My knees nearly buckle.
Before I can form a coherent response, the elevator dings.
The doors open.
I flee like prey that survived by one singular miracle.
Behind me, I hear him laugh, soft, low, devastating.
I’m not going to make it through this workday.
JAXON
I should return to my office.
I should respond to the eight emails waiting for me. And the call from my CFO. And the meeting with legal.
Instead, I’m thinking about her.
The elevator moment replaying in my mind on a loop.
The way she inhaled when I touched her. The way she tried so hard not to lean into me. The way her eyes widened when I told her the truth.
Next time I touch you, it won’t be accidental.
I meant it.
I sit at my desk, loosen my tie, and stare at my schedule. I need another excuse to see her. Something organic. Something that won’t scare her into running again.
I scroll through my calendar.
Ah.
There it is.
A team briefing with the editorial department. Large group. Safe environment. Professional.
I pick up the phone.
“Move the meeting up,” I tell my assistant. “Today. In an hour.”
“Yes, Mr. Cole.”
I hang up.
I lean back in my chair.
She won’t expect this.
But she’ll walk in that room, see me at the head of the table…
And she’ll know exactly what I’m doing.
I don’t chase often. But when I do?
I win.
RUBY
