Chapter 174

The manager stole a glance and noticed Victoria standing behind Louie, looking a bit surprised.

Louie rarely brought women to these kinds of places. Even when he did, it was usually for business, never with this kind of special treatment.

Though he was a mob boss, and "devoted" wasn't a word typically associated with him, for someone of his status, he was considered quite restrained.

The crystal chandelier cast a diamond-like light on Louie's shoulder. He turned slightly and gestured for the manager to hand the menu to Victoria. "What do you wanna eat?"

Victoria hesitated for just a moment before taking the menu. Since she was already here, she decided to face it calmly.

Besides, she couldn't afford to make any mistakes now, so she unceremoniously ordered a few signature dishes.

Louie lit a cigarette, squinting at her with a slight smile on his lips.

He always disliked pretentious women, and Victoria's straightforwardness made him appreciate her a bit more.

Victoria was also quite surprised. She thought she would be too nervous to enjoy the food.

But looking at the table full of delicious dishes, her appetite opened up, and she began to eat heartily.

When she was full, she couldn't help but burp, feeling a bit embarrassed as she put down her utensils.

Louie, who was leisurely savoring his food across from her, chuckled at her puffed cheeks and teased, "Did you not eat for a week?"

Despite his words, he raised his hand to call the manager and softly said, "Dessert."

"Yes, sir." The manager responded quickly, ordering the staff to clear the plates and bring out an array of exquisite desserts.

Victoria glanced at them and, without further ado, picked her favorites and started eating.

Louie's smile grew wider, and his gaze at Victoria became more curious. "So, what do you do?"

"I'm just a small-time artist," Victoria replied casually, trying to reveal as little as possible without lying.

Louie's eyes lit up with interest, and he raised an eyebrow. "Really? Interesting. Could you draw a portrait of me?"

Victoria instinctively tried to decline. "I didn't bring my art supplies, so I can't."

Louie chuckled softly and called the manager over, whispering a few instructions.

Soon, the manager returned with several waiters, who quickly set up a complete set of brand-new art supplies on the table, from various brushes to paper and easels.

Seeing this, Victoria knew she couldn't refuse any longer. Reluctantly, she picked up a pencil and said, "I'll just do a simple sketch for you then."

She looked up at Louie, carefully studying his features.

She had to admit, Louie had that rugged, handsome look that artists loved to draw.

Taking a deep breath, she steadied herself and began to sketch.

She meticulously outlined each line, every stroke done with great care.

In no time, a lifelike portrait emerged on the paper.

The Louie in the drawing had deep, soulful eyes that seemed to hold endless stories and secrets, drawing anyone in with a single glance.

His high, straight nose added a touch of sternness to his face, enhancing his overall rugged appeal.

The slight upward curve of his thin lips was just right, exuding a mix of nonchalance and playfulness, as if he didn't care about anything yet controlled everything.

His skin on the paper had a unique texture, with a primal intensity that seemed ready to burst forth, making the drawn Louie even more mysterious and captivating than the real one.

Victoria put down her pencil and exhaled softly, relieved that her years of practice had paid off.

At least the drawing looked presentable and wouldn't offend the unpredictable mob boss in front of her.

Louie remained relaxed in his chair, his eyes flashing with a hint of admiration as he looked at the portrait.

He knew he was good-looking, but the version of himself that Victoria had captured had a unique charm.

It was as if she had stripped away all his layers, revealing his most genuine and mesmerizing side.

"Not bad," Louie said, sitting up slightly and taking a closer look at the drawing.

Victoria lowered her head slightly and softly said, "Thanks for the compliment."

Louie looked at her, his eyes filled with amusement. "You're quite talented for a small-time artist. But having good drawing skills is one thing; understanding people is the real talent."

He put the drawing down, leaned forward, and locked eyes with Victoria.

Instinctively, Victoria leaned back, her heart racing, but she tried to keep her voice steady. "I'm just an artist. People are complicated; I don't understand them that well."

Louie chuckled and leaned back in his chair, tapping the armrest rhythmically. "It's okay if you don't understand now. You'll have plenty of chances to learn."

He glanced at his watch and said with a light laugh, "In five minutes, you'll be mine."

The previously pleasant conversation atmosphere instantly shattered. Victoria bit her lip and muttered, "I never agreed to any bet or deal."

Louie laughed softly.

When he laughed, he had a somewhat refined look, but the smile never reached his eyes, lacking any warmth.

He didn't respond, just leaned back in his chair with a lazy yet confident demeanor, as if he controlled everything.

Paxton, who had been standing behind him, spoke up, "Ms. Carter, you're the first person Mr. Hopper has ever set aside an hour for."

Victoria was slightly taken aback. She didn't see it as something to be proud of, only feeling immense pressure.

Louie glanced at Paxton, his eyes cold. "Don't speak out of turn."

Paxton quickly lowered his head, repeatedly apologizing.

Louie turned back to Victoria, a faint smile on his face. "Formalities must be observed."

In truth, whether William showed up within the hour didn't matter to him.

From the moment he first saw Victoria, he had made up his mind. He wanted her.

Victoria didn't know where she found the courage, but she stared straight at Louie, trying to keep her voice calm. "Mr. Hopper, thank you for the hospitality, but I have no intention of switching men."

Louie merely raised an eyebrow, a mocking smile on his lips. "I'm giving you a choice so you can accept it willingly. But if you don't appreciate it..."

He paused, then suddenly changed the subject. "Alvin is your father, right?"

Hearing that name, Victoria's eyes widened, and she could no longer maintain her composure. She slammed her hands on the table. "Don't you dare hurt my dad!"

Louie shrugged, looking innocent. "He's quite stubborn, but you seem to misunderstand. I didn't capture him; he's not in my hands."