Chapter 11: A Dangerous Proposition

The rest of the day passed in a blur, but Mia couldn't shake the lingering awareness of Adrian's presence. Even when she wasn't looking, she could feel his gaze on her, assessing, considering.

By the time she finished her last task, it was already dark outside. She gathered her things, eager to leave before anything else happened to make her heart race.

Just as she stepped out of her office, Adrian was there, leaning casually against the doorway. His tie was loosened, and the top button of his shirt was undone, making him look both effortless and dangerously alluring.

"Leaving so soon?" he asked, his voice smooth.

Mia stiffened, gripping her bag tighter. "It's after hours. I have no reason to stay."

A slow smirk curved his lips. "Actually, you do."

She exhaled, already wary. "And what reason is that?"

He pushed off the doorway and stepped closer, reducing the space between them. "I need your help with something."

Mia's heart pounded. "Work-related?"

Adrian tilted his head slightly, watching her reaction. "Not exactly."

Her breath hitched. This was dangerous territory, and they both knew it.

"I think it's best if I—"

"Have dinner with me," he interrupted smoothly.

Mia blinked. "What?"

"I have a business event tonight. I need a plus-one." His expression remained unreadable, but his eyes held something deeper—something she wasn't sure she was ready to face.

"I'm your assistant, not your date," she said, forcing her voice to remain steady.

"Exactly," he countered. "And that's why I trust you to keep things professional."

Mia hesitated. She wanted to say no, to turn around and walk away. But part of her—an irrational, reckless part—was curious. What would it be like to spend an evening by his side, to see him outside the confines of their usual power struggle?

Adrian seemed to sense her inner battle. "One night. No strings attached."

Mia swallowed hard. She knew better than to believe that.

But still, she found herself nodding. "Fine."

A flicker of satisfaction passed through his gaze. "I'll send a car for you in an hour."

As she walked away, Mia told herself she wasn't playing with fire.

But deep down, she knew she was already burning.