Page 14 of Boss's Red Glare

As I enter, I immediately spot Connor. He stands near the edge of the pavilion, looking impossibly handsome and effortlessly charming in a crisp white button-down shirt rolled at the sleeves, showing off just enough forearm to make my knees wobble. Dark navy shorts complete his casual yet sophisticated look. I take a deep breath and remind myself that I’m not allowed to faint today.

He’s chatting with a small group of impeccably dressed people—clearly the investors. I hesitate momentarily, but then Connor’s eyes lock onto mine, his expression softening noticeably. He waves me over, a small, private smile on his lips.

My pulse races, my cheeks growing warm as I approach. “Hey,” I say softly when I’m near enough, feeling slightly breathless.

“Hey yourself,” he murmurs warmly, his eyes crinkling at the corners. He gently wraps an arm around my waist, pulling meslightly closer. My breath catches, my pulse skittering out of control.

He turns back to the group of investors with effortless ease. “Everyone, this is Maisie—my girlfriend.”

My heart jolts slightly at the word, even though I knew it was coming. He says it so naturally, so convincingly. It feels like a dream.

“Nice to meet you,” I say softly, smiling warmly at them all. “Welcome to Starlight Bay.”

They smile back, charmed, clearly won over. Connor glances down at me affectionately, and without warning, he gently brushes his lips against mine in a quick, warm peck. My toes curl inside my sandals, electricity skittering through my veins. It’s brief and sweet—but enough to leave my heart pounding wildly.

Connor looks amused by my flushed expression, but he keeps his composure, nodding toward the food tables. “Let’s grab some food?”

I manage a nod, feeling slightly dizzy. “Sure.”

As we step away from the investors, his hand stays lightly on the small of my back. My whole body tingles pleasantly from the gentle, possessive contact.

“You okay?” Connor asks quietly as we move toward the buffet tables, his voice low and intimate.

“Yes,” I reply, smiling softly. “You just…surprised me.”

He chuckles lightly, handing me a plate. “Had to make it believable. Was it too much?”

“No,” I say quickly, maybe too quickly. “It was perfect.”

He meets my eyes, a spark dancing in his gaze. “Good.”

We move down the tables, Connor carefully loading both our plates with delicious foods—grilled chicken, potato salad, fresh watermelon slices. He’s attentive, thoughtful, a perfect picture of a doting boyfriend. It’s almost scary how easy it is to believe this could be real.

“Hungry?” He teases gently, noticing my wide eyes at our full plates.

I laugh softly, shaking my head. “Just impressed by your plate-stacking skills.”

He grins boyishly, eyes sparkling. “It’s a hidden talent.”

We find a small table under a shady tree. Connor pulls out a chair for me, and I sink into it gratefully, smiling up at him. “Thank you.”

“Anytime,” he murmurs, sitting beside me. He leans in slightly, voice dropping conspiratorially. “You’re doing great, by the way. They love you.”

I blush warmly, glancing down at my food. “I’m glad.”

“You’re a natural,” he continues, sincerity coloring his tone. “I knew you would be.”

“Thanks,” I whisper shyly, glancing up at him through my lashes.

We eat in comfortable silence for a moment, the air between us humming pleasantly. Every few seconds, I’m acutely aware of Connor’s proximity, the warmth radiating from his body. My heart is racing wildly, and my appetite is completely forgotten.

Connor breaks the silence gently, his eyes thoughtful. “I’m really grateful you agreed to do this.”

I smile softly, daring to meet his gaze fully. “Honestly, I’m glad you asked me.”

He raises an eyebrow slightly, teasing. “Oh?”

I shrug, cheeks warm again. “It’s been kind of fun being your girlfriend.”

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