DELUCA
I kept playing with the children, but my mind was fixed on the woman sitting across from me at the playground.
I had been surprised to see her there when I walked in, gently guiding the little girl as they drew together.
A pang of jealousy tightened in my chest when I realized I wasn't the only one captivated by her. Francesco Adolfo couldn't take his eyes off her either.
I watched him from the corner of my eye as he made his way back to where she sat with the kid and I wondered what there was between them.
When I glanced back, I saw her rise and head toward the restroom. Seizing the opportunity, I quickly excused myself from the children.
"I'll be right back, kiddos," I said. They barely glanced up, nodding as they remained focused on the toys I had brought for them.
Then I hasten my steps after her.
"Elena," I called just before she could enter the ladies' room.
She turned her head slightly, her expression unreadable.
"It's Mrs. Russon," she corrected, pausing mid-step.
My gaze swept over her from head to toe, lingering on the curve of her figure and the elegance of her smooth legs.
"And next time," she said coldly, "try not to stop me without a tangible reason." Her voice was sharp as she turned toward the bathroom.
Instinct took over. Before I could stop myself, I grabbed her hand and pinned her against the wall. A mistake—because the moment her scent hit me, a rich blend of jasmine and something sweeter, my mind clouded with thoughts I had no business entertaining. My eyes dropped to her lips, soft and parted in surprise, and the sudden heat surging through my veins made it impossible to think clearly.
Her eyes flashed with anger as she twisted beneath my grip, but I didn't let go. Her breath hitched, her chest rising and falling sharply, and I could feel the tension vibrating between us. The warmth of her skin beneath my hand sent a jolt through me, awakening something dark and possessive.
"Let me go," she hissed, her voice sharp and cutting. She pushed against my chest, but I only tightened my hold, careful not to hurt her yet unwilling to release her.
My gaze lifted to meet hers. "Not until you hear me out," I said, my voice low and steady despite the storm raging inside me.
Her lips curled in defiance. "You think you can keep me here?" she snapped, fire flashing in her eyes.
I leaned in, close enough to feel her breath against my skin. "Try me."
Her eyes narrowed, and for a second, I thought she might slap me—but instead, she stilled, her gaze hardening.
"I have an offer for you," I whispered near her face.
"You must be out of your mind if you think I'd ever accept anything from you," she spat, her voice sharp and dripping with disdain.
A slow smile tugged at the corner of my mouth. "You haven't even heard what it is."
"And I don't care," she shot back. "Now let. Me. Go."
I held her gaze for a beat longer, the pulse beneath my fingertips quickening. Finally, I released her wrist, and she stepped back, adjusting her blouse as if I hadn't just rattled her.
"You'll change your mind," I said, my tone dark with certainty.
She scoffed. "Don't hold your breath."
I watched her walk away, the sway of her hips a taunt I couldn't ignore. My jaw tightened. She could pretend all she wanted—but this was far from over.
As I turned around, I saw Francesco Adolfo watching me intently.
"Shit! Just what I needed," I muttered under my breath.
He walked toward me, his gaze sharp and assessing.
"Is everything alright?" he asked, his tone calm but laced with curiosity. For a moment, I was afraid he might have watched the whole thing —until I followed the direction of his eyes and realized why he was asking. He was probably wondering why I was standing near the ladies' restroom. It wasn't my first time at the orphanage; I should have known better.
"Sorry, I had to take an important call. I didn't realize I'd wandered into the wrong area," I said, hoping he'd buy the excuse.
"It's fine. I'm sorry if I startled you," Francesco said, his expression softening.
"I should get going now," I replied, already stepping away.
Francesco extended his hand. "Thanks for everything you do for the kids."
I hesitated for a moment before shaking his hand. Then, glancing toward the restroom door she had disappeared into, I turned and walked away.