“Control?” He stood slowly, like he had all the time in the world. Like he already considered himself the winner. “No. I simply like knowing where the people are who claim they don’t owe me answers… while dressed like they’re starring in a sensual music video at two in the afternoon.”
I snorted and took two steps toward the door.
“You’re ridiculous.”
“And you’re avoiding the question.”
I turned back, slow.
“What if I’m going to meet someone?” I said, voice sharpened on purpose. “A man, maybe. Someone who makes me laugh. Someone who respects my space. Someone who doesn’t act like he owns everything that breathes around him.”
Enrico’s eyes tightened for a fraction of a second, but he kept his posture.
“Are you really going out like that,” he asked, voice low, “in that short dress and with that filthy mouth?”
“Better than walking around in an expensive suit with a small soul.”
He smiled—without humor.
“I just want to know if I should send security with you,” he said. “Or maybe hide a camera in that neckline of yours in case you get lost between the aisles of… I don’t know… a supermarket.”
My silence gave me away.
He saw it immediately.
Enrico’s smile turned victorious.
“You’re going to the store,” he said—statement, not question.
I rolled my eyes.
“Congratulations, genius. Someone has to stock this house with things other than arrogance. Clara eats differently than people like you.”
His gaze moved over me like he was assessing an investment.
Legs.
Hips.
Waist.
Neckline.
Then back to my face, that irritating half-smile in place.
“First,” he said, “I’ve already told you—more than once—whatever you or my daughter need, you ask, and it will be provided. And second…” His eyes flicked to my dress again. “You’re too dressed up to buy onions.”
I crossed my arms, stubborn.
“I prefer buying my daughter’s things myself. And you’re too bothered for someone who claims he doesn’t care.”
“I’m just saying the dress is short.”
I took a step back and smiled like I’d won the round.
“Then look away, Enrico.”
I opened the door and left.
