He snorted almost the way I had earlier. “The company has an entire marketing firm with one person in charge of Facebook, another TikTok and so on. I don’t dare touch the ongoing promotions or add a comment. No, I’m talking about my private pages.”
“Hmmm… I’ve yet to find those.”
“And you won’t,” he said, lifting his sunglasses. “I take my privacy very seriously.” Even with a portion of his face being covered by shades, I sensed he wore a mischievous expression.
“I take that as a challenge and I do so love them.”
“Then you’ll accept the challenge and indulgence of having lunch with me.”
I thought about the offer. We were both more relaxed and I had a feeling this was more of the real man than the ruthless bastard portrayed in the news. “Alright. Challenge accepted.”
CHAPTER 7
Vanessa
Very few men surprised me and I was forced to admit I was enjoying spending time with Christian. I could blame the atmosphere including his perfect selection of music, Adele and Rhianna my favorites, or the incredible colors of the afternoon sky while surrounded by crystalline rolling water. I could even pretend simply allowing myself the freedom from a day of work was a possibility. And I had to admit the food was fabulous as well.
But the truth was that the time spent with the powerful man without either of our defenses on high alert was the reason. The few hours of conversation had gone easily and without reservation, and I’d found myself laughing several times.
He was much more personable than I’d given him credit for, answering my ridiculous questions under the guise of increasing the likelihood of finding the right person for the job.
Favorite movies and foods, types of activities planned. Sports events. Concerts. We’d covered the bases.
I’d had one too many glasses of wine, which was likely the reason I’d allow my guard to fall in the first place. While I’d caught sight of the captain and at least three other crew members, one of which had removed our plates without saying a word, he’d been true to his promise, creating a fabulous lunch. Evidently, the man had hidden talents.
“Favorite color?” I asked.
“Red. I can tell that’s yours as well.” He leaned back in his chair, swirling his drink as he studied me. We’d taken residence at one of the outdoor tables, enjoying the cool breeze.
“Yes, but this isn’t about me.” I chewed on the pen cap as I peered at my questions. “What is your preferred method of relaxation?” With the pen still in my hand, I took a sip of wine.
“Well, sex, of course. Raw, unbridled, and very sweaty acts of fornication that leave you desperate for more.”
I coughed, spitting out my sip of wine. Thoroughly embarrassed, I grabbed my napkin, blotting the dribbles from my cheek while giving him a sour look in the process.
He laughed. “I didn’t mean to embarrass you.”
“I don’t embarrass that easily.”
Leaning over, he curled his hand, brushing his knuckles across my cheek and instantly every nerve ending stood on end. Again I found it difficult to breathe. “Your face is red, a beautiful shade that complements your skin tone.”
What could be said about me that I allowed myself to become lost in the moment, ignoring the red flags from earlier? A subtle yet very audible sigh left my lips and the setting sun was unable to hide the twinkle in his eyes.
When I didn’t move, he cocked his head and rolled his thumb across my bottom lip, tugging slightly. I remained breathless, blinking several times as tingling sensations shattered a portion of my resolve. My nipples were taut, easily seen through the thin material of my blouse. I resisted folding my arms across my chest while he remained with his eyes locked on mine.
“I’m just a little warm,” I said. While not a lie, my body’s state of increased and way too explosive heat had nothing to do with the outside temperature. I sensed he knew it by the wry smile he wore.
“I would like to think I have something to do with that, Wildcat. You’re quite beautiful when you blush.” His fingers tickled my jaw as he pulled his hand away. He sat back in his seat, his huge figure commanding the chair like he did with everything and everyone else. “Have I answered all your questions?”
“I… I should have enough to make an informed decision.”
“I hope you’re leaning in the direction of providing me with assistance. I think we can work very well together.”
“While I won’t make any promises, there’s a good chance I can successfully find the right person for you.” Was I leaning toward accepting the job? Maybe.
“Good to hear. Now, will you do me the honor of answering a few questions I have?”
I licked my bottom lip where he’d laid claim before I knew what I was doing and he caught the nervous gesture, the grin turning into a smirk. “Of course. I’m certain you need to ensure you’re comfortable with my firm as well.”
