I'm dressed in a black pinstriped pencil skirt and a yellow blouse. I pinned my hair up today. His eyes linger on my neck.
He looks dashing in his navy blue three-piece suit and white shirt. A week ago I would have told him how handsome he is, but now that feels out of place. I've already decided that the harmless flirting that took place at the launch party and the restaurant has to stop.
Not only is he my client, but he's in the middle of a breakup, or maybe it's a non-break up, with Isadora. Getting involved with him would spell trouble for me and my career.
"I could say the same for you, Maya." His voice is gruff and deep. I could seriously get off just hearing the man talk dirty to me.
So much for keeping my mind on business.
"I'm officially on board to sell this space." I smile as I survey the tastefully decorated living room. "I need to get to know every inch of it."
"Every inch," he repeats in little more than a whisper as he tilts his head to the left to study me. "I received the signed contract before I left my office. I think we should celebrate."
I turn to look toward the chef's kitchen. "I think any and all celebrations should take place once the penthouse is sold."
I can hear and sense him moving behind me. "You just landed the biggest listing of your career. Surely a drink is in order."
I turn quickly to face him. The toes of his shoes are almost touching mine. The man smells incredible. His body is close enough that a single small movement of my hand and I'd feel the muscle of his bicep. "I don't think that's a good idea, Julian."
His full lips ease into a smile. "I beg to differ, Maya."
Jesus, he's gorgeous. This is exactly my type. Everything about him is my type including his ability to make me wet just from his mere presence.
"I don't think it's wise."
"Why not?" He steps even closer, closing the small gap that was between us.
The air in the vast space feels instantly thick and threaded with need. I tell myself to take a step back but my black stilettos stay firmly planted on the area rug beneath them.
"We work together," I say softly. "You have a girlfriend."
He reaches forward to adjust the collar of my blouse. I don't move. My breath stops as my heart stutters. "I don't have a girlfriend, but you have a Charlie."
I don't have a Charlie. I haven't spoken to him since the dinner at the restaurant with his dad and stepmom. Charlie ushered me into a taxi on the street that night because he had to stay to discuss something with his father. I didn’t complain. I was happy to ride home alone.
I've been meaning to talk to him but between meeting with his dad's attorney regarding the listing of Charles and Hazel's apartment and the excitement surrounding this contract with Bishop Hotels, my time hasn't been my own.
"I'm not asking you out on a date, Maya," he clarifies as his breath skips over my cheek. "This is strictly a drink between business associates. Nothing more."
Nothing more.
I want more.
I ignore the temptation to say that. "Just a drink?"
"One drink," he whispers. "We'll toast to your impending success."
I know how important it is to keep a client happy. I wouldn't hesitate if any other client invited me out for a drink. "One drink it is."
He looks down at the large silver watch on his wrist. "I'll leave you here to get better acquainted with the space. I'll meet you downstairs in the hotel bar in an hour."
"An hour," I repeat back. "I'll see you then, Julian."
Unable to take my gaze off of him, I watch as he turns and walks to the corridor that leads to the private elevator.
I suck in a deep, audible breath once I'm sure he's out of earshot.
I signed the biggest contract of my career and I'm having a drink with Julian Bishop. This is quickly becoming one of the best days of my life.
