Page 36 of Unbearable Player

Brianne’s face lit up with excitement. “No way! I’ve always wanted to see the falls.”

The view from the plane was breathtaking, the massive curtain of water visible even from this height. As they disembarked and made their way to a waiting car, Brianne couldn’t stop grinning. The air was crisp and clean, filled with the distant roar of the falls.

Their hotel was a marvel of luxury, its towering structure offering unparalleled views of the natural wonder. As they entered their suite, Brianne gasped. The room was stunning with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the falls in all their glory. But what truly took her breath away were the flowers.

Vases filled with long-stemmed red roses and vibrant sunflowers adorned every surface. The sweet scent filled the air, and Brianne felt her eyes prick with tears.

“Reid,” she whispered, turning to face him. “How did you...”

He smiled softly, reaching out to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear. “I pay attention. You mentioned once that roses remind you of your grandmother’s garden, and that sunflowers always make you smile. I wanted to make sure you were surrounded by things that make you happy.”

Brianne’s heart swelled with emotion. She threw her arms around Reid’s neck, hugging him tightly. “Thank you,” she murmured into his chest. “This is... it’s perfect.”

After a moment to freshen up, Reid led her to the hotel’s rooftop for a private lunch. The view was even more spectacular from up here.

As they enjoyed their meal, Brianne couldn’t help but marvel at the man sitting across from her. Reid Parker, CEO and bear shifter, who could have his pick of anyone, had chosen her. Had gone to all this trouble to make her feel special.

The rooftop restaurant was a marvel of elegance and comfort. Their table, set apart from the others, offered an unparalleled view of the falls. The mist rising from the cascading water created an ethereal atmosphere with tiny rainbows dancing in the air around them. The gentle roar of the falls provided a soothing backdrop to their conversation.

Reid looked absolutely dashing in a crisp, blue button-down that brought out the warm tones in his olive skin. His dark hair was slightly tousled by the breeze, giving him a rugged charm that made Brianne’s heart skip a beat. She watched as he expertly twirled pasta around his fork, his strong hands managing to make even that simple act look graceful.

“You’re staring,” Reid teased, his dark eyes twinkling with amusement. He set down his fork and leaned forward, a playful smirk tugging at his lips. “Do I have sauce on my face, or am I just that irresistible?”

Brianne blushed, caught in the act. She let out a small laugh, shaking her head. “Sorry, I just... I can’t believe you did all this for me. No one’s ever gone to so much trouble.” She gestured around them, taking in the breathtaking view, the exquisite meal, and the man himself. “I mean, look at you. You’re like some kind of romance novel hero come to life. CEO, bear shifter, devastatingly handsome... Are you sure you’re real and not some elaborate hologram?”

Reid chuckled, the sound deep and rich. He reached across the table, gently taking her hand in his. His thumb traced small circles on her skin, sending pleasant shivers up her arm. “I assure you, I’m very real. Though if you need further proof, I’d be happy to provide it later.” He winked, causing Brianne’s blush to deepen.

“Smooth talker,” she quipped, trying to hide how flustered she felt. “Is this how you woo all your business associates? Five-star meals and flirty banter?”

Reid’s expression turned serious, though his eyes still held a warmth that made Brianne’s heart melt. “Brianne, you’re worth every bit of trouble and more. I want you to know how serious I am about us.” He squeezed her hand gently. “And for the record, my business associates usually get a handshake and a pen. You’re in a league of your own. You get anything and everything you want.”

“Anything?”

“Name it. It’s yours.”

Him. She wanted him. But the fear of admitting the words to him and herself was more than she’d ever experienced in her life.

Brianne felt a lump form in her throat, overwhelmed by the sincerity in his voice. She tried to lighten the mood, not quite ready to confront the intensity of her feelings. “A company pen, huh? And here I thought I was special. I don’t suppose it’s too late to trade in this fancy lunch for some office supplies?”

Reid played along, his serious expression cracking into a grin. “I’m afraid the pen offer expired the moment you agreed to join me on this trip. But if you’re really set on it, I suppose I could arrange for a stapler to be sent to your room. Top of the line, of course. Only the best for you.”

Brianne laughed, the sound mingling with the rush of the falls. “My hero. Sweeping me off my feet with promises of premium office equipment. However will I resist your charms?”

“Who says you have to resist?” Reid’s voice dropped lower, sending a thrill through Brianne. He lifted her hand to his lips, pressing a soft kiss to her knuckles. “I’m rather hoping you’ll fall helplessly under my spell.”

Brianne’s breath caught in her throat. The playful banter had shifted, leaving her heart racing and her skin tingling where his lips had touched. “Reid, I...” she began, not quite sure what she wanted to say.

He seemed to sense her hesitation. His expression softened, and he gave her hand another gentle squeeze before releasing it. “No pressure, Brianne. I just want you to know that I’m all in. You and me... I’m here for all of it.”

Brianne nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. “Even if it leads to me beating you mercilessly at video games later?”

Reid’s eyes lit up with the challenge. “Oh, it’s on. Just remember, bears are very sore losers. You might find yourself on your back if you’re not careful.”

“I like where this is going.”

As they laughed and resumed their meal, a warmth spread through her chest. This man, this incredible, thoughtful, playful man, wanted her. And despite her lingering fears and doubts, she was starting to realize that maybe it wasn’t so scary for her to want him too. More than she’d ever wanted anyone.

“Your heart is safe with me, Brianne,” Reid said, pulling her out of her thoughts.

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