Blood and Roses

Chapter 4

Rafael

Days turned into weeks, and the more I observed Camille, the more I became captivated by her. She was a paradox—a healer in a world that often glorified chaos and destruction. Every gift I sent, every subtle encounter, deepened my fascination. Yet, I knew it was a dangerous game. I walked a thin line between desire and control, curiosity and obsession.

My office was a cacophony of phone calls, deals, and negotiations, yet my mind was elsewhere—fixed on Camille. I had summoned Marco for a status update, needing to know more about the woman who was steadily occupying my thoughts.

“Any changes?” I asked, leaning back in my chair, fingers steepled under my chin.

“Nothing alarming,” Marco replied, flipping through his notes. “She’s still receiving your gifts. The roses, books, and chocolates seem to intrigue her rather than scare her off.”

“Good.” I smirked, my interest piquing. “And the bodyguards?”

“They’ve blended in well. They’re discreet, watching from a distance. She doesn’t seem to notice them, which is ideal.”

I nodded, pleased. The last thing I needed was for her to feel threatened. My goal was to draw her in, not repel her. “Make sure they maintain that level of discretion. I don’t want her to feel like she’s being hunted.”

“Understood.” Marco scribbled something in his notepad. “There’s something else. She’s been spending time with her colleagues more often. They’ve noticed her change in demeanor since the gala—she seems more… energized, excited even.”

I leaned forward, intrigued. “Excited about what?”

“Her work, I think. The other doctors have commented on her newfound passion. She’s been pushing for a new initiative in the hospital, something about improving patient care.”

A small smile tugged at my lips. It was good to hear that she was thriving, yet it also ignited a sense of competition within me. I wasn’t just interested in her as a patient; I wanted her to be aware of the world I offered—a world where ambition met passion, where strength thrived alongside vulnerability.

“Keep an eye on her,” I instructed, my tone turning serious. “Make sure her colleagues don’t distract her from her duties. I want her focused on what’s important.”

Marco nodded, jotting down the instructions. “Of course. Anything else?”

“Just let me know if anything changes.” I waved him off, dismissing him, and turned my attention back to the city sprawling outside my window.

That evening, I found myself lingering in my office, the glow of the city lights casting long shadows on the walls. I’d been contemplating my next move. It was time to up the ante and make my intentions clearer. I needed to make a bold statement to Camille—a gesture that would solidify my interest without revealing too much of my world.

I picked up my phone and dialed the number of a luxury restaurant that specialized in private dining experiences. I wanted a place that would cater to her tastes, somewhere she would feel comfortable yet slightly out of her element. As I spoke with the manager, I planned a surprise dinner for Camille, an invitation that would blend elegance with intrigue.

“Set it for next week,” I instructed, “and make sure she has no idea who arranged it. I want it to be a surprise.”

“Of course, sir,” the manager replied. “We’ll prepare everything accordingly.”

I hung up, a sense of satisfaction washing over me. I could almost picture her face when she received the invitation—curiosity mingled with anticipation.