Page 15 of Christmas With A Billionaire

If only she knew how my heart raced every time he touched me, how I’d woken up wrapped in his arms this morning. But I kept my voice professional. “The real story is the opportunities this project will create for young artists.”

“Speaking of which,”Edward called out, “can we get some shots in the student gallery?”

Victoria asked us questions about the project’s vision as we moved through the building. Tyson discussed the business aspects—the multi-million dollar investment, the innovative design, and the economic impact. I focused on the artistic elements and community programs.

“This space will house our mentorship program,”I explained as we entered a large studio. “Established artists working directly with students, sharing techniques and business skills.”

“It’s extraordinary.”Victoria traced her perfectly manicured fingers along a workbench, her eyes fixed on Tyson. “What inspired such an ambitious project? Most luxury hotels don’t include community art spaces.”

“Actually,”Tyson smiled - that devastating smile that could charm anyone - “I’ve always wanted to do something different with my hotels. But watching Autumn fight for emerging artists at the Art Institute and seeing her passion for creating opportunities are what shaped this vision. She showed me how art could transform communities.”

Victoria stepped closer to him, touching his arm. “That’s fascinating. Tell me more about your creative process. Perhaps over dinner?”

My stomach clenched at her obvious interest. How she looked at him - like he was a prize to be won - made me want to step between them.

“The project itself is more interesting,”Tyson replied smoothly, moving toward me.“Autumn and I spent years discussing what artists need to succeed. This program combines our dreams - my goal of redefining luxury hospitality and her vision for nurturing new talent.”

“You two are quite the team,”Victoria observed, her eyes lingering appreciatively on Tyson’s broad shoulders.

“The best,”Tyson agreed, and something in his tone made me look up. He watched me, not Victoria, with such intensity that I almost forgot we weren’t alone.

The way Victoria kept finding excuses to touch Tyson’s arm or stand close to him during photos shouldn’t have bothered me. He dealt with admirers constantly - it came with being wealthy, gorgeous, and successful. But something about her polished confidence and apparent interest set my teeth on edge. Whenever she laughed at his comments or batted her eyes, I felt a hot surge of jealousy.

Edward cleared his throat. “Let’s get some shots of you both by the windows. The light is perfect.”

As we posed, Victoria continued her questions. “Tyson, your hotels are known for their sophistication. How does this community focus align with your brand?”

“It enhances it.”His voice took on the confident tone he used in business discussions. “True luxury is creating meaningful experiences, contributing to culture. This project does both.”

“And the budget? A development of this scale can’t be cheap.”

“Money isn’t the point.”He shrugged, and I smiled - only a billionaire could dismiss millions so casually. “The point is impact.”

“Still,”Victoria pressed, “it’s a significant investment in an unproven concept.”

“Actually,”I interjected, “similar programs in other cities have shown impressive financial and social returns. I can share the data?—”

“The numbers don’t matter,”Tyson cut in. “I believe in this project. With Autumn helping me build it, nothing can stop us.”

Victoria’s eyes darted between us. “Fascinating. Tell me more about your working relationship. How do you balance such a long friendship with professional collaboration?”

“We trust each other completely,”I said.

“Always have,”Tyson added, his fingers brushing my arm as we turned for another photo.

“And personally?”Victoria smiled. “Surely working so closely affects your private lives?”

“We’re just friends,”I said quickly — too quickly, judging by her raised eyebrow.

“Bestfriends,”Tyson corrected, and I caught the slight emphasis on ‘best.’

The interview continued, but I was aware of every move Tyson made - how his eyes sought mine during questions, how his whole body seemed oriented toward me even when speaking to others.

Finally, Victoria closed her notebook. “This is wonderful. One last shot for the cover?”

Edward positioned us by the grand staircase - Tyson leaning against the railing, me standing slightly in front of him. “Perfect. Now look at each other like you’re discussing plans.”

I turned to face Tyson, and the intensity in his dark eyes caught me off guard. His hand came up to tuck a strand of hair behind my ear, the gesture so natural it made me suck in a deep breath.

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