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“That’s one of mine,” a voice says from behind me.
A sense of déjà vu hits me. His appearance is reminiscent of Enzo’s the first time we met at Daniella’s gallery. I sigh softly but don’t turn around. My eyes stay fixed on the painting.
“It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” Alexander asks.
“Would be nicer if you weren’t so cocky,” I mutter.
He chuckles. “Alright, I’ll tone it down. But seriously, tell me what you think. You’re an extremely talented artist. I would value your input.”
After a second’s hesitation, I decide to oblige.
“It’s inspiring to see how you capture emotions and create a visual narrative through your work. The composition is well-balanced, and it’s clear you paid particular attention to detail. Your use of light and shadow adds depth to your work. My only complaint is that it seems a little dark.”
Alexander moves beside me. He’s much taller than me; I barely reach his shoulders.
“You and I both know that the darkness is what really draws people in,” he states.
Tell me about it.He and Enzo would be great friends.
“Not everyone’s a fan of darkness.”
“Well, in that case, you and I are perfectly suited. I’m all light, beautiful. I can show you just how light over dinner tomorrow.”
My lips twitch but I hide the smile. “Can’t take a hint?”
“Unfortunately, I’m incredibly tenacious. Meaning you’re stuck with me until you agree to the date,” he says with a bright smile. “Unless there’s a reason you can’t.”
“There is. I’m not interested,” I deadpan.
“Come on. You’re hot, I’m hot. You’re an artist, and I’m one, too. We already have loads in common. And there’s chemistry. There’s literally nothing stopping us.”
The last time a guy thought we had chemistry, I ended up in an arranged marriage with him. Still, I don’t think Alexander’s someone I need to be worried about. And like he said, he really is hot. If he had approached me a month ago, I might have taken him up on his offer. But it’s too late now.
I look up at him, meeting his eyes.
“I really am sorry. You’re definitely interesting. But my answer is still no.”
He sighs. “Not even if I say pretty please? I’m gonna be honest; I’ve watched you for months, Rosa. Trying to work up the nerve to talk to you and now that I can you’re shutting me down. You’re really hurting me here.”
I’m a little touched by his words. And a little disappointed. If he had approached me months ago, maybe we would both be in completely different places.
“I’m sorry,” I say again, for the lack of anything better to say.
He shrugs. “It’s alright. But you won’t mind if I escort you for the rest of the evening? You could help me find my next purchase at the auction. We could dissect art pieces that aren’t mine, maybe make fun of them,” he suggests, playfully waggling his eyebrows.
“Actually, we already have plans,” Enzo’s voice reaches me from behind. I turn around, and there he stands. Captivating, exuding confidence and power.
With a single rose in hand, he stands tall, his magnetic presence commanding attention. His chiseled features and self-assured demeanor create an aura of undeniable allure.
“Enzo, what are you doing here?” I ask, still slightly taken aback.
“I was hoping that maybe we could check out some pieces together. You know I don’t really understand any of this crap, so it’d be senseless to walk without you. What do you say?” he asks.
I laugh. “Alright, fine. I’m in.” I offer an apology to Alexander and walk away with Enzo.
“Is this rose for me, or are you thinking of giving it to someone else tonight?” I gesture towards the flower he’s holding. His eyes lock onto mine, a mischievous spark igniting between us. “To someone else? Never,” he whispers, the hint of a smirk playing on his lips as he sensually places the rose in my hair.
For an electrifying moment, he lingers, our gazes intensifying. The air thickens with desire, and my breath hitches as the magnetic pull between us becomes undeniable.
