Devil's Prisoner of Love by Prefer

A six-month deadline was, truthfully, far too rushed. After all, what brand hadn't weathered countless storms before standing tall as it does today? Aurora's competitive spirit, however, drove her to set an ambitious goal for herself.

Gore noticed the red jade bangle on her wrist. "You never used to like wearing jade bracelets. Changed your taste?"

Aurora typically only accessorized with rings or earrings, and only when they matched a specific outfit. Jewelry, to her, was never more than a complement to her clothing. Aside from the engagement ring Julian had given her-which she rarely took off-all other pieces of jewelry were worn briefly and then set aside.

Her wardrobe leaned toward modern, fashionable styles, which didn't pair well with jade bangles. This had given Gore the impression that she wasn't fond of them.

"It's not a change in taste," she replied lightly. "I just happened to like this one."

"Is that so? It's rare for you to find something you like." Gore chuckled, recalling how, back when he pursued her, he had gifted her many exquisite pieces of jewelry-only to have them returned without so much as a glance.

"Since we're old friends catching up, why don't you accompany me to a banquet tonight?" Gore suggested.

"A banquet?"

"Yes, a charity gala. A lot of influential people will be attending."

"I can't imagine you going to something so tedious without an ulterior motive," Aurora remarked, her sharp instincts as a businesswoman kicking in.

"Exactly. You've heard of Bardem, haven't you?"

"Which Bardem? Surely you don't mean Michael Bardem, the real estate tycoon?"

beyond the jewelry business, even though that was the identity most people associated with him. In addition to jewelry, he had investments in other industries, including real estate. However, his real estate endeavors weren't as prominent, given the fierce competition in the field, which left the spotlight firmly on his

project in Northern Europe that has caught the attention of real estate moguls

charity gala is his event. I've been trying to arrange a meeting with him for ages, but his schedule is always packed. This is finally my chance. Do you

Aurora replied, her curiosity piqued. She remembered a recent phone call with Asher, during which he mentioned a trip to Europe. At the time, she

seized. If you weren't willing to fight for

would be there too. And her mother? Aurora found herself

showed no interest in this

mention of Michael Bardem has you this excited?" Gore teased. "You do realize he's in

go with you tonight-now stop talking so much." Aurora's excitement stemmed from the possibility of seeing old

plans to attend the banquet that evening. Left with no choice, Julian adjusted his schedule to accompany her. There was no

lessons of her last outing, Aurora didn't bother changing

her up and down with disdain. "Good

Aurora replied with a smile. Last time, her outfit had

you, your health and comfort matter to them more than anything. And because Aurora genuinely loved

she wouldn't need to get close to Michael

at the hotel, Aurora had no plans

you planning to park cars or hold doors for people?" Gore quipped.

big deal. Must you stick to him like glue all the time? It's much warmer inside," Gore muttered, though his teasing masked

big boss. Go charm some ladies. I just saw your ex-and your ex-ex-ex-arrive. Maybe your next girlfriend is in

here with you. I can't leave you out in the cold like this-I'm a

expect you to be

jewelry for me. How could I