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.

young woman with no experience, and yet she had the audacity to refuse Gore.

many renowned designers clamored to join his

the job,

fair, Gore was a notorious playboy, always surrounded by eager admirers. But

over, Gore lowered his expectations. Aurora eventually signed a contract with him, but not as a designer for his

the raw materials, and she crafted the pieces, which

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

easy money. But to keep

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

a new release from DO. That was

Clothville. The new collection will have to wait until spring,"

hotel are you staying at? I'll come pick you up," Gore said, shifting

in Rome? Business trip?"

did you think I'd fly over from Paris just for you? Unless, of course, you agreed to

like that," Aurora said firmly. She knew Gore wasn't a bad person; back then, he had only been mildly infatuated with her. But even as a joke, she refused to entertain any ambiguity with

no more jokes. Hmph, putting romance before friendship," Gore grumbled, feigning indignation. Of course, he already knew about Aurora and Julian.

him her address and hung up. Gore was one of her few friends, despite how insufferable

up, Gore smiled wryly. "What if I really did fly all the way from Paris

learned just how indifferent she could be. He had thought she

knew there was only one person who truly mattered to him.

didn't need much-just to see her, talk to her. That