The quietness felt heavy and made Abby very nervous. She held her breath, waiting to hear what he would say.
What she had asked for seemed almost crazy, a wild idea that desperation had pushed her to consider. But she knew that desperate situations sometimes led to trying things that seemed strange.
The truth was clear to her, and it was painful. A man as important as Remo Quinn would never notice someone like her.
Her hair was a fiery red, a cascade of vibrant red waves that framed her face. Freckles covered her skin, not just a few, but quite a few across her cheeks and nose. She thought her looks were plain, nothing special, certainly not the kind that men like him usually found attractive.
Yet, there she was, brave because of desperation, willing to take a chance that might change her life.
His strong gaze, so intense it felt like it could see through her, looked at her again. She fought the urge to squirm under his scrutiny, to fiddle with the hem of her dress or tuck a strand of her unruly hair behind her ear.
She wanted to seem calm and confident, but it was hard when she felt so unsure about herself.
She knew her appeal wasn't like what most people found appealing. Her heart raced, feeling every moment that passed and every second of the quiet that surrounded them. It was like time was holding its breath, waiting for him to say something that could either crush her hope completely or make her believe in the impossible.
God. She wished he'd at least stop looking like he was seriously thinking about it.
Whatever emotions he'd given free reign on his face disappeared completely. The only thing his expression now conveyed was mischievousness , if there was such a specific look for it.
Remo's amused smile widened as he listened to her straightforward words. "Well, I've heard of some unconventional solutions to problems, but this takes the cake," he chuckled. "So, you're looking for a husband just for protection, huh? That's quite the proposition."
He leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms, and considered her request for a moment. "I suppose you've done your homework on me then, if you're coming to me with such an interesting proposition?"
She nodded, her expression a mix of determination and vulnerability
"I needed s-someone strong, someone who could stand up against any p-potential threats. And your reputation precedes you, Mr. Quinn."
He grinned, a glint of mischief in his eyes. "My reputation, huh? Well, I can't deny that I've been in my fair share of tight spots. But let's say, hypothetically, I agree to this. What's in it for me?"
Her gaze never wavered, her eyes holding a flicker of hope. "Whatever you want."
Remo leaned forward, studying her intently.
"Whatever I want?"
Remo's voice was low and smooth, his eyes never leaving hers. "You realize that 'whatever I want' can encompass a lot of things, right? It's a dangerous offer you're making, Miss Falcone"
Abby felt her heart race even faster. She knew she was treading on treacherous ground, but her desperation made her brave. "I-I understand, Mr. Quinn. But I'm willing to t-take that risk. I need your protection, and I'm prepared to do whatever it takes."
Remo's smile didn't waver, but his gaze seemed to deepen, as if he were trying to read her thoughts. "You're not just talking about marriage, are you?"
Abby's cheeks flushed, but she held his gaze. "No, I'm not. I know it's unconventional, but... I'm willing to be your partner in whatever way you see fit. If it means having your protection, I'm ready to commit."
Remo's lips curled up,"Well what if I don't want just a wife? What I want is a good girl who will listen to my orders? Who will be a good little slut, a pet rather.
I will use your body as I deem fit. I will ruin you. Drain that little innocence out of you like I drain men of their blood. Slowly but painfully.
My heart will never belong to you and honestly I don't think I have an ounce of affection left. I might not be a Prince Charming to your romantic fantasies rather I might be your imperfect companion—a villain maybe.
Can you handle that Miss Falcone?"
Abby's heart raced as Remo's words hung in the air, his tone sending a shiver down her spine. Her wide eyes darted up to meet his gaze, her blush deepening as his intense words lingered in the atmosphere.
She swallowed hard, her lips parting slightly as she struggled to find her voice, her innocence contrasting sharply with the provocative scenario he painted. Her freckles stood out against her flushed skin, a mix of curiosity and unease dancing in her eyes.
Maybe she was too innocent to understand what he meant or she was just simply desperate because the words that left her mouth next took him by surprise.
"Y-yes."
Remo's expression remained enigmatic, his fingers tapping lightly on the armrest of his chair. "You're a bold woman, Miss Falcone. I'll give you that."
The silence returned, and Abby felt her anxiety rise. The weight of her decision hung heavily in the air. She could practically feel her heartbeat echoing in the quiet room as Remo seemed lost in thought.
Finally, he leaned back again, a glimmer of amusement in his eyes. "You know, striking a deal with me is often compared to making a deal with the devil. Are you sure you're ready to dance with the devil, Abby?"
Abby swallowed hard, her determination unwavering. "I m-might not have many choices left, Mr. Quinn. B-but… if dancing with the devil means securing a future for myself and my family, then— I'm willing to take that chance."
Remo's laughter rang out, deep and rich. "You're a rare one, Miss Falcone. Very well, let's see if the devil can make your wish come true. But remember, once you step into this world, there's no turning back."
As Abby's heart raced with a mix of excitement and apprehension, Remo extended his hand across the table. "Deal?"
Abby hesitated for only a moment before reaching out and shaking his hand firmly. "D-Deal."