Chapter 11: Date Night.

As Ermanno approached , his gaze bore into her, his eyes, like twin emeralds, seeming to delve into the depths of her soul. Celine found herself transfixed, drawn in by his magnetism, even as a part of her resisted, her mind aware of the danger he posed.

His eyes twinkled with amusement at her retort, a playful smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Is that a challenge, sweetheart?" he countered, a hint of challenge in his voice.

Celine, determined to remain unshaken, raised her chin.

"I doubt," Celine replied, her voice holding a hint of challenge, as if daring Ermanno to prove her wrong. The dress, a masterpiece of design and craftsmanship, seemed to breathe life into her form, the vibrant crimson bringing her beauty to the forefront, accentuating her natural curves and highlighting the porcelain perfection of her skin.

The dress flowed around her with effortless grace, as if it were a living extension of her movements, making Celine seem almost otherworldly, like an enchantress