Back then, the Gehlot family’s criminal ties were unknown as he smartly skirted the authorities. The minute there were whispers, he moved to Dubai.
I’ve read all the files, communications, know the project team responsible, but I’m missing a vital clue or piece of information. Or perhaps I’m searching in the wrong place. Dad wouldn’t discuss details that could damage them through official channels. He’ll keep a clean trail.
Heaving in frustration, I lift my head just in time for the door to open.
The wind gets knocked out of my lungs at the sight of Arya.
All other thoughts evaporate.
A black vest style pinstripe blouse molds to her upper body, accentuating the curve of her breasts with a tantalizing glimpse of her cleavage. Black slacks and red high heels complete her ensemble.
I don’t know why I expected her to appear sad and heartbroken, but she’s full of confidence with her chin raised high as she saunters to my table at Golden Elm. The sinful sway of her hips distracting me before I force my gaze up to her gorgeous face.
Curled brown hair falls in thick rivulets around her high cheekbones, while her pouty lips are painted red. I’ve never seen her wear such a bold color. When she raises her black sunglasses to her head, I’m entranced by her chocolaty brown eyes.
It’s when she says my name in her soft and husky voice that I’m freed from her spell. “Nathan.”
I fix my starstruck expression. “Arya.”
The waiter walks up from behind her just as she pulls out her chair and sits opposite me. He pours her a glass of water. Then gazes down at her like she hung the moon, which makes me want to smash his face into the table.
“Would you like to order, ma’am?”
“No, thank you,” she politely declines.
“You sure?” I interrupt, wondering whether she has had lunch. “We could be here a while.”
“I’m not staying for long,” she answers curtly and without meeting my gaze. “I have another meeting across town in two hours.”
She’s giving me a taste of my own medicine. I glance at the waiter, dismissing him with a hand. “We’ll call you if we change our mind.”
“Yes, sir.” He skedaddles.
“Who’s the meeting with?” I ask as nonchalantly as possible when it’s just us.
Avoiding my burning gaze by rummaging in her purse, she coldly responds, “My meetings are confidential.”
“I’m hardly going to crash it.”
“The answer’s the same.” Pulling out two folders, she slides them to me. “Here are the reports I put together about CodeSphere that will help you in negotiations with Ben DiNozzo. To buy his company, you’ll likely have to offer a higher price than the last time. He is also attending the Wings of Hope fundraiser in New York, so it’ll be the perfect opportunity to break the ice. I’ll email you the itinerary later today.”
“I want you to come with me.”
Her stunned eyes collide with mine.
Finally.
“Excuse me?”
“You will travel with me,” I repeat, leaning back and smoothening my tie. “Give your name as my plus-one. I’ll make the rest of the arrangements.”
Will she allow me to buy her a dress? A diamond necklace?
“I am not going anywhere with you, Nathan,” she defiantly rumbles.
“Why not?”
She stares back like I’m insane for even suggesting it, much less demanding a reason. “Because I’m not your assistant whose schedule revolves around you. I can’t drop everything and move my appointments around to appease you. Take Samaira or another model if you’re feeling too shy to attend it by yourself.”
