Devil's Prisoner of Love by Prefer

Life in Rome was inexplicably relaxing. During the day, Julian went to work, leaving Aurora with an unexpected vacation. She would sleep in, waking naturally, and then spend her time exploring. By now, she had wandered through every corner of the city center.

One morning, her phone rang.

"Hello, Gore," Aurora answered, her voice groggy as she sat up in bed, running a hand through her messy hair.

"You still remember me? You're in Europe and didn't even bother to visit? It's only a two-hour flight from Rome to Paris," a frustrated male voice retorted on the other end.

"Well, well, someone's keeping tabs on me. Big boss," she teased.

"Of course I am. Not only do I know where you've been, but I also know you designed a custom, one-of-a-kind ruby jewelry set for Candy."

"That was supposed to be a secret between her and me. How did you find out?" Aurora asked, intrigued.

"I know Candy too. We ran into each other at an awards gala the other night. The moment I saw that set, I knew it was your work. A little digging confirmed my suspicion."

"Big boss, our contract doesn't restrict me from gifting jewelry to friends. I didn't breach any terms, did I?" Aurora chuckled.

"You heartless woman! Do you think I called to talk about contract violations? My talented designer, now that you've ventured into perfumes, are you planning to abandon your jewelry fans? They're starving for your creations!" Gore's voice was exaggeratedly dramatic.

This man was none other than Gore, a renowned jewelry tycoon and Aurora's contract partner. His company was among the most prestigious in the world. Years ago, when Aurora's brand, DO, shot to fame, Gore had immediately recognized her talent-and her charm.

Of course, Aurora had turned him down on both counts. Designing was just a hobby for her at the time; she had her own company to establish.

was a young woman with no experience, and yet she had

designers clamored to join his company. For her, he had bent the rules and personally extended an offer, only

she refuse the job, but

eager admirers. But

signed a contract

would remain an independent creator. The company provided the raw materials, and she

creations were works of art, not commodities. The difference, she said, was that art was rare, while

crazy-turning down easy money. But to keep her, he

designs, mass-produce her work, or reveal her identity. She had complete creative

six months had passed without a new release from DO. That was why he was calling, hoping

collection will have to wait until spring," Aurora replied seriously. Although the contract didn't specify

are you staying at? I'll come pick

in Rome? Business

Paris just for you? Unless, of

firmly. She knew Gore wasn't a bad person; back then, he had only been mildly infatuated with her. But even as a

before friendship," Gore grumbled, feigning indignation. Of course, he already knew

how insufferable he had been in the beginning. Over time, their shared passion for design had brought

wryly. "What if I really did fly all the way from Paris just for you, you

she could be. He had thought she might end up with Asher, but she had returned home to be with Julian

there was only one person who truly mattered to him. When he heard she was in Rome, just two hours away by plane,

her,