10. Chapter Ten
Chapter Ten
Vincenzo
W atching her make her way to the lectern had my heart beating hard in my chest. Her perfect lips hypnotising me as she spoke about her father.
None of her words were sinking in, I was too engrossed in her beauty.
But when her eyes fell on me, I could feel her gaze burning into my very soul, I know I’ve captured her interest. I couldn’t help but let my lips quirk up into a small smirk, which caused her to falter, she quickly regained composure and completed the eulogy.
Now as the formal service comes to an end and people have begun to filter out, I follow the crowd and make my way into the Reflection Room.
I quickly survey all of the mourners, looking for the woman who has managed to catch my attention so quickly.
I spot her standing by a table, deep in conversation with a man who has his arm protectively around her shoulders.
She looks breathtaking, even in her grief.
I make my way through the room, appearing to mingle but discreetly observing her from a distance.
As I approach her vicinity, I overhear snatches of conversation about the gallery and the building that piques my interest. It seems she’s considering selling them both, which could be my opportunity to get closer to her, to learn more about her and maybe even win her trust.
I reach the table where she stands, and as she glances up at me, her eyes widen momentarily in recognition, and I can see a flicker of what could have been hopefulness in their depths before she masks it with a polite smile.
“I’m very sorry for your loss, Miss Walters,” I reach out my hand, offering her a handshake. She stares down at my hand for a moment before giving it a firm shake, clearing her throat, she then pulls her hand away and I give her another smile.
“Thank you, um, I’m not sure we have met,” her brows furrow in confusion as she tries to place me.
“Vincenzo Rossi, I’m so sorry we had to meet under these circumstances, Miss Walters. I knew your father well.” The man beside her chokes on his drink and gapes at me.
“As in Rossi Enterprises?” I smirk at the man and give him a firm nod.
“Yes, that’s correct. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Miss Walters,” I say, turning my attention back to her. “Your father spoke highly of you and your talents in the art world.”
Her eyes narrow slightly, studying me with curiosity. “Thank you, Mr. Rossi. It’s interesting to meet someone from my father’s business circle at a time like this.”
“I understand it may seem unusual, but I couldn’t help but attend today,” I reply smoothly. “I have heard only wonderful things about your father’s gallery and your work in the fine arts industry. If you ever consider selling, I would be very interested in discussing opportunities with you.”
Her expression shifts, a hint of surprise flickering across her features. “You’re interested in purchasing the gallery?”
I nod, maintaining eye contact with her. “Yes, very much so. I believe there is great potential there, and I would be honoured to continue your family’s legacy.”
“Why would my father have even been involved with Rossi Enterprises? Isn’t Rossi enterprises a construction business?” Emilia asks, eying me suspiciously. I can’t help but smirk at her.
“My father and I are fans of fine art, Miss Walters. We can appreciate your father and his life's work. I’m sure your father would have some deals laying around, from pieces we purchased from him,” Emilia widens her eyes at my words.
“Look, I haven’t even decided if I want to sell the gallery, my father has just died, and we are putting him to rest today. The last thing I want to think of right now is selling what I have left of him.” I nod, taking in her words.
“I can understand that. Well, if you do change your mind, Miss Walters, here is my card.” I pass her my card and smile at her as I turn to leave.
Today has not gone as planned but I have at least planted the seed.
She wants to sell, I can tell by the interest in her eyes.
It’s now a matter of convincing her to sell to me.
“Pleasure meeting you, both,” I say as I turn and leave the Reflection Room, my men already waiting for me outside.
“Ready to go, Boss?” one of my men asks me as I smile back towards the room.
“Yes, take me back to the office,” I slide into the back of the car, and he closes the door behind me. I will be the one to get that gallery, but I need to get her to trust me, and I think I know just how to do that.
I enter my office, quickly followed by Martin hurrying in behind me. “Do you need anything from me, Sir?” he asks as I switch on my computer. “Is there something you need to tell me, Martin?” I ask, my patience wearing thin.
“Your father has called a dozen times, Sir.” I pinch the bridge of my nose, making my frustration known.
“Did he leave a message?” Martin shifts uncomfortably.
“He said he is still waiting for you to make a move on Kayla,” I sigh loudly as my phone begins to ring, it’s an unknown number. Martin quickly backs out of the room as I answer my phone.
“Enzo Rossi speaking,” I wait a few moments before a person on the other end lets out a sigh.
“Uh, hi Enzo, this is Emmy, I mean Emilia Walters.” I’m a little taken aback, as I realise who is calling.
“Miss Walters, to what do I owe this pleasure?” She clears her throat.
“I was wondering if you were able to meet up tomorrow, I need to discuss something with you.” I raise my eyebrows, surely, it cannot be this easy.
“Of course, Miss Walters. Name a place and time,” I respond, waiting a couple of beats for her answer. She lets out another sigh.
“I’ll text you a time and place, ok?” I smirk. “Of course, Miss Walters. Whatever suits you.” She ends the call, and I instantly receive a message with a time and location for our meeting in the morning.