Seduced by the Tycoon at Christmas Read online

  “Zoe, don’t worry. It’s a ninety-minute flight from Milan to Paris. I’ll be fine.”

  “I know, humor me, okay?” she said with a laugh. “Have a safe trip.”

  “Will do. Be good while I’m away.”

  “I should be telling you the same thing, Mr. Smooth!”

  The sound of his throaty chuckle filled the line, tickling her ear and warming her heart. Zoe dropped the receiver in the cradle and marched around her desk to find out what the intern wanted, but she couldn’t wipe the smile off her face. Romeo brought out the best in her, made her feel alive, and she adored everything about him, especially his fun-loving personality. It was a challenge, because her thoughts were on Romeo and his upcoming trip to Paris, but Zoe focused intently on what the intern was saying.

  “The editor from Bellezza Moderna magazine just called,” she explained, shifting and shuffling her feet. “She wants us to send over three distinct outfits complete with accessories and shoes for their Valentine’s Day issue. I just need someone to look it over before I have everything delivered to her office.”

  Zoe unzipped the garment bag, noticed the intern had crammed three outfits inside, and spoke in a calm but firm voice. “This is unacceptable. If you send things out haphazardly, the editor of Bellezza Moderna will think we don’t value the dresses or this company.”

  The color drained from the intern’s face. “I’m sorry. I didn’t know. What should I do?”

  “Take everything out of the bag and carefully steam each dress,” she instructed, pointing to the creases on the strapless burgundy gown. “When you’re finished, hang each outfit on a velvet hanger, then spray it with perfume. One outfit per bag, no exceptions.”

  “Can you help me?” she squeaked. “I’m scared I’m going to make another mistake.”

  Zoe hesitated, struggled with what to do. She had a lot on her plate, and if she helped the intern she’d be even further behind. In the two years she’d been at Casa Di Moda, she’d done it all: fetched coffee, set up props for photo shoots, grabbed lunch for her boss, and even cleaned up after office parties and industry events. Zoe loved her job and her colleagues, and since she wanted to see the intern succeed, she nodded. “Let’s go. I’ll teach you.”

  Walking down the corridor with the intern nipping at her heels, Zoe heard Christmas music playing in the distance, boisterous laughter, smelled coffee and flowers in the air. Spotting Jiovanni at the end of the hallway, she smiled and waved. Swamped at work and busy with Romeo in the evenings, Zoe hadn’t seen him in days, but noticed he had a pep in his step as he swaggered toward her and assumed things were going well with his new girlfriend. The intern promised to meet Zoe in the conference room and ducked into the staff washroom.

  “Hey, beautiful! How the heck have you been?” he asked, kissing her on each cheek.

  “Don’t ask. Things have been crazy this week, and with Christmas right around the corner they’re only going to get crazier.” Zoe blew out a deep breath. Just thinking about everything she had to accomplish in the next six days made her head pound, but she was determined to complete each and every task on her list. “How have you been?”

  “Fantastic. I’m one step closer to launching my own clothing line, Designs by Jiovanni, and if everything goes according to plan, I’ll be leaving this dump in the new year.” A broad smile filled his lips. “Let’s do lunch. You can tell me all about your whirlwind romance with Romeo Morretti and your romantic weekend at his villa. You did see something besides the inside of his bedroom, right?”

  Zoe didn’t like him teasing her and punched him in the arm. “That’s not funny.”

  “It is to me!”

  “Bye, Jiovanni,” she said, stepping past him.

  “Lunch is on me. I’ll even throw in a cup of pistachio ice cream.”

  Zoe stopped and glanced over her shoulder. “Now you’re talking my language. I’m in.”

  “Cool. I’ll meet you in the lobby at noon.” Jiovanni took his cell out of the back pocket of his blue jeans, and groaned. “My phone’s dead, and I need to snap some pictures of the models in the outfits I’m working on for the spring collection.”

  “You can use my camera,” she said. “It’s in my office in my workbag. Go grab it.”

  “Thanks, Zoe, you’re the best.”

  “I know. I’m the best thing that’s ever happened to you!”

  “Damn right,” Jiovanni said with a laugh. “See you at lunch, Zoe. Don’t be late.”

  Chapter 18

  Hundreds of famous names from the world of fashion, entertainment, politics and business descended on one of the oldest castles in Italy on Saturday night for the fifteenth annual Christmas Wonderland Ball. Built in the thirteenth century, the stately brick building with arched windows and picturesque views had a magical, ethereal ambience. Known as the Oscars of Milan, the black-tie event was the most talked-about party of the year, and as Romeo exited the white Rolls-Royce limousine, lights flashed, paparazzi shouted his name, and reporters clutching microphones jockeyed for position on the red carpet.

  Celebrities were everywhere, but when Zoe stepped out of the luxury vehicle, the crowd pressed against the metal barricades, cheering uncontrollably. Romeo didn’t blame them. Stunning in a feathered burgundy gown with a dramatic train, his girlfriend seized the attention of everyone around them, even the pop stars and Hollywood actors signing autographs. Only Zoe could wear a designer gown and look relaxed and carefree. The press couldn’t get enough of her. The more she smiled and waved at the crowd, the louder they chanted her name.

  Hearing snickers, Romeo glanced over his shoulder to see what was making the crowd laugh. A British supermodel in a cutout dress, platform shoes and a Mohawk struck a pose. The Christmas Wonderland Ball was by invitation only, but some of the outfits on the red carpet were so outrageous, Romeo felt as if he were at a Comic-Con convention.

  “I’m not trying to brag,” he whispered, gazing into her eyes. “But you’re the best dressed woman here tonight, bellissima, and after the party wraps up, you’re mine all mine.”

  “Not me, we,” Zoe corrected. “You’re so handsome I can’t stop staring at you...”

  Her words made his chest inflate with pride. To complement Zoe’s one-of-a-kind gown, he’d paired his custom-made Casa Di Moda tuxedo with a burgundy bow tie, handkerchief and leather shoes. In the limousine during the thirty-minute drive from his villa to the castle, they’d flirted and kissed. Romeo was so hot for Zoe, all he could think about was making love to her. She was the perfect distraction, just what he needed after being interrogated by authorities for three days.

  Romeo considered the past seventy-two hours. Initially, he’d been reluctant to hand over his financial records or fly to the City of Lights to meet with authorities, but after talking things over with his attorney, his brothers and Zoe, he’d agreed to the interview. Markos told him not to worry, assured him that everything would be okay, but his gut feeling was that French authorities were out to get him. Through a translator, he’d vehemently defended his name. He told them the truth about his relationship with Julio Mario Domínguez, but they’d accused him of breaking the law for profit. Shocked by the crimes his client had been charged with, Romeo realized he’d never really known the Colombian businessman. He thanked his lucky stars they’d never traveled in the same social circles. The interview was a nightmare, and once authorities told him he was free to go he’d headed straight for the airport. Last night he’d returned to Milan and the first thing he’d done once his jet landed was call Zoe. On his way to his villa, he’d picked her up, and he’d been so happy to see her he’d wrapped her up in his arms, and held her tight.

  “When we get back to your place it’s on, so don’t overdo it on the dance floor tonight.” Winking, Zoe reached out and adjusted his silk bow tie. “I have something special planned for you, and
you’re going to need all your strength.”

  “RoZo, this way!”

  “Smile, RoZo, the camera loves you!”

  “How about a kiss? Lay one on her, Morretti. Show the world how it’s done!”

  Amused by the paparazzi, Romeo shook his head. Discreetly tugging his arm, Zoe raised an eyebrow, as if to ask, “What are you waiting for?” and slowly licked her lips. That was all the encouragement Romeo needed. The air crackled with energy, and adrenaline shot through his veins as their eyes bored into each other. Romeo couldn’t stop staring at her lips, could almost taste them, feel them against his. “You asked for it,” he warned with a knowing smile.

  Tipping his head toward her, he lowered his mouth and devoured her lips. Warm and soft, they were intoxicating, and one kiss wasn’t enough. Didn’t satisfy him. Left him feeling horny, not satiated. Forgetting they were on the red carpet and not in the privacy of his home, he enjoyed the pleasure of her kiss, her touch, her sweet, feminine scent. His heart swelled, overflowing with love. If Zoe hadn’t broken off the kiss and climbed the steps, they never would have made it inside for cocktail hour.

  Entering the main floor of the castle, Romeo heard music playing and was surprised to see the Milan Children’s Choir singing in front of the ten-foot Christmas tree. They sounded like angels, and seeing their adorable faces warmed his heart. The event was for a worthy cause. Romeo hoped millions of dollars was raised for the money-strapped hospital.

  “Wow, I’ve never seen anything like this. This must be what heaven looks like...”

  Over the years, Romeo had attended many Christmas Wonderland Balls, but he’d never paid attention to the decor, so listening to Zoe ooh and aah about the extravagant decorations throughout the castle made him appreciate the beauty of the venue. Satin ribbons and silver ornaments dangled from antique chandeliers. Floral arrangements were filled with amaryllis flowers, pine branches and leaves. The room was full of tea lights, fairy lights and more candles than a Catholic cathedral.

  Celebrities streamed into the venue, but Romeo only had eyes for Zoe. Intertwining his fingers with hers, he led her around the room, introducing her to notable and influential guests. Servers wearing top hats and red bow ties held trays filled with champagne, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Romeo enjoyed sampling everything they had to offer. Anxious to hear from his attorneys, he’d hadn’t eaten anything for lunch, and his stomach was groaning and growling so loud it drowned out the children’s choir.

  “Do you care for some Basilicata?” a waiter asked in a thick Italian accent.

  Zoe frowned, and Romeo nodded to assure her the appetizer was delicious.

  “Cod with fried bell peppers,” he explained. “Try one. You’ll love it.”

  As he fed Zoe appetizers from off his plate, Romeo spotted his family members sitting at the round table directly in front of the stage. He wiped his mouth with a napkin, put his empty plate on a passing server’s tray and led Zoe through the jam-packed reception hall. Intent on reaching his family, Romeo marched briskly toward the stage, but stopped abruptly when Aurora threw her arms around him, hugging him as if she were stranded at sea and he was a flotation device. “Merry Christmas to you, too,” he said, staring down at the exuberant designer.

  “Event coordinators just told me what you did.” Aurora had tears in her eyes and spoke with awe in her voice. “On behalf of everyone at Casa Di Moda, thank you for your incredible generosity. You’re a modern-day saint, a dapper one, too!”

  Romeo chuckled. Wanting to do something special for Zoe, he’d purchased three dinner tables in her name, and when she saw her colleagues decked out in fancy gowns and shiny tuxedos, she screamed. Romeo loved surprising her and laughed out loud when Zoe jumped into his arms and kissed him hard on the mouth. Photographers swarmed them, capturing every moment with their cameras. But Romeo didn’t mind. It was a festive occasion, a night he hoped Zoe would never forget. As long as his girlfriend was happy, he was happy.

  “How did you pull this off without me knowing, and why didn’t you say anything?”

  Romeo kissed her forehead. “Because it wouldn’t be a surprise if I told you.”

  Staring at him for a long moment, Zoe clasped his hand and squeezed it. “You’re a good man, Romeo, and meeting you last month has been one of the best things that’s ever happened to me.”

  “Baby, I feel the same way. You’re in a class all by yourself, Zoe. A humble, beautiful soul, and if I thought you’d say yes, I’d pop the question right here, right now.”

  Her eyes doubled in size, and her lips parted wordlessly. His confession had taken her by surprise, but Romeo meant every word. He hated being apart from Zoe, and kept a close eye on her whenever other men were around. But he’d never felt more secure in a relationship, and loved the idea of living with Zoe in holy matrimony. Now he understood why his cousins and brothers had proposed within weeks of meeting their girlfriends. He’d found the woman of his dreams and wanted to spend his days and nights loving her, spoiling her, treating her the way she deserved. In February, Zoe was going home to visit her family for two weeks, and he was going with her. He’d sit down with Reuben Smith and ask for his daughter’s hand in marriage. Once her father gave him his blessing, he was going to plan a romantic proposal for his ladylove.

  Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed his sisters-in-law Jariah and Tatiyana waving frantically at him. He also saw Francesca beckoning him over, and gestured to table one. “We better go check in with my family. As you can see, they’re really excited to meet you.”

  Releasing his hand, Zoe fluffed her hair and adjusted the bodice of her designer gown. “I’m so nervous my heart is racing. Gosh, I hope they like me.”

  “What’s not to like?” To make her laugh and to calm her nerves, he wiggled his eyebrows made a funny face. “You’re gregarious, witty, and you have great taste in men. Baby, you’ve got this, so let’s go wow my family!”

  As they approached table one, Romeo sent Zoe a reassuring smile. She looked tense, as if she were at the dentist’s office rather than a black-tie party. Placing a hand on her lower back, he gently caressed her skin. Diamonds were draped from her ears, neck and wrists, and her jewelry twinkled in the candlelight. Awed by her beauty, he was shocked that his girlfriend suddenly lacked self-confidence.

  “Are you going to stand there like a well-dressed mime for the rest of the night, or are you going to introduce us to your lovely date?”

  The sound of Dante’s voice jolted Romeo back to the present, and he broke free of his thoughts. Pleased to see everyone, he glanced around the table. The newlyweds, Markos and Tatiyana, were busy kissing, Enrique and Isabelle were feeding each other olives, Francesca and her blonde, blue-eyed boyfriend were arguing in Italian, and Dante and his wife, Jariah, who was six months pregnant, were whispering to each other.

  Thrilled to have Zoe on his arm, he proudly introduced her to his family members. To make her feel more comfortable, he shared funny stories about each couple, and soon everyone was laughing. Romeo pulled out her chair, then sat down beside her.

  “Oh my goodness,” Zoe shrieked, touching a hand to her mouth. “You’re all wearing something from Casa Di Moda’s holiday line. How cool is that!”

  Enrique wore a wry smile. “We had no choice. Francesca and our sister-in-law Paris both decided to invest in the fashion house. They said if we didn’t buy something they’d kill us. Needless to say, it was an easy decision to make.”

  “I had no idea,” Zoe said with a laugh, giving Francesca a one-arm hug. “Why didn’t you say anything when we met for sushi the other night?”

  “Because I wanted it to be a surprise. Aurora and Davide asked if I’d be interested in being the face of the line, and I said hell yes! Thanks to you, Zoe, my life has meaning and purpose again. I’m going to make the most of this incredible opportunity...”

  R
omeo watched his sister and his girlfriend embrace. He hadn’t seen Francesca this excited in years, and he hoped resurrecting her modeling career and working for Casa Di Moda would help ease the pain of Lucca’s death. Since losing her only child, she’d been angry at the world, but if anyone could turn their life around it was his sister. To stand out among the crowd, she’d styled her silky shoulder-length hair in a bouffant and donned a shimmery gold gown that clung to her skin like Saran Wrap. Romeo wouldn’t be surprised if he woke up tomorrow morning to find Francesca on the cover of every online fashion magazine and blog in the country.

  The mood at table one was cheerful and festive, the conversation lively. Romeo could tell by the way Zoe interacted with his family members that she was having a good time. The celebrity hosts entertained diners throughout the five-course meal. Soon Romeo’s jaw ached from laughing, and his stomach was filled to the brim. Spending time with his family helped him momentarily forget the relentless questioning he’d endured in Paris hours earlier and his fears of being charged with a crime he didn’t commit.

  “RoZo, how did you meet?” Tatiyana asked, with a smile. “Was it love at first sight?”

  A grin dimpled his cheek. “Absolutely. Zoe wanted to meet me so bad she drove her mountain bike into the side of my Lambo.”

  Zoe kicked him under the table, but Romeo was determined to finish his story.

  “The police wanted to charge her with reckless driving, but I convinced them not to,” he said, popping his collar to earn a laugh. “An amazing first kiss, and the rest is history.”

  Everyone at the table cracked up except Zoe, and Romeo wondered if he’d gone too far.

  “You forgot the part about trying to pay me off and begging me relentlessly for a date,” Zoe quipped, wearing a cheeky grin. “No worries, I’ll save that titillating story for dessert.”