Gorgeous: Book One (Gorgeous #1) - Lisa Shelby Page 0,28

I've been so set on knowing I was hired for my ability to do the job and for no other reason.

"I'm the one who's sorry. I'm trying too hard to be professional and prove to you you've hired the right person that I may be making things harder than they need to be. I can't help but feel we look like a couple sitting here at a candlelit table for two. You aren't asking inappropriate questions, I'm just a bit on edge. I can't help but imagine what my boyfriend would think if he saw us."

He stills and doesn't respond for a few seconds.

"Do you want to go inside?"

"Not at all. This is absolutely beautiful. It just feels a little intimate is all."

"So, a boyfriend then?"

My cheeks blush as the conversation turns even more personal, but I don't reply.

"Is it serious?"

"Yes."

"Do you live together?"

"No. We've talked about it the last couple of years, but no."

"Two years?" he sputters out when he chokes on his wine.

"Well, we've been together for three, but we aren't in any rush?"

His brows furrow, and he sits back casually in his chair. "How will he feel about you traveling?"

"He won't mind. We aren't joined at the hip or anything. He understands and besides, his work keeps him busy."

"Is that right?"

The confident man is back, and his arrogance is once again shining through.

Our next course of scallops wrapped in salmon, wasabi jelly, and a sweet pomegranate is delivered, and the subject changes to the delicious food. This is all a bit fancier than I am accustomed to, but in the world of event planning, you do get exposed to many dishes most aren't lucky enough to try. It may not be the way I usually eat, but that doesn't mean I don't enjoy tasting the finer things in life at work.

As the courses continue to arrive, our conversation has turned back to work and menu items that could go with certain events and themes.

After dessert, he insists we walk our meal off. Not much is said during our short stroll that brings us back to the entrance of the resort and the lobby bar. Our walk has been comfortable, and I find myself enjoying his company. He's pleasant, smart, and engaging. There is a magnetism about him that draws you in even when walking in complete silence.

"Would you like a nightcap?"

And, it feels like a date again.

"Thank you, sir, but I'm tired and plan on getting an early start tomorrow. Thank you for the offer, though."

Walking me to the elevator, he keeps his hands in his pockets and then we wait, once more in silence, until the doors open. I enter the elevator, and when I turn back and wait for the doors to close, he holds his position and watches me with his crystal blue eyes and a look of determination—what he's determined of, I have no idea.

The doors close, and I feel myself sag against the back wall of the elevator. I hadn't realized how hard I was trying to keep the upper hand and stay professional. I really am exhausted. Exhausted from fighting the way he makes me feel and telling myself I don't want him.

I shouldn't have taken this job.

These six words run on a loop in my head while I slowly step onto my floor once my short ride in the elevator is over. I take my time getting my key card out, unlocking the door, and entering my dark room. I find the switch on the wall, and to see the room glow in the low light makes it even more beautiful than it was earlier in the day.

Still, at a snail’s pace, I walk through the room tossing my key and clutch onto the desk in the living space. I don't understand what I'm feeling. To say the least, I'm confused. I couldn't get away from him fast enough, but I'm still wishing I was with him. I'm finding that I enjoy being in his presence. Even though I know he's my boss and nothing can come of it, I love to simply be near him.

Come to think of it...when I wake up every morning excited to go to work, it isn't my desk I see when I open my eyes each day, it's him.

I sigh heavily and take off my shoes and hang up my dress. I take out my contacts, wash my face, and get ready for bed. Hoping to take my mind off my unprofessional thoughts, I