After the “ground rules” she set, I chalked up any chances of becoming close with Kelsey to absolutely zero. And sure, did I assist in that zero percent chance? Of course I did, and I’m not going to pretend I didn’t. I use instigation as a defense technique, to guard myself. Kelsey is no exception.
She’s the first girl I’ve had more-than-one-night interest in. From the moment I met her in the conference room with Lottie, when they were pitching their organizing services, I felt the need to get closer to her. To find out who this strong-willed, intelligent, woman is, what makes her tick, what brings her joy... who brings her joy.
And I’ve tried everything you could think of to break down her walls.
I’ve attempted friendship, which was a complete shitshow.
I’ve tried flirting. I was knocked down a peg or two rather quickly.
I tried sarcasm, wit, and well... that didn’t go over well either.
Onthe date, I reverted to my last resort, poking her with annoyance. I think we all know how that ended up—a follow-up the next day with ground rules on how to stay the hell away from her. Instruction received.
I’m not one to push against the tide, I know when I’m simply wasting my time, so when I met Genesis at a meeting at Mecca Tech and we got on well, I didn’t hesitate to give dating a shot. She’s smart and beautiful, and we seem compatible.
When Kelsey’s working at Cane Enterprises, I’ve behaved professionally, kept my eyes down unless asked a direct question, my heart guarded, and avoided inhaling Kelsey’s flirty perfume.
It’s worked.
All of it.
Until she walked down those stairs tonight.
Until her hand landed in mine when she exited the van.
Until I helped her into the back entrance of the estate and caught a rare glimpse of her vulnerability, something she keeps very well hidden.
Now, I’m a desperate, needy asshole all over again.
“Sorry, Genesis,” I say softly. “Work events are always stressful. Even though it’s supposed to be a fun night out, I still have eyes on me at any given time.” Very true—I’m always stiffer at work events.
Cane Enterprises is always under scrutiny because of how powerful we’ve become. Our competitors would like nothing more than to see us crumble and fall.
“I can totally understand that. The pressure of being one of few female vice presidents in the tech world is intense. Feels the same way, everyone is waiting for me to make a mistake.”
“Sorry for interrupting,” a waiter says, coming to stand before us. “But they’re calling everyone to their assigned seats as dinner is about to begin.”
“Of course.” I nod at the man and then offer my arm to Genesis. She takes it and together we walk into the ballroom of the estate.
The room is bustling with Beverly Hills elites dressed in their finest. From Tom Ford suits to obscure designer gowns, the glitter and the glam of the evening almost overshadow the cause, the reason why we’re here. Typical for most events in this part of town. You pay a fee to attend, and then the rest of the night, business is conducted, gossip is spread, and deals are made with a discreet handshake.
But not this event. It’s one of the reasons why my brothers and I attend. Right after dinner, they remind guests why we’re all here by showing a very poignant video. A video about where your money is going, whom you’re helping, and why it’s so important. You not only leave feeling fulfilled, but you leave educated and with a slightly lighter wallet.
After receiving our table number from the door attendant, we weave through the golden ballroom, which is decked out with low-hanging chandeliers over every long, rectangular table. Each table is decorated with low-profile, lush centerpieces of white lilies, complete place settings, and gold serviettes that match the gold in the room and the golden swirls in the cream tablecloths. An exquisite, intimate dinner that provides the opportunity for attendees to communicate easily across the table.
“What table are we again?” Genesis asks.
“Table two,” I answer. “It’ll be up front. They always stick us up front.”
We’re stopped by a few attendees who shake my hand. I introduce Genesis, she hands out her card, and when we finally make it to our table, I’m ready to drop the smile for a second and just breathe.
That’s until I see that the only place setting available is directly across from Kelsey and her date.
Fucking great.
I scan the table, and when I see a smirking Breaker glance up at me, I wonder how much of this seating arrangement was because of him.
“Seems like we’re right over here.” I direct Genesis to the table and pull out her seat for her.
