Page 15 of The Boss's Hideaway Baby

“Tell me something about you that I don’t know,” I say, hoping to get to know her better as we take a break from the hustle and bustle of the event.

“Something you don’t know?” she ponders, tapping her finger on her chin playfully. “Well, I don’t know.”

“You love anime. And sketching. Tell me more about those things.”

“Yep! I know anime is a bit geeky.” She laughs. “But there’s something about the stories and the art that just captivates me. It’s an escape from reality, a world where anything is possible.”

“Show me some of your sketches sometime?” I ask, genuinely interested in seeing her work.

“I can show you now.” She pulls out her phone.

I lean in closer, the scent of her perfume intoxicating. She scrolls through her gallery, showing me various sketches of anime characters, landscapes, and even portraits of people she knows. Each one is a work of art, with attention to detail and a unique style that sets her work apart.

Where has this unique, animated woman been hiding the last year?

“These are amazing,” I say, genuinely impressed. “You could sell these and make a fortune.”

She chuckles. “I don’t think I’m quite at that level yet. But it’s something I enjoy doing in my free time.”

“I can relate,” I say, thinking of my own hobbies that I rarely have time for. “It’s important to have something outside of work that brings you joy.”

We fall into a comfortable silence, the only sound the faint music from the orchestra. I find myself studying her features, the way her hair falls in soft waves around her face, and the way her lips curve into a gentle smile as she looks at her sketches.

Suddenly, she looks up at me and our eyes meet. There’s an electric spark between us, and my heart starts racing. For a moment, we both just stare at each other, neither of us willing to break the connection.

But I catch myself, knowing I need to keep my burgeoning feelings in check. Maria is off limits for multiple reasons. Not only is she my assistant, but I cannot get involved in a romantic relationship. It wouldn’t be fair to her.

“Is everything okay?” she asks, noticing my sudden change in demeanor.

“Of course,” I assure her, forcing a smile. “I’m just thinking about how wonderful tonight has been.”

“Me too,” she says softly, meeting my eyes. There’s a warmth in her gaze that makes my heart skip a beat, and I have to remind myself once again to be careful.

I would hate to date Maria only to have to disappoint her when she finds out I’m not available for a relationship. As much as I’m drawn to her, I know I need to protect both her heart and mine.

“Let’s get back to the gala,” I suggest, standing up and offering her my hand. “We still have plenty of people to meet and money to raise.”

“Right,” she agrees, taking my hand and rising from her seat. Her touch sends a shiver down my spine, but I push the feeling away.

As we return to the crowd, I can’t help but steal one last glance at her. She truly is a remarkable woman, and I’m grateful to have her by my side tonight. But that’s where our connection must end — for both our sakes.

CHAPTER 6

MARIA

The gala, with its shimmering chandeliers and elegant guests, continues to astound me. I can’t believe I’m here, feeling like a character from one of those classic romance novels I used to read as a teenager on Long Island. Nathan’s warm hand on my waist during our dance lingers in my mind, and I can’t help but wonder if he might be developing feelings for me.

It’s so wrong, but the thought sends butterflies into a frenzied dance in my stomach.

“Maria, you’re doing an excellent job tonight.” Nathan’s eyes twinkle with sincerity.

“Thank you,” I reply, trying to sound nonchalant while my heart races. “It’s been quite the experience.”

“Indeed, it has.” He looks around at the bustling crowd of important people.

As we make our way through the room, chatting and laughing, I feel like I’m on top of the world. All my worries about fitting into this high-class environment slip away, and they’re replaced by a sense of accomplishment and belonging.

Maybe I’ve been dreaming too small my whole life. Maybe this is the kind of place I belong, in an important room surrounded by important people.

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