Page 3 of Mr. January

I sigh, "Just need to know how much time I've got before...you know, all this stuff goes public."

"The series articles drop the last Thursday of every month. So, your story, ‘Mr. January’ will be out there about three and a half weeks after the New Year."

"Good to know," I nod, returning the topic to the interview. "So, you gave me homework to explain my backstory, right? You wanted the scoop on my younger days in the Forrester empire, how I got into the whole gambling scene, stuff like that?" I glance over my shoulder, half-expecting someone to walk in on us. We're at the Forrester Media offices, not the relaxed vibe of the coffee shop I prefer. The last few times I was alone in these offices last year after dark, I was intimate with Robyn. Those memories flood back, making it hard to concentrate. I know my brother Reece's somewhere around, probably making Genesis a bit tense. And Robyn's here too, which definitely doesn't help my nerves.

"They're both tied up in meetings," Genesis says, picking up on my unease.

"Oh, that's good to hear," I reply, shifting in my seat.

She closes her laptop. "Would you rather we meet at the coffee shop again? I know you didn’t want the casino because it’s distracting, but if there’s somewhere you’re more comfortable with?—"

I cut in, "Honestly, working here feels weirder than being at the casino. At least there, I feel in my element, you know? This boardroom stuff, not so much."

Her eyes light up with a playful idea. "What if I interview you right by the slot machines or maybe at the blackjack table?"

I can't help but chuckle at the thought, but then again… "You're serious? You want to head to the resort right now?"

"Why not?" she throws back.

"Okay, well, if you want to get the real me, that's where the action is, Miss. Jones. How about you pack a bag and stay over at the resort for a bit? Shadow me, see what a day in my life is all about."

"Do you actually stay at the resort?" she asks, a bit surprised.

"Yeah, I’ve got a penthouse apartment up there," I say, trying not to sound too boastful.

Her eyes widen. "I had no idea!" she exclaims, clearly impressed. "That's some serious swagger," she comments, and I can't help but laugh.

"I guess you could say that," I reply with a smile. "How about this - meet me at the casino in a few hours? We could grab dinner, talk more about the article, and avoid the usual distractions of Forrester Media. That is if Robyn and my brother can spare you for a bit?"

"I'm sure that can be arranged," she agrees, nodding.

"Perfect, it's settled then," I say, standing from my seat before she can change her mind.

Chapter Two

Knox

As I settle in at the blackjack table a few hours later, I'm in my element. This is where I come alive. The table, with its smooth, green felt, is familiar to my hands. I'm in the high rollers' room at a private table, away from the usual crowds. Normally, I'd be out in the main room, mingling with guests incognito, but tonight's different. Tonight, I'm letting Genesis into my world.

The chips feel almost comforting between my fingers, their weight a reminder of the stakes I'm used to playing with. The room is quieter here, more intimate, allowing for a focus that the bustling casino floor doesn't always offer.

My phone buzzes with another email, pulling me from my reverberant thoughts. It's my brother Reese. His email has an urgent tone, and he's wondering where Genesis is since she hasn't been back in the office all day. I can sense his concern for her more than he usually shows. It's as if he's worried about her well-being, and I can't help but wonder if there's something more to it. Reese and Genesis have a unique connection, one that goes beyond just boss and employee. I know my younger brother has feelings for the beautiful journalist, and it's no surprise that he's concerned about her whereabouts.

Tapping out a quick message, I respond to Reese:

Hey Reese,

I asked Genesis to come over to the casino for the Bachelor series interview. Thought it'd be easier to do it here, in my comfort zone. If you need to talk to her for any reason, she's with me. You can reach her here or have Kylie ping Ellie if there's anything urgent.

-Knox

I send it off, hoping it'll ease his mind a bit. It's important for me that Genesis sees this side of my life for this article, the real essence of Knox Forrester, away from the office and the boardroom. Tonight is about opening up, on my turf, in my own way.

I can barely contain my anticipation, knowing Genesis is about to join me to continue this interview. Watching her stride across the casino floor, her eyes taking in the grandeur, I can tell this is all new to her. She walks into the high-stakes room, her gaze darting around, a look of awe on her face.

"This is incredible, Knox," she says, her voice tinged with wonder. "I've never been in a place like this before. It's...it's just so much more than I imagined."

I smile, feeling a sense of pride. "Glad you like it. How about a tour? There’s a lot more to see."

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