JULIAN
As I shook Lexi's hand, a jolt of electricity ran through me. Her eyes, bright and inquisitive, seemed to see right through me. I felt exposed, yet intrigued.
"Your writing has a raw honesty," I said, holding her gaze. "I'd love to discuss it further."
Lexi's smile hinted at vulnerability. "I'd like that."
I made a mental note to find a private moment to talk to her. But for now, the crowd demanded attention.
As I signed books and fielded questions, my mind wandered to Lexi. What drove her to write about the human condition? What secrets did she hide behind her words?
My phone buzzed with a text from Sarah. "How's the conference?"
I typed a quick reply, feeling a pang of guilt. "Going well. Missing you all."
The facade was intact, but Lexi's presence had awakened something within me. A desire to break free from the carefully crafted lies.
As the evening reception approached, I spotted Lexi across the room, laughing with Camilla. My heart quickened. I had to find a way to spend more time with her.
"Julian, great speech," Mark Davis, my publisher, said, clapping me on the back. "We need to discuss your next project."
I nodded, but my attention remained on Lexi. "Later, Mark. I have someone I need to speak with."
Mark's eyes narrowed, sensing something. "Be careful, Julian. You're a married man."
My smile masked the turmoil within. "Just discussing literature, Mark."
YOU ARE READING
LOVE REBORN
Romance"Lexi Thompson's world is turned upside down when Julian Blackwood, the charismatic and enigmatic public figure, ignites a secret affair with her. As their passion grows, the risks escalate. Will Julian's love for Lexi be enough to overcome his fear...
