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“I have some things in mind, but it would mean changing the entire exterior and redesigning the whole interior,” I tell Theo excitedly.

He’s given me complete freedom when it comes to making decisions, but I still want to make sure he likes the kind of drastic transformation I’m imagining.

His eyes remain fixed on his phone for a few seconds, then he locks it and looks at me. I’m not entirely sure, but for the briefest moment, something dark seems to pass through his gaze. It disappears so quickly that I start wondering if I imagined it.

“Selene, you can make any changes you want,” he says calmly, his voice steady and reassuring. “Just show me the design before you start the renovations, although I’m pretty sure I won’t have any objections.”

“Perfect,” I reply, absolutely thrilled, lifting one hand in victory.

I’m planning to blend modern design with traditional Romanian architecture, and I already have the entire concept prepared. Normally, I only handle interior design, but with this project, I’ve challenged myself to take responsibility for the hotel’s exterior appearance too. I want everything to look exactly the way it does in my head, which means I’ll personally oversee every last detail.

“I’m guessing that’s everything for today,” Theo says with a smile.

“Not exactly. I’d like us to quickly go over a few ideas so you can tell me what you think, which one you like best…”

“Uh…” He interrupts me with a smirk, glancing over my shoulder. “Actually, I think that’s everything.”

Following his gaze, I turn around and find Zayn leaning against the entrance door. His arms are crossed over his chest as he waits there, looking as though he has absolutely nothing else to do. As if it isn’t the middle of the day and he shouldn’t be buried in meetings at his office.

“I’m assuming you came to admire my hotel,” Theo says with a laugh.

Zayn doesn’t answer. He only smiles faintly, his eyes locked on me with an intensity that makes my stomach flutter.

Right then, Theo’s phone starts ringing. He pulls it from his pocket and checks the screen, then sighs.

“I need to take this,” he tells me, giving my arm a light squeeze as he heads to the door.

Once he reaches Zayn, he says something I can’t hear. They exchange a quick, brotherly hug before Theo disappears.

“Mr. Thomas,” I purr softly, making my way toward him, “forgive my boldness, but are you by any chance single? Because you are extremely handsome, and I’d really want your help with something.”

A quiet chuckle rumbles from Zayn as he shakes his head slightly, his eyes following every step I take.

“If you’re interested,” I whisper, stopping directly in front of him, “I’d really like you to come upstairs with me. To the top floor.”

A playful glint flashes in his eyes.

Winking at him, I close the remaining distance with another slow step. Both palms settle against his chest, and I mold myself to him, feeling the warmth of his body beneath my touch.

His hands go immediately to my waist, drawing me closer as he lowers his head and brushes his lips along my neck.

“Do I need to be single to give you a hand?” he asks, slipping effortlessly into my game.

“Well,” I say sweetly, “I don’t exactly need just one hand…”

I pull back a few inches and look into his eyes. They’re already burning with desire, his pupils blown wide, the heat in his gaze sending a delicious shiver through me.

“I need your entire body,” I finish quietly.

“Hmm…” A low growl vibrates in his chest. “Your offer has me a little intrigued. I might have to take a look and see what this is about.”

“Yes, but my offer is only valid if you’re single,” I manage to tell him, even though my knees have already gone weak beneath me.

“Show me what you need my help for, Selene,” he says, his voice rough with restraint.

I pull him to the elevator, press the button for the top floor, and try to keep some distance between us, although every part of me seems to want the exact opposite.

Zayn says nothing else. He simply watches me, unmistakable amusement written across his beautiful face. He’s probably fully aware of the effect he already has on me—and far too pleased with himself because of it.