Design for love

xpected me to do. The instructions had been clear enough in plain English,

Mr. Russo, a stubborn old man who even Caroline and Mr. Prescott couldn't sway into a deal after several meet

ly deserved a ra

f he were seconds away from falling into a nap on the leather car seats. "He's just difficult. But he's one of our best

sounded simple enough

er when I was little, despite my puppy-dog eyes and excessive whining. How was I supposed to convince

t announced, pulling me ou

but as soon as I stepped out of the car, with Mr. Prescott's

ow

rapers, replaced by a serene grassland and a house straight out of an artist's dream. The design was understated yet captivating, the kind

accented voice called out. From the side of the house, a short, bald man stro

with a prominent "R" around his neck and an assortment of flashy rings adorning his finge

dy beside you?" he asked,

stepped forward and extended my hand politely. "My name

it lightly. "Prescott knew exactly what he was doing bringing you here. He knows I can't resist

I heard you liked the design I made. You've got q

i replied, nodding appreciatively. "Bold colors, v

from my face. "I've been to Italy, but I didn't

penny I had on her, but she was worth it, especially the evenings." He grinned, and

who seemed lost in admiration of the s

Prescott and I followed Giovanni inside as he surveyed the interior. The space was stripped bar

ld I give this place a chance? The

or more light and fresh air. A fresh coat of paint could make a huge difference. I'm thinking warmer colors like green and a soft orange. It's uncommon, but it works. The wooden floors are beaut

one was staring at me quietly. Giovanni had a

tive that was, Princess," he said. "Pret

ep my composure. "So, what do you think? I have plenty of id

have to take Princess here off your hands for a while. I want her in charge of the ent