[Chapter 45: The Real Estate Rendezvous]
The luxury condo lobby smelled of leather and eucalyptus — modern elegance tailored for those with heavy wallets and empty hearts. Ryan Carter stepped in like he owned the building, his shoes silent on the marble floor.
[New System Objective: "Close the Deal" – Seduce the high-end realtor during a private showing.]
[Target: Victoria Lang | Age: 39 | Widowed | Net Worth: $$$ | Turn-ons: Dominance, Decisiveness, Secrecy]
[Reward: Trait Unlock – 'Silver Tongue': Succeed at 1 difficult persuasion per day.]
Victoria Lang was waiting by the glass elevators. Her blazer was white, cinched at the waist. Her heels made music on tile. She was the kind of woman who controlled rooms with a glance.
"You must be Mr. Carter," she said. Her handshake was firm. So were her curves.
"I like a woman who arrives before time," Ryan said.
She chuckled. "And I like a man who doesn't waste mine. Shall we?"
The penthouse was gorgeous — two floors, glass walls, panoramic city views.
"Perfect for someone with your… taste," she said, unlocking the rooftop deck.
"I'm more interested in what's behind the curtain," he said.
She gave him a sidelong glance. "Careful. That could mean anything."
"I like layers."
She closed the distance slightly, her tone dropping. "Are you here to buy property or flirt with the listing agent?"
He smiled. "Why not both?"
[Progress: 57% – Verbal Play Accepted]
She gave him a slow once-over. "Most men think money buys access. You're not most men."
"I believe in earning things."
Victoria's eyes sparkled. "Then earn me."
The rooftop became their stage. She leaned against the railing, wind tousling her hair. He stepped behind her, hands grazing her hips.
"This isn't professional," she said, breathless.
"Neither is what you wore," he replied, fingers tracing her waist.
The kiss was electric. Her lips fierce, almost hungry. She turned in his arms, pulling him to the floor cushions placed near the fireplace pit. The city skyline watched silently.
His jacket was gone, then her blouse. Skin met skin. She gasped when his mouth explored her neck, her chest, her inner thighs. She shivered beneath him, clinging tightly.
[Objective Completed: "Close the Deal"]
[Unlocked Trait: Silver Tongue – Once per day, turn the tide of any verbal interaction.]
Later, Victoria lay beside him wrapped in a cashmere throw, watching the city lights.
"I haven't done that since…" She trailed off.
"Since someone made you feel worth more than the property?"
She laughed. "Exactly."
"Don't worry," Ryan said, stroking her hair. "I'm more than interested in long-term investments."