Page 4 of Reckless Temptation

With each step he takes, a small knot forms in my stomach. It's not exactly nerves; it's more like excitement.

Anticipation.

"Isabelle?" Mr. Chen's voice breaks through my distraction, pulling me back to the moment. "Your thoughts on the potential collaboration between WindTech and OraCorp?"

Caught off guard, I blink, attempting to refocus. But the words don't come immediately, and just when the pause risks becoming awkward, a familiar voice fills the void.

"I hope I'm not interrupting," Xavier's smooth baritone sounds beside me, that drink from earlier now extended in my direction. "Would you care for a drink, Ms. Laurent?"

I glance down at the untouched wine in my hand and then back up at him, registering the playful challenge in his eyes.

He continues, effortlessly filling the brief silence. "Perhaps we could discuss the recent breakthroughs in AI integrations? I've got some insights you might find intriguing."

One by one, the gentlemen of my circle exchange nods and mumble vague excuses, glancing between Xavier and me with a mix of amusement and curiosity. The underlying tension doesn't go unnoticed, and soon it's just the two of us amidst the sea of people.

"So, WindTech and OraCorp, huh?" Xavier begins, sipping his drink with an ease that almost seems calculated.

As he speaks, my eyes can't help but drift down to his forearms. The way his sleeves are rolled up just a tad, showcasing the firmness of his muscles and the light dusting of hair that contrasts against the pristine white of his shirt, is undeniably attractive. The way his veins subtly pop as he grips his drink sends a curious shiver down my spine.

I raise an eyebrow, appreciating his attempt at breaking the ice, "Already eavesdropping, Mr. Sterling?"

He chuckles, "It's not eavesdropping when you're practically broadcasting company secrets in the middle of a ballroom."

"Touché," I admit with a smirk, taking a moment to enjoy my drink. "But if you must know, I'm considering the collaboration. Their tech has potential, even if they're not quite on Sterling Industries' level yet."

Xavier's gaze sharpens, a hint of playfulness flashing in his eyes. "Well, if we're comparing industry standings, I heard a rumor about a failed deal in Singapore involving Laurent Enterprises last year."

I laugh, a genuine, light-hearted sound. "Ah, so you've been doing your homework. That wasn't a 'failed deal' so much as a... strategic withdrawal."

"We have different definitions of 'strategic,' then," he teases.

I'm intrigued by the banter between Xavier and me. Though our businesses might be rivals, the chemistry between us is undeniable. Our playful exchange feels like a dance, each of us trying to lead, neither of us wanting the song to end. I've always appreciated a good challenge, and Xavier is proving to be just that.

He's sharp, witty, and confident. I find myself enjoying our back-and-forth more than I would have liked to admit. Every comment and retort is like a flirtatious tug, and I'm curious to see where this unexpected connection will lead.

"Speaking of strategies," I say, steering the conversation to more dangerous territory, "I've been quite intrigued by Sterling Industries' recent venture into green tech. A departure from your usual interests, isn't it?"

His lips twitch into a smirk, "Diversification is key in the modern business world, Ms. Laurent. Besides, there's potential in green tech. But you already knew that, didn't you?"

“I did.” I tilt my head playfully, narrowing my eyes as I challenge him. "You seemed quite curious earlier about my work in women's empowerment. Planning to dive into that arena as well, Mr. Sterling?"

He chuckles, leaning in slightly, "Diversification is key, remember? But on a serious note, it's an area that deserves attention and support. Tell me, what drives your passion for it?"

His question catches me slightly off guard, but I decide to answer genuinely. "It was my mother's influence. She believed in shattering glass ceilings, always pushing me to go beyond societal expectations. She left an indelible mark."

He looks thoughtful for a moment. "Our mothers play such pivotal roles, don't they? Mine was similarly formidable. She used to say that had she been given half a chance in the corporate world, she'd have outshone many."

I'm taken aback by his candidness, sensing a rare moment of vulnerability. "It's not often you meet someone in our circles willing to credit the women behind them."

His lips quirk into a half-smile, "Well, behind every successful man, as they say..."

It's a revelation, seeing this side of him. Not just a formidable business magnate but a man who values and cherishes the influence of the strong women in his life. I'm moved by his candidness, and it makes me see him in a different light.

When our eyes lock, something electric passes between us. It feels like the world has quieted down, giving us this brief, raw moment of connection. But just as quickly as it arrives, the moment dissipates, and the walls we've built around ourselves snap back into place. I'm left intrigued, a little breathless, and wondering about the depths hidden behind Xavier's guarded facade.

"Speaking of strong influences," he says, smoothly transitioning, "I've heard you're quite adept on horseback. Do you still ride?"

I tilt my head, a grin forming. "It's one of my few escapes from the corporate world. The thrill, the connection with the animal—it's liberating. Do you ride, Mr. Sterling?"

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