Page 14 of Prince of Queens

"Thank you for the ride," I say, my hand on the door handle.

"Gia," he says, stopping me. “Have dinner with me."

I shake my head, reality crashing back in. "I can't. What happened before, that was a mistake."

The determination on his face surprises me. "Just dinner. One hour of your time, that's all I'm asking."

I should say no. I know I should. But the memory of his kiss is still burning on my lips, and I find myself nodding. "Fine. Dinner. Saturday. But that's it."

He grins, a triumphant light in his eyes. "I'll take it. I'll text you the details."

As I step out of the car, a thought occurs to me. "Wait, I never gave you my number."

Dominic's grin turns mischievous. "Don't worry about that, Red. I have my ways."

I roll my eyes, but can't help the small smile that tugs at my lips. "Goodnight, Dominic."

"Sweet dreams, Gia," he calls as I walk away.

As I step safely inside, my heart pounding and my lips still tingling, I can't shake the feeling that I've just made a deal with the devil. And the scariest part? I'm not sure I care.

My mind is a whirlwind of conflicting thoughts and emotions as I enter my loft. On one hand, Dominic Esposito represents everything I've been taught to avoid. He's the enemy, even though I’m finding it harder to remember why. He’s also dangerous, connected to a world of violence and crime that I’ve done my best to distance myself from.

On the other hand... the way he looked at my painting, with such genuine appreciation and understanding. The easy banter we shared, the way he made me laugh despite myself. And the way he knew exactly what I wanted that night…

I groan, burying my face in my hands. What am I doing? This is insane. I can't get involved with someone like Dominic. It would complicate everything - my relationship with Sofia, my career, my whole life.

Later as I climb into bed, I can't help but think about our upcoming dinner date. It's just dinner, I tell myself. One hour. What's the worst that could happen?

As I drift off to sleep, Dominic's smile is the last thing I see. And despite all my reservations, I realize I’m looking forward to seeing it again.

Chapter 7

Dominic

Ifind myself grinning at my phone like a lovesick teenager. It's been a few days since the elevator incident, and I've been texting Gia regularly. Each message is a delicate balance of teasing and suggestion, pushing the boundaries without crossing any lines.

"Looking forward to our dinner date, Red. Hope you're ready for a taste of something... exciting," I type, hitting send before I can second-guess myself.

Her reply comes quickly: "Careful, Esposito. I bite back. Hope you can handle the heat."

I chuckle, my mind immediately going to places it shouldn't. "Bring it on sweetheart. I like it spicy."

Before she can respond, Sal enters my office, his face serious.

"Boss, we've set up the meeting with the Colombians. Midnight tonight, at the old warehouse on the pier."

I nod, switching gears from flirtatious to business. "Good. Make sure we've got backup nearby, just in case. And Sal? This needs to go smoothly. We can't afford any... complications."

As Sal leaves, my phone rings. It's my mother. I take a deep breath before answering.

"Dominic, darling," her voice comes through, warm but probing. "How are you? Are you eating enough? And when are you going to bring a nice girl home? You’re nearly thirty four. It’s time."

I roll my eyes, but can't help smiling. "I'm fine, Ma. And actually... I am seeing someone."

There's a pause, then an excited squeal. "Really? Who is she? Tell me everything!"

I hesitate, knowing this won't go over well. "Her name is Gia. Gia Romano."

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