The Don's Young Love (The Don's of Italy Saga Book 1) Age Gap Romance

Episode14: Ballroom Whispers: Dominic's Forbidden Temptation

Dominic's POV

I stand on the opposite end of the ballroom, my men strategically positioned and ready for anything that may happen. I move around the room, making small talk with guests and admiring some of the new artwork on display. Cadenza's family definitely knows how to throw a good party. As I scan the room, I can't seem to find her anywhere. Damn, just talking to her earlier got me all worked up. I can't wait for our lunch date tomorrow. Finally I leave the people that I am talking to just to walking around the ballroom some.

I was eager to see more of Antonio Russo's paintings and had just acquired his latest piece, 'Eternal Echoes'. As I strolled down the hall, I spotted Thalia standing in a group of people admiring the artwork on display. Just the sight of her sent shivers down my spine. Earlier, when she was near me, I couldn't help but get hard as a rock. It's astonishing how much younger she is - 27 years my junior. On top of that, she happens to be my daughter's closest friend, so I have to be careful not to jeopardize their relationship. I make my way towards the gathering, Orlando and Marco flanking me, ever the loyal consigliere's.

I walked closely behind her, my breath tickling the back of her neck as I moved her hair away from where I wanted to speak. I lean in close to her and whisper, "Why are you trying to run away from me, Princess? Don't you see how much you affect me?" My body pressed against hers, eager for this girl I had just met tonight. Something about her made me feel like she could be mine.

Though my daughter may not approve, I was determined to get to know Thalia. Our game of cat and mouse only heightened my excitement. As I pulled her closer to me, my tongue grazed her neck and I could sense her arousal. My primal instincts urged me to take her home with me tonight, but I knew I needed to wait. Patience is a virtue, after all.

Thalia jumped slightly, her pulse quickening at the unexpected closeness of my voice. I could feel her body tense up against mine, the air around us thick with a mix of anticipation and uncertainty. She spun to face me, averting her eyes and trying to hide the pink flush spreading across her cheeks.

"What are you doing, Dom? There are people in the hallway." Her voice was hushed as she continued, "And I have to cancel our lunch plans for tomorrow. Micola doesn't want me talking to you."

My smile broadened at the mere mention of Micola's name, my precious daughter. Who does my daughter think she is, dictating Thalia's and my social interactions? "Micola," I scoffed, "since when do you let others make decisions for you?" Thalia's eyes flickered with a spark of defiance, a sign that she was not one to bow down easily, which only made her more enticing.

"It's not about control, Dom," Thalia retorted sharply, her spine straightening as she found her ground. "It's about respect."

I studied her face, the way her brows knit together in disapproval, the delicate curve of her lips as she dared to stand her ground. That daring spirit, the veiled fire in her eyes—it was invigorating, like a match waiting to be struck. I respected my daughter, truly, but this—this magnetic pull towards Thalia was something else entirely. It was raw and it was challenging every ounce of self-restraint I had.

"Respect," I echoed, leaning back to give her the space her words demanded, yet my gaze never wavered from hers. "I respect strength, Thalia. And what you're showing me now? That's the kind of courage that deserves respect."

I could see the conflict playing across her features, her desire to maintain a professional distance wrestling with the undeniable chemistry that sparked between us. It was an undeniable force, unexpected by either of us, tearing down the barriers she had built up. She was going to be mine, that's for sure, if my name was Dominic Luca Romano.

Dear Reader,

In this latest episode, we delve into the complex and intense world of Dominic Luca Romano. Stand with him in the grandeur of a ballroom, feel the tension of hidden desires, and witness the unfolding of a forbidden attraction. Dominic's calculated moves and his inner turmoil over Thalia, a woman entwined with youth and innocence, yet exuding a strength that captivates him, are laid bare for us to explore. As the lines between respect, desire, and duty blur, join us in this captivating narrative where every glance and whisper carries the weight of unspoken promises and hidden intentions.

Prepare to be immersed in a story of passion, power, and the fine line between control and respect. Don't miss this electrifying journey into the heart of a man torn between his primal instincts and the complexities of familial bonds.

Sincerely,

Zapphire