“Don’t drool too much, honey; he’ll know you find him attractive.”
With legs for days, blonde hair, and eyes that mirrored Roman Knight, standing suddenly beside Olivia was a woman that looked like she had walked out of some top magazine catalog.
Her dress was wine-colored and looked like it was made to meld with her body; needless to say, she was stunning.
“I’m not staring…” Olivia began, mouth dry and embarrassed to be called out by this runway model.
“Sure, you weren’t honey.”
And before Olivia could respond, she disappeared into the crowd.
What a strange, intense woman, Olivia thought. She needed to find Jane and have a drink.
***
He couldn’t wait to get out of there.
More than five women had already propositioned him, and if he waited a little longer, more people would become drunk and reckless. He didn’t want to be here for that.
He’d done and supervised everything he came to do anyway, and he hated parties; they reminded him of that night…
Where was that pesky intern anyway? And as if on cue, he heard her laughter. He’d recognize that throaty voice anywhere.
She was with Jane; they looked like they were about to cross from buzzed to drunk.
Roman’s gaze locked onto Olivia, and he couldn’t tear his eyes away. Her sequined coral-green backless gown clung to her like a second skin, accentuating every curve and hinting at her graceful silhouette. The dress dazzled under the ambient light, casting an ethereal glow around her.
Her brown, curly hair cascaded down her shoulders, adding a touch of wildness to her polished look. Roman found himself fascinated by the way her locks bounced and swayed with every subtle movement, framing her face in a way that seemed effortlessly beautiful.
Olivia’s natural beauty was enhanced by a touch of lip gloss that emphasized the soft curve of her lips. Her jade earrings dangled delicately, complementing the hues of her gown and adding a touch of sophistication to her overall appearance.
It was not just her physical attributes that caught Roman’s attention but also the air of snarky confidence and self-assurance that she exuded. Olivia carried herself with a poise that commanded attention, drawing him in and leaving him wanting more.
He signaled a waiter for a drink, still watching her. He shooed away reporters with a stern look, choosing to indulge in the sight of her, totally unaware of his fixed gaze on her.
All of a sudden, Olivia felt eyes on her, and she turned and caught her boss’s eye.
Uh-oh. He was walking towards her now. Too late to run.
He gave a wicked smile like he was baring fangs instead of a smile.
“Good job today,” he started.
Only now did he realize how her lashes were impossibly long.
He also noticed for the first time the way she was nervous made her cuter, and before Roman could catch himself, he was smiling.
“It seems I’m going to be bumping you up two ranks now.”
Relief sagged on her shoulders, “Thank you so much. I promise to continue to exceed your expectations.”
“No, you didn’t exceed it. You’re capable of more, you’re an impulsive but intelligent woman, Olivia, and your passion shines through. But be more careful,” Roman signaled a waiter.
“I’m not going to be here for long,” he said, his sharp eyes appraising her before grabbing a flute, taking a gulp, and returning the empty flute to the tray.
“So soon, sir?”
“Call me Roman.”