Finn nodded, checking his watch. "We're still on schedule. Traffic should be light at this hour."
Elena moved toward the door, eager to escape the confines of his apartment, where every corner seemed to reveal something new about him, something that made it harder to keep theprofessional boundaries that were becoming harder to maintain. As Finn locked up behind them, she found herself wondering what else she didn't know about him. The thought was both thrilling and terrifying.
Tonight, they would stand side by side at the gala, technically as research director and research assistant. But it didn’t feel like that. It felt more like they were equals. Partners. And ten minutes ago, she was secretly ogling her partner’s body as he changed into a perfectly fitted suit. Everything was becoming problematic and she felt like a dam that kept springing new leaks. Eventually she wouldn’t be able to hold out any longer. And of course, they still had the entire evening ahead of them.
As they descended the stairs in silence, she asked Finn a simple question: “So. Do you have any bowls?”
“I have several.”
Damn it.
Chapter Thirteen
FINN
The ballroom buzzed with conversations about vacation homes and investment portfolios that Finn could never relate to. He hated it.
"Breathe," Elena murmured, close enough that her shoulder brushed his. "Remember, you know this research better than anyone.”
A server glided past with a tray of champagne flutes. Elena snagged two and passed one to Finn. He downed it in one gulp. “Is it possible to get a drink that contains more than one tablespoon?” Finn asked in irritation.
"Dr. Herrera!" A woman in a dark blue gown approached, arms outstretched. "I was hoping you'd be here. Your last paper was brilliant."
Elena stepped forward, leaving Finn half a step behind as she accepted the woman's air kisses. "Dr. Phillips! Thank you. Have you met Finn Cochrane? We’ve been working on a new neurofeedback approach to treating TBI’s."
Finn noted she did not refer to him as her research assistant.
Dr. Phillips’ eyes swept over Finn in admiration. “I’ve heard about you. Although I must admit you look very different from what I expected,” she said with a wink.
Finn smiled back and let Elena take control of the conversation. He felt himself receding from the conversation, becoming part of the background as Elena slipped effortlessly into the familiar dance of academic networking. She engaged in enthusiastic conversation with Dr. Phillips as he kept drifting away, positioning himself where he could observe without being obligated to take part. The room pulsed with conversation and hidden agendas. His gaze kept returning to Elena. She'd moved from Dr. Phillips to a small group of foundation board members, her expression animated as she described something that required both hands to illustrate.
"Ah, the famous research assistant."
Finn turned to find Paul Thompson standing beside him. He had opted for a glass of water rather than alcohol. "Dr. Thompson," Finn said. "Good evening."
"I'm glad you could make it." Paul took a drink as he looked out at the crowded ballroom. "These events are more important than most researchers realize. The work we do in the lab is only half the battle. Keeping the board happy is what keeps us funded."
Paul glanced at him. "You know, I was skeptical about your protocol at first. Still am, honestly. But..." he paused, choosing his words, "I have to admit, your conviction in that meeting was impressive. Few assistants would defend their position that boldly."
Finn wasn't sure how to respond to what might have been a compliment.
“Just try to rein in that boldness tonight,” Paul continued. “We aren’t trying to make waves here. This entire event is about appeasing the board.”
"I’ll keep that in mind," Finn said.
Paul nodded. “Good. Enjoy the evening, Mr. Cochrane.” And then he was gone.
Finn needed a drink to get through this. At the bar, he ordered a gin and tonic. The bartender handed him the glass, and Finn turned back to survey the room. Elena was still conversing, and her group had expanded. She glanced his way and offered a smile before returning to her conversation.
He took a drink of his cocktail. It was strong, but he didn’t mind. He decided he would stay in the background all night. Out there on the floor, there were too many games being played. He wished he were back in the lab where everything made sense and he didn’t have to perform for anyone.
"Excuse me, is this seat taken?"
Finn looked up to find a man gesturing to the empty barstool beside him. Tall, with neat dark hair and the kind of confident smile that came from a lifetime of doors opening easily. "No," Finn said, shifting to make room.
"Thanks." The man settled onto the stool, signaling the bartender. "Old-fashioned, please." He turned to Finn with the same easy smile. "Rough night?"
Finn blinked. "Excuse me?"
