Devil's Prisoner of Love by Prefer

Michael Bardem made no effort to hide his admiration for Aurora. Their conversation flowed effortlessly, ranging from design to finance. Michael proved himself to be a man of vast knowledge and experience. Asher, on the other hand, remained mostly silent, content to play the role of a facilitator as the two engaged in lively discussion. As the dinner drew to a close, Michael seemed reluctant to let the conversation end. "You're remarkable, young lady. To have created such a successful perfin just a few months-you've far surpassed what I was capable of at your age." "Uncle Bardem, if you keep flatteringlike this, I won't know how to respond," Aurora replied with a modest smile. Then, lowering her voice slightly, she added, "To be honest, I did have a purpose in meeting you today. I've heard about your Nordic project and that you're looking for partners. I was hoping I might have the honor of joining." Michael Bardem chuckled softly, his sharp eyes glinting with amusement. He had been waiting for her to bring this up. A seasoned businessman, he had already guessed their intentions when Asher "accidentally" dropped that ring earlier in the evening. Tricks like this were not unfamiliar to him; he had used plenty during his younger days. The business world was a battlefield, and strategy was essential for survival.

At first, Michael had assumed Asher was using DO as a conversation starter to cozy up to him. To his surprise, Asher was merely the supporting act, while DO-Aurora-was the true star of the show. She wasn't just talented and driven; she was also Victoria's daughter. Michael had already admired her before learning her identity; now, he liked her even more.

"Haha, you're quite bold to say that," Michael laughed heartily. "But no matter. I knew from the start that this dinner wasn't just a casual meeting." Aurora maintained an outward appearance of calm, though her heart raced. She knew most people disliked being manipulated, especially business moguls like Michael Bardem. But to her relief, he wasn't offended. Relaxing slightly, she smiled and said, "Uncle Bardem, you can't blus for trying to plan this meeting." "Oh? If I can't blyou, then who should I blame?" Michael's tone was warm, almost fatherly.

"Of course, I have to blyou, Uncle Bardem!" Aurora teased. "You're so influential and brilliant that countless people are vying for your attention. Without a little strategy, we wouldn't have even gotten close. With so many people trying to curry favor with you, how could you possibly notice us otherwise? So yes, I blyou!" Aurora's playful response brought a smile to Michael's face. She was beginning to understand his personality- beneath his formidable reputation lay a gentle and approachable side. "You're quite the clever girl," he said, tapping her nose affectionately, his demeanor reminiscent of a doting uncle.

Aurora felt a pang of warmth. After her mother Victoria left, she had rarely experienced genuine care from adults. Though her grandfather adored her, the constant warnings from Genevieve and Ivy kept her from speaking out about their mistreatment. The rare moments of peace she experienced during holidays at her grandfather's house always ended when she returned to the Montgomery family, where fear consumed her daily life. Magnus remained unaware of all this. What Aurora lacked most was the love and care of elders. Both John and now Michael Bardem filled that void, and she couldn't help but grow fond of them.

"This is our company's portfolio, Uncle Bardem. Please take a look," Aurora said, presenting the prepared documents. "I know we're still young and don't have the scredentials as more established companies, but we have our strengths. I hope you'll give us a chance. Of course, the final decision is yours. Even if we can't collaborate, I hope it won't affect our relationship-I truly admire you, Uncle Bardem." Aurora's words were sincere. She genuinely liked Michael Bardem, though she was well aware that his warmth stemmed partly from her identity as DO and Victoria's daughter. A man who had risen to his position couldn't possibly be as kindhearted as he seemed. Aurora understood this but chose not to dwell on it.

If you're loving the book, nel5sis where the adventure continues. Join us for the complete experience all for free. The next chapter is eagerly waiting for you! "Alright, I'll make an exception and take a look," Michael said, accepting the documents.

"Here you go, Uncle Bardem," Aurora said, handing him the portfolio.

As Michael flipped through the pages, he remarked, "You know, you're not the only one trying to approachfor this project. Walsh, the vice president of R Company, has also been in touch." Hearing Walsh's name, Aurora felt a twinge of unease. "Uncle Bardem, my relationship with my mother is... complicated. I know R Company is a well-established firm with deep pockets, but Mr. Giron wouldn't be so cruel as to deny us this opportunity, would he?" Michael smiled knowingly. "Walsh is your mother's nephew. Naturally, I considered R Company-they're financially strong, and their reputation is impeccable. They're an excellent candidate." "Uncle Bardem..." Aurora's anxiety was evident. "I know R Company is impressive, but our company is on the rise. We're not bad either. Please review our portfobefore making a decision." "Alright, alright," Michael said, soothing her with a light chuckle. "I won't say another word until I've looked through it."

Aurora and Asher fell silent, waiting patiently as the only sound in the room was the rustling of paper.m Michael read quickly, his expression shifting subtly as he progressed.

Finally, he looked up. "You've achieved this scale in just over three years? I underestimated you, young lady."

"Uncle Bardem," Aurora said softly, "R Company has plenty of orders and doesn't lack opportunities. We, on the other hand, have limited options. Without your help, most people wouldn't even meet with us."

"Hah, what am I supposed to do with you?" Michael said, shaking his head with a smile. "Walsh may be your mother's nephew, but he's not her e daughter I'm going to show Victoria sfavor, it might as well be for her child. Besides, I genuinely like you, Aurora. As an elder, it's my duty to support the younger generation. I'll give your company this order. Consider it my gift to you." "Really? Uncle Bardem, is it really decided?" Aurora blinked in disbelief, the sudden turn of fortune leaving her momentarily stunned.

"Of course," Michael said firmly. "I don't go back on my word. Your company may still be young, but it has tremendous potential. I have high hopes for you." "Thank you, Uncle Bardem!" Aurora exclaimed, her voice filled with gratitude. "As a token of my appreciation, I'd love to design a custom jewelry set for you-free of charge!" mmMwWLlilofiflo&1 mmMwWLlilofiflo&1 mmMwWLlilofiflo&1 mmMwWLlilofiflo&1 mmMwWLliIofiflo&1 mmMwWLlilofiflo&1