Chapter One
One William Phillips stormed into his Manhattan office, his phone awkwardly pinned between his ear and shoulder. "That's your response? You mean to tell me you have no idea how this story ended up in the newspaper?" Slamming the paper onto his desk, he read the headline: Grand Legacy Hotel Rebuild in Shambles. "I hired you as my PR company. Am I not paying you to stay on top of things? Did the reporter not come to you for a comment? Because she certainly didn't call me." "I honestly don't know what happened, Mr. Phillips. It seemingly came out of nowhere." Nowhere. William had a strong suspicion about where this story originated from, and it didn't sit well with him at all. It never did. Leaving his laptop bag on his desk, he walked over to the window of his office on the top floor of the four-story building he had renovated when he started his real estate development firm five years ago. He had intentionally avoided constructing a high-rise building, as it reminded him too much of his father. Looking down, he noticed the trees lining the street were transforming into a vibrant shade of red that was impossible to ignore. For the past three days, he had found himself fixated on these trees, their color resembling that of a woman's hair whom he couldn't seem to erase from his mind. Sure, he had indulged in his fair share of one-night stands, but Luna...well, she was proving to be quite difficult to forget. The changing leaves also served as a reminder that December was approaching rapidly, and that meant there could be no more setbacks with the hotel renovations. The grand reopening on New Year's Eve had to go off without a hitch. "I need to know what you plan on doing about this. We have to fight back." "In your case, I believe it would be best if we simply ignored it and allowed the story to run its course naturally." William had managed to keep his frustration at bay for nearly a year. There was too much money at stake, too many people watching and waiting for him to fail. At this moment, however, remaining calm and composed was no longer an option. "Absolutely not. I refuse to ignore negative publicity." Inaction was unfamiliar territory for William. He had never been one to sit idly by. "Perhaps it's time for a change, Mr. Phillips. Maybe we're no longer the right firm for you." Damn it. William recognized that tone, that hesitant tremor in someone's voice. It was the sound of a person who had been threatened or bribed by his father. This had happened before, and he knew it would likely happen again. "Perfect, then. Consider yourself fired." "Mr. Phillips?" "Our contract is valid until March. Send me the remaining balance, and we'll be done." Ending the call, he refrained from telling his now former public relations director to send his regards to his father. "Aria," William called out as his brother's assistant walked past his office. "Has Austin arrived yet?" She leaned into view, a warm smile on her face. She always seemed so upbeat. "He's in the process of unpacking his things. He got caught in traffic." "Has he seen the newspaper?" "I'm not sure." "I need to speak with him immediately. Please." "Of course, Mr. Phillips." He made his way back to his desk and examined the newspaper once again. Sources claim that William and Austin Phillips are millions of dollars over budget and continuously behind schedule. "Sources? I can tell you exactly who those damn sources are," he muttered. "And none of this is true." The article continued: Much of the Phillips family is said to be embarrassed by the state of the hotel. William and Austin Phillips are reportedly pursuing this futile project in direct defiance of their father's wishes. William let out a frustrated laugh. Everything he did was in direct defiance of his father. It was unavoidable. They were as different as two people could be, and the more William tried to distance himself, the more his father interfered. That was most likely the reason behind this negative publicity. Their father had opposed William and Austin every step of the way with the Grand Legacy project. He wanted the hotel demolished, viewing it as a stain on the family name that had persisted for far too long. Enough was enough, he had declared. William strongly disagreed. Fortunately, the original hotel in the family's empire belonged to him. The decision was solely his to make. After countless arguments, the worst of which occurred nearly two years ago on Christmas Day when William made it abundantly clear that he would not back down, their father fell silent regarding the Grand Legacy. He refused to discuss it further, and William had no desire to resume the conversation. Yet, his father's silence was never a good sign. While William couldn't prove it, he was certain his dad was responsible for every problem they had encountered during the renovation: subcontractors failing to show up, custom orders mysteriously disappearing from the site, power and water outages occurring more than once. It was an endless cycle, exhausting and costing them an exorbitant amount of money. Austin entered William's office, holding a cup of coffee. "You called?" Even in his expensive suit, his younger brother always exuded the image of an affable All-American guy, and today was no exception. Tall and fit, with a wide grin and annoyingly perfect hair. William had recently discovered a few strands of gray mixed in with his own dark brown hair that resembled Austin's. At thirty-two, he was too young for that, but the ongoing battle with their father and the hotel was aging him prematurely. William pushed the newspaper across the desk. "I hate to ruin your good mood, but you need to read this." Setting down his coffee, Austin leaned forward and surveyed the damage. "Are you kidding me?" He flipped to the back page. "These pictures are awful. They're completely misleading. Of course the lobby is a mess.""It’s the final phase of the project,” William sighed, his frustration evident in his voice. Luna patted his arm sympathetically. "That's what your dad does, isn't it? He's always trying to mislead and meddle. It's no surprise he's behind this." She couldn't help but think how much easier things would be if their dad wasn't on wife number four and constantly searching for new distractions. "We can't let people think the hotel is a disaster. But we just fired our PR firm, and I'm pretty sure your dad had something to do with it." Austin slumped into a chair, running a hand through his hair. "We need publicity, William. Without it, there's no buzz around the reopening. Are you up for coordinating the media for the gala? Because I sure as hell don't want to do it." William nodded, understanding the urgency. "I hear you." "We need to act fast. If your dad is involved, he's only going to make things worse as we get closer to reopening." William leaned back in his chair, deep in thought. Their father's resentment towards him for inheriting the hotel instead of the family's holding company went beyond reason. There had to be something more to it, some hidden secret that fueled his anger. Over the years, William had tried to uncover the truth, but he had always come up empty-handed. "Don't worry. I won't let him stop us." "I trust you," Austin said, getting up from his seat. He knocked his knuckle on William's desk before leaving. "Do you have any PR firms in mind?" William knew there was only one firm that would fit the bill. "Turner PR. They were a close second when we first started this. I made a mistake by not choosing them." Austin shrugged. "Well, it is your hotel after all." "Believe me, I know. If it wasn't, we wouldn't be in this mess." As Austin walked out, William wasted no time opening his laptop and navigating to the Turner PR website. He hadn't met with them in over a year, but he remembered being impressed. There was just one person he couldn't forget. Luna Wood, with her fiery red hair and captivating presence. He had been drawn to her at Matt's wedding, and now he regretted not reaching out to her. Maybe he should have broken his rule about getting involved, just this once. Taking a deep breath, he dialed Luna's boss, determined to move forward with the task at hand. He hoped that his past with Luna wouldn't make things unbearably awkward during his visit to Turner PR. * * * Luna Wood slumped when she read that morning's headlines. "Of course William Phillips is in the paper. The man is everywhere," she muttered, scrolling through the articles as she zipped up her dress. She couldn't help but feel a pang of annoyance every time she saw his face. How could one man exude so much sexiness? It was unfair. Sitting on her bed, she slipped her feet into her pumps, which she had discarded the night before after a long day at work. She scolded herself for letting a photograph affect her so deeply. She should have ignored all the reminders of William that seemed to pop up everywhere. The guy who rode the same train as her, the locksmith with the cleverly named business, and even the construction project near her apartment that proudly displayed the Phillips and Phillips banner. It was as if the universe was conspiring to remind her of him. Glancing at her alarm clock, she realized she was running late.With just five minutes left before she would miss her train, Luna desperately tried to push thoughts of William out of her mind. However, her attempts at distraction were proving to be futile. But thanks to the romantic comedy she had watched the previous night, Luna had an idea that might help. She marched over to her closet and retrieved a dusty shoe box from the top shelf. Placing it on her dresser, she lifted the lid to reveal a stack of old photos of her mother. Underneath them, she found the black velvet box. Luna's feelings towards this ring were complicated, to say the least. Opening the clamshell box, there it was—a square setting of platinum with large diamonds encircling a blue amethyst. Luna vividly remembered her mother's initial excitement upon receiving it from one of her suitors, only to be disappointed when she realized it was merely a gift, not accompanied by a proposal. As a little girl, Luna saw every new boyfriend her mother brought home as a potential father figure. But as a teenager, she knew it was not meant to be. Her mother had a knack for finding wealthy and powerful men who treated her like a mere accessory, providing for her material needs but little else. Because Luna had worked so hard to avoid repeating her mother's mistakes, her one-night stand with William Phillips weighed heavily on her. She prided herself on being strong when it came to men, able to dismiss them without a second thought. But William had been different. He had managed to break through her defenses with his sweet words and charm. Despite her reservations, she had succumbed to his advances, as if it was inevitable. The champagne they had shared that night hadn't helped matters. With each glass, their flirtation grew, leading to a dance and eventually their passionate encounter. Luna had purposely ignored all the damning information she had about William—the playboy reputation, the wealth—because she didn't want to believe that men like him were capable of genuine affection. In the weeks since their encounter, William had proven all her assumptions about him true. He hadn't called her, despite promising to do so. It was a classic move, one that bruised Luna's ego but ultimately confirmed that William was a mistake. Noticing the time, Luna quickly slipped the ring onto her left hand. "Men of Manhattan, stay away. I'm engaged," she declared, determined to create an illusion that would keep unwanted attention at bay. She hurried down her block and around the corner to catch the subway. Making it just in time, she sat next to a gray-haired woman who clutched her purse tightly. Luna shielded her hand with her laptop bag, gazing at the ring as a reminder of what it symbolized for her. She didn't need anyone else in her life. She was in control of her own future, without relying on a man. The movie she had watched last night featured a protagonist who, like Luna, made foolish mistakes with men. Pretending to be engaged would serve two purposes—it would remind her to focus on her career, the one aspect she could truly rely on, and it would deter men from approaching her. Luna saw this as a positive, especially given that most men only approached her because of her physical appearance. William had likely been no different. He hadn't asked her to dance because he thought she was intelligent or had a captivating personality. In hindsight, Luna probably shouldn't have attended her old college roommate's wedding. The entire weekend in Maine had emphasized her singleness. While she normally didn't let it bother her, being surrounded by married friends and couples made it impossible to ignore. They had all moved forward in their lives, some even starting families, while Luna had focused on building a successful career—the one thing her mother had never managed to achieve. It was time for her to refocus and stop worrying about men. As Luna arrived at her office, she noticed an unusual silence. Her coworkers whispered among themselves, hiding behind cubicles. Even Maureen, the usually cheerful receptionist, looked pale and shaken. "Did something happen?" Luna asked, her concern evident. The possibility of someone's death wasn't entirely far-fetched, especially considering how some of her colleagues had reacted after having lunch with Delilah, their boss, the previous day.Beware the treacherous allure of potato salad, and all other dubious picnic delicacies. This was one of Luna's many steadfast rules, an unspoken mantra that guided her through life. But now, Luna's world was about to be upended. The news hit her like a punch to the gut. "Allison was fired," Maureen whispered, her voice heavy with shock and disbelief. Luna gasped, her hand instinctively flying to her mouth. Allison was supposed to get the coveted VP position. How could this have happened? "Fired? Why? When did this happen?" Luna managed to choke out the words, her mind racing to make sense of it all. Maureen leaned in closer, her eyes filled with a mix of sympathy and gossip. "About ten minutes ago," she revealed. "Word is, she had some kind of scandal with one of her clients. You know how Delilah is." Oh, Luna knew all too well. Delilah was obsessed with appearances, running Turner PR like a tight ship. The slightest whiff of impropriety could bring the whole operation crashing down. "If you hadn't been late today, you would've witnessed it firsthand," Maureen continued, her voice dripping with intrigue. "Allison is packing up her office as we speak. And Delilah wants to see you immediately." Luna's heart skipped a beat. Had she done something wrong? The thought gnawed at her as she hurriedly made her way down the hall, skillfully dodging her curious coworkers. Arriving at her desk, she took a moment to collect herself, straightening her skirt and steadying her breath. Then, with a determined resolve, she headed towards the executive wing of their floor. The executive wing was an impressive sight, with two corner offices flanking a central waiting area. Delilah's office, the larger of the two, exuded power and authority. The other office, which everyone had assumed would be Allison's, stood empty as a constant reminder of the VP position up for grabs. As Luna approached Delilah's assistant, she couldn't help but overhear a string of profanity emanating from behind Allison's closed office door. It seemed that someone was not taking the news of their firing well. But Luna couldn't blame Delilah for her decision. Everyone knew that Delilah wouldn't tolerate any funny business with clients. Delilah's assistant hung up the phone and turned to Luna. "Ah, Ms. Wood. Just in time. Ms. Turner is waiting for you. Go right in." Luna entered Delilah's office, her eyes immediately drawn to her boss, who was engrossed in her computer. "Morning, Luna," Delilah greeted, her glossy chestnut-brown hair pulled back in a sleek ponytail. There was an air of confidence about her, as if she had conquered the world and wanted everyone to know it. "I'm sure you've heard the news. I had to let Allison go." Luna resisted the urge to ask for details. She knew she could rely on her coworkers for the juicy gossip later. "Yes, of course," she replied, trying to keep her voice steady. Delilah looked up from her computer, her piercing gaze meeting Luna's. "This could be a big opportunity for you," she said, her voice laced with a mixture of praise and caution. "You're a rising star, Luna. Hardworking, full of innovative ideas, and always focused on our clients. Just remember to work on your punctuality." Luna cleared her throat, shifting nervously. "Thank you," she murmured, her mind racing with a mix of excitement and apprehension. "Now that we've lost Allison, you're next in line for the VP position," Delilah announced, her words hanging in the air. Luna's eyes widened in surprise. "I am?" she blurted out, unable to contain her astonishment. Delilah nodded, a glimmer of uncertainty in her eyes. "That's right. But don't get too excited just yet. I'm also considering Theo. He's right behind you in the pecking order." The bottom dropped out of Luna's stomach. Theo was her most infuriating colleague, an insufferable brown-noser who took great pleasure in sabotaging her work. The thought of losing the promotion to him was unbearable. "I see," Luna replied, her voice tinged with disappointment. Delilah stepped out from behind her desk, placing a comforting hand on Luna's shoulder. "Show me that you're the right person for this job," she said, her tone firm but encouraging. "You can start proving yourself right now. We have a very important potential client waiting in the conference room. I can't disclose any details about the project, but I had to sign a nondisclosure agreement just to secure the meeting. This is our chance to shine, Luna." Nondisclosure? Luna's curiosity piqued. It must be a significant opportunity. "Sure, I'm ready. What can I do?" "Win the account," Delilah replied, her voice filled with expectation. "I'll be there, but you'll be leading the charge. Our potential client wants to speak directly to the person who will handle his project. He wants ideas, brilliance." Luna felt a surge of adrenaline coursing through her veins. This was it, her moment to prove herself. "What about Theo?" she asked, unable to hide her concern. Delilah's gaze hardened. "You're our best shot, Luna. Don't let me down." Luna swallowed hard, her throat dry with nerves. Walking into that conference room felt like stepping into a pressure cooker. But she had to push aside her doubts and fears. She had worked too hard to let this opportunity slip through her fingers. As Luna entered the conference room, her mind whirled with a mix of aspirations, career goals, and the daunting task of winning an account she knew nothing about. Her fingers fiddled with the ring on her left hand, a symbol of strength and determination. She took a deep breath, steeling herself for the challenge ahead. And there, at the end of the conference table, sat the man she had hoped to forget, dressed in a charcoal-gray suit that made her heart skip a beat. William Phillips. The most handsome man she had ever laid eyes on.
Chapter Two
Two Luna prided herself on her preparedness for meetings, but never before had she been armed with the knowledge of how incredible a potential client looked without clothes. It was not the typical intel she would gather. Did William know that she worked at this firm? And why did he seem so interested in her? These thoughts swirled in her mind, but there was one question she dared not ask aloud, for fear of his response: Why hadn't he called? As Delilah introduced Luna to William, a surge of familiarity washed over her. His warm brown eyes bore into her, transporting her back to a time when they knew each other intimately. She quickly snapped herself back to reality. She needed to focus on wooing William as a client, not reminiscing about their past encounters. This was uncharted territory for her, and she felt lost. The sight of his shoulders in that suit and the neatly trimmed five-o'clock shadow along his jaw threatened to distract her, but she couldn't allow it. "Actually, Ms. Wood and I are already acquainted," William stated, gripping her hand with a business-like demeanor that betrayed an undercurrent of something more. Luna's heart nearly leapt out of her chest. The handshake was far too intimate, and the heat from his touch sent shivers down her spine. Damn societal rules that dictated she keep her distance. She had to regain her composure. "Oh, yes, we do know each other," Luna replied, her voice a nervous titter that she immediately regretted. She needed to gather herself. "We met at a mutual friend's wedding." She studied William's face, trying to discern his intentions. But he met her gaze head-on, his eyes fixed on her, causing her heart to race like a fish desperately flopping out of water. "We had quite a memorable time. Ms. Wood showed me some impressive dance moves," William remarked, his dark brows bouncing playfully and a mischievous twitch at the corners of his mouth. So he was just toying with her. What a jerk. First, he didn't call her, and now he was dropping innuendos in the middle of a business meeting? It was easy for him, the handsome billionaire with nothing to lose. Of course, he hadn't called her after the wedding. Men like William Phillips treated hearts and minds like disposable commodities. Luna imagined a line of women waiting for their turn with him. "Please, Mr. Phillips, have a seat. How can we assist you today?" Luna interjected, desperate to shift the conversation back to professional matters. She sat across from him, turning to a fresh page on her legal pad. When she glanced up, she noticed his gaze fixated on her left hand. The ring. Let him look. Luna adjusted the shimmering stones. "Oh, my goodness." Delilah remained standing. "I won't take up too much of your time, Mr. Phillips. I know you're eager to discuss strategy, and that's where Luna excels." "Is that so?" William leaned back in his chair, his fingers drumming slowly on the table. Excitement mixed with trepidation coursed through Luna. Why was today such a struggle? And why did it suddenly feel so hot in the room? "I'm good at my job, if that's what you're asking." William flashed his self-assured smile, a grin that conveyed his unwavering confidence and ability to get what he wanted. Perhaps that was why he hadn't called her after the wedding. She was just another conquest in a long line of women. "Perfect. I need a change in my PR team. The last firm I worked with couldn't keep up with my vision. I don't have time to argue and butt heads all day." Luna shifted in her seat. Of course, a man like William wouldn't tolerate anyone challenging him. "Tell me about the Grand Legacy. After the story in the Times, I can only assume that's what we're discussing." "So, you've seen it." "I have. I would describe it as unflattering, at best." Even though that picture of him was undeniably attractive. "Tell me how you really feel," William retorted, his voice laced with impatience. Luna shrugged. "I'm simply stating what I saw." His jaw tensed, and he cleared his throat. "Fine. You're not wrong. It was a disaster. My brother and I are furious that those photos were leaked. We've taken every precaution to keep the details of our project under wraps. We can't afford any information getting out, especially in the newspapers." "Keeping secrets rarely ends well," Luna remarked, tapping her pen on the notepad. "It works if it's done right. You have to understand, we're not just renovating the hotel. We're rebuilding its mystique. We need to keep the details hidden until the grand reopening, when everything will be revealed. We want it to be a dramatic event." Luna shook her head, her pen still tapping against the notepad."And as a member of the general public, I'm clueless. You can't assume people have all the background knowledge. I don't know much about the Grand Legacy, and I grew up in New Jersey. It's been closed for over ten years. All of that just makes me uninterested. Keeping things a secret is not the right approach." "Luna makes an excellent point, Mr. Phillips," Delilah interjected. Most bosses would have taken offense at Luna pointing out a potential client's mistakes, but not Delilah. She believed in transparency, no matter what. "What are you suggesting?" William's irritation was evident. "We let people see what we're doing?" "Let me ask you this. Would you rather have someone like me open a newspaper to find blurry, camera-phone pictures of your hotel, or would it be better if this morning's paper featured professional photographs and an engaging story filled with interesting details?" William pursed his lips and furrowed his brow. Luna took great satisfaction in proving him wrong. "I see your point." "Publicity and building anticipation is all about carefully sharing information, not keeping it locked away. You have to go for a slow burn, Mr. Phillips. You tease. You give people a taste of what they want. Soon enough, they'll be clamoring for more." Finally, she was hitting her stride. Even though she and William disagreed, at least he knew she wasn't a pushover. Not even for him. Delilah's assistant peeked into the room. "I'm sorry to interrupt, Ms. Turner, but your ten o'clock is here early." "I'm coming," she replied, reaching out to shake William's hand as he stood. "I'm sorry I can't stay for the whole meeting, but I have no doubt that Luna is on the right track. You're in good hands with her." "Thank you. I'm sure Ms. Wood knows exactly what to do with me." Luna held back her frustration, but she couldn't help feeling annoyed. The man had a knack for innuendo. He returned to his seat as Delilah left, not saying a word, just looking at her. What he was thinking, she had no idea. All she knew was that if she and William were going to work together, she needed to keep them focused. A strictly professional course was necessary, especially now that they were alone. "So? The Grand Legacy. Do we have the job?" she asked. He nodded, never breaking eye contact. "I have some questions." "Of course. Anything you need to know." She took a deep breath. She could handle this. Her past history with William didn't have to be an insurmountable issue. It didn't have to be an issue at all. They were both professionals, and there was work to be done. "I want to hear more about the slow burn." He trailed his finger slowly along the conference table. "It sounds promising." "Oh, uh, sure. Of course." "Then I'd like to know when exactly you got engaged." Luna froze. Her heart pounded in her ears as she scrambled for an answer. It was one thing to be open with her boss, but she had nothing prepared for William. How was she supposed to anticipate that he would walk back into her life that morning and complicate Operation Engagement Ring even further? * * * William despised distractions in business meetings, as well as surprises. But this wasn't just any meeting, and Luna Wood was much more than a captivating beauty. She was a force to be reckoned with. "If it's alright with you, I'd like to refocus on the PR plan. Isn't that our most urgent matter?" She sat up straight, composed and determined. Even with a substantial amount of money at stake, William's mind couldn't help but wander to another pressing matter—specifically, the moment at the wedding when she leaned against him, his hand resting on the small of her back, and everything else faded away. It was unlike him to be so unfocused during a meeting. But this situation was unlike any he had faced before. Running into a former fling months or years later and seeing her with a date or a serious boyfriend was one thing. He could handle that. It came with the territory of being the guy who avoided commitment like the plague. But engaged? Less than two months later? Who was this guy? Where did she find him? And how had William managed to sleep with the one woman who could move on even more effortlessly than he did? Not that he had moved on from Luna. She kept infiltrating his thoughts, while he waited for the day when she would simply walk away. "I suppose," he replied. "As I mentioned, it's more effective to release information and images on a carefully planned timetable, leading up to your grand reopening. The only way to control the narrative is to promise the press that you'll give them everything they want, but on your terms." "The slow burn." He might come to despise that phrase. It was far too alluring, especially when spoken by Luna's tempting lips. "Yes."Most people have a hard time visualizing things, but Luna was different. She had a way of painting vivid pictures with her words, making him believe in things he never thought possible. "I should've hired you from the beginning," he admitted, unable to resist her charm. "Does that mean you're hiring me now?" she asked, a glimmer of satisfaction in her eyes. He chuckled softly, amazed at how effortlessly she could persuade him. "I don't think I have a choice. You've made quite the case. Despite our differences, I appreciate your thought process. Let's do it your way." He cleared his throat, feeling foolish. "The PR. Your way." "Great, I'm happy to hear that," she replied, her smile illuminating the room. It was impossible not to want to make her smile more often. But then reality hit him as she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear with her left hand, a reminder that he had no business thinking of her that way. "So, engaged, huh? Is it recent?" William tried not to judge, but he needed to know if he could trust her. The thought of being involved with someone who was taken made him cringe. He had experienced the pain of infidelity and didn't take it lightly. "I'm not discussing my ring, Mr. Phillips. This is a business meeting," she retorted, her tone sharp. "Please, call me William. We're past the point of formalities," he requested, loving the sound of his first name on her lips. "But the ring does concern me. I need to know I can trust you for the next three months." He couldn't help but remember the night they shared, the feel of her soft skin and the gasps that escaped her lips. "Are you suggesting that I deceived you?" "We were together six weeks ago. It would ease my mind to know your fiancé wasn't in the picture then. I don't pursue taken women. It's a violation of trust that I can't overlook," he explained, his voice filled with sincerity. She pursed her lips, clearly annoyed. "Fine, for your peace of mind, the ring is a recent addition to my life." "How recent?" "Very recent. But for the sake of our work, let's keep it strictly professional," she replied, building a wall between them. He decided to let it go, for now. She had made it clear that he needed to back off. "Understood." "Now, what's our timetable?" she asked, shifting the focus back to the task at hand. "The reopening gala is on New Year's Eve." "It's already October 7. We don't have much time." "Indeed," he acknowledged, the weight of his responsibilities crashing down on him. Dealing with contractors, trying to mend his relationship with his father, and relying on Luna to save him and make the reopening of the Grand Legacy Hotel a success. "Can you give me a tour of the hotel? I need to see it as soon as possible," she requested, eager to get started. William glanced at his packed schedule for tomorrow, but he knew getting Luna up to speed was crucial. Plus, spending time with her sounded far more appealing than dealing with other mundane tasks. "Can you meet me there at ten tomorrow morning? I'll send a car to your office." "I can take a cab or the subway, I don't need a car," she insisted. "I have no doubt about that," he replied, amused by her determination. "But let me do this for you." She shook her head, her smile stealing his breath away. He would have to get used to working closely with her. "I'll see you tomorrow." "Tomorrow," he echoed, shaking her hand. It felt strange, considering what had happened between them six weeks ago. He wanted to hold her, to kiss her cheek goodbye. He walked outside, relieved that the PR was settled, but conflicted about everything else. Thoughts of her fiancé consumed him - who was he? How did he sweep Luna off her feet so quickly? The rock on her finger indicated he had money. Did William know him? He hoped not. Why did this bother him so much? He climbed into the back of his waiting town car and dialed his brother's number. He needed to focus on work and forget about Luna, even though it seemed impossible now that she was a part of the project. But the truth was, she hadn't called him after their night together, and her composed demeanor during their meeting showed that she had good reason for it. Starting with the ring.
Chapter Three
Three Luna emerged from the taxi, arriving in front of the Grand Legacy Hotel in midtown Manhattan. The bustling chaos of Times Square was just a few blocks away, but here, the city street was adorned with falling autumn leaves. A mix of drizzle and cool wind brushed against her cheeks. From beyond the hotel's entrance, the sound of saws buzzing and metal clashing against metal filled the air. She stepped into the shadow of the towering building, a structure she had glimpsed a few times before while passing by. At the moment, it appeared rather unimpressive, concealed by a labyrinth of metal scaffolding, a tall chain-link fence, and a temporary facade made of gray, painted plywood. Four imposing men, dressed in black and wearing sunglasses and earpieces, stood guard at the entrance, sending a clear message: no one should dare to trespass. Luna couldn't fathom anyone wanting to mess with those guys. Whoever had taken the pictures that had appeared in the Times must have risked life and limb to do so. After researching the Phillips family and the hotel the previous night, she couldn't help but wonder if William's father was behind that story. From where Luna stood, it seemed like the transition of the hotel to William couldn't have gone over well. "Good morning," Luna greeted the least intimidating of the security guards. "I'm here for William Phillips. He's expecting me." Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed a security camera swiveling in her direction. William was probably sitting inside, behind a massive desk, surrounded by a wall of TV monitors that allowed him to survey his kingdom. "Yes, ma'am. Mr. Phillips is waiting for you inside. I'll escort you in," the man replied. He opened a makeshift door, leading Luna into an area cluttered with building materials. "You'll need this." He reached into a bin and handed her a yellow construction helmet. "Is this really necessary?" Luna muttered under her breath. "I'm having a spectacular hair day." "Mr. Phillips's orders," the guard explained. "But you're not wearing one." "Most of us aren't, but Mr. Phillips insisted you do." He pulled open one side of a glass double door that was covered in dirty construction paper. The hotel's revolving door was sealed off with caution tape. Grumbling to herself, Luna reluctantly placed the helmet on her head. Yellow was definitely not the right color for a redhead who avoided the sun at all costs. Was this William's way of getting back at her for refusing to confess about the ring? He must have known how foolish she would feel. They entered what she assumed was the lobby. The floors were covered in layers of heavy paper, and sawdust seemed to be everywhere. Her pumps were sure to be filthy by the time she left. Workers bustled about, and the noises that had seemed loud outside were now nearly deafening. Based on everything she could see, the newspaper story had been accurate—this project was far from completion. "Where can I find Mr. Phillips?" she called out above the noise. "He's over there," the man yelled, then pointed to one of the workers. "No, I need Mr. Phillips!" Luna screamed as ladylike as possible, scanning the room for the handsome billionaire in his impeccable suit. "He's right there," the guard replied, sounding annoyed. All Luna could see was a man dressed in jeans, a blue flannel shirt, and brown work boots, crouched down in front of the elevator. He had a nice view from behind, and his hair was just right. She took a step closer, and he turned, a faint but familiar smile crossing his lips. Well, I'll be damned. William straightened up, wiping his hands on his jeans. Luna knew she had to be on top of her game today. Otherwise, she might succumb to shock and handsomeness. He approached her, his rolled-up sleeves revealing his strong forearms, causing her heart to flutter. She couldn't afford to mess up the most important job of her professional life, so she had to learn to see him as a regular person and hope that over time, she would become immune to his face and presence. Good luck with that. "Hey there," he said above the noise, running his hands through his thick hair, which caused dust to scatter. "I should've warned you to dress for a construction site." He eyed her while she fought against the part of her that wanted him to say something nice. "Not that you don't look great. You do." Heat surged through her veins. What was it about him that made his kind words more potent than any other man's? "Love the helmet," he continued. "I see you're not wearing one." "I know what I'm doing." "How do you know I don't know what I'm doing?" "This is your first visit, and I have to keep you safe." She wasn't entirely convinced, but she had work to do. And her hair was going to be a disaster once she took off the stupid thing. "Fine. Just show me the hotel." "There's not much to see down here. We'll just get in the way," he said, stepping aside as a worker passed by with a ladder. "I'll show you the grand ballroom." He began walking past the elevator doors, and Luna hurried to catch up, her eyes stubbornly drawn to him—his long and lean frame that looked good in everything she had ever seen him wear. Especially good when he wore nothing. William in jeans was not what she had anticipated for today. Considering his wealth and privilege, he didn't strike her as the type of man who would get his hands dirty. It was more than a little bit sexy. They turned down a wide hallway, and the sounds of construction faded away. "Busy morning?" she asked. "I was reviewing the restoration of the metal overlays on the elevator doors. Many of the original art deco features were lost over the years." "I researched the hotel last night. The old photos showed everything so grand and luxurious." "It was once considered one of the most stunning buildings in the city. I hope to restore it to its former glory." The pictures were indeed breathtaking, but Luna found the history she had uncovered more intriguing than the architecture. It read like a scandalous tabloid magazine, filled with tales of events she thought only happened in movies.The Grand Legacy had witnessed the arrival of mobsters in luxurious Bentleys, accompanied by beautiful women draped in mink stoles. It had hosted high-stakes poker games between politicians and Hollywood's elite, and its New Year's Eve parties made Times Square look like a modest church gathering. William led Luna into a spacious room that resembled a reception area, featuring a chandelier veiled in plastic and five sets of double doors. From his pocket, William produced a large ring of keys, selecting one to unlock the doors. "I'm impressed that you caught up so quickly. It shows me you're serious about this project." "Isn't that the allure? The secrets of the Grand Legacy Hotel?" Luna followed him into the dimly lit room. He grinned and nodded before flicking on the lights. "Exactly." Luna's gaze was immediately drawn upward, captivated by the barrel ceiling. Above them, a procession of intricate geometric patterns adorned the white and blue glass, trimmed with gilded metal. Soft light filtered through the panes, creating an ethereal glow. "It looks just like the pictures. Is it lit from the other side?" "It's meant to mimic moonlight shining through, but in reality, there are fourth-floor rooms above it. It took months to clean and restore. Large sections had collapsed during the fifteen years the hotel remained closed." "Right after you inherited it." Surprise flickered across his face. "You really did your homework. I was only seventeen then. I wasn't in a position to manage a hotel, but I certainly wasn't going to let my father get his hands on it either." "I was curious about that. Did he truly believe the building should be demolished?" William raised his eyes to the ceiling, shaking his head. "He still does. Can you imagine all of this disappearing forever?" Luna admired his profile, noticing the way he got lost in the details. This project meant a lot to him, and she could hear it in his voice. "This will look incredible in magazines and newspapers. We should get a photographer in here as soon as possible." "If you think this looks good, wait until I show you the main bar." He locked the ballroom and led her through the reception area to a metal door. "Ladies first." Luna stepped into the dimly lit fire stairwell. "The fire stairs?" "For now, it's the only way to reach it. They're currently working on the wrought-iron railings of the grand staircase." She began climbing the concrete steps. "How far up?" "Third floor." "Have you been this hands-on throughout the entire project, or is it just because you're behind schedule?" William was directly behind her. Was he doing what she had done earlier and admiring her backside? He shouldn't be, but part of her secretly hoped he was. "I'm here all the time. There are countless tiny details, and they all have to be perfect. I spent enough time here as a child to remember most of it. Everything else I research in my great-grandfather's records." "Don't you have an architect for that?" "I take the lead. No one could possibly care about it as much as I do." Luna stopped on the third-floor landing. "So you're a perfectionist." She didn't mean it as an insult. She admired his dedication. How many men in his position cared about such intricate details? He reached past her to open the door, their bodies inches apart. They faced each other, his presence resonating through her, reminding her of the intimate moments they had shared. "I prefer methodical, but sure, call me a perfectionist. It's how you achieve what you want." She held her breath, memories of their passionate night together flooding her mind—the way he had held her wrists in his hands, pinning her arms to the mattress as he trailed kisses along her jaw, her neck, and down her chest... The construction helmet was a blessing. It would prevent her from sustaining a tragic head injury if he continued planting such thoughts in her mind and she fainted. They entered a service hall, discovering yet another hidden door tucked away around a corner. Luna couldn't fathom how anyone would stumble upon it. William opened the door, and she stepped inside, immediately hit by the scent of fresh paint. He switched on the lights, revealing a room that surpassed the grandeur of the ballroom. Luna hadn't come across this room in her research. A long, ebony bar stretched along one side of the room, its gleaming surface illuminated by leaded glass pendant fixtures. On the other side, more than a dozen intimate booths beckoned with their dark leather seats and ornate black and gold metal screens. At the far end of the room, nestled within the wall, stood a massive circular frame that nearly touched the ceiling and floor. It was concealed behind paper, but sunlight filtered through at the edges. "A window? On the front of the building?" Luna asked, perplexed. "I don't recall seeing this." William nodded. "It was an original feature, but it was removed in 1919. I had it reconstructed based on the earliest photos of the hotel." "Why would they seal up a window?" "It's a bar, and during Prohibition, the entire operation had to be discreet, at least from the outside. In fact, the Grand Staircase led to nothing but the third-floor elevators at that time. To the outside world, this area didn't exist. But for those in the know, it was the busiest spot in the entire hotel." "A speakeasy?" He smiled mischievously. "You know, my great-grandfather purchased this hotel with money he made from bootlegging. The speakeasy is how he stumbled upon it in the first place." "So that's true? The Phillips family fortune came from running illegal liquor?" "My family comes from humble beginnings. But my great-grandfather had grand ambitions." There was a fondness in his voice that warmed Luna's heart. She hadn't expected him to be sentimental. "It drives my father crazy. He'd prefer to believe that the Phillips family has always been high society, but that's simply not the case." "You can't alter your family history." "Exactly. And isn't that the essence of the American dream? Making your way in life however you can? So much of what I have is because my great-grandfather was determined to create a better future for himself."The fire burning in his eyes and the flush of color on his cheeks betrayed the depth of his passion. She had witnessed his intensity back in Maine, but now, in this intimate moment, it was harder to focus on the task at hand. Under different circumstances, she might have been convinced to kiss him, to see how far his fire could consume her. But reality grounded her. Their lips would never meet again. "The Grand Legacy means more to me than just another addition to my real estate portfolio," he confessed, turning towards her, searching her face. Understanding the significance, Luna's curiosity piqued. "Is that why your great-grandfather left it to you, instead of keeping it under Phillips Hotels?" She reached for her notepad, eager to jot down details for the upcoming press release and interviews. William shrugged, inviting her to sit down. They settled into the nearest booth, and he gently lifted the construction helmet off her head. It was a simple gesture, yet it evoked a memory from the wedding. "You won't be needing this anymore. You're safe." She smoothed her hair, longing for a mirror to gather her thoughts. The image of him in the elevator at the wedding resurfaced, the moment his hand brushed against her cheek, whispering that she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. It may have been a line, she suspected as much even then. But a part of her desperately wanted to believe it, even now when she shouldn't be thinking about him this way. William had a way of making her want to give him everything. "Can I ask you something?" she finally mustered, her voice steadying. "Do you think your father could be behind the story in the paper?" Silently, William's warm brown eyes melted her resolve. They held a depth of sadness and understanding. "I don't have proof, but it's more than likely. Does it show?" His voice was low and rough. Luna didn't feel a sense of triumph in her deduction. "All signs pointed to him. Is he truly that vindictive? You'd think he would be happy for you, especially with how much this project means to you. Why would he want to hurt you like this?" Her voice cracked unexpectedly, her emotions bubbling to the surface. Normally composed, Luna couldn't help but empathize with William. She and her mother had clashed over the years, but it had always been out of love and a desire for the best. It seemed different for William. William nodded, leaning back and draping his arms across the booth. "In his eyes, I'm guilty of more than just inheriting the hotel. I'm guilty of defying him. He despises it when he doesn't get what he wants." Every word carried a weight of seriousness. The problems between William and his father ran deeper than mere family disagreements. "I see." "That's precisely why he won't stop me." And that resolve made Luna want to give William everything she could. *** Admitting to Luna that his father was his biggest obstacle bothered William. He didn't want her to see him as vulnerable, even if she wasn't his to impress. Vulnerability wasn't part of his game. Not being able to control or stop his father made him feel powerless, a feeling he despised more than anything. Deep down, he knew it wasn't true weakness—he simply refused to stoop to his father's level. William fought with fists up, out in the open. His father, on the other hand, was a master of sucker punches. "I'm sorry, William. That's awful," Luna sympathized, reaching across the table with brimming eyes. At first, he found solace in her sweet gesture until his gaze landed on the ring adorning her finger, and the air was sucked out of the room. "It's quite pathetic, isn't it? All this money at stake, and I'm engaged in a battle with my own father. It's not just the newspaper story either. Countless construction problems point to him." "Can't you make peace with him? Reason with him?" William chuckled softly. There was an edge of hopefulness in Luna's voice that he found incredibly appealing. Damn whoever had put that ring on her finger. If it weren't there, he might have taken her out for a drink, apologized for not calling her, and felt like less of an ass. "It's impossible to reason with someone who refuses to admit any wrongdoing." She gnawed on her lip, deep in thought. "Want to do something about it? Go on the offensive?" "I'm not sure I understand." "A PR campaign. We can give it a new twist. Show your dad that not only won't you be stopped, but maybe even taunt him a little. That is, if you're up for it." "I don't want to resort to sneakiness. It's not my style." "Oh, this won't be sneaky. At all. There will be no doubt about what we're doing." The mention of Luna's plan to get back at his father ignited a fire within William. If she weren't engaged, the temptation to cross every professional boundary between them would be overwhelming. "Please, continue." "Let's showcase the history of this hotel that you love, everything your great-grandfather was proud of, but your dad despises." William couldn't contain his curiosity. "How exactly?" "We'll still highlight the care and effort you've put into the restoration."The words echoed in William's mind, reverberating with a mix of excitement and trepidation. Luna's voice danced in the air as she passionately scribbled notes, her enthusiasm contagious. "People are drawn to the forbidden," she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "And when you combine that with beauty and allure, it becomes irresistible." William felt his pulse quicken, his body responding to the captivating woman before him. Every fiber of his being yearned to kiss her, to hold her close. The attraction between them was undeniable, a force that couldn't be ignored. "I love it," he breathed, unable to contain his admiration. "It's absolutely incredible." You're incredible. And I'm a fool. Luna closed her notebook and tucked it away, signaling the end of their meeting. "This has been productive," she said, a glimmer of satisfaction in her eyes. "I'll head back to the office and work on our publicity plan. Delilah will want an update, and I know you have a lot on your plate." "I can show you more next time you're here," William offered, his voice tinged with anticipation. "The restaurant is almost finished, and we're opening a second bar." "Sure, next time," Luna replied casually, though he could sense a hint of longing in her voice. He knew he had to control his eagerness for their next encounter. "Let me call a car for you," he insisted, wanting to prolong their time together. "You don't have to do that. I'll grab a cab," Luna replied, maintaining a distance that frustrated him. They had a connection, a spark that couldn't be denied. Was her relationship with her fiancé filled with the same intensity? If so, it was no wonder he had proposed. William questioned his own choices, wondering if it was wise to push away the women who came into his life. "At least let me walk you outside and hail a cab for you." Grateful for his offer, Luna nodded, her eyes softening. "Okay. But do I really have to wear this?" She held up the yellow construction helmet. William took it from her, their fingers brushing, sending a jolt of electricity through him. He needed some time alone after this encounter. "Just stay close to me," he murmured, guiding her towards the exit. Outside, they stood on the curb, scanning the street for a cab. "I truly love your plan," William confessed, not wanting their conversation to end. He already felt a pang of disappointment that she was leaving. "If you need to reach me, call my cell," Luna said, her voice slightly strained as she avoided making eye contact. "You still have my number, right? From the wedding?" He had anticipated this question. "I do," he admitted, the silence between them heavy with unspoken words. "So you chose not to call me," Luna stated matter-of-factly. He didn't enjoy being the kind of man who couldn't take a relationship beyond the initial stages. It was a flaw he had learned to accept. "If it makes you feel any better, I don't call any women." "Ever?" "No, sorry." Luna's disappointment was palpable. "Then why bother asking for my number? It's classic jerky guy behavior. I expected better from you." William didn't appreciate her characterization, but he had faced similar opinions from other women. Luna wasn't the only one who saw him this way. "I suppose it is. But you didn't call me either." "Call me old-fashioned, but I wait for a man to call," Luna retorted, her tone defiant. He wasn't convinced. Luna was too strong-willed, too independent to adhere to traditional dating norms. "And call me old-fashioned, but you're engaged now. So you must be happy I didn't call." The engagement ring on her finger was the reason she hadn't reached out to him. She had no right to be angry about something that had worked in her favor. "Your fiancé is probably thrilled about it too." Luna remained silent, refusing to meet his gaze. "He's a lucky guy," William murmured, unable to let go of his curiosity. He needed to know what made the man who won Luna's heart so special. "Hmm?" Luna glanced at him briefly, her eyes guarded. "Your fiancé. He's a lucky guy." "Making a call doesn't require luck unless you're guessing someone's phone number," Luna replied sharply. Her words stung. "There's a cab coming," he said, stepping into the street and hailing it. Luna stood a few feet away, not looking at him, her shoulders tense. He had upset her. Her hair fell across her face, and she quickly tucked it behind her ear. He couldn't tear his eyes away from her beauty, her allure, her infuriating nature. The taxi arrived, and he opened the door, catching a glimpse of her long, shapely leg as she climbed in. He wished he could join her in the backseat, whisk her away to his place, and make up for not calling her. For the first time in a long while, he questioned his aversion to romance. It hadn't always been this way. But the pain he had experienced had shaped him into the man he was now, a man who avoided emotional entanglements at all costs. "Thank you for the tour," Luna said, peering up at him with her mesmerizing blue eyes. "Thank you for your incredible ideas," William replied, his voice filled with genuine appreciation. "I can't wait to get started. I can't wait to tell my brother." A smile lit up Luna's face, fitting perfectly as it should. She had done an outstanding job. "I'm glad our professional relationship is flourishing since the personal one never could." William nodded reluctantly, bidding her farewell and closing the car door. As he watched the taxi disappear from sight, he tried to shake off the impact of Luna's words. Work was the only remedy for his troubled mind. He dialed his brother's number, ready to share the news. "The woman might be a genius," he exclaimed. "And that means we're changing everything. We're turning the whole thing upside down."
Chapter Four
Four Luna's stomach dropped as William mentioned Theo's name. She had hoped to shield him from her coworker's intrusive behavior, but it seemed that Theo had managed to corner him in the hallway. Luna quickly composed herself, determined not to let this setback ruin her carefully crafted image. "It's quite alright, Mr. Phillips," she replied, her voice steady despite the unease bubbling within her. "Theo can be a bit... overzealous at times. Please, have a seat." Luna gestured towards the conference table, where she had meticulously arranged her notes and prepared materials for their upcoming phone interviews. As William settled into his chair, Luna couldn't help but admire his presence. There was an air of authority about him, a commanding aura that made it difficult to look away. She reminded herself to stay focused, to concentrate on the task at hand. They had important interviews to conduct, and Luna refused to let anything or anyone derail their progress. Taking her own seat, Luna began the first interview with a sense of determination. Each question was carefully crafted, designed to highlight the hotel's unique features and showcase William's expertise. She watched him closely, ready to intervene if necessary, but he handled each inquiry with grace and confidence. As they moved through the interviews, Luna's initial worries began to fade. William proved himself to be a capable and charismatic spokesperson, effortlessly navigating the conversation towards their desired narrative. And despite the lingering annoyance caused by Theo's intrusion, Luna found herself growing more comfortable in William's presence. His serious demeanor had softened slightly, revealing glimpses of warmth and humor that she hadn't noticed before. By the time they finished the last interview, Luna's initial apprehension had transformed into a sense of accomplishment. The interviews had gone smoothly, and she was confident that their PR plan was on track. She glanced at William, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Thank you, Mr. Phillips," she said, her voice genuine and filled with gratitude. "You were fantastic. I couldn't have asked for a better spokesperson." William nodded, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "It was a team effort, Luna. Your guidance and support made all the difference." Luna felt a surge of pride at his words, her heart swelling with a sense of accomplishment. Despite the challenges they had faced, she knew that their hard work was paying off. And as she looked at William, she realized that their professional relationship had evolved into something more. There was a connection between them, a shared understanding that extended beyond the confines of their roles. As Luna gathered her notes and prepared to leave the conference room, she couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of purpose. Theo may have tried to disrupt their progress, but Luna knew that she had the strength and determination to overcome any obstacle. With William by her side, she was confident that they could navigate the complexities of their professional lives and, perhaps, even discover something more meaningful along the way.Luna's heart raced as she narrowly avoided squeaking out a response. The man in front of her had some interesting information about her, and it made her nervous. She tried to focus on scribbling nonsense on her legal pad, but his presence was distracting. He sat in his seat, rolling up his shirtsleeves and revealing his forearms, further amplifying her unease. "He's just the office gossip," Luna replied nonchalantly, trying to downplay the situation. "You'll have to fill me in later. Right now, let's get ready for your first interview. I've brought water and cookies. Afternoon pick-me-ups are always helpful, don't you think?" "Yeah, thanks," he replied with a glare, taking a swig of water. His one-syllable answers and intense gaze worried Luna. She knew something was off. "Shall we begin? This first writer is very punctual." William nodded. "Of course. You're in charge." "Great." Luna dialed the number on the conference phone, her mind racing with concern over William's request about the ring. * * * William didn't enjoy putting Luna on the spot, but he couldn't ignore the fact that she had lied to him about the engagement ring. It bothered him deeply, especially considering his past experiences with betrayal. If he ever wondered why he became the guy who avoided getting involved, it all traced back to an engagement ring. Unfortunately, there was no time between interviews to address the issue with Luna. Each interview went longer than expected, which William took as a positive sign. The writers seemed genuinely interested in the project. If only he had shared information about it sooner, he might not be in this predicament. But then again, he wouldn't have had another chance to spend time with Luna. Now that he knew the ring was fake, he felt compelled to address a few lingering questions. After the third interview, Luna pressed the button on the speakerphone. "That went really well. You did an amazing job. You didn't even need my help." "It's easy to talk about the hotel. I could do it for hours," William replied, momentarily forgetting about Luna and the ring. But reality quickly set in. He couldn't work with her if he didn't understand why she had lied. "I have a few more interviews lined up for you later this week, but based on today, I'm not worried at all. I'm actually setting up an interview with Magnolia Butler for next week. She'll bring her own photographer. You might want to clear your schedule." "The Magnolia Butler?" William was impressed. She wrote for numerous high-profile magazines. "Yes, that's the one." Luna gathered her things as if she were ready to leave, but William couldn't let her go just yet. "Don't go, Luna. We need to talk about the ring. Theo told me it's a fake. He heard women in the office discussing it, and he even spoke to you about it." The memories of his fiancée's betrayal and his frustration with Luna tangled together in his mind. He had given himself a hard time for not calling her, and now it seemed pointless. "You'd believe someone you barely know over me?" He didn't have a good answer to that. "I had my suspicions about the ring from the start." "Suspicions? Why? Because you find it hard to believe that someone would want to marry a woman you couldn't be bothered to call?" Her resistance stung. "Look, I need to trust you. I can't work with someone who lies to me. So tell me now, are you really engaged?" The wait for her answer felt excruciating. He wasn't sure what response he wanted. If she was engaged, then Theo was wrong, and William needed to drop it. If she had lied, it would be a deal breaker, but at least he would have some good news. "Fine. I'm not engaged. But I have my reasons for wearing the ring." "So you did lie to me," he said, the words grating against his conscience. He had uttered the same phrase to Stephanie, his former fiancée, and it had wounded him deeply. "I never said I was engaged. I'm certain of that. You assumed." "Of course I assumed. You're wearing an expensive ring on your left ring finger." "People wear rings on that finger all the time.""It doesn't imply a marriage or engagement," Luna stated firmly. "Please don't try to wriggle your way out of this on technicalities," William retorted, his anger simmering just below the surface. "It's just a ring. I don't understand why you're making such a fuss," Luna replied dismissively. Frustration welled up inside William, threatening to spill over. "It's not just a ring. It represents something. Love. Commitment." He stopped himself from saying more, from revealing the lingering pain that still resided in his heart. "It only symbolizes that if you're engaged. I never claimed to be," Luna explained. "Fine. Then tell me why you allowed me to believe that you were engaged." "It was my mother's ring. It serves as a reminder for me to focus on my career. Romance hasn't worked out well for me. I seem to have a talent for attracting the wrong men." William found it hard to believe her words. "I can't quite wrap my head around that." Luna gestured towards him. "Ladies and gentlemen, I present Exhibit A: the wrong guy, William Phillips. He's only interested in one-night stands. Don't expect him to call, even if he promises to." Something didn't add up. "Why weren't you wearing the ring at the wedding?" Luna pursed her lips, crossing her arms defensively. She glanced down at the floor, as if gathering her thoughts. "I didn't need it before then." "I don't understand. Did the wedding have something to do with it?" "Maybe. A little." William ran his hands through his hair, feeling the weight of frustration settle upon him. This conversation was one of the most exasperating he had ever experienced. "I need to know what you're talking about. I've been hurt in the past, and it's made me wary of others." Especially women. "I'm entrusting my business to you. If I can't trust you, then I can't work with you. It's as simple as that." "You'd fire the firm?" "I would have to tell Delilah that I can't work with you. I don't know what would happen after that." "Oh, I can tell you exactly what would happen. She would give the job to Theo, and that's not happening," Luna declared, taking a deep breath. She stood tall, her blue eyes blazing with determination. Despite his lack of complete trust, William couldn't help but admire her fiery spirit. "I started wearing the ring because you were everywhere when I returned to the city." "Now I'm truly confused." "Everywhere I turned, there were reminders of your real estate company or glimpses of you in the newspaper. It was too much, a constant reminder of a man who slept with me and never called. It hurt, a lot. I've had too many men treat me that way, and I had to break the pattern. I watched a silly movie on TV, and the heroine did the same thing. She wore an engagement ring to keep away from a guy she knew was bad news." "And I'm the bad news?" William's stomach churned with discomfort. Did she really think so little of him? "Yes." A frown etched across her face. "Look, I know the idea might sound ridiculous to you, but I never expected you to see me wearing this ring. It wasn't meant for you, William. It was meant for me. To protect myself." Luna gathered her notepad and pens. "It was an unexpected bonus that the ring made it easier to maintain a professional relationship with you." Everything Luna had just revealed swirled in William's mind. Every mistake he had made, every time he had hurt a woman he barely knew but felt drawn to. Her words echoed in his head. Wait a minute. "Are you saying it would've been difficult to keep things professional?" "I'm not even sure how I'm supposed to answer that," Luna whispered, stepping closer. "I shouldn't be discussing this in the office. I could get fired for having this conversation. You know I'm attracted to you, William. That should be obvious. But we got it out of our system in Maine, right?" His heart pounded in his chest, a reaction he couldn't ignore. What was it about Luna that drew him in like this? What made him want more instead of moving on? He needed to regain his focus. There was too much evidence pointing to one conclusion—his trust in Luna was fragile at best. He had to protect what little trust he had left for work. "Yes. Absolutely. We got it out of our systems," he lied, knowing it wasn't true as soon as the words left his lips. He grabbed his coat and headed straight for the door, but Luna grabbed his arm. "William, please stop. I'm sorry. I apologize. I shouldn't have let you believe what you did. It was wrong." "I appreciate that. Thank you. Because it was wrong." "I need to know that we're okay." Were they okay? He needed them to be, but he wasn't okay himself. He wanted her, even when everything about being with her seemed messy and wrong. He desired something that was undoubtedly bad for him. And that terrified him. "With work?" "Yes. Of course." "Yeah. We're good. I just need to go."
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