First Encounter: The Whispered Introduction
The dim glow of Sotto Sotto, one of Toronto’s most exclusive Italian restaurants, cast flickering shadows across the linen-draped tables. I adjusted my emerald-green silk dress—a Valentino, chosen specifically for tonight—when he walked in.
Our eyes met from across the room, and I offered the faintest nod. Corporate executive. Early 40s. The kind of man who books a companion not for vanity, but for conversation.
First rule of luxury companionship: Read the room before you speak.
I extended my hand. “Mr. Laurent? Valentina Russo. A pleasure.” His grip was firm, but his smile betrayed nervousness. Interesting.
The Unexpected Twist: A Missing Diamond
Dinner was progressing beautifully—discussing his recent trip to Sicily, the absurdity of Toronto’s sudden snowfall in April—when his phone buzzed. His face paled.
“My sister’s necklace… It’s gone.”
A 5-carat diamond heirloom, meant for his niece’s wedding tomorrow, had vanished from his safe. Panic flickered in his eyes. Most companions would offer sympathy and move on. But luxury service means solving problems before they’re spoken.
“Call your sister,” I said smoothly. “Ask if she loaned it to anyone.”
Ten minutes later: The necklace was with his aunt. Crisis averted.
His relieved laugh filled the room. “I hired you for company, not detective work.”
“Consider it a bonus,” I replied, sipping my Barolo.
A Moment of Vulnerability: Midnight Confessions
Later, as we walked through Yorkville’s deserted streets, he caught my arm.
“Why do you do this?”
The question everyone asks, but never really asks.
I let the silence linger. Then, truth: “Because people like you—powerful, guarded—need someone who expects nothing. That’s when real conversations happen.”
He stared at me. “You’re terrifyingly good at this.”
“I know.”
Luxury Defined: The Four Seasons Suite
His original plan: A quiet drink. But after the night’s twists, he upgraded to the Four Seasons’ Royal Suite.
Key details:
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The balcony view: Toronto’s skyline glittering like spilled diamonds
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His surprise: A 1982 Château Lafite (my profile noted I prefer Bordeaux)
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The unspoken rule: Professional boundaries intact, but the energy shifted
We talked until 3 AM—about his divorce, my years studying art history in Florence, the absurdity of wealth. This is true luxury: The freedom to be human without judgment.
The Morning After: A Note Left Behind
I departed at dawn. On the suite’s desk:
“V—
Last night was the first time in years I didn’t feel alone.
Until next time. —L”
I tucked the note into my wallet. Another soul momentarily unburdened.
