Page 23 of Boss's Red Glare

I lean into his touch, my heartbeat calming as I stare into his eyes, sincerity radiating clearly from his gaze. "I’m glad you’re back."

"Me too," he murmurs warmly, leaning forward to press a gentle kiss to my forehead. "I brought coffee. And cinnamon buns from Lil Sweet Treats."

I smile softly, finally relaxing, embarrassment fading into relief and affection. "You remembered."

"Of course," he replies simply, taking a seat beside me and handing over my coffee. "I remember everything about you."

My cheeks flush warmly, heart fluttering as I take a sip of coffee. It's perfect—vanilla latte, exactly how I like it. I look over at him, eyes sparkling with gratitude. "Thank you."

He reaches out, gently tucking a strand of my hair behind my ear, his gaze tender. "Maisie, I need you to know something."

I hold my breath, eyes wide. "What is it?"

He exhales slowly, looking vulnerable in a way that makes my heart ache pleasantly. "I meant every word I said last night. I've had feelings for you for a long time."

My pulse skips erratically, hope blossoming brightly in my chest. "Really?"

"Really," he replies softly, smiling gently. "You're incredible, Maisie. You're smart, funny, and you bring so much joy into my life. I've wanted this—us—for longer than I care to admit."

I swallow hard, emotion swelling powerfully in my chest. "Connor...I've felt the same way. For a really long time."

His eyes soften even more, relief and joy filling his gaze. "Then let's not pretend anymore. Let's be together—for real."

"Yes," I whisper eagerly, heart racing. "I'd really like that."

His smile widens, eyes twinkling warmly. "Good."

He leans forward slowly, pressing a tender kiss to my lips, sweet and gentle. The coffee and sweets are quickly forgotten as we spend a few quiet, perfect minutes wrapped comfortably in each other’s arms.

Eventually, Connor breaks the kiss, nudging my nose lightly with his. "Breakfast before it gets cold?"

I laugh softly, nodding. "Definitely."

We spend a leisurely morning together, sipping coffee, enjoying fresh cinnamon buns, and talking easily. The conversation flows naturally, punctuated by laughter, teasing, and soft, stolen kisses.

After breakfast, Connor glances toward the window, bright sunshine streaming in. "It’s beautiful outside. Want to head into town? Maybe do some shopping?"

I grin brightly, nodding enthusiastically. "I'd love to."

A short while later, we stroll through downtown Starlight Bay hand-in-hand, the charming shops bustling with weekend visitors. The air smells faintly of the ocean, salty and fresh, mingling with scents of coffee and freshly baked pastries.

Connor is relaxed and affectionate, casually keeping an arm draped around my shoulders or holding my hand. It feels utterly right, as if we’ve been together for months rather than hours.

As we walk past the flower shop, Connor pauses, squeezing my hand gently. "Wait here."

I watch curiously as he slips inside, returning moments later holding a small bouquet of daisies. He hands them to me with a shy, boyish smile. "These reminded me of you."

My heart swells warmly, and I accept them, smiling softly. "They're perfect."

He slips his arm around me again, leaning in to whisper teasingly, "Almost as perfect as you."

I laugh softly, elbowing him playfully. "You're laying it on pretty thick, Bradford."

He chuckles, pressing a soft kiss to my temple. "Only because it’s true."

We continue walking leisurely, browsing shop windows, occasionally stopping to explore inside. Connor picks out a pair of sunglasses, asking my opinion, and when I enthusiastically approve, he buys them instantly.

Outside, he slips them on with a smirk. "How do I look?"

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