The Phantom's Game | 18+

Chapter 9

Days passed, and the gala was approaching quite quickly, as much as she disliked the idea, Isadora knew better than to not attend. She needed to make the necessary preparations as soon as possible before the weekend comes. She had already asked her stylists to prepare what was necessary; the gown, the mask, a couple of accessories, black stilettos, and of course, make-up. 

The woman had already scheduled fittings and alterations and had everything finalized by noon the next day. She knew she had to make a first impression on this "Phantom" figure, to attract attention to her. The sooner she got this over with, the better.

She'd already called her agent to arrange the date and had arranged for a driver to come pick her up at 7pm on the day of the ball. It was Thursday already, and it was already hectic once again. Perhaps it was time for a vacation after this event. She certainly did deserve it; after all.

She was standing in front of her mirror applying lipstick and eyeliner when Amber knocked on her door.

"Hey, boss, you got a visitor."

"Who is it?"

"It's some guy named Vincent, boss."

Isadora nodded her head, taking one last look at herself before exiting her room. "Send him in."

Amber stepped aside and Vincent entered the room. He was dressed in a dark red suit adorned with gold trim and matching pants tucked neatly, and a navy blue dress shirt underneath. His black hair was slicked back neatly, framing his sharp features. His expression was impassive yet cold when he looked at Isadora's assistant.

And god, the scent of his cologne could easily bring her to her knees.

When she saw him walk closer, the temptation she felt to rip his clothes off overwhelmed her. His presence made her want to reach out and caress the soft stubble that covered his jawline. However, she held herself back as she watched him stop right in front of her. He stood straight without showing any signs of weakness.

"Mr. Falcone, a surprise to see you here," Isadora remarked, offering a fake smile.

Vincent merely responded in a neutral tone. "And a pleasant surprise to see you too, Miss Moretti," He greeted curtly, looking her up and down from top to bottom with his piercing brown eyes.

"Likewise," The woman replied, "What brought you here to my office, Mr. Falcone?"

"Please, just call me Vincent."

"Alright, Vincent."

He took a glance at Isadora and his eyes darkened slightly. "I've come to propose a partnership between the two of us."

She arched an eyebrow in interest. "Oh really, what kind of partnership?" she asked curiously.

"Let's just say, a deal that is beneficial to both of us, Ms. Moretti," he answered coolly and then added, "However, it will depend on whether you agree to our offer."

This wasn't at all what Isadora had expected to hear. A new contract proposal? She frowned and crossed her arms over her chest, "Well... go on."

"My proposition is simple," Vincent said smoothly, keeping his composure. He gazed deeply into Isadora's brown eyes, making her shiver unconsciously under his stare, while the area between her thighs dampened.

"It might not be as simple as we think, however, I would like for us to work together to unveil this "Phantom" during the ball. If we do this, there is no reason for us to continue our rivalry anymore."

Isadora thought about it briefly before responding, "...Very well, I'll consider your offer."

"Very well," Vincent repeated with a curt nod, satisfied that they had settled on a common understanding. "Are you available tonight? We could discuss our plans for the ball privately."

"That sounds perfect," The brunette said with a grin. "Do you know where I can find you?"

He smirked playfully. "We'll meet in the lobby downstairs. Around 7:30?"

"Perfect."

"I'll see you later, Ms. Moretti." He gave her an amused glance before turning on his heels, walked past Amber, who was watching them carefully, and headed straight for the elevator. Once he had reached the floor, Vincent went straight towards the exit of the building without looking back.

"Isn't he gorgeous?" Amber exclaimed as soon as she heard the doors close behind him. "I've never seen anyone as good-looking."

"Yes," Isadora smiled faintly as she muttered under her breath, then cleared her throat and dropped her smile instantly. "Get back to work."

As usual, time flew by, and her workplace was bathed in a golden glow as the sun set in the sky. The brunette checked the time in her laptop – 7 P.M. 

Perhaps it was time for a shower and a change of clothes. 

Fortunately, she had left some of her clothing in the office in case she needed to work overnight or anything. She dashed to the restroom and changed into a white sleeveless dress, white fishnet stockings and golden heels. She then touched up her make-up and checked herself in the mirror.

Satisfied with her appearance, she grabbed her phone and keys before slipping them into her purse and locking the door of her office behind her before exiting and heading outside. As she descended the stairs, she noticed a man waiting by the entrance. When he saw her approach, he smiled widely and bowed deeply to her.

"Ms. Moretti, I'm sent by Mr. Falcone to bring you to your reservation," he informed her politely, "Will you follow me please?"

Isadora followed him quietly and watched as he unlocked the car that was parked in front of the building before opening the back door for her.

Once she was seated comfortably in the plush leather seat, he exited the lot and drove away towards their destination.