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“Thank you for having us today.” I launch into my pitch. “I’m here to present an idea that would benefit not only your company but most importantly, the children we are trying to help.”

The men look interested.

“As a large technology company, we know that bridging the digital divide for underprivileged children will be a cause that will resonate with your mission.”

As I outline our plan for our non-profit, and the sponsorship we are asking them for, Ana chimes in with metrics and case studies. Despite the recent awkwardness between us, we work seamlessly together—her creativity and passion enhance my analytical and strategic mind. I continue talking about the benefits of the project while Ana slides me the papers I need to remind me of the details.

“Your proposal is intriguing,” Ethan remarks. “It would give us exposure to an underserved demographic and build a market share over the long term.” He looks down at the paperwork we've handed over, and his partner nods.

“It has potential.”

As we wrap up the meeting and shake hands again, I keep the jubilant smile off my face.

“Great job today,” I tell Ana when the other men are out of earshot. “I couldn't have done it without you.”

As the meeting room empties, Ana and I are left alone. I watch as she tucks a strand of her hair behind her ear, the hint of a smile still gracing her lips.

Unable to resist her, I pull her aside, feeling the warmth of her arm under my touch.

“I need to talk to you,” I say in a low voice.

“Of course.” Her blue eyes meet mine, filled with curiosity that makes my heart flutter. “What's going on?”

Shifting on the balls of my feet, I take a deep breath in and stuff my hands in my pockets.

“My father called earlier today. He refuses to abolish the board.”

Her eyes widen. “That’s not unexpected.”

“Right.” I let out a sigh and run a hand down my face. “He won't agree to anything until we meet face-to-face. But he won’t come to New York.”

She places a hand on my arm, and a jolt of electricity zips through my veins. I run a hand through my hair.

“I’m coming up with another plan,” I tell her. “Then I’ll finally be able to take the company in the direction I want.”

Ana is quiet, and I can practically see the gears turning in her head. She takes a deep breath and turns back to me, giving my hand a gentle squeeze.

“Let's get back to work,” I say softly, barely curbing the impulse to brush the strand of blonde hair out of her face.

“Of course.” She nods, turning and sauntering off in the other direction. As she walks away, I follow her with my gaze until her silhouette is no longer visible.

That afternoon, even as I bury myself in paperwork and emails, the hours drag on like a slow, torturous dance. My mind keeps drifting to Ana, her teasing smile, and the sparkle in her eyes. I can't focus on anything else, and it's driving me mad.

At last, I snap.

This silliness stops now.

“Ana, come into my office for a moment,” I demand through the intercom.

“Of course,” she replies. Her sweet, melodic voice sends electricity down my spine.

My pulse quickens as her footsteps approach. The door swings open, revealing her slim figure. She steps inside, and I stride over to shut the door behind her.

Anything to keep me from ravishing her.

Only I don’t want to stop myself.

“Is everything okay?” Curiosity is etched across her beautiful features, and I do my best to reassure her with an easy smile.

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