My Boss Next Door

Chapter 8

Alexander

As I saw Eva's face pale and her eyes squeeze shut, a wave of protectiveness washed over me. I could tell she was panicking about the flight, and despite my usual aloof demeanor, I couldn't just sit back and let her struggle alone. I moved from my seat and settled next to her, instinctively reaching for her hand.

"Hey," I said softly, squeezing her fingers gently. "Everything is going to be okay. Just breathe."

She opened her eyes, looking at me with a mix of fear and surprise. Her hand felt small and delicate in mine, and I couldn't help but notice how it fit perfectly, as if it was meant to be there. She's going to be the death of me.

"You promise?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, yet it cut through the noise of the jet engines around us.

"I promise," I replied, trying to project as much confidence as I could muster. "This is just a quick trip, and before you know it, we'll be back on the ground. I'll be right here with you."

She nodded, taking a deep breath, and I could see the tension start to ease from her shoulders.

"Thank you," she said, her voice steadier now.

"Anytime," I replied, giving her hand one last reassuring squeeze before letting go.

The silence around us felt oppressive, almost like a tangible weight pressing down on my chest as we soared through the clouds. Eva was seated just inches away, yet it felt as if an entire ocean separated us. I could hardly focus, my thoughts a tangled mess of desire and frustration. Every breath I took was filled with her scent—the intoxicating aroma of roses mingling with something uniquely her own. It clung to the air, teasing my senses and drawing me in closer, even as I fought against it.

The feeling of her hand against mine, so innocent yet so electric, sent shock-waves through me. I could still feel the imprint of her touch, the softness of her skin lingering on my fingers, igniting a fire that was impossible to ignore.

"Are you okay?" I finally broke the silence, my voice low, the words slipping out before I could stop myself. I needed to know if she felt it too, this pull that had me captivated and unsettled all at once.

She turned to me, her wide eyes reflecting a mix of uncertainty and something else—something that sparked hope deep within me. "Yeah, just... a little nervous, I guess."

"I get it," I replied, my gaze locked onto hers.

As the plane touched down with a gentle thud, relief washed over me. The business trip had unfolded seamlessly, with each meeting flowing effortlessly, the deals falling into place just as we had hoped. I could hardly believe how well everything had gone, and I had Eva to thank for a good part of that success. Her insights and ideas had shone during our discussions, impressing not only our colleagues in DC but also the stakeholders who were keen to hear her thoughts.

As we exited the private jet, the crisp air of the city greeted us, invigorating and filled with potential. I glanced over at Eva, her expression a mix of pride and disbelief. She had been remarkable, navigating this unfamiliar territory with grace and intelligence, and I couldn't help but feel a swell of admiration for her.

"See? That wasn't so bad, was it?" I said, offering her a reassuring smile.

She chuckled, a light sound that echoed in the air between us. "I guess not! I actually enjoyed it. Who knew business could be this exciting?"

"Maybe it's the company," I quipped, leaning a little closer, unable to resist the urge to tease her. There was an undeniable chemistry lingering in the air, one that seemed to ignite with every shared glance and playful jab.