Page 5 of Grumpy Orc CEO

With the laughter that’s been surrounding me, I realize the reason I can't seem to concentrate on my book is because it's been a while since I've simply hung out with someone. Maybe it’s time to do something more than just people watch. Maybe it’s time I at least attempt a conversation with someone of the opposite sex. It’s not like it’s a marriage proposition.

I close my book and place it on the counter, accepting that the stranger next to me is just far too intriguing. I glance at him as he takes a slow sip of his whiskey, savoring it like it’s the first drink he’s had in ages. His eyes meet mine once more and I decide to say something.

“You here for long?” I hear myself ask before I can stop the words from escaping my lips. I internally cringe, hoping the handsome orc doesn't think I'm weird. But still, I can't deny the instant attraction and it’s not as if I’ll ever see him again.

I take another drink of my wine, hoping to calm my frayed nerves.

He turns his head slightly towards me, a hint of surprise flickering in those amber eyes. His expression softens just enough to show he’s intrigued by my sudden question.

“Just passing through,” he replies simply, his gaze still holding mine captive.

There's something about the intensity that makes me want to know more. "Flight delay got you too, huh?"

He looks at me, the corner of his mouth lifting into a smirk. "Yeah, seems like we're all stuck here for a while."

I nod, feeling a little more relaxed. "Not exactly the way I thought I was going to spend my evening, but I'll always make an exception if there's wine," I say with a laugh.

"Could be worse," he says, with a smile, taking another sip of his whiskey. "You could be stuck here alone without anyone to talk to."

"True," I laugh, appreciating his attempt to lighten the mood, he's surprisingly easy to talk to.

He sets his glass down and turns slightly towards me. "So, do you come here often?"

I burst out laughing. Feeling more comfortable, I smile as my nervousness begins to melt away. "Only when I'm stuck in an airport bar due to flight delays."

"Well, lucky me," he replies, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "I get to share this lovely evening with someone who appreciates a good joke."

"You call that a good joke?" I tease, raising an eyebrow.

"Hey, it's all about delivery," he says, leaning in a bit closer. His presence feels warm and inviting.

"I'm Lucy," I say, my stomach fluttering.

"Jarvin," he replies, the deep timbre of his voice is almost soothing.

"So, what brings you here tonight?" I ask, genuinely curious.

"Business trip," he replies. "And you?"

"Collecting some things from my parents' house," I admit. "Just moved into a new apartment and I’m trying to get everything settled." I keep the details to myself, thinking it doesn't matter. I'll never see this guy again.

"Sounds like you've got a lot on your plate," he says sympathetically.

"Yeah, but it's worth it," I say with a determined smile. "New beginnings and all that."

"I can relate," he says, looking thoughtful for a moment. "Sometimes you need to shake things up to find what really matters."

His words resonate with me more than I expect. There's something about him—his confidence, his presence—that makes it easy to open up.

"What kind of business are you in?" I ask, eager to keep the conversation going.

"Finance," he answers simply. "But it's not as boring as it sounds, I promise."

"I'll take your word for it," I say playfully. "But you'll have to convince me," I say even though a job in finance is exactly what I've been looking for.

"Oh really?" he challenges with a grin. "And how do you suggest I do that?"

"Hmm." I pretend to ponder for a moment. "How about starting with another round of drinks?"

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