After ordering another drink, my mind drifts back to Jocelyn and a small smile tugs at the corner of my lips. Perhaps it’s time to let my walls down and take that chance and explore the possibilities that lie before me. The path ahead may be filled with obstacles and complications, but sometimes, the most worthwhile journeys are the ones that defy expectations.
With a newfound determination, I finish my drink and make my way back to our room. It’s time to face whatever comes next.
As I approach the room, my mind is filled with swirling thoughts and newfound determination. I turn the doorknob and step inside. To my surprise, the room is empty, devoid of Jocelyn’s presence. A flicker of worry ignites within me, wondering where she might be.
I glance around, searching for any clue of her whereabouts, and that’s when I notice a small note left on the bedside table. My heart skips a beat as I pick it up and read her message.
Couldn’t sleep. Went for a walk to clear my head. Be back soon. - Jocelyn.
I’m relieved that she’s safe, but I also feel a tinge of guilt for leaving her alone in this unfamiliar place. I decide to make myself comfortable and wait for her return.
The weariness from the day starts to catch up with me, and the gentle hum of the air conditioning lulls me into a state of drowsiness. As I recline on the bed, my intentions to stay awake gradually fade away.
The next thing I know, morning light creeps through the curtains. I slowly open my eyes, momentarily disoriented. As I sit up, I notice Jocelyn is sound asleep in the only chair in the room. Her face appears serene, softened by the golden glow of sunlight.
Carefully, I rise from the bed, trying not to disturb her peaceful slumber. I can’t help but feel a twinge of guilt for leaving her with no proper sleeping arrangements. It’s a stark reminder of the imperfect circumstances we find ourselves in.
Quietly, I move toward her and gently place a blanket over her shoulders, tucking her in with utmost care. She stirs slightly, but her eyes remain closed. I watch her, and I admire the vulnerability and trust she displays even in her sleep.
With a reluctant glance at Jocelyn, still peacefully asleep in the chair, I quietly slip into the bathroom to freshen up. The sound of running water fills the room as I step into the shower, allowing the warm cascade to wash away the remnants of sleep and uncertainty.
As the water soothes my tired muscles, my mind begins to clear, and I focus on the day ahead. We have an important breakfast meeting with a potential investor. It is our chance to make a lasting impression and secure the future of our business. It’s a critical moment, and we can’t afford any distractions.
I quickly finish my shower and step out, wrapping a towel around my waist. Steam lingers in the air as I reach for my clothes. I meticulously choose a suit that exudes professionalism and confidence.
When I emerge from the bathroom, fully dressed and ready for the day, I find Jocelyn stirring from her sleep. She blinks her eyes open and looks up at me, her expression a mix of surprise and slight embarrassment.
“I’m sorry. I must have fallen asleep,” she mumbles, her voice slightly groggy.
I offer her a gentle smile. “No need to apologize. You needed the rest. We have a busy day ahead. Speaking of, I’ll head downstairs and give you some privacy to get ready.”
Jocelyn stretches and yawns. She then rises from the chair and shakes off the remnants of sleep. As we exchange a knowing glance, an unspoken understanding passes between us. We both recognize the need to compartmentalize our feelings and prioritize the task at hand.
“After the mix-up with the room, I’ll just make sure everything is in order with our table. Meet downstairs in 30?”
Jocelyn nods. Her professional demeanor settles back into place as she gathers fresh clothes from her suitcase and heads into the bathroom.
I catch a glimpse of her undressing before I close the door and walk down the hallway to the elevator.
Chapter 10
Jocelyn
AfteragreeingtomeetDylan downstairs in 30 minutes, I step into the bathroom to get ready for the day. The reflection in the mirror reveals a mix of emotions playing across my face. Excitement, nervousness, and a lingering sense of uncertainty blend together, creating a whirlwind of thoughts.
As I begin to freshen up, I reflect on the series of missteps and mixed signals that have brought us to this point. From the accidental collision that started it all to the passionate kisses that followed… it feels as if our paths have been intertwined, even when we tried to resist it.
The soreness in my neck serves as a reminder of my restless night spent curled up in the chair. But despite the discomfort, it’s a small price to pay for the intriguing connection we share. I massage my neck gently, hoping the soreness will dissipate soon.
As I finish getting ready, I contemplate the meeting ahead. This meeting is a pivotal moment for our business. We need to impress in order to showcase our expertise and commitment to success. It’s crucial that we present ourselves as a unified front, so we need to keep our feelings in check.
I take a final look in the mirror, adjusting my appearance to portray confidence and professionalism. With a deep breath, I remind myself to focus on the task at hand and push aside any lingering doubts and distractions.
After I exit the hotel room, I make my way downstairs toward the restaurant, expecting to find Dylan there. As I step inside, I scan the room, searching for his familiar presence.
My eyes lock on him sitting at a table, engrossed in something on his tablet. However, the sight that greets me isn’t what I expected. His furrowed brow and clenched jaw betray an anger that radiates from him, casting a cloud over the air.
Worry instantly consumes me, and I hasten my pace to join him. As I approach the table, I speak cautiously. I know my voice is filled with concern when I ask, “Mr. Chase, what’s wrong? You look furious!”