Chapter Text
Dio considered himself a collector. He only wanted to outfit his mansion with the finest of paintings, the most detailed sculptures, and the finest pieces of literature he could get his claw-like hands on.
Through his immense wealth, he acquired many of these artworks through bribery or under-the-table sales, but he also wasn’t opposed to adding to his collection in more unsavory ways. He had a couple of his minions steal pieces that weren’t for sale, a few coming from some of the most renowned and high-security museums and galleries around the world. Dio fancied the idea of being the sole owner to a famous piece of art, having such priceless pieces hanging around his mansion for his eyes only.
However, the thrill always died rather quickly for Dio- while he appreciated fine art, he couldn’t spend all his time admiring his newest acquisition. This led to a bad habit of his, a never-ending cycle of needing more pieces decorating his home to satisfy his cravings. The high he got from knowing he held world-famous treasures between the walls of his mansion was too powerful to ignore.
This often led to frequent visits to the few art galleries in Cairo, searching for something to expand his ever-growing collection. Tonight had been slow, as usual, nothing catching his eye as he stalked past piece by piece. He found Modern art truly revolting, the artists and sculptors at these exhibitions always arrogant and pompous as they spoke on their simple works. Their meager attempts at art were nothing compared to the brilliant, detailed masterpieces that decorated the Joestar mansion in his youth.
Dio was ready to end his search, a bitter taste in his mouth from the lack of talent that surrounded him, when his weary eyes fell on something truly beautiful.
You, standing there proudly in front of your art, an ecstatic smile on your face as you wore your best formal wear. This was your first time being featured at an exhibition like this, and the excitement you felt practically radiated off of you. Dio caught onto your energy, watching you humbly discuss your paintings with a few onlookers, as he found himself strutting over to your section of the gallery.
Most of the other artists were haughty in their discussions of the ‘meaning’ behind their works, but you didn’t seem to rave about your painting’s depth. You let the art speak for itself, the intricate details and abundance of vibrant colors pulling all eyes in.
However, Dio hadn’t gotten a chance to glance at your artwork, yet- he was so thoroughly entranced by you. The way your voice sounded, smooth and serene, as you answered questions, how your eyes lit up when you received a compliment or someone asked to buy one of your works. Dio nearly collapsed when you made eye contact with him as he approached, a soft smile painting your face as you greeted him.
“Hello, I’m (Y/n),” you introduced yourself, stepping to the side so he could get a better view of the art behind you. For the first time, he looked up to give your work his full attention. Despite how hard it was to impress him, he found himself lost in the thin brushstrokes of your art, wondering how you looked as you placed them on the canvas.
“(Y/n)...” whispered Dio, committing the name to memory before turning to you, “Did you make these paintings?”
“Yes, I did!” You beamed, the vampire taking notice of how your eyes twinkled and cheeks pinkened as he smiled at you.
“You’re quite talented. I’m very picky with my artwork,” he drawled, slowly reviewing each painting one by one as he spoke, “How long have you been painting, (Y/n)?”
“Thank you for the compliments, sir,” you grinned, “I’ve been painting for sometime now. I always loved to draw as a kid, and my passion for it kept on growing as I got older.”
You both paused for a moment, your eyes glued to his as he continued to stare at you. It was a little strange- you were used to people staring at the artwork and not the artist- but oddly, you didn’t mind.
“Do you have a favorite, sir?” you asked up at him. He turned, albeit momentarily, to the paintings, giving each a glance before responding.
“I’d like to buy them all.”
“R-really sir?” You gasped, reaching for the paperwork needed for such a transaction with shaky hands. Your mind short-circuited, going purely off of reflex as your stomach did backflips. This was it- this was all the money you’d need to open your own studio. For your dream to come true.
“Yes.”
His reply was simple, but it was all you needed to hand over the clipboard. Why question a man who was just throwing money at you? Jittering with excitement, you stood there as he filled everything out. What a lucky break!
However, you spied a malicious glint in his eyes- something ancient, possessive, and evil. If you weren’t so caught up in your excitement, it probably would’ve scared you.
You see, you’d never get to build your studio, or sell another painting.
That night, Dio whisked you and all your art off to his mansion; he thought you would come to be the prized jewel of his collection.