Page 6 of The Boss's Hideaway Baby

I’m not sure I could handle that.

I blink, pulling myself back into the moment.

Nathan’s expression grows serious, and he leans forward, resting his elbows on the desk. “Tonight is the fundraising gala.”

I nod. Of course, I know this. It’s a gala for his charity, and as his assistant it’s my job to know what he’s up to.

He goes on. “It’s black tie, lots of schmoozing. I’d like for you to accompany me.”

My eyes widen in surprise. Is he asking me out on a date? No, it must be for business reasons. Still, the thought of spending an evening on Nathan’s arm makes my heart race.

“Strictly business,” he adds with a casual grin. “I just need a lovely woman there to charm the investors. And I’d make it worth your time, of course. I would pay you for it.”

I hesitate, biting my lip. Spending a night dressed up with Nathan sounds like a dream and a dangerous temptation. But the pragmatic part of me wins out.

“I don’t know. This sounds… complicated.”

He steeples his hands and looks up at me. “I understand if the thought makes you uncomfortable. Please, forget that I asked at all.”

My heart drops. I had expected him to fight at least a little bit for me to go. I mean, yeah, I would still decline, but it would be nice to feel like I’m really wanted.

Nodding, I leave the office and take a seat at my desk.

I can’t help but think about Nathan’s invitation and the opportunity it presented. It’s not every day that your boss asks you to accompany him to a gala, even if it is strictly business.

Maybe I said no too soon. After all, say I do go with him — what’s the worst that could happen?

It’s not like he would make a pass at me. I’m his assistant, and I’ve been here long enough to know he doesn’t mix business with pleasure.

Which is good, because if he were to make a pass, I already know I wouldn’t be strong enough to resist.

Even though I’m nearly decided, I grab the magic eight ball from my desk just for some backup.

“Should I go to the gala with Nathan?” I whisper as I shake it.

The eight ball floats to the top, revealing its answer.

Yes, definitely.

I take a deep breath, letting the weight of my decision settle over me. Nathan wants me to go with him, and deep down, I want to go too.

Putting the magic eight ball down, I stand up and make my way back to Nathan’s office. What do I have to lose?

“Mr. Colton?” I knock on the door softly, peeking my head in. “I’ve been thinking about your invitation and I would be happy to accompany you to the gala.”

His face lights up with a smile, and my stomach flutters. “Really? That’s great, Maria. Thank you for considering it.”

I let out a small laugh. “Well, it’s not every day I get to dress up like a princess and go to a fancy party.”

Nathan stands up from his desk, his height and broad shoulders towering over me. “You’ll look stunning, I guarantee it.”

My cheeks heat up at the compliment, and I clear my throat. “So, what do I need to do to prepare?”

He checks the time. “We’ll need to leave right away to stop and get you a dress. Close everything up for the day, and we’ll head out. Is that all right?”

“Oh, uh… sure.” It’s not like I had any plans for the night, but he doesn’t need to know that.

“Perfect.” He flashes a smile that makes me feel like I’ve won the lottery. “Thanks again.”

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