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“Your father mentioned you’ve been working on some new initiatives for the hotel,” he says.

I hum noncommittally, not wanting to encourage conversation. In each office and workspace we pass, my coworkers greet us with friendly smiles.

“And this is the finance department. They’re the ones who tell us if we spend too much money.” I gesture toward the office space.

Sophie, who is always dressed like she’s on a date instead of work, walks over to us. “Hi, I’m Sophie. Always nice to have a new face. Welcome to the team!”

Wow. Not even glancing at me.

“Thank you. I’m Connor Milton, the new cybersecurity consultant.”

“Sophie’s the one who tells us no when we ask for fancy new gadgets,” I say.

“Guilty as charged. But I make exceptions for charming and talented individuals. We can discuss it over coffee sometime?”

I knew I hated her.

“I appreciate the offer, Sophie. But I’m still trying to navigate the basics here. Maybe once I’m settled in,” Connor says.

Maybe once I’m settled in? Asshole. Will he kiss or steal her phone, too?

“Of course. I’ll send you an e-mail as a reminder. Or… your number?” she asks.

I take a step forward. “I think we have to continue. My time is limited.”

Sophie glares at me. “Yes, sorry. Have a good start. I’ll find you.”

At least she acknowledges me now. I lead Connor to the elevators, punching the button with more force than necessary. Of course, all the women are already fawning over him.

Once the doors shut and we’re alone, he faces me. I stare ahead, focusing on the descending numbers above the door. 27, 26, 25…

“I should have given her my number. What do you think?”

“I couldn’t care less.”

“Are you jealous?”

“No.”

“Then why did you interject?”

My cheeks flame. “I am not jealous.”

“You are.”

“Please, I’m just being a good host. It’s part of the job to make sure you’re not poached by other departments on your first day.”

“Of course, doing your duty. I wouldn’t dream of suggesting otherwise, Blue.”

Blue? Am I going crazy? Didn’t he call me Blue in my dream last night, too? I’m imagining this.

The elevator doors open, and I stride out, Connor on my heels. At the end of the hall, I unlock one of our luxury suites and hold the door open.

“This is one of our luxury suites. As you can see.” I gesture briskly, already walking the other way.

“I’d like to take a look inside.” Connor swings the door open and enters.

I hurry after him into the suite’s sitting room with its view of the city skyline. He takes it in, hands in his pockets.

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