Page 6 of Billionaire's Black Assistant

“That’s a great dress, you know,” he said. “I normally see you in skirt suits or pants, so I have to say, this looks absolutely incredible on you.”

She flushed with pleasure. “Thank you, Dean, for noticing.” Ugh, what was wrong with her? He paid her compliments regularly. No reason for her to get all creamy and moist in the panties this time. Yet, she did wonder where all this was going.

“As I recall, you wore something similar, the other night I saw you having that dinner date,” murmured Dean. “So, are you going somewhere special tonight after work?”

“Not really,” she said, eyes darting. “I just felt like breaking the monotony of my normal fashion. Besides, it was really warm today and slipping on a dress instead of a two piece outfit seemed practical.”

By now, she was a little breathless from talking so fast. Why the devil did she sound like she was on the defensive? Maybe because deep down, she knew the truth – that a part of her had noticed Dean’s look of admiration the other night and on impulse, she had worn a dress today. It had been in a burst of vanity, but she really hadn’t thought he’d notice.

Liar. She knew just how observant her boss was. So the question now was, had she secretly wanted to test him? Maybe even try out her theory that there was that something sizzling between them?

That would just be too crazy, Sheri decided. Not only did she not want to negatively impact her career by trifling with her boss, she definitely didn’t want to do anything stupid or embarrassing.

“Well, you should wear one more often,” he said with plain approval. “Now, to my next question. You’re welcome to refuse if you’re not interested, but a good friend of mine is holding a solo art exhibition and I was wondering if you’d like to go with me after work.”

***

“Oh.” Sheri just stared at him.

Though her tone sounded both pleasant and composed, Dean could tell he’d shocked her. Hell, he’d shocked himself, never knowing that was going to come out of his mouth. He could tell she knew he had his pick of ready partners to be his date to any outing, so why her?

So sure she’d say no, he was pleased when after just a beat, she added, “Why, I’d love to. You know how much I’m a fan of art.”

An almost boyish jolt of pleasure hit him in the stomach, but he stayed easy going as he said, “Of course, I do. Any of the other women I meet aren’t into any of that stuff. It would be nice to attend with someone who knew a thing or two on the subject. I’ll definitely appreciate the company, Sheri.”

“You’re the boss,” she said with a smile. “I aim to please.”

Dean hid his own smile of amusement. Oh, she was trying to keep things business-like, make it seem she was going with him as part of her duty. Well, he could roll with that. He even appreciated that she was trying to be sensible for both of them. Let’s see how far that goes, he thought with another dangerous inner grin.

***

Dean drove them to the venue of the exhibition after they closed from work. Sheri had retouched her hair and makeup, adding a bit of vamp, more suitable to nighttime wear. Though she’d escorted her boss to functions before, it had only been in her capacity as his assistant. Never as his date or companion. Right now, she couldn’t really label what it is he expected of her tonight. He’d said he wanted someone along who related to his interest for art, but she was still flustered inside by the fact that she couldn’t really tell what he was up to.

The location of the event was a classy private gallery with an adjoining private lounge making it somewhat of a lifestyle venue where art buffs could gather not just for the pieces on display, but the music, gourmet food, quality vintages, and great company, all within a unified sanctuary.

Dean’s friend was originally from China and his oil paintings were inspired by his travels all over his homeland. He was there to give a walk-through on his art, and Sheri was impressed how this self-taught artist had such a mastery of colors and forms. There was something so authentic about him and his art, and Sheri felt honored that Dean had brought her along to share this unique encounter. She was no collector by any stretch of imagination, she just knew what she liked and art was a sweet spot for her.

The evening was indeed awesome, made even more so by the fact that she was with Dean. He never acted or said anything that was inappropriate and was as considerate and charming as ever. If she wasn’t so damned determined to keep things on the level, she might even have relaxed enough to act like this was a real date. But her engrained sensible side just wouldn’t let her truly let go.

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