My phone buzzes. I pick it up, Mandy's response bringing a smile to my face.
I’m open to exploring what a mutually beneficial relationship could mean, Mr. Martelli. Yes, let's talk about it.
Her words are innocent, but I can sense her flirtatious intent. Maybe this night is going to turn out better than I expected. I sip my drink, savoring the rich warmth as I let her response sink in. The potential of this exchange has me feeling intrigued and slightly exhilarated.
I turn my attention to the sweeping LA vista outside my mansion. The city lights spread out before me, a vibrant tapestry of opportunity and excitement. The energy of the city resonates with me, amplifying the thrill of the moment.
This is going to be fun.
Mandy’s willingness to engage has sparked something inside me. While I’m still cautious, there's a sense of adventure, a thrill of the unknown. I finish my drink, feeling a sense of anticipation for the conversation that lies ahead. It’s not often that I find someone who piques my interest both professionally and personally, but Mandy has managed to do just that.
The night is young, and the possibilities are endless.
Chapter 5
Mandy
Am I really doing this? Am I flirting over text with a freaking mob boss?
My heart is racing as I hold my phone, staring at the suggestive text I just sent to Enzo.
The anticipation is exhilarating, and though I can sense he's being a bit flirty, I need to tread carefully. I don't want him to think I'm simply selling myself for financial help. I’ve never been that kind of girl, and never will be.
The screen lights up with his next text and he's taken the flirting up another level.
You have my attention, Mandy. Now, let's see what else you can do to keep it.
The message sends a jolt of excitement through me that’s so intense that I can hardly think straight. I can't help but smile, feeling a rush of confidence.
The idea of a mutually beneficial relationship intrigues me, but I also want to ensure he sees my true intentions. His teasingmessages make me feel seen, and I have to admit, it’s thrilling.
This is all new territory for me. I hop off the bed, pacing back and forth in my small room above the garage. I need to play it cool. I don’t want to seem desperate, even if I am.
I take a deep breath, doing my best to come up with a reply.
Oh, I've got a few tricks up my sleeve.
The reply is a bit of a tease, not committing to anything. But hopefully, it takes the flirting up a level or two. I still can’t believe this is all happening.
The reply comes a few moments later.
You have tricks? I’m intrigued. How about for your first one, you remind me of what you look like.
It doesn’t take a brainiac to realize what he’s asking for—a selfie. There’s one problem, though: I’m in my jammies, with all of my makeup long since washed off. I’m not looking my best.
I type up a quick response, deciding to be direct.
I hope you’re not expecting a picture of the pure glamor you saw earlier tonight. I’m dressed for bed.
My heart still pounding, I hurry over to my mirror, trying to tease my hair into something presentable. I’m dressed in nothing but a spaghetti-strap top and a pair of sleep shorts, clothes that I’ve owned since high school.
I’m right in the middle of trying to decide if I should put on something sexier when another text comes through.
I’ve got a feeling you stun no matter what you’re dressed in. Show me.
I adjust my top slightly, making sure it flatters my curves without looking too deliberate.
Turning to find the best lighting in my room, I open the curtains to let the soft glow of the streetlights in, creating a warm ambiance. I experiment with a few poses, trying to decide what looks best.