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“Is this what you’ve always wanted to do,” Alden asks as we head to the elevator for the last time.

I shake my head and laugh.

“Honestly, I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life other than not end up like my mother.”

He stares at me with those intelligent eyes. I glance up, then away again as the doors open for the elevator. I don’t normally share this part of my life, but I feel comfortable with him.

“She was a…prostitute. She preferred the term escort, but all I know is strangers traipsed in and out of our small apartment at all hours of the day and night. I’ve been on my own since I was fifteen, and when I took off, I knew I didn’t want that to be my life.”

Alden doesn’t say anything as we step inside, and he pushes the button for the lobby.

“But I’ve always loved flowers and gardens. My first job was at a grocery store, and I spent half my time in the floral section. It may not be a glamorous profession, but I’ve worked hard, learned a lot, and now I have a company I can call my own.” I brace myself for any sign of mockery or disdain when I look at Alden. “I hope that where I come from doesn’t change our business arrangement.”

All I find in his eyes is curiosity and warmth.

“Why would it?”

He is so intense that I can’t hold his stare. I turn to face the shiny, black doors, but still see his reflection gazing at me.

“Let’s just say that not everyone wants me around once they find out where I come from.”

“I commend you. Starting any business isn’t easy, and even harder when you struggle for every penny and win,” he says.

My chest fills with emotion. I’m no longer ashamed of my past, but it still affects me. Clients all over the city will blacklist me from ever working again if they find out.

“Thanks, that means a lot,” I say as Alden walks me to the front doors of the building. “I want to thank you again for this opportunity. I promise I won’t let you down.”

He rubs his bottom lip with his thumb.

“Do you want to get a bite to eat?”

I clear my throat.

“Um…I don’t know if I should.”

“Because of my brother?”

He cocks a brow like that is the most ridiculous reason.

I nod.

“Emily, this is strictly a business dinner. You can show me your ideas, and that way the proposal will be the most accurate.”

I’ve no idea what Rob will do if he finds out. His reaction can range from not caring to full jealousy mode.

“Okay, yes. I’m starving.”

“Great, follow me.” He lifts a hand in the air. “See you later, Stephen,” Alden calls to the man working security.

“Do you know the name of everyone who works here?”

Alden’s eyes cut down to me with a sly look.

“It’s my company and my building, so yes.”

“And there is the arrogance I’ve heard so much about,” I say, and Alden smirks.

“Do you not know everyone who works with you?”