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?"

extended 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.

Europe that has caught the attention of

a meeting with him for ages, but his schedule is

recent phone call with Asher, during which he mentioned a trip to Europe. At the time,

you weren't willing to fight

And her mother? Aurora found herself looking forward to the evening. The project had

and showed no interest in this one. Still, aside from him, Aurora

has you this excited?" Gore teased. "You do realize he's in his forties or fifties-old enough to be your father. What's got you

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

Later, Aurora informed Julian of her plans to attend the banquet that evening. Left with no choice, Julian

last outing, Aurora didn't bother changing her outfit, opting instead to

however, looked her up and down with disdain.

and that's what matters," Aurora replied with a smile. Last time, her outfit had been too daring,

matter to them more than anything. And because Aurora genuinely loved Julian, she couldn't bear to

the event, she wouldn't need to get close

at the hotel, Aurora had no plans to go in

Are you planning to park cars or hold doors for people?" Gore quipped. "Can't I wait

to him like glue all the time? It's much

big boss. Go charm some ladies. I just saw your ex-and your

wait here with you. I can't leave you

you to be

for me. How