Sophia walked into the sleek, modern conference room, trying to steady her breath. She had prepared for the meeting, made sure all her materials were in order, but the moment she stepped into the room, all her focus shifted.
There, at the head of the table, sat none other than Ethan Carter, the CEO. His dark eyes met hers, and for the briefest moment, something flickered between them. Recognition, but also something else. He was still the same man who had kissed her on that balcony, but now, he was untouchable—sitting at the top of the company she worked for.
She froze for a moment, a rush of heat flushing her face. Was he aware that she was the same woman from last night? Or had he been as oblivious as she had been about their connection?
"Ah, Miss Lane," Ethan said smoothly, his voice rich with authority. "I'm glad you could join us today. I've heard good things about your work on the office complex project. I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts."
Sophia forced herself to focus, her heart racing. How could she have been so naive?
Ethan Carter, the young CEO who had recently taken over the company after coming back from a stint overseas.
"Thank you, Mr. Carter," she managed, feeling oddly self-conscious. She quickly set up her presentation, trying to avoid his gaze, but the tension was palpable. She could feel his eyes on her, just as they had been last night, and her body betrayed her—her pulse quickened, and she felt a wave of heat rush to her cheeks.
The meeting went on, but she couldn't concentrate. Every time she glanced up, she saw him watching her—calm, collected, and unreadable. The man she had kissed. The man who was now her CEO.