The Owner's Box

Chapter 6

Harlow POV

It's been a week since I last saw Isabella.

We stayed in the jacuzzi for a bit, kissing and talking, but mostly kissing. It was the first time I could remember just enjoying someone else's company. We didn't go any further, and I think we were both okay with that.

Later that night, we went back inside, took separate showers, and then headed to the kitchen to grab snacks before settling in the TV room.

At some point during the movie, I fell asleep. When I woke up, she was gone. I realized I hadn't exchanged phone numbers, social media, or anything with her.

As I wait to be announced, adjusting my suit jacket, I find myself reflecting on that unforgettable night.

I'm here at my alma mater, Bethune-Cookman University, summoned by my favorite professor to join her as a guest for a week at the school. I'll be assisting her with a program she hosts annually. She's been my mentor since my undergraduate years, and I couldn't refuse her invitation.

" ...and now, I am introducing you all to my mentee and your new mentor for the next few days, Harlow Steele," Professor Boone announces, gesturing towards me as I make my way from the left entryway to stand next to her.

"Hello, you can all call me Harlow, no need for formalities," I announce as I address the class. "I've been invited to provide insights into the business world to you all. I am here this week to assist you with your entrepreneurial endeavors by offering guidance, answering questions, and facilitating connections." I pause for a second too long, caught in the gaze of a pair of beautiful brown eyes.

"At the end of the week, one student will be selected to receive a one-year internship at one of my businesses. This collaborative effort with Professor Boone has been an annual tradition for the past five years. So, uh," I glance back at those brown eyes again, shaking my head before continuing, "let's have a great week, and I look forward to getting to know you all." The class claps as I walk to my seat next to the professor.

Professor Boone continues informing the class of the agenda for the week, as I try and fail not to make eye contact with those brown eyes for the duration of the class. I end up just staring at her.

💋💋

Isabella Saint POV

I'm sitting in this seminar that Professor Boone invited me to attend. She thought I'd be interested in this internship for graduate business students. When the professor makes introductions, I find it so odd that the mentor's name is Harlow. I had just met a Harlow while I was working in Miami. Coincidence?

Last week, I left after Harlow fell asleep on the couch. I didn't want to leave like that, but I also didn't want to say goodbye or goodnight to her. So, I just left as soon as she fell asleep.

When the mentor comes out, I see that it's her. It's the same Harlow that I met last week. Fuck my life.

I am in shock.

I am fucking shookith!!!

Harlow looks so professional in that lilac purple suit.. Her hair is up yet again in a high bun. She's wearing more jewelry than last time. There are rings on all of her fingers except for one.

Just then, Zack, my friend and classmate seated next to me, laughs a little too loud at a text on his phone. In that moment, Harlow turns her attention in our direction. I had managed to lay low for the entire class, but not anymore. Fuck me.

Her eyes are drawn to Zack and then she deadpans on me. Tilting her head to the side and squinting her eyes.

She just stops and stares up at me. And I stare back at her, my chest feels like its tightening. I'm so fucked. I have to get out of here.