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"We really did." His acknowledgment sends a shiver down my spine. "You were fantastic in there. Maven & Moresby didn't stand a chance. They're going to eat up our strategy, I know it."

He's beaming now, his excitement contagious. It's moments like these, where he lets his guard down and shares his enthusiasm, that remind me why I’m falling for him.

"One more event today before we get a weekend to ourselves after all this."

"Where are we going now?"

"It's a gala. We've got a room full of big-time investors that we need to mingle with tonight. It's not all spreadsheets and conference rooms in this line of work, Maya. Sometimes, we get to play dress-up too."

"I don't have anything to wear, Hunter! I can't wear this!" I look down at my outfit. It's business attire. Definitely not gala attire. "And where are we going to get dressed?" I start thinking about all the details before he stops me.

"Don't worry, I've got it all taken care of."

After a while of driving, the car slows down as we approach the heart of Milan's fashion district. The streets are lined with fashion boutiques from the world's most renowned designers. As we pull up in front of a charming shop, Hunter grins at me. "Let's get you something to wear."

The shop is a haven of luxury. Gowns of silk, lace, and velvet grab my eyes, their colors vibrant and glimmering.

"You must be Hunter!" a woman with silver hair greets us. She has a kind face. "It's lovely to meet you." The woman introduces herself as Madam Dior, the owner of the shop. She disappears only to return with a garment bag, revealing a stunning gown waiting for me.

It's breathtaking – a deep purple number, intricately beaded, with a silhouette to die for. A blend of sophistication and allure. I can't help but gasp as I run my fingers over the delicate beads.

I look at Hunter. "Really? For me?"

"You deserve it."

Madame Dior helps me put it on and when I see myself in the mirror, I can't believe it's me. The gown hugs every curve perfectly and it makes my skin look like porcelain.

Hunter's smile is wide as he looks me up and down. "You look stunning, Maya."

My heart swells with happiness as I take in the sight of Hunter in his tuxedo, looking handsome as ever. We look like a power couple ready to take on the gala tonight.

As we exit the boutique, draped in elegance, the sun begins to set.

Hunter offers his arm, his eyes never leaving mine, as we make our way to the car. As we approach the venue of the gala, I can't help but feel a rush of adrenaline. Hunter seems to sense it as he squeezes my hand. It's comforting.

Arriving at the gala, there are chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. The sound of a string quartet fills the air. It's the most elegant event I've ever been to.

The sea of faces seems to stop and stare as we make our entrance. Hunter wraps his arm around my waist, guiding me through the room. I find myself relaxing in his confident arms.

As we navigate through the bustling crowd, Hunter sees a familiar face and leans into my ear. "There's David. He's a real shark out there in the investment world. Good guy, very blunt."

"Hunter!" David walks closer extending a hand to each of us.

The conversation starts with business. They discuss the potential investments they are working on and the state of the market. I see what Hunter was saying about him. He is very sharp.

Finally, David changes the topic. "I must say, you two make quite the pair tonight. I couldn’t help but notice the chemistry between you. Are you two...?"

His words trail off, but the insinuation hangs in the air. My cheeks flush and I glance at Hunter who also seems caught off guard.

"Well, um, David, she..." Hunter stammers, a rare sight.

"Yeah, we..." I pick up but find myself at a loss for words.

"She's just my new assistant,” Hunter blurts out, looking away.

I feel a bit disappointed and the silence falls between us again. David moves on to another topic, but I can't help but feel an awkwardness now lingering in the air between us.

Just his assistant.

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