Page 14 of The Boss's Hideaway Baby

“My pleasure. She’s quite the force to be reckoned with,” Nathan chuckles. “But don’t let her intimidate you. We all started somewhere, you know.”

The band switches to another song, this one slower and more romantic than anything they’ve played yet. Nathan offers me his hand, a softness in his eyes. “May I have this dance?”

I hesitate.

Yes, of course I want to dance with him. But I don’t want to get too carried away. The more I indulge in this crush, the harder it will be when we return to the real world.

But he’s my boss, and I’m here tonight to play the role of his date. A part like that involves dancing. And so I slip my hand into his. “Yes.”

He draws me onto the dance floor, where other couples sway and twirl. Everywhere he touches me lights up like a Christmas tree, and I start to doubt my ability to stand up straight.

Nathan draws me closer to him, and his body heat envelops me. All I need to do is let go of the last tiny bit of resistance, and I would melt right into him.

This moment is too perfect. This night is too magical. Soon enough, it will all evaporate into thin air, and I know that. For now, though, I intend on savoring every second of it.

CHAPTER 5

NATHAN

As the final notes of the song fade, Maria and I come to a stop on the crowded dance floor. Her eyes, wide with excitement, meet mine for a moment before she lowers her gaze. I can’t help but be drawn in by the way the dim light reflects off her warm brown hair and the elegant curve of her neck.

My attraction to her feels sudden, unexpected. But I tell myself it’s just because of how stunning she looks tonight.

Maria has worked for me for a year, and not once have I thought about her in my bed, or her lips pressed to mine. A beautiful gown on a gorgeous woman can do something to even the most logical man, though.

“Thank you for the dance.” Her cheeks are flushed, and I can’t tell if it’s only from the dancing or from something else as well.

“Of course.” I offer her a smile. “You’re an excellent dancer.”

“Thanks,” she murmurs, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “I haven’t danced like that in years.”

“I should get back to rubbing elbows.” I hesitate. “Do you mind coming with me? I’m sure everyone is wondering about you.”

She hesitates, but it’s only for the briefest moment. “Of course.”

As we weave our way through the crowd, I notice her becoming increasingly nervous. It’s not surprising, considering the caliber of the guests we’re mingling with. Politicians, wealthy businessmen — you name it, they’re here. Yet, despite her nerves, she handles herself remarkably well. She’s charming, attentive, and genuinely interested in what these high-profile individuals have to say.

“Maria, I’d like to introduce you to Senator Thompson,” I say, guiding her towards the man in question. “Senator, this is my date, Maria.”

Date. The word sounds so good next to her name.

“Ah, Maria, a pleasure to meet you,” Senator Thompson says, extending his hand.

“Likewise, Senator.” She shakes his hand firmly. Her voice is steady, betraying none of the anxiety I know she must be feeling.

We continue making the rounds, chatting with a who’s who of influential people. The entire time, she remains by my side, offering support and engaging in conversations. I’m grateful that she’s here with me tonight. I’m not a fan of attending events like this, even when they’re for my own charity. But if I have to be at one, I’m glad it’s with Maria.

“Maria,” I say as we step away from a particularly boisterous group of businessmen, “I just want to tell you how impressed I am with how well you’re handling tonight.”

“Thank you.” Her cheeks color slightly, and this time I know it’s from being put on the spot. “I won’t lie — I’m pretty nervous. But it’s been great getting to meet all these amazing people and knowing that we’re raising money for such a worthy cause.”

“You being here has made this night much easier for me,” I admit. “And I know the success of this gala is due in large part to your hard work and dedication.”

She grins, her brown eyes shining. “Well, I do my best. And I’m glad I could help make a difference.”

As the gala carries on around us, I find myself stealing glances at her more often than I’d like to admit. There’s something about her that is drawing me in, and I can’t quite put my finger on it. But whatever it is, I know I need to keep my distance. For her sake, and for mine.

We find a quiet corner away from the crowd, settling into two plush armchairs. Maria’s dress shimmers like a waterfall under the dim lights of the gala hall.

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