The next morning, Aurora Hotels' ballroom was a storm of activity. Both Aurora's and Vale Hospitality's teams were coordinating layouts, lighting, and guest services for the upcoming joint event.
Alina Ross moved briskly through the room, clipboard in hand. Sophie Bell stayed at her side, keeping her organized and calm.
"Mr. Vale will arrive shortly," Sophie whispered. "I suggest we brace for… his usual demeanor."
Alina exhaled. "Brace for him? I'll manage him," she replied sharply, though the flutter in her chest betrayed her composure.
---
Working Side by Side
Adrian arrived punctually, calm and nonchalant, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. Marcus Lane trailed silently, observing the interactions.
"Ms. Ross," Adrian greeted smoothly, eyes scanning the preparations. "It seems your team is as… meticulous as ever."
Alina set her jaw. "And you? Ready to keep up?"
He raised an eyebrow. "Always. But I suggest we divide responsibilities. Close coordination is key."
As they worked, the two CEOs moved side by side, measuring distances, adjusting lighting, and overseeing staff. Every small touch—a brush of hands, a shared glance—sent an unexpected flutter through Alina's chest.
---
TheFirstPlayfulExchange
While arranging table settings, Adrian leaned slightly closer. "I see you prefer perfection in every detail," he said, tone teasing but calm.
Alina's eyes flicked up to meet his. "And you? You prefer… chaos disguised as innovation?"
Adrian's lips curved into a faint smirk. "Perhaps. But chaos can be… exhilarating."
Alina felt her cheeks warm, heart beating faster. Exhilarating? He's impossible, she thought.
---
AGlimpse Behind the Armor
For a brief moment, Adrian dropped his usual cold facade while discussing a lighting sequence with Sophie and Marcus. He showed a rare hint of appreciation for Alina's strategic thinking.
Alina noticed it too, and despite herself, she felt a small flicker of pride—and something more she refused to define.
"I hate that I'm noticing these things about him," she muttered under her breath to Sophie.
Sophie chuckled softly. "Maybe you're enjoying the challenge a little more than you think."
---
The Night Before the Event
As the day ended, both teams departed, leaving Alina and Adrian alone in the nearly finished ballroom. The quiet was thick, the glow of chandeliers casting soft reflections.
Adrian approached, hands in pockets, gaze calm and assessing. "Tomorrow, it all comes together," he said softly. "I hope you're ready… Ms. Ross."
Alina straightened, trying to suppress the flutter in her chest. "Always," she replied, though her voice wavered just slightly.
They shared a brief, loaded glance—neither smiling, neither admitting the growing pull—but the unspoken tension was undeniable.