A Billionaire's Universe
The lunch ended with unspoken thoughts lingering, a connection forming between them that neither was ready to acknowledge. Leonardo offered to drive Amara home, but she declined. She wasn't prepared for that level of intimacy—not at this moment. As she stood to leave, he leaned in, his voice a quiet promise near her ear:
"This isn't finished. I'll see you later."
The confidence in his voice unsettled her. It wasn't a question; it was a statement.
That afternoon, Amara wandered around her living room, struggling to focus on anything. Her emotions were a jumble—half excited and half scared. What am I doing? she wondered as she filled a glass with water but didn't drink it. This wasn't her usual self. She wasn't the kind of woman to seek comfort in another man simply because her marriage had fallen apart.
But still... Leonardo was not just any man. He was like fire, a storm, and something she couldn't escape. He effortlessly drew her into his world, without any regrets. Even amid her turmoil, she felt a strong desire to be pulled in.
When her phone vibrated again, she didn't need to check; she knew it was from him.
"The car is outside. Don't make me wait."
Her stomach churned. She ought to decline, to stay home, hide from reality, and pretend nothing had happened between them. But something in his message made it difficult to say no. Ignoring her better instincts, she grabbed her clutch, tidied her hair, and stepped out into the night.
A sleek black limousine waited at the curb, its dark windows gleaming in the streetlight. A uniformed driver opened the door for her, offering a slight bow.
"Mrs. Amara," he greeted her politely.
She paused at the title—Mrs. Amara. A wave of guilt washed over her, but she shoved it aside and climbed into the car.
Inside, the vehicle smelled of leather blended with something deeper and enticing. A bottle of champagne sat in a silver bucket next to two crystal glasses. Soft music played in the background, and Leonardo was seated across from her, patiently waiting.
He was the epitome of sophistication. His dark suit fit him perfectly, and his watch shimmered softly in the dim light. But it was his eyes that captivated her—firm and authoritative, as if he had been anticipating her arrival all along.
"You made it," he said, his tone smooth, a subtle smile playing on his lips.
"I promised myself I wouldn't," she admitted, her fingers fidgeting in her lap.
"But here you are," he replied, pouring champagne into two glasses and handing her one. "Cheers to surprising decisions."
Their glasses clinked softly together, and Amara took a cautious sip, feeling the bubbles dance on her tongue. She averted her gaze, worried he might see too deeply into her soul, but he leaned in closer.
"What do you see when you look at me?" he asked, his voice gentle.
Her breath caught in her throat. "What?"
"A woman who's been trapped for far too long. A woman who has the right to experience freedom." His expression softened, yet his intensity remained. "And I want to be the guy who helps you find it."
Her heart raced in her chest. Every word he uttered was alluring, a promise. She knew she should hold back, but the temptation was overwhelming.
Before she could respond, the car came to a stop. She looked out the window, her jaw dropping in astonishment.
Before them stood a tall glass building, its sleek edges glowing with the city lights like a gem. The name "Bologna Enterprises" sparkled in gold above the entrance.
"Where are we?" she asked, her breath quickening.
"My world," Leonardo replied simply.
Inside, the lobby gleamed with marble floors and crystal chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. The staff lowered their heads politely as he passed, and their eyes widened slightly when they noticed Amara beside him. She felt their gazes on her, as if they already recognized her significance to him.
They entered a private elevator that swiftly ascended to the top floor. When the doors opened, Amara gasped.
The office was more than a workspace; it felt like a high-rise palace. Large windows offered breathtaking views of the dazzling city below, stretching into the endless night. In one corner stood a grand piano, modern art adorned the walls, and shelves filled with rare books glimmered in the soft light.
"This is where I make my mark," Leonardo stated, moving toward the expansive glass window.
"Every deal, every empire, every choice starts here." He turned to face her, his eyes locked onto hers. "And tonight, I want you to experience it—not just as a guest, but as someone who truly belongs here."
Her mouth fell open in surprise. "Belongs?"
He walked toward her, his presence strong and magnetic. "You've lived in someone else's shadow for too long. With me, you won't just be a shadow. You'll be at the forefront."
Her breath quivered. "Leonardo, I... I'm not sure I can."
He reached out, gently caressing her cheek with his hand, his touch softening the strong energy he radiated. "You already do."
His words ignited something within her.