The Mafia's Fragile Rose

Chapter 5

Adrian's POV

I couldn’t stay put. Sitting in the penthouse, staring at the empty couch and the faint stain, my thoughts kept snapping back to her — to Aria. That girl. My mind refused to let her go.

I picked up my phone, dialed the manager’s number. When he answered, his usual stiff tone didn’t mask the edge of caution in his voice.

“Is Aria on duty today?” I asked, keeping my voice low, controlled. Just casual enough to seem like a normal inquiry.

There was a pause. “Y-yes, sir." She’s… she’s on the floor,” he stammered, betraying the tension I expected.

“Good,” I said, voice smooth, dangerous. “Keep her busy.” I hung up before he could ask why.

The thought of her there, working while I wanted her here, gnawed at me. I couldn’t wait.

I grabbed my coat and left the penthouse, descending the private elevator. By the time I reached the lobby, I was composed on the outside, but inside, my pulse was racing. Every step toward the hotel floor was calculated, deliberate, dominant. I had to see her.

I spotted her almost immediately bent over a cart of towels, fingers trembling slightly as she stacked them. Her hair fell over her face, hiding her blush. My chest tightened. She didn’t know I was here yet, and I wanted it that way. I wanted to watch her, feel the heat of her obliviousness.

“Aria,” I said softly. I want to take you out tonight". Dinner. Just you and me.”

My pulse surged at the sight of her so small, so alive, so utterly captivating. I didn’t speak for a moment, letting her heart race. Letting mine race.

She froze, then slowly straightened, eyes wide. The air between us thickened, unspoken tension coiling tight. She didn’t move, didn’t speak, and that was fine. I didn’t need words. Just seeing her there nervous, alert, aware of me was enough.

I let my gaze linger a heartbeat too long before stepping closer, my presence unmistakable. Every movement, every glance, said what my words didn’t.

Her eyes widened, cheeks flushing pink. She looked down at her hands, fidgeting with the hem of her uniform.

“I… I can’t,” she whispered.

I stepped closer, lowering my voice to a velvet command. You can. You will. I want you there.

She hesitated, torn between fear and curiosity. Finally, a small, almost reluctant nod. “O… okay.”

I allowed myself a brief smile. "Good." I’ll have a car pick you up. Don’t be late.

I left her there, heart pounding, anticipation thrumming through my chest. This would be interesting.

Aria's POV

I barely slept.

Every time I closed my eyes, I felt his lips on mine again, soft, then demanding, then gentle as he pulled away. The memory made my chest tight and my cheeks burn with embarrassment and something else I didn't want to name.

Go home, Aria. Before I forget, I should let you.

What did that even mean? And why had I wanted him to forget?