Larissa's POV
"At this moment? Two souls sharing wine beneath a canopy of stars." Carson placed his glass on the table and shifted closer. "Tomorrow? That remains unwritten. Isn't that what makes it thrilling?"
I pondered his response, watching the burgundy liquid dance in my glass. "You're completely different here compared to the boardroom."
"As are you," he replied. "More open. Authentically yourself."
"Should I take that as a compliment?"
"Absolutely." His gaze swept across my features, pausing at my mouth. "I prefer this version of Larissa."
"What makes you certain this isn't an act?" I pressed him.
"Perhaps I'm simply performing for your benefit."
"Are you performing?" His voice dropped to barely above a whisper.
I met his intense stare. "Not at all."
