Page 9 of Forever Desired
“It’s two in the morning. How about I come back around nine or ten?” Athena suggested. That way she could go home, rest a little, take a shower, and be dressed in appropriate clothes to meet the man who authorized her paychecks.
“Mr. Ludovici has just returned from overseas and is still on their time zone. He’s wide awake now, and I promise, it won’t take long.” Devin certainly was a person who got her way.
Athena chewed on her lip. Who was she kidding? She had a handsome rich guy wanting to meet with her.
“Okay.” She gave a quick nod before turning back to Liza with her eyes wide. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”
“Yeah, have a great night.” Liza gave a small wave and took off down the hallway.
Athena didn’t know what was in store for her. Memories of his heated gaze came to mind, and she stood to her full height. She’d be a fool not to see what the owner of one of the most successful casinos wanted. The exhaustion faded, and she felt as if a second wind swept through her.
“Lead the way, Ms. Albini,” Athena said.
“Please, call me Devin.”
Athena nodded and followed the woman. They walked to the elevator, and Athena had to beat down the butterflies in her stomach. Her mind flooded with all the potential reasons Mr. Ludovici would want to meet with her, and she couldn’t come up with one that would sound reasonable at this time of night.
Athena’s breath caught in her throat as she trailed behind Devin into the penthouse. She’d known it existed, but everyone knew that no one was allowed up to it unless they had special privileges. She took in the luxurious apartment. It had an open concept with a modern feel. The dark color tones were masculine in nature. There were no family pictures or hints that a woman lived there.
Down girl.
“I’m sure he’s out on the balcony,” Devin said, walking past through the oversized living room toward a wall of glass.
Anticipation mounted in Athena at the thought of seeing him again. Her breaths came fast as she and Devin came upon the glass door. A single figure stood by the railing. Devin opened the door and stepped through.
“Mr. Ludovici, I have Ms. Chambers to see you as you requested,” she announced. She gave a small smile and waved Athena forward.
He turned around, and his gaze met hers. She paused inside the doorway, unsure of herself. He’d taken off his suit jacket. The sight of him in his white button-down shirt with the sleeves rolled up and dress pants was the sexiest thing she’d ever seen. His hair was tousled as if he’d been combing his fingers through it.
“Ms. Chambers,” he murmured.
He, too, had the same accent as Devin. She wasn’t sure where it was from, but her heart stuttered.
“Mr. Ludovici,” she breathed. She reached up and tucked her thick hair behind her ear. Her bag was getting heavy. She adjusted it on her shoulder, unable to break the casino owner’s gaze.
“Please call if you need anything,” Devin encouraged.
Athena jumped. In just that short span of time she’d forgotten the woman was standing there. Athena turned and found Devin paused in the same place with her head tilted to the side.
“Would you like for me to place your bag in the living room?”
“Why, yes. Thank you.” Athena handed her the bag before turning back to her host. She barely heard the door shut. The realization she was left alone with the handsome casino owner hit her. She still didn’t know why she was being summoned to his personal quarters.
“Ms. Chambers, have you ever looked out over the strip at night?” he asked, waving her over to him.
“Please, call me Athena,” she responded. She wiped her clammy hands on her leggings. Her gaze swept the balcony and found it to be a softly lit area meant for entertaining. Couches, a dining table, and even a pool.
It was the life of luxury, and the man owning it had invited her up to meet with him.
“Then by all means, call me Sorin,” he murmured, holding his hand out to her for a shake.
She found her feet carrying her over to him. His larger hand enclosed hers. An electric bolt raced up her arm, and she gasped.
“It’s nice to meet you, Sorin,” she whispered. He was much taller than her, and she had to tilt her head back so she could meet his gaze.
“It’s my pleasure.” He slowly turned her hand over and raised it to his lips. They brushed her skin in a slight kiss, and she practically melted against him.
Athena stepped back, pulling her hand away from him. If she didn’t know any better, she’d swear he’d put a spell over her. Taking a deep breath, she leaned upon the railing and gazed out onto the bright lights below.
