Cook for the Mafia Boss

ress from the party. It hugged her curves, but all she could feel was the weight of Luca's touch, his gaze-intense, impossible to ignore. She absentmindedly ran her fingers through her hair, but

ace, his words, the promise in his eyes... Soon, we'll meet again. The thought gnawed at her. What did it mean? She picked up her phone as it rang, the sudden noise startling her. The number was unfamiliar, but the area code was familiar-Luca's eatery. Her heart slammed against her chest. She almost didn't answer. This was too much. But before she could think, her shaking finger tapped the green icon. "Hello?" Her voice was barely audible. There was a long pause before a smooth, familiar voice filled the line. "Francesca." Her pulse quickened, her grip tightening on the phone. Luca. This wasn't possible. His voice was calm, almost too calm. "I'm glad you answered. I've wanted to talk to you." "Why?" she asked, trying to steady her voice. After a beat, Luca spoke again, and this time there was something new in his tone. Was it warmth? Or was it just her imagination? "I've been watching your work," he said, deliberately. "And you seem like just the person I need." Her stomach twisted, unsure whether the feeling was from the weight of the moment or something more sinister. "Do you need something?" she asked, her voice laced with hesitation. "For what purpose?" Luca's response was precise and controlled. "I'm offering you a position as the executive chef at my restaurant. I believe you can make the difference I'm looking for." Francesca blinked. This was not what she expected. "What?" Her voice faltered. "Why me?" His tone softened, as if the answer were obvious. "You'll create a stir." And I don't think you're the type to back down from a challenge." A surge of emotions hit her-shock, curiosity, and something darker, hidden beneath the surface. Her mind whispered of ulterior motives, but she couldn't ignore the offer. It was everyth