Bound by the Italian's Contract(30)

                “Nice to meet you both,” Caprice said. “Luciano promised you were the best designers for my program.”

                “We strive to please,” Mr. Fuseli said, and his partner nodded in agreement.

                “Which you do to perfection,” Luciano said to the designers. “Caprice has developed a unique and amazing program. It is up to you two to determine her needs so this facility exceeds her expectations.”

                “We’re ready whenever Ms. Tregore is,” Ms. Germaine said, her accent bearing a hint of French.

                Caprice looked for a place to sit that was far from Luciano and his desk. Too late, his gaze snared hers again, and this time she felt the burn of desire scorch her soul. Curse him for doing this to her now when she needed to be on.

                She tore her gaze away and settled on a stuffed chair in the sitting area that gave an enviable view of a startlingly challenging ski run. Pushing him from her mind, she fetched her notebook from her bag, all the while mentally reviewing her specific needs. A few clicks and she pulled up the file that detailed her program. “I’m ready.”

                “Excellent,” Mr. Fuseli said and nodded to the elegant Ms. Germaine, who immediately began shooting her questions.

                Twenty minutes later Caprice had answered them all. She ended by handing them rough sketches for the placement of equipment and a furnishing list.

                The designers huddled together to review her drawings. Germaine shot her an excited smile. “I can see this in grays and blacks highlighted with reds and glass.”

                “Yes, it is perfect for a European theme with clean lines. Monochromatic with the occasional splash of intense color to define,” Fuseli chimed in. “We can have a fully scaled mock-up done in a week for your approval.”

                “Nothing sooner?” Caprice asked.

                Fuseli stroked his narrow chin with thumb and forefinger. “Perhaps by a day.”

                “And if I don’t care for this design?” Caprice asked.

                Luciano threw his hands in the air. “You will. But if you don’t, then they will produce another for your perusal.”

                “That’s all well and good except for the fact we’ll fall another week behind schedule while the designers create a new mock-up.” Which meant she would be in Luciano’s company that much longer.

                Ms. Germaine frowned, glancing at Luciano. “If time is crucial, then why don’t you show her your rifugio?”

                “Yes, yes, good question. That design is exactly what we envision for here. But perhaps you’ve sold the property,” Fuseli quickly added.

                Luciano stiffened. “I haven’t sold it, but taking Miss Tregore there is out of the question.”

                The designers nodded, but Caprice could only stare at Luciano. Why was he balking at showing her the design? Whatever the reason, she wouldn’t have it.

                “Luciano, could I have a moment alone with you before we go any further?” she asked.

                He fixed a cool stare on her, his blue eyes snapping with irritation. “Is this necessary?”

                “Only if you expect me to proceed with the program.”

                His jawline hardened, but he gave a nod and addressed the pair. “If you please, would you mind stepping into the outer office for moment?”