Chapter 3 III

After looking at the time, I still have thirty minutes until I have to pick up Xiannah. The day has been alright. Everyone has been kind, thoughtful, and easy to collaborate with. My camera has been reliable, and I've done my best to put everyone at ease in front of the lens. Regarding the results, I have complete faith in my skills.

I am holding off until a few more people arrive before moving forward. I am still busy checking out the previous shot to ensure I don't need to contact other people to go back here anymore.

"Because of what happened, I bought a new shirt. Is the shirt okay?"

I screamed. "Oh, my goodness. Has anybody told you to maintain personal space with others?"

He gives me a grin and then rests his body against the desk that I am using.

"In all seriousness, you gave me a heart attack. It's a good thing I didn't spill anything on you now. Oh my gosh."

Even though my pulse is racing from the unwelcome surprise, I can't help but gape at his attractiveness. Even though my heart is racing, I cannot help but stare at how handsome he is as he smiles at me with his eyes.

"I'm sorry, but I just couldn't resist. Because you were so focused on your task, it was much more straightforward than usual to sneak up on you."

"You're right. Okay, what is your name, and whose department do you work for so I can match the photo number with you?" He didn't answer but pointed something out.

He is checking my list with a sly grin, unwinding by leaning back on the desk.

There are a lot of people here.

"Today has been quite an adventure. However, everything has run quite well since everybody has been so nice. Before Stuart shows me around, we will get together for breakfast first thing in the morning. I've heard that some of the structures are quite spectacular."

Why is it so hot in here? And has all of the air in this room been drained of its oxygen? The more he stares at me, my throat starts to feel parched. He is now wearing a black shirt and dark gray pants. He has changed his clothes. Even though he exudes a sense of humor, he has an intimidating presence. When I think of him, I see a cuddly lion that, if challenged, will go straight for the kill. He reminds me of that. I am at a loss for words for him. But I know that every part of my body is wary of this handsome man.

"Well, I am in charge of managing those sites. I will be a better leader for you to follow. I'll gladly show you around the construction sites if you can meet me for lunch at twelve."

"Oh, uh. Regarding that matter, I'll have to discuss it with Stuart."

A little second later, he narrows his gaze even farther. But then he laughs, and with that rich baritone voice, I am completely captivated. "That is not the case. It won't be a problem for Stuart at all. However, if it will make you feel more at ease, run it by him first."

"Do you wish for me to go?"

My location is on my bed, ideally without clothes on. What a mess... Let's avoid thinking anything inappropriate out loud by keeping our thoughts pure. Oh my goodness, it's like my mind is behaving like a lusty young adult. Get your act together, self, and for the love of heaven, try not to drool.

I was successful in making it through the shots. He places his card on the table with the back facing up. "Here is my contact information in case your plans must be rescheduled. However, I will discuss this with Stuart and see you tomorrow.

Looking forward to it with excitement."

He walks out of the room with ease, and immediately, the atmosphere becomes more open and airy. I am curious as to what he does for a living. As I fill out my page, I take up his card and feel like my eyes are about to jump out of their sockets. He is Rohan Silvertone. And he is the chief executive officer.

Oh, well! I have been seductively joking with the CEO and showering him with coffee. To cap it all off, I am scheduled to have lunch with him tomorrow. I am so embarrassed that I can feel my entire body rumbling. At least I didn't fail to get the contract this time. Undoubtedly, he is fervently hoping that I do not squander my time tomorrow. It's no wonder that everyone was in such a panic this morning.

When I informed Stuart about my experience with Rohan, he was so shocked that he almost choked on his coffee.

"So. He told you that he would take you to the sites. Have you checked?"

"Oh my gosh, is he a very controlling person? Although I am skilled in what I do, having someone watch over my shoulder usually throws off the picture I am trying to project."

"I'm sorry. Yes, especially regarding how things are carried out. But for some reason, he sometimes does not interfere."

He seemed to be lost in contemplation. This morning, I really appreciated Stuart's company. It's like hanging out with an older brother. He's clever and has a decent grasp of the world, making enjoyable conversations. Until now, I have done an excellent job with this project. It is always pleasant to have some company around. I don't get out often. My social life could be more active. Therefore, I will accept it.

"You don't want to go with me?" I asked.

"To hell with it. My intuition tells me that having you around him won't make things nearly as horrible as they may be. Let's g. We have a lot of sites to investigate. Let's leave the coffee here for the moment. I don't want you to stain anyone else's shirt again in this building, do we?"

I wince in annoyance as he laughs heartily.

I fall behind everyone else and get wrapped up in the job, and before I realize it, it's almost time for lunch. Let's see how the afternoon unfolds and move from there.