Chapter 1

Aria stared at herself in the mirror, reflecting on the short, silky red dress clinging to her curves. She knew it was the perfect choice for tonight. The red would draw Maverick’s attention, and the deep view of her cleavage would leave him wanting more. She tugged at the hem, smoothing it down over her hips, then ran a hand through her long blonde hair, flipping it over her shoulder. She applied one last coat of lipstick, watching as the deep red color coated her lips. The doorbell rang, and she jumped, grabbed her purse, and took a deep breath. She was ready for this.

Maverick was standing by the car, looking like he had just stepped off the cover of a men’s magazine. He leaned against the hood, one arm casually draped over the roof of the car. His dark brown hair was perfectly styled, and his deep blue eyes sparkled in the dim light of the streetlamp. He straightened up as she approached, and Aria saw his gaze travel over her body, taking in the dress and her curves.

“Wow,” he breathed, extending a hand to her. “You look incredible.”

She smiled, taking his hand, and letting him help her into the car. “You don’t look too bad yourself,” she said, letting her eyes roam over his muscular arms and broad chest.

He grinned, and they shared a knowing look. Both knew their chemistry had always been there, but they had each been in relationships and maintained a professional distance.

“I thought we were headed to the Speak Easy Club,” Maverick said, starting the car and pulling away from the curb.

“We are,” Aria replied, leaning back in the seat and tucking her purse under her arm. “But I’m not so sure we’ll spend much time at the tables.”

He shot her a wink, and Aria felt a surge of excitement.

This was it - their first real date together, instead of their usual business meetings or client dinners. They could finally explore their mutual attraction without the constraints of their previous relationships.

As they pulled up to the Speak Easy Club, Aria could feel a sense of anticipation building inside of her. She had always loved the dimly lit atmosphere and the sultry music that played inside. It was the perfect place to let loose and enjoy the evening. Thanks to Maverick knowing everyone in town, he and Aria walked hand in hand towards the velvet rope, which parted for them as if they were royalty.

Inside, the club was filled with the bustle of patrons mingling and the low hum of music. Aria scanned the room, her eyes landing on a dimly lit corner booth where a couple was engrossed in a passionate conversation over drinks. A waiter approached them, and Maverick ordered a bottle of champagne and two glasses. Aria watched as the waiter poured the golden liquid into the glasses, and her heart raced. She was excited to see where the night would lead. He took her hand and led her towards the booth that he had reserved, situated in a secluded corner with low lighting and a lush red velvet bench.

As they sat down, Maverick leaned in towards her, his deep blue eyes piercing hers. He gently brushed a strand of blonde hair away from her face, a slow smile spreading across his ruggedly handsome features. “You look stunning tonight,” he whispered, his breath warm against her ear.

Aria felt her heart skip a beat, her cheeks flushing with heat.

“Thank you,” she murmured, drawing her gaze away from his captivating eyes and sipping her champagne.

As their bottles of champagne gradually emptied, the room around them seemed to fade into the background. The music continued to play, but Maverick and Aria were lost in their own world.

“I’ve always had feelings for you, but I am glad I can finally tell you that,” he murmured, his voice low and husky.

“All these years, I’ve kept my feelings hidden, afraid of what might happen if I spoke up,” she confessed, her voice trembling. “But now, sitting here with you, I can’t keep it inside any longer—I have always wanted to be with you.”