Several minutes later, Alex’s driver pulls up in front of my apartment, and I’m all packed and ready. I sit in silence, a curl of anticipation unfolding in my stomach as the drive takes me closer and closer to Alex.

We arrive at the hangar in no time, the sleek private jet gleaming under the morning sun as I make my way toward it, with my heart pounding with a mixture of anticipation and uncertainty. This is the moment I've been waiting for, the beginning of a work trip that holds immense potential for my career. But there's something else lingering in the back of my mind, something that fills me with both excitement and apprehension.

Last night, in a moment of vulnerability and unexpected connection, we shared a kiss. It was electric, a spark that ignited between us, leaving me breathless and yearning for more. But now, as I approach the jet, I can't help but wonder if that intimate exchange will make or break us during this trip.

I step onto the aircraft, and Alex is already inside, engrossed in his phone. He looks up as I enter, a warm smile gracing his lips. His presence fills the cabin, his charisma undeniable. It's hard to ignore the undeniable chemistry that sparked between us last night, and I wonder if he feels the same tension in the air.

"Good morning," he greets me, his voice smooth and inviting. "Ready for this adventure?"

I return his smile, albeit a bit nervously. "Good morning, Alexander. Yes, I'm definitely ready. Excited to see what lies ahead."

As we settle into our seats, I can't help but steal glances at him, remembering the intensity of our kiss. It was a moment of connection that felt like destiny, yet now I can't help but question its implications for our professional relationship. Will it complicate matters? Will it create awkwardness between us? Or perhaps, against all odds, it will strengthen the bond we share, bringing us closer in both personal and professional realms.

Alex clears his throat, drawing my attention away from my swirling thoughts. "Last night was unexpected," he says. "I hope it didn't catch you off guard."

I take a deep breath, searching for the right words. "It was unexpected but not unwelcome. There's definitely something between us, Alex, and I can't deny the connection we share."

He nods, his expression a mix of relief and apprehension. "I feel it too, and I can't ignore the undeniable chemistry. But we have to be cautious. We're embarking on an important work trip, and our focus should be on that."

I understand his point, but I feel disappointed at the same time. This trip may hold tremendous potential for both of us professionally, and we can't afford any distractions. But deep down, a part of me feels deflated and sad that he doesn’t seem as affected by last night as I am.

Tianna’s voice suddenly fills my head. “I bet he told you you’re special… People like you are usually his type.”

"Of course," I reply, my voice filled with determination. "Our work comes first. We'll stay professional and focused throughout the trip." I smile tightly, trying not to let his ex-wife’s voice dig up insecurities I was sure I had left back in my apartment.

Alex smiles gratitude and longing in his eyes. "I'm glad we're on the same page. I have high hopes for what we can achieve together."

As the engines roar to life, signaling our departure, I can't help but wonder what lies ahead for us. The jet lifts off the ground in no time, leaving the familiar behind and carrying us toward uncharted territory.

If Alex is bent on avoiding what happened, then maybe it’s best that I forget about it.

Chapter twenty

The Gala-Alex

“I’m a coward,” I think to myself as I escort a stunning Blair into the massive building where tonight’s event will be hosted.

The grandeur of the gala unfolds before me as I step into the opulent ballroom, my heart pounding with a mix of excitement and nervousness. This evening, I'm attending the event with someone who has become more than just my personal assistant and my friend. She has captured my heart, filling my thoughts and dreams with her radiant presence.

If only I had the guts to tell her what she really means to me.

As I glance at her, I can't help but be mesmerized by her beauty. The way her gown hugs her curves, accentuating her elegance and grace, leaves me breathless. Every movement she makes, every smile that graces her lips, has the power to captivate the room. And tonight, I have the privilege of being the one by her side.

Back in the jet, I had fervently rehearsed what I would say to her the minute she stepped in. I was going to tell her that last night had been one of the best nights of my existence, and I wanted to be with her.

Then, she walked in, looking beautiful in the white summer dress that stopped right above her knees, and I immediately became tongue-tied. I, Alexander Graves, sat there at a loss for words.

It has never happened before, and I handled it poorly. I could clearly see how withdrawn she instantly became when I brushed that night off so flippantly. I had almost knocked on her door in our hotel suite last night to make things right, but my legs suddenly felt too heavy to move.

I assure myself that things will be different today as I adjust my suit. I’ll tell her how I feel about her tonight, and it will work out perfectly.

We navigate the crowd together, the buzz of conversation and the melody of music filling the air. I catch glimpses of envious looks directed our way, but in this moment, all that matters is her, the woman who has awakened a longing within me that I never knew existed.

“It’s beautiful,” she exclaims as we make our way in, staring up at the celestial-inspired painted ceiling.

“Yes, it is,” I reply, but all I can see is her. "You look absolutely stunning tonight," I say, unable to hide the sincerity in my voice.

A blush tints her cheeks, and she meets my gaze, her eyes shimmering. "Thank you," she replies, her voice soft and filled with a touch of vulnerability. "You clean up pretty well yourself."