bottles remaining in the world. The starting bid was a staggering $100,000, and the competition was fierce. “Feeling lonely?” A sultry voice interrupted his thoughts. A woman in a shimmering silver strapless dress slid into the seat beside him, her ample curves on display. She leaned in close, her breath brushing against his ear as she whispered, “Shall I keep you company?” Antonio didn’t even glance at her. Rising silently, he walked away, leaving her fuming in frustration. “Long time no see, Mr. Sofph,” a familiar voice greeted him. Antonio turned to see a middle-aged man in a tuxedo approaching with a warm smile. “Mr. Gale,” Antonio replied politely, though his tone was indifferent. “How have you been?” Gale asked. “Well, thank you. And yourself?” “I’m doing great. By the way, I’d like to introduce you to my daughter, Sara Gale. I think you’ll like her,” Gale said, grinning broadly. Antonio raised an eyebrow. It wasn’t the first time Gale had tried to coax him into a business partnership. This was clearly another attempt. “I think we should avoid business discussions tonight,” Antonio said firmly. Gale’s smile faltered slightly, but he didn’t press further. Later, as Antonio left the event, he climbed into the sleek car, waiting for him outside. Leaning back against the seat, he stared out the window, his thoughts restless. This shouldn’t be happening, he thought. I shouldn’t feel this way again. Closing his eyes, he tried to block out the intrusive memories. But they came rushing back. ‘Won’t you tell me you love me?’ ‘I... I can’t,’ she replied, her voice hesitant. ‘It’s okay. I won’t force you.’ ‘Nicks...’ ‘You don’t need to say anything else. Just know that I love you more than anything.’ Antonio opened his eyes, his expression hardening. He couldn’t allow himself to feel this way again—not when his heart still waited for her.