Chapter 3: An invitation

Maria’s POV

“You know, you're going to clean the paint off that tray if you keep going like that.” My co-worker Sophia called out as we worked over the counter at the Red Coffee. I had been cleaning the tray in my hand when I became lost in thoughts.

“You should have collected the tray and smacked it in my face.” I said to Sophia, almost serious.

“Whooa, I love you too much to do that.” I replied, looking concerned.

We both laughed.

“What’s wrong?” Sophia asked, “still thinking of the hot middle aged mafia daddy?” She winked.

“I didn't mention he was hot?” I said, frowning my brows.

“You didn't need to. I could see it all over you.”

I smiled. “He really is a hot mafia daddy actually.”

“Then what are you worried about? He's clearly into you?”

“He's a Mafia. As in drug dealer rich kingpin. The last thing I want is to endanger my life… not especially after…”

“After what?” Sophia frowned, “don't tell me you're worried about Liam.”

I sighed. “What if he becomes like Liam?”

Sophia came closer. “First off, Liam is a violent jerk who doesn't know the proper way to treat a woman. And besides he's in the past. If you keep letting your past relationships determine your future, then you'll go nowhere.”

I blinked. “What happened to learning from my past?”

“Then learn but don't let Liam ruin your chances.” Sophia barked, almost shouting.

“And that’s why I must ignore that dangerous man.”

Sophia looked at me for a while, then she moved closer and said: “Maria, how about you get to know him first. For all we know, there's no proof he's a Mafia. Just rumours.”

I chuckled at her last statements.

Then the shop door bell rings, and a serious looking gentleman in black suit came through. He looked scary but Sophia and I tried to look calm as he walked towards us.

“Maria Santina?” He asked, keeping the straight face.

“That's me.” I answered, adjusting myself.

“I have something for you.”

Sophia and I exchanged looks before turning back to the straight faced man. He took out an envelope and handed it over to me.

“Who is it from?” I asked, not collecting the envelope.

“I believe you know it is.”

“No, she doesn't.” Sophia answered.

He paused for a while and then said, “Mr De Rossi would like to invite you for an art exhibition he personally looks forward to tonight. He'd like you to be there with him.”

I almost blushed but Sophia took the envelope. Without any more words or gesture, the man left.

Sophia opened the envelope and read: “Daniel Delingo’s Fifth Art Exhibition.” She almost screamed.

“Daniel Delingo?” I asked out.

“Who the hell is that?” Sophia asked. I thought she knew from the way she screamed.

“He’s one of the most renowned artists in the country.” I answered. “If you didn't know him, then why did you scream?”

“Because Mr De Rossi is inviting you.” Emphasizing De Rossi with a huge grin.

I smiled.

A customer called and Sophia went over to answer.

I took the envelope and shoved into my pocket. I decided I was going to think about it when I got home. Besides, I'll be closing in a few minutes.

*****

On getting home, my phone rang from a strange number. I didn't need to guess, I already felt it was Mr De Rossi.

How he got my number, I already knew. He's a Mafia, of course he has his ways. So much for rumours, Sophia.

I picked the call, “Mr De Rossi?” I asked without hesitation.

“How did you know it was I…. little doll?” I blushed at the sound of little doll, but then I realised myself and readjusted. I'm not his little doll.

“I… I just knew. Considering you had someone drop an invitation for me at my workplace. If you could know where I worked… then you could know anything else you wanted.”

“I'm sorry, if you wanted me to drop it off myself, I could have but why do that when I could have someone do it for me?” I could hear him smirk.

“Besides,” he continued, “I couldn't know everything I wanted to know about you if I don't have you over, little doll.”

I sighed gently. “Mr De Rossi, I'm afraid I'll have to reject your invitation.”

He didn’t reply right away, but he said, “may I ask why, little doll?”

“Many things. First off, I don't know what to wear.”

“That's not a problem, little doll. Infact, that should be the least of your worries. I invited you over because I wanted you there, allow me take care of whatever you need.” He said calmly.

“I knew you'll say that but I don't think that'll be a good idea, Mr De Rossi, Because I won't accept it.”

I paused for a while, maybe to hear what he'll say next but there was silence from him.

“Thanks for the invitation, Mr De Rossi,” I continued, “but I suggest you don't contact me again.”

I made to hang up but then I added, “And Mr De Rossi… I’m not a little doll.” And then I ended the call.