Page 13 of Strictly Business

I need to stay focused to not let this man, no matter how infuriatingly attractive, derail my purpose. But as the conversation shifts, as his eyes lock with mine, I wonder if this is about more than just clearing the air. Is this the beginning of a new chapter with Reece Forrester, or just another round in our game of cat and mouse?

"So, Genesis, what brings you to my office this late?"

I steady my breath, reminding myself why I'm here. "We haven't really had a chance to talk. Not after the Thanksgiving dinner, not after the meeting this morning," I start, but I'm quickly cut off.

"Not after that night ten years ago," he interjects, and I feel a flush creep up my cheeks.

"Great, so we're doing this," I mutter under my breath, a mix of apprehension and defiance simmering within me. "Yes,thatpart too," I respond, trying to maintain a cool exterior.

Reece steps back slightly, his eyes never leaving mine. "Shall we have this conversation standing here, or would you prefer to sit?"

His question catches me off guard, but I quickly regain my composure. "While you continue to eye me, Mr. Forrester?" I throw back at him, challenging his steady gaze.

He tilts his head, a slight smirk playing on his lips. "So, you've noticed."

I internally roll my eyes—typical cocky Reece Forrester.

I then shift the conversation, touching on a sensitive subject. "Yes, because you seem overly concerned about your brother and my relationship. Let me assure you, there is none."

"Are you sure about that, Miss Jones? It seems Talon has a vested interest in you. That's probably why you got this job."

His words sting, but I'm quick to defend myself. "Contrary to what you believe, I earned this job because of my skills and experiences. My resume speaks for itself. Talon didn't even know I was interviewing." Frustrated, I thrust the folder I brought containing my resume and CV into his chest. "Here, since you didn't have the chance to interview me or know what I've done since that night, you kissed me."

Reece's gaze drops to my lips momentarily, igniting an undeniable tension between us. He takes the folder but doesn't release my wrist. "I am well aware of your accomplishments, Miss Jones. Your education, publications, awards...I've kept track."

His admission leaves me stunned and confused. How? Why? The intensity in his eyes is overwhelming, and for a moment, I'm lost for words, unsure of what to make of his unexpected attentiveness to my career.

Reece steps closer, a slow smile playing on his lips. "So it seems we have quite a bit to unpack, Ms. Jones."

"Do we?" I challenge, trying to match his confidence. "Or are you just trying to rattle me?"

His eyes narrow slightly. "You think I'm trying to rattle you?"

I hold his gaze. "Aren't you?"

Though he moves away from me, his movements fluid and sure, the office suddenly feels smaller, more intimate. He pours himself another drink, his eyes never leaving mine. "Would you like another?" he asks.

I shake my head, placing the nearly empty glass on his desk. "No, thank you. I think I need to keep my wits about me."

"That's probably wise," he agrees, sipping his drink. "So, Genesis, what do you want to know?"

"I want to understand whyyouthink I'm suddenly the writer for this Bachelor project. I mean, it's a great opportunity, but it came out of nowhere. It is not what I was told I was being hired for. And Robyn didn't know either, by the way."

Reece studies me for a moment, then sets his glass down. "The project was my mother's idea. She thinks it'll be a hit. They did not inform me of their hiring decision, but from what I've seen of your work, I understand it. I agree with it."

"So that is another surprise to me. So you have seen my work?"

He nods. "I make it a point to know the people who work for me or who will, especially those with as much potential as you, Genesis. The truth is, if they hadn't hired you, I would have."

I'm not sure how to respond. Part of me is flattered, but another part is skeptical. "Would you hire me because of what happened ten years ago?"

He sighs, running a hand through his hair. "Perhaps that night was a mistake, Genesis. We were both young, and it shouldn't have happened."

I feel a pang of hurt, but I push it aside. "I see. So, we just pretend it never happened?"

Reece steps closer, his expression serious. "I don't think we can do that. But we need to be professional. We work together now."

I nod, trying to hide the turmoil inside me. "Professional, right."