"You have a minute?" Adrian's voice caught her off guard.
Eliana turned to find him standing in the hallway just outside the research department, sharp in a charcoal suit, sleeves rolled up in that effortless, devastating way.
She nodded, wordless.
He didn't speak again until they were in the elevator—alone. She hated how small the space felt. Or maybe she just hated how aware of him she was. His presence was like gravity. And she was tired of pretending she wasn't being pulled in.
"I have a proposal," he said, voice low and even.
She folded her arms. "If it's personal, I'm not interested."
"It's not," he replied. "Not entirely."
The doors opened onto the 21st floor—his private floor. She raised an eyebrow but followed him. Curiosity beat caution this time.
"We're acquiring a new fintech firm," Adrian said, gesturing to a sleek glass table with documents already laid out. "I want you to lead the internal audit."
Eliana blinked. "That's a partner-level assignment."
"You're capable. I've seen it. You proved it on day one."
"And what's the catch?"
"There isn't one. You want to be taken seriously. Here's your shot."
Her guard lifted. "You sure this isn't about making me too busy to think about that kiss?"
"That kiss," he said, stepping closer, "is still on my mind. But this assignment isn't about feelings. It's about power. You want it, right?"
Eliana stared at him, searching for the trap.
"Fine," she said finally. "I'll take it."
"Good." He offered a file. She reached to take it—and for one charged second, their fingers brushed. Neither pulled away.
"You want me to succeed," she said quietly.
"I want you to prove I'm not making a mistake by believing in you," he said.
She turned to leave, then paused at the door.
"And when I prove it?"
"Then we talk about what else we've been avoiding."