Chapter 1: Introduction
The receptionist, a prim and proper woman named Patricia, leaned in and whispered into my ear, her breath wafting a mix of mint and coffee. "He's here."
I looked up from my desk, my heart skipping a beat. "Who's here?" I asked, feigning nonchalance.
Patricia arched an eyebrow. "You know who. Mr. Preece is here to see you."
A slow smile spread across my face. "Ah, the wizard of advertising himself.
Tell him I'll be right there." I picked up my desktop phone and pressed the intercom button, bypassing Patricia's dramatics. "Liam, head on back. I'll have a fresh coffee brewed by the time you get here."
I hung up before he could respond, standing up to straighten my dress. The glass wall that encircled my office was a handy little tool, giving me a few seconds to prepare. I could see Liam's reflection, his broad shoulders and tall frame filling the doorway. He was a handsome man, no doubt about that.
Dark hair, neatly styled, a strong jawline hinting at a smile he was trying to hold back. His suit was tailored, as always, fitting him perfectly, like a second skin. But what struck me most was his eyes - they were a piercing blue, and they missed nothing.
I took a deep breath and turned to face him, flashing a confident smile. "Liam, always a pleasure."
He stepped into my office, his gaze sweeping over the cluttered space. "Elizabeth," he acknowledged, his voice a deep rumble.
He walked towards my desk, his eyes never leaving mine. "Looks like you've been busy."
I followed his gaze to the stacks of papers and models scattered across my desk. I shrugged, "You know how it is, Liam. When you're the best, they keep you on your toes."
He chuckled, a sound that was surprisingly warm and genuine. "And modest too, I see."
I grinned, "Well, someone has to keep you grounded. Otherwise, your head might get too big for that fancy office of yours."
He laughed, sitting down on the edge of my desk. "Touché, Elizabeth.
You always know how to keep me in check," Liam said, his eyes sparkling with amusement.
I leaned against the wall, crossing my arms. "It's a tough job, but someone's got to do it."
He glanced around my office again, a hint of appreciation in his eyes. "You've really made this place your own, haven't you? It's... cozy."
I raised an eyebrow. "Cozy? Liam, are you implying my office is a mess?"
He held up his hands in surrender. "Not at all. I meant it in the best way possible. It's... lived-in.
It shows you're working, you're creative, you're not afraid to get your hands dirty." He paused, his gaze lingering on me. "It's very... you."
I felt a flush creep up my cheeks at the compliment. "Well, thank you, Liam. I think."
He smiled, a slow, lazy grin that crinkled the corners of his eyes. "You're welcome. So, what's this new project you've got up your sleeve?"
I pushed off the wall, walking towards my desk and leaning against it. "Ah, yes.