Lights, Camera, Baby!

Emma

“Just a few hundred more to go.” I wiped the sweat from my brow, cursing under my breath as I fumbled with yet another string of lights. The banquet hall buzzed with activity, but I felt oddly alone.

My arms ached, and my fingers were stiff from handling the delicate glass bulbs. But I couldn’t stop now. Abi wanted a picture-perfect backdrop for her wedding photos, and I’d give it to her.

If I pulled this off, it could catapult my business to the next level. No pressure, right?

At least you’re still breathing.

I grimaced, both saddened and grateful for the reality check.

Life had rewarded my parents for their hard work with an early death. I’d been only nine and barely aware of what death meant. If my mother’s American sister hadn’t agreed to take me in, I would have ended up in foster care in the UK.

Aunt Ginny had moved me across the pond and committed to raising me. But she had also torn me away from my friends and the only home I’d ever known. Then she’d all but abandoned me to deal with the culture shock.

I tried not to shit on my aunt, but the older I got the harder it became to ignore the bitterness. The last thing she’d wanted was to be responsible for a nine-year-old.

I shook my head, dispelling the gloomy thoughts. This was nothing compared to that time of my life. I could handle a few measly light bulbs. I could handle my assistant quitting. I could pull off a wedding that had a guest list overloaded with Hollywood royalty all by myself.

I closed my eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath. The faint scent of fresh flowers mingled with the crisp, freshly laundered linen tablecloths, reminding me of the beauty I was working to create.

While I strung the lights through the wire frame for Abi’s photo op station, I ran through my mental checklist, ticking off backup plans for every possible disaster. It calmed me, knowing I’d prepared for the worst.

“Watch it!” a waiter yelped.

“Sorry, sorry,” a male voice mumbled.

I turned, nearly losing my balance on the ladder. Charlie Delacroix, Finn McCarthy’s agent, weaved through the room, his eyes glued to his phone while staff dodged around him. I recognised him instantly from the photo binder I’d compiled of all five hundred guests. It was my job to know everyone, to be prepared for any eventuality. What I hadn’t prepared for was how devastatingly handsome he’d be in person.

His dark hair was artfully tousled, and his jawline could cut glass. The fitted suit he wore did nothing to hide his athletic build. But it was his eyes that caught me off guard – a gorgeous hazel that seemed to see right through me. I became extremely aware of my sweaty, dishevelled state.

His phone rang and he answered it with a hard jab. “No, absolutely not,” he barked, drawing curious glances from the staff bustling around him.

He seemed oblivious to the chaos he was creating — a chair scraped loudly as he bumped it with his hip, a flower arrangement wobbled when he brushed past it. It was like watching a bull in a china shop, if the bull was wearing an expensive suit and completely engrossed in a heated phone conversation.

He made it next to impossible for me not to eavesdrop. Somehow I continued to string up lights, but my curiosity had definitely gotten the better of me. Less than half my attention remained on the display.

“Tell Vanessa she needs to issue a statement now, before this gets out of hand.” He ran a hand through his hair.

I admired the way his rolled-up sleeves revealed tanned, muscular forearms. My eyes trailed down his body, taking in the broad shoulders that tapered to a trim waist. The way he moved exuded confidence, every gesture purposeful and commanding.

What would it be like to have those strong hands on me, to be the focus of that intense gaze? I shivered at the idea of it.

It’s clearly been too long since you’ve gotten laid if bare forearms are making you hot and bothered.

I forced my attention back to the task at hand, trying to ignore the way his presence seemed to electrify the air around him.

“I don’t care if she’s in the middle of a shoot,” Charlie continued, his voice rising. “If we don’t get ahead of this story, it’ll be all over the tabloids by morning.”

Another pause and my blood pressure rose almost in sympathy.

“Look, just get her on the phone. Tell her it’s about the photos. She’ll know what I’m talking about.” He sighed. “And for the love of god, make sure she doesn’t post anything on social media until we’ve crafted a proper response.”

“Alright, call me back as soon as you’ve spoken to her,” Charlie said, his tone softening slightly. “And hey, thanks for handling this. I know it’s early.”

He ended his call but in his distraction, he backed right into my champagne-flute pyramid. It teetered for a heart-stopping moment before crashing to the ground in a cacophony of shattering glass.

“Shit!” He spun around, his eyes wide with horror as he took in the destruction at his feet.

“Are you kidding me?” I scrambled down the ladder. “Do you have any idea how long that took to set up?”

His shock gave way to contrition as he met my gaze. “I’m so sorry. I was completely distracted. I didn’t even see the display there.”

“Clearly,” I muttered, surveying the damage. Shards of crystal glittered on the floor, reflecting the light from the bulbs I’d just hung. It was almost beautiful, in a disastrous sort of way.

A waiter appeared with a dustpan and brush, but Charlie intercepted him, taking the cleaning supplies. “Let me help you fix this.” He knelt to sweep up the broken glass.

“No, it’s fine.” I tried to take the brush from him, but he dodged me. “I can handle it.”

He flashed me a smile that made my knees weak, despite my irritation. “Come on, it’s just as much my problem as yours. Besides,” his voice dropped to a conspiratorial whisper, “I’m guessing you’ve got about a million other things to do before the guests start arriving tonight. You shouldn’t have to deal with my clumsiness on top of everything else.”

I hesitated, torn between my need for control and the unexpected allure of his offer.

In the end, I relented with a sigh. “Fine. But be careful with the unbroken glasses. We’ll need every single one we can salvage.”

He nodded. “You got it. I really am sorry about this.” He gestured at the mess around us with an apologetic smile. “I promise I’m not usually such a bull in a china shop.”

Despite my irritation, the corner of my mouth twitched upward. “Well, I suppose accidents happen.” I knelt down to begin sweeping up the smaller shards. “Even to Hollywood hotshots like yourself.”

Charlie chuckled, the sound surprisingly warm and genuine. “Hollywood hotshot? Is that how you see me, Ms Sullivan?”

“Emma, please.” I glanced up at him almost against my will. There was something magnetic about this man, it made me helpless to resist.

“Emma.” His lips quirked and I almost sighed at the sight.

“I’m just calling it like I see it. Big-time agent, wandering aimlessly without looking where he’s going and barking orders into his phone? Seems pretty hotshot to me.”

Like someone used to cleaning up other people’s messes while his assistants cleaned up his.

He had the grace to look slightly embarrassed. “I promise I’m not always on the phone dealing with crises. Just most of the time.”

I raised an eyebrow, carefully placing a larger piece of crystal into the pan. “Sounds thrilling. Is that why you decided to liven things up by destroying my champagne tower?”

Charlie laughed outright at that. “You caught me. I just couldn’t resist your impeccably stacked glassware. It was crying out to be toppled.”

Despite myself, a smile tugged at my lips. There was something disarmingly charming about his self-deprecating humour.

“Well, Mr Delacroix.” I stood, holding the dustpan full of broken glass between us like a shield. “Next time you feel the urge to destroy wedding decorations, maybe give a girl some warning first? Give me a chance to set up a decoy.”

“I’ll keep that in mind.” He smiled before taking the dustpan from me to dispose of the broken glass. “And please, call me Charlie.”

As he walked away to empty it, I couldn’t tear my eyes away from him, a confusing array of emotion swirled inside me. Annoyance at the mess he’d caused, certainly, but also a spark of interest I hadn’t felt in far too long.

I shook my head, trying to clear it of these dangerous thoughts. I was here to work, not to get starry-eyed over some handsome Hollywood agent. But as Charlie returned, flashing me another apologetic smile, I had a feeling this evening was about to get a lot more interesting than I’d planned.

The next few hours passed in a blur of final preparations. I positioned myself near the back of the room, clipboard in hand, ready to tackle any last-minute issues. As the space filled with well-dressed guests, their excited chatter rising above the soft background music, I allowed myself a moment of pride. Despite the setbacks, everything was coming together beautifully.

“You’ve outdone yourself, Em.”

I turned at the sound of my name and a familiar voice, coming face to face with a familiar redhead. “Eva! Oh my god, it’s been forever!”

Eva pulled me into a tight hug. “I can’t believe it! When I introduced you to Abi, I knew you’d do an amazing job, but this is beyond anything I could have imagined.”

I grinned, genuinely happy to see a friendly face. “I know I’ve said it before, but I can’t thank you enough.” I shook my head, smiling while gratitude flooded me. “I can barely comprehend the opportunities this wedding could bring me and it’s all thanks to you.”

Eva waved me off with a laugh. “Please, I knew you’d be the best in the business. Abi’s lucky to have you.”

Our conversation was interrupted by the arrival of more guests. Eva wrapped a stunning pixie-haired brunette in a warm hug. Ros Butler, one of Abi’s best friends and second bridesmaid.

Ros took one look at the place and whistled. “Jesus, girl. Did you leave any flowers in the ground?”

“Oh please, if I’d done any less, I’d be failing at my job. But I can’t take credit for this colour explosion. The restaurant staff are the real MVPs here.”

Eva’s jaw dropped as she took in the lush greenery and vibrant blooms. “Wait, you didn’t do this yourself? It looks exactly like the sketches you showed Abi!”

“I know, right?” I smirked, unable to keep the pride from my voice. “Gave them the plans last week, ordered the flowers, and they nailed it without me hovering. Though I’d be lying if I said I didn’t check everything twice when I got here. Maybe three times.”

I’d planned to be here to supervise but with my assistant quitting, I’d been forced to let go.

Ros whistled again, clearly impressed. “Well, if this is what you accomplish without breaking a sweat, I can’t wait to see what magic you’ve worked for tomorrow.”

I basked in their praise for a moment.

As we chatted, more guests poured in, filling the room with that pre-wedding buzz of excitement and nerves. I spotted familiar faces from countless planning sessions — Finn’s rowdy groomsmen and their partners, his family who had made the long trip from Ireland, various close celebrity friends.

Abi and Eva had also lost their parents at a very young age, one of the reasons Eva and I bonded in the beginning. Their list of invitees might have been the shortest I’d ever handled in my career.

I’d never considered what my wedding guest list would look like, but it would be just as short.

I claimed my spot at a tiny table near the back as dinner kicked off. Perfect vantage point to spy on — I mean, oversee — everything. The gentle clink of cutlery mingled with warm laughter, creating that perfect ambiance I’d been stressing over for weeks. I allowed myself to relax a fraction.

When speech time rolled around, I had my clipboard at the ready. You never knew when someone might need an emergency tissue or a gentle nudge off stage.

One of Finn’s best men, Nathan Logan, started things off with an on set story that had me snorting into my water. Next, Eva delivered a tear-jerker that threatened my perfectly applied mascara.

Then Charlie stood up. I leaned forward in my seat as he cleared his throat.

“For those who don’t know me, I’m Charlie Delacroix, Finn’s agent and self-proclaimed cupid,” he began, earning chuckles from the crowd. “Now, I can’t take full credit for the magic that is Finn and Abi, but I will say this — I knew from the moment I signed Finn up for ‘Married Blind’ that he’d find his perfect match. Or at least some quality entertainment for the rest of us.”

Finn’s voice cut through the laughter. “Oh, come on. That’s not how it happened and you know it!”

Charlie’s grin only widened. “Ah, but it is, my friend. Let me paint you all a picture.” He turned back to the crowd, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “One where our dear Finn got caught in a compromising position with a certain director’s daughter in a very public restroom.”

“We talked about this, Charlie!” Finn shouted as the room hooted and laughed. Abi took his hand, holding him down when he tried to stand up.

Unless you lived under a rock, there was no way to miss that scandal and the resulting headlines. Finn had played the field and graced the tabloids frequently before that instance, but he’d never come so close to burning his career before.

“What? I’m not naming names.” Charlie cast an innocent glance around the room, but he couldn’t hold back the tiny smirk quirking one corner of his lips. “Anyway, our star’s options were either ‘Married Blind’ or a long, lonely stint in direct-to-streaming purgatory. And boy, did he fight me on it.”

Finn groaned, burying his face in his hands as the room erupted in laughter. I laughed along despite my best efforts to maintain professional detachment.

“But here’s the thing about fate — sometimes it has a way of sneaking up on you when you least expect it. Finn went into that show expecting to find a gold-digger looking for her fifteen minutes of fame. Instead, he found Abi.”

“I did not think that!” Finn interjected, looking horrified.

Abi patted his arm consolingly. “It’s okay. I thought you were a self-absorbed pretty boy, so we’re even.”

More laughter rippled through the room as Charlie nodded sagely. “See? A match made in reality TV heaven. I’ve known Finn for years, and I’ve never seen him as blindsided — pun absolutely intended — as he was when he realised he was actually falling for his ‘TV wife’.”

“That’s... actually true.” Finn’s expression softened as he looked at Abi.

“It just goes to show, sometimes the best things in life come from the most unlikely places.” Charlie scanned the room, briefly catching my eye.

For a moment, the rest of the room faded away, and it was just us, sharing a silent acknowledgment of… something.

He winked and then lifted his glass, his eyes gleaming with genuine warmth. “To Finn and Abi — proof that love can bloom even in the harshest of lights. May you always remember that sometimes the best decisions are the ones you’re pushed into making. Especially if I’m the one doing the pushing.”

Everyone laughed, and Abi finally let Finn up to pull Charlie into one of those obligatory man-hugs.

As the speeches continued, my gaze kept returning to the dark-haired Canadian, much to my annoyance. The way he laughed wholeheartedly at the jokes, the attentive tilt of his head as he listened to the emotional moments, it all drew me to him. This was a far cry from the distracted bull in a china shop who had decimated my champagne tower earlier.

By the time dinner wound down and guests began to mingle, my perception of Charlie had shifted dramatically.

The brash Hollywood agent had been replaced by a man who clearly valued friendship and love, who took genuine joy in the happiness of others. It was… attractive, in a way I hadn’t expected and wasn’t entirely comfortable with.

You’re not here to ogle the guests, no matter how well they fill out a suit.

I threw all of my attention into last-minute checks and staff coordination. Anything I could possibly do to distract myself.

But I couldn’t stop stealing glances at Charlie as he worked the room, mingling with guests, all easy charm and sharing laughs with the happy couple.

At one point, our eyes met again across the crowded space. He flashed me a smile that made my heart skip a beat, and I quickly looked away, cursing the blush burning up my neck.

But as I watched him chat animatedly with Finn’s mother, making the woman laugh with delight, I knew I was in trouble. Our brief encounters had left more of an impression than I cared to admit, and despite my best efforts to remain professional, a part of me was looking forward to seeing more of Charlie at tomorrow’s wedding.

Charlie

I couldn’t pull my mind out of the gutter.

It had been years since anyone had caught my attention. Why did that have to change at Finn McCarthy’s wedding? I was meant to be on my best behaviour. And while I was on a whining spree, why did it have to be a woman who lived four thousand fucking kilometres away? The woman lived closer to my mother in Ontario than me, for fuck’s sake.

“You alright there?” Finn clapped me on the shoulder, startling me. “No matter how talented you think you are, you can’t turn whiskey into gold, so stop staring at the bleeding glass.”

A perpetual grin always claimed his lips these days. Ever since he’d admitted his feelings for Abi. The man’s reputation had done a complete one-eighty because of that woman and I’d be eternally grateful.

“I’m fine.” I forced a smile. “Just taking a breather from all the schmoozing. How about you? Happy to have finally locked down the girl of your dreams without a million cameras recording every move?”

His gaze drifted across the room to where Abi stood, laughing with a group of guests. Her red hair caught the light, making it look like fire. “Happier than a pig in shite, mate. She’s everything I never knew I needed.”

“Well, don’t go getting all sappy on me now.” I clapped him on the back, biting back a wince at the ache of loneliness chewing at my insides. “Just because you’ve turned over a new leaf — for the better, I might add — doesn’t mean the rest of us don’t have reputations to uphold. Can’t have people thinking I represent lovesick fools.”

Finn snorted. “Too late for that. Now come on, stop being such a wet blanket and enjoy the party. It’s not every day your best client gets hitched.”

I opened my mouth to argue — he had in fact gotten hitched nine months ago — but movement across the room caught my eye. Emma stepped through the door, clipboard in hand, looking like a vision in a deep blue dress that hugged every curve. Her dark hair was swept into an elegant updo, a few tendrils escaping to frame her face. The need to drag my fingers through it gripped me.

Fuck me sideways. The woman got more beautiful every time I saw her.

Before I knew what I was doing, I was making my way across the room. Finn called after me, but his voice faded into the background noise of the reception. Emma glanced up as I approached, her expression guarded. Those eyes that had haunted me all damn day were even more striking up close — a warm brown flecked with gold.

“Mr Delacroix. Come to destroy any more of my hard work?”

I winced, remembering the champagne tower fiasco from yesterday. “About that... I wanted to apologise again. Properly this time, without the distraction of shattered glass everywhere.”

Her brow arched, but I couldn’t miss the hint of a smile tugging at the corner of her lips. “I’m listening.”

“I’m sorry for being a complete klutz and ruining your display,” I said, meeting her gaze. “And for being distracted and not watching where I was going. The wedding is absolutely beautiful. You’ve done an incredible job.”

Emma tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “Thank you. That’s... actually very sweet of you to say.”

“Sweet? Me?” I placed a hand over my heart in mock offence. “I’ll have you know I’m a ruthless Hollywood hotshot. We don’t do sweet.”

She laughed, and the sound did funny things to my insides. “Well, in that case, I suppose we’ll have to start over. Emma Sullivan, Abi and Finn’s wedding planner.”

Which I’d known all along, of course. It was my job to know. “Charlie Delacroix, agent and occasional bull in a china shop.” I took her offered hand. Her skin was soft against mine. The need to hold on and never let go struck me. “But please, call me Charlie.”

She stared at me, her teeth teasing her lower lip for a moment while she considered me. If it were possible for my heart to stop beating, it would have.

“Alright,” she finally said, her voice carrying a hint of amusement. “I suppose I can give you a second chance.”

“You won’t regret it, I promise. Can I buy you a drink to seal the deal?”

Emma glanced at her clipboard, then back at me. “I really shouldn’t. I’m working, after all.”

“Come on, one drink.” It surprised me how much I wanted her to say yes. “I’m sure the bride and groom would insist their hardworking planner take a moment to enjoy the fruits of her labour.”

She hesitated, and I held my breath. What was wrong with me? I never got this worked up over a woman, especially one I’d just met. But something about her had me off-balance in the best possible way.

“Oh, alright.” She set her clipboard down on a table tucked into an alcove and smiled at me. “But just one.”

I beamed, feeling ridiculously victorious. “Excellent choice. What’s your poison?”

“Surprise me.”

I led her to the bar, hyper-aware of her presence beside me.

“Two gin and tonics, please. With a twist of lime.”

Emma raised an eyebrow. “Gin and tonic, huh? Trying to impress me with your sophisticated tastes?”

Instead, I laughed. “Nah, just figured you’d appreciate a classic. Plus, it’s clear — less chance of ruining that gorgeous dress if I have another clumsy moment.”

A blush crept up her cheeks, and pure satisfaction rushed through me.

“What’s the craziest request you’ve ever gotten from a client?” I asked after we collected our drinks.

I’d expected her to say the champagne centrepiece. Something I could hold over Finn’s head at a later date. Instead, she told me about a bride who wanted doves released at the exact moment of her first kiss. As ridiculous as it was, I never wanted her to stop talking about those bloody birds. She could have read the dictionary to me and I would have hung on her every word. Absorbed in the way her eyes lit up as she spoke, her hands moving animatedly. Captivated.

Before I knew it, half an hour had passed. Our glasses were long gone and the waitstaff had started to file into the banquet hall.

“Oh god.” Emma glanced at her watch. “I can’t believe I’ve been neglecting my duties for so long. I should really get back to work.”

Before I could stop her, she rushed away, slipping through my fingers in more ways than one.

As guests took their seats for dinner, I made my way to my assigned table. My heart did a little flip when I spotted Emma already seated, looking slightly flustered as she eyed me and arranged her napkin on her lap.

“Well, well,” I said as I slid into the chair next to her. “Fancy meeting you here.”

She rolled her eyes, but I caught the smile she tried to hide. “You know, for someone who claims to be ruthless, you’re not very good at playing it cool.”

I clutched my chest in mock pain. “Hit a man where it hurts, why don’t you?”

“Charlie!” a familiar voice called out before she could respond. “It’s been too long.”

Aria Campbell — a country singer whose agent also coerced her into joining Married Blind last year — stopped at our table with her husband in tow. Showtime.

“Lovely to see you again.” I stood and held out my hand to shake hers across the table, being extra careful not to knock over Emma’s centrepiece. “How’s the new album coming along?”

She beamed, her red painted lips curling up. “It’s going wonderfully, thank you for asking. We’re hoping to wrap up recording next month.”

Her jet black hair hung in waves above her shoulders, shorter than the last time I’d seen her. She wore a gold figure hugging dress that might have drawn my eye before yesterday. Now, no one could compete with Emma in my mind. In any case, Aria looked good tucked into Kyle’s side, his six-foot-five frame dwarfing her five-foot-nine. She probably felt short for the first time in her life.

“Fantastic news.” I grinned, shaking Kyle’s hand. “Good to see you, man. Keeping this one out of trouble?”

He chuckled. “Tack on a ‘trying’. You know no one stops Aria when she’s on a roll.”

“I shouldn’t be surprised to see you. Even Nicole is wandering around here somewhere.”

“Now that did surprise me.” Aria took the seat Kyle pulled out for her and a waiter rushed over to pour her a glass of wine. “As far as I knew, no one heard from her after filming ended, but I’m glad she’s here. I hope it means she’s healed enough that we don’t remind her of bad times.”

The three of us glanced towards the blonde sitting three tables away from us with Toronto’s newest hockey player and his wife. The man next to her had his hand resting on the back of her chair and she kept throwing him dreamy smiles when he wasn’t looking.

“That does look promising.”

The rest of our table mates joined us, and we cut the gossip short. Just because we knew the behind-the-scenes details of the legal nightmare Married Blind turned into didn’t mean others needed to.

Instead, I introduced them all to Emma. She threw me a little smirk that meant who knows what and fell straight into easy conversation with the pink-haired woman next to her, Mona Baines, Shaun Martin’s wife and now one of Abi’s best friends.

As the conversation flowed around the table, I found myself torn between playing the role of charming agent and wanting to focus solely on Emma. I’d gotten so caught up in the familiar routine of working the room that the first course was served before I could give her all of my attention again.

I leaned in close, keeping my voice low. “Sorry about that. Old habits die hard, I guess.”

She quirked a brow at me. “Showing off for the celebrities.”

“Never. Although…” I bit my lip as I studied her. “I have to admit, it’s kind of fun watching you try not to look impressed.”

She rolled her eyes, but I caught the hint of a smile. “Please. I don’t look starstruck.”

I smirked. “Yes, you do.”

“Really?” Her eyes widened at my nod. “Damn. I even practised while I prepared my binder.”

“Your binder?”

“Don’t make it sound weird. I needed to memorise every guest in case of issues.”

One sentence, and I knew everything I needed to know about her work ethic. I shouldn’t have been surprised after seeing her in action yesterday and this morning. My assistant did something similar, meticulously preparing fact files of all the important people in Hollywood and updating them every time I had to attend an event.

Wait.

“If you knew what everyone looked like and where they were sitting, why did you look so shocked to find me at your table?”

She blushed. “I, uh... I wasn’t actually supposed to be eating.” She picked up the napkin and started twisting it almost unconsciously. “There were some missing guests, and Abi insisted I take one of the empty seats. She didn’t tell me which table until just before, and she’d stolen my binder. I couldn’t remember who was supposed to be here until you turned up.”

I laughed; the image of Abi strong-arming her own wedding planner into enjoying the party was just too perfect. And very Abigail McCarthy. The woman had been a force of nature for as long as I’d known her.

I turned in my seat, catching Abi’s eye at the head table. She grinned and raised her glass. I lifted mine in return, mouthing a silent ‘thank you.’

Turning back to Emma, I smiled. “Well, I for one am glad you’re here. It would’ve been a shame to miss out on your company.”

She rolled her eyes, but I caught a hint of her amusement. “Smooth talker.”

“I try,” I said with a wink. “So, tell me more about wedding planning. I bet you’ve got some stories that could rival even my craziest Hollywood tales.”

She laughed, her eyes lighting up. “Oh, you have no idea. Ever had to wrangle a runaway groom who got cold feet an hour before the ceremony?”

“Getting Finn on Married Blind felt that way sometimes, but no.” I leaned in, intrigued. “What happened?”

“Let’s just say it involved a fire escape, a very determined mother-in-law, and me sprinting three blocks in heels.”

We traded stories back and forth, laughing over the absurdities we’d both encountered in our respective industries. I was captivated before, but after an hour listening to her and holding her complete attention, I was an utter goner.

“… and then the best man realised he’d left the rings in the taxi,” Emma was saying, her eyes sparkling with mirth.

I shook my head in disbelief. “What did you do?”

“I might have bribed a random stranger on a motorbike to chase down the cab.”

“Did it work?”

She grinned triumphantly, her brown eyes sparkling. “Got the rings back with two minutes to spare.”

“Impressive.” I tapped my glass against hers. “I’ll have to remember to call you next time one of my clients has a meltdown before a premiere.”

The words hung in the air between us, laden with possibility. Our gazes clashed and the air evaporated, closing in and stealing away the chatter surrounding us. I became hyper-aware of how close we were sitting.

A lump formed in my throat. Nerves? Desire? I reached for the salt shaker, trying to distract myself before I did something that would have Finn teasing me for weeks.

My hand brushed against hers, and I swear electricity jolted through us. Emma’s breath caught, and for a moment, we both froze, trapped in each other’s gazes.

The clinking of a glass broke the spell, signalling the start of the speeches. I reluctantly pulled back, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that something had shifted between us. I turned my attention to the front of the room, hoping it would lessen the pull and give me a shot of self-control. Of course it would never be that easy. I was acutely aware of her presence beside me, the warmth of her leg pressed against mine under the table.

ten minutes later, a waiter appeared at my elbow, breaking the moment. “Mr Delacroix? There’s a call for you at the front desk. They say it’s urgent.”

I sighed and threw Emma an apologetic smile. It was only half practised. I was sorry to leave her, but as much as I enjoyed her company, any longer and I’d embarrass myself.

“Duty calls, I’m afraid.” Standing, I tapped my suit pockets for my phone. “Save me a dance?”

She smiled, a mix of amusement and something else I couldn’t quite place in her eyes. “We’ll see. I do have a job to do here, you know.”

When I finally made it back to the reception, the dance floor was in full swing. The Edison bulbs cast a warm glow over the room, creating an almost dreamlike atmosphere. I scanned the crowd, my heart sinking when I didn’t immediately spot Emma.

But then I saw her, clipboard back in hand, directing a group of waiters with the precision of a military commander as they circulated with champagne, her brow furrowed in concentration. I wandered over to her, trying to be casual.

“You know, there’s a law against all work and no play at weddings, right?”

Emma jumped slightly, then turned to face me with a wry smile. “Is that so? And let me guess, you’re here to enforce it?”

“Well, someone’s got to.” I held out my hand. “Come on, darling. Five minutes without thinking about work. Doctor’s orders.”

She hesitated, glancing around at the bustling reception. “I don’t know... my assistant quit yesterday, and there’s still so much to do...”

“Five minutes won’t hurt you.” I wiggled my fingers. “The world won’t end if you take a little break. Promise.”

She sighed, but a smile tugged at her lips as she set down her clipboard. “Fine. But just one dance, and then I really do need to get back to work.”

I grinned triumphantly, leading her out onto the dance floor just as a slow song started to play. How’s that for perfect timing?

As we swayed to the music, I pulled her closer, my hand resting on the small of her back. She fit against me perfectly, like two puzzle pieces clicking into place. The scent of her perfume enveloped me, and I revelled in the warmth of her body pressed against mine.

I ducked my head, my lips close to her ear. “You know, if I didn’t know any better, I’d say you were put on this earth to test my resolve. How am I supposed to focus on anything else when you’re around?”

She shivered slightly, and when she pulled back to look at me, her cheeks were flushed. “Smooth. Does that line usually work for you?” Her tone was teasing despite the heat in her gaze. “I must admit, I’m a little disappointed. I thought you’d be more creative.”

I laughed, spinning her out and then pulling her back in. “What can I say? You’ve got me all turned around. I’ll have to up my game if I want to impress you, eh?”

“Maybe you already have,” Emma said softly, her brown eyes meeting mine with an intensity that took my breath away.

The song ended far too soon, and I reluctantly let her slip back into the crowd with claims of checking on the cake cutting. But throughout the rest of the night, I found my gaze continually drawn to her. The way she moved through the room with effortless grace, the sound of her laughter carrying across the space, the flash of her smile as she caught me looking... it was intoxicating.

Whatever was happening between us, I knew one thing for certain: I didn’t want this night to end.

Emma

As the last of the guests finally trickled out, I let out a long breath, allowing myself to feel the bone-deep exhaustion that had been threatening to overtake me all evening. I rolled my shoulders, trying to ease the tension that had built up over the course of the day. I glanced around the room, taking in the wilting flowers and the flickering candles. The wedding had been a resounding success, but the magic of the day was fading, leaving behind a bittersweet ache.

Abi and Finn had snuck out hours ago, lost in newlywed bliss. I couldn’t blame them — if I had someone looking at me the way Finn looked at Abi, I’d want to be alone with them too.

Hell, only professionalism had stopped me from ducking out myself. With Charlie throwing me suggestive glances all night and making it his mission to get me hot and bothered, I might have self-combusted.

I scanned the room, searching for the determined Canadian. He’d almost stuck to me with more efficiency than my shadow tonight, encouraging me to enjoy the night.

I was just about to start my final walk-through when a warm body stopped behind me and a familiar voice sounded close to my ear.

“Quite the party.”

Turning, I almost bumped into Charlie’s chest. He took a step back, giving me space, but his intense, hazel gaze never left mine. At some point during the night, he’d loosened his tie and destroyed the careful styling of his hair. It stood on end in some places, almost artful despite the disarray. He looked like he’d just had a good roll in bed, all relaxed charm and smouldering eyes.

Inexplicable jealousy clenched in my gut, hot and angry.

“I thought you’d left with the rest of the guests.” I hoped my voice didn’t betray the little flip my stomach did at the sight of him.

“And miss the chance to steal more of your time? Not a chance.” His lips curved into a slow smile that did far too much for my sex-starved body.

I raised a brow, trying to maintain my composure.

Do not throw yourself at the man.

“Oh? And what makes you think I have any time to spare?”

He chuckled, the sound low and warm. “Considering the bride and groom disappeared hours ago, and the last guest just stumbled out the door, I’d say your official duties are over.” He took a step closer, backing me into the wall while his voice dropped to a husky whisper. “Unless, of course, you have some pressing engagement elsewhere?”

My heart rate kicked up a notch. Was he really suggesting what I thought he was? I studied him, taking in the way he carried himself, the breadth of his shoulders under that perfectly tailored suit, the intensity in his dark eyes.

He’s gorgeous.

I became acutely aware of how long it had been since I’d been with someone. How long since I’d felt desired, wanted.

I’d been so focused on my career, pouring every ounce of energy into building my business, that dating had fallen by the wayside.

You could have this, a little voice in my head whispered. Just for tonight.

I bit my lip, considering. It was crazy, right? I didn’t do one-night stands. But Charlie... was looking at me like I was the only woman in the world.

“You’re right,” I said, surprised by the husky quality of my voice. “My duties are over.”

His eyes darkened, and he took another step closer. A few scant inches separated us and his body heat blanketed me. “In that case,” he murmured, “how would you feel about extending this evening? Just you and me?”

Meeting his gaze head-on, I asked: “What did you have in mind?”

“Well, if we didn’t live four thousand miles apart, I’d suggest dinner and hopefully many more dates to follow.” His smile widened, becoming almost predatory. “But I’d be terrible at a long distance relationship. I do happen to have a very nice hotel room not far from here. Room service, king-size bed, spectacular view of the city...” He trailed off, letting the implication hang in the air between us.

I swallowed hard, my mind racing. He was right, if he lived closer, I would have found the time to date him. I’d never experienced such strong chemistry before and the thought of losing this in the morning saddened me.

But could I handle just one night with him?

It was crazy. Reckless. Totally unlike me.

And yet...

“Just tonight?”

Charlie nodded, his demeanour serious despite the heat in his eyes. “One night. No expectations. No tomorrow.” He grimaced. “Though I really wish there could be a tomorrow.”

Screw it.

I took a deep breath, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves swirling in my stomach.

“Okay.”

The word was a barely audible exhale, but it was enough. Charlie’s eyes flashed with heat as he took my hand, lacing our fingers together.

His grin was positively wicked as he pulled me from the banquet room.

The lobby was mercifully empty as we crossed it, save for a lone security guard who nodded politely as we passed. I kept expecting someone to stop us, to ask where we were going or why we were going upstairs together. But no one did.

When we reached the elevators, Charlie pressed the call button and the doors slid open immediately. He gestured for me to enter first, his hand coming to rest on the small of my back as he followed me in. The touch, even through the fabric of my dress, sent a jolt of electricity through me.

As soon as the doors closed, he turned to me, his gaze dark with desire, lingering on my face, drifting down to my lips, before locking with mine. My breath caught at the intensity.

“Last chance to back out.”

But I didn’t want to. For once in my life, I didn’t want to overthink or over analyse. I wanted to feel, to experience, to live in the moment. Before I could think better, my fingers curled in his shirt and I tugged him towards me. Instead of answering, I went up on my toes and pressed my lips against his.

He responded instantly, wrapping his arms around me, holding me tight against his chest while his lips devoured me. I might have started it, but he finished it.

His lips were soft but insistent, moving against mine with a hunger that made me pant. I gasped, and he took the opportunity to deepen the kiss, his tongue sliding against mine in a way that made my knees weak.

I wrapped my arms around his neck, pulling him closer as the elevator began its ascent. Each floor that passed was marked by a soft ding, but I barely noticed, lost as I was in the sensation of his mouth on mine, his hands roaming my back, pulling me flush against him.

When we finally broke apart, we were both breathing heavily. Charlie rested his forehead against mine, his eyes closed.

“Jesus,” he muttered. “You’re perfect.”

I couldn’t help the little laugh that escaped me. “You hardly know me.”

I ran my fingers through the hair at the nape of his neck and he opened his eyes, fixing me with a look that made heat pool in my belly.

“Oh, darling,” he said, his voice low and full of promise, “by the time I’m done with you, I’ll know you very intimately.”

The elevator dinged once more, and the doors slid open. We broke apart, both of us a little dazed. He took my hand, lacing our fingers together, his grip tight, almost as if he expected me to disappear. Heart pounding, I let him guide me through the halls. When we reached his door, he fumbled with the key card for a moment before finally getting it open. He stood back, allowing me to enter first.

The room was beautiful — spacious and elegant, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering the promised breath taking view of the city. But I had seconds to take it in before Charlie pulled me back into his arms.

This kiss was different from the one in the elevator. It was slower, deeper, filled with a promise of things to come. His hands skimmed down my sides, coming to rest on my hips as he backed me into the wall.

“You have no idea,” he murmured against my lips, “how hard it’s been to keep my hands off you all night.”

I smiled, nipping at his lower lip. “Show me.”

A low growl escaped him, and his hands were everywhere — in my hair, caressing my face, skimming down my neck. He caught the zipper of my dress and paused, his eyes meeting mine in a silent question.

I nodded, and he slowly lowered the zipper, his fingers trailing down my spine as he did so. The dress pooled at my feet, leaving me in nothing but my lingerie and heels.

Charlie took a step back, his eyes roaming over my body with undisguised appreciation.

I refused to let my insecurities take over. Instead, I reached for him, my fingers working at the buttons of his shirt.

“Your turn,” I said, my voice huskier than I’d ever heard it.

He grinned, shrugging out of his jacket and helping me with the buttons. Soon, his shirt joined my dress on the floor, and I took a moment to appreciate the view. He was all lean muscle and tanned skin, with just the right amount of chest hair. I ran my hands over his pecs, revelling in the way his muscles jumped under my touch.

“Like what you see?” he asked, a hint of amusement in his voice.

I looked up at him through my lashes. “Very much.”

His eyes darkened, and then he was kissing me again, harder this time, more urgent. His hands found my thighs and he lifted me easily, pressing me back against the wall as I wrapped my legs around his waist.

The feel of his skin against mine was intoxicating. I ran my nails down his back, drawing a low moan from him. In response, he ground his hips against mine, letting me feel just how much he wanted me.

“Bed,” I gasped, breaking away from the kiss. “Now.”

Charlie didn’t need to be told twice. He carried me to the king-size bed, laying me down gently on the edge before dropping to his knees and tugging my thighs open. I stared down at him, his dark eyes locked on mine as his hands started their exploration.

“Were you this wet during the reception?” He brushed his thumb across my damp panties and I jolted. He grinned up at me, the picture of wicked delight.

He did it again and again, circling my clit through the fabric, watching me with eagle eyes for the slightest reaction. My throat closed up and my eyelids began to flutter.

He’s barely fucking touched you.

It had been a while, okay?

“Answer me, Emma.” He teased the edge of the material, his touch light but my body didn’t care. Heat gushed through me.

I swallowed. “Maybe.”

“Maybe what?”

“Maybe I was wet.” I panted as his fingers dipped into my panties, brushing against my clit before retreating. I let out a soft cry.

He hummed in approval, his gaze fixed on my pussy. “Who made you wet?”

“You did.”

“Good girl.”

In one swift move, he hooked my panties and dragged them off me. A satisfied light entered his eyes as he stared at my bare pussy, even as his shoulders tensed. His fingers danced along my inner thighs, teasing, tracing, promising, but he shied away from where I desperately needed him with an amused sort of determination.

“Are you trying to drive me crazy?”

“Maybe,” he said, his grin growing wider. “Or maybe I just like hearing you gasp.”

Then he moved his touch higher, higher, until he brushed against my clit again. I gasped as he wanted, my hips bucking involuntarily. He chuckled, the sound vibrating against my sensitive skin.

“Easy, darling,” Charlie murmured, his voice low and full of promise. “We’ve got all night.”

He continued to tease me, his touch light and playful, making me crave more while he traced intricate patterns on my skin. He kissed my inner thighs, his lips soft and warm while the stubble on his jaw scraped deliciously against me

And then, he shifted, his hands moving up to my hips as he leaned in, his breath hot before his mouth replaced his fingers and his tongue flicked out, finding the spot that made me moan.

“Please,” I whispered, when he went no further, my voice filled with need.

He chuckled. “Such a polite way to beg.”

But he didn’t make me wait any longer. He swirled his tongue against my clit, his fingers pressing against my entrance, pleasure winding tighter and tighter inside of me. I gripped the sheets, my body writhing under his skilled touch. He was relentless, his hands and mouth working together, driving me towards the edge.

“You taste incredible.” He lapped at me once more before he added, “But I want more.”

Two fingers pressed against my entrance, pushing inside in a slow, steady rhythm. He curled them upwards, hitting that magical spot that made my toes curl. I moaned, my hips bucking against his hand as he continued to work me with his mouth and fingers.

The pressure built, waves of sensation crashing over me as he brought me closer and closer to the edge. His fingers moved faster, his tongue more insistent, until I could barely contain myself.

“Fuck,” I whispered, my voice filled with need. “I’m close.”

Charlie didn’t stop, his focus unyielding as his lips clamped down on my clit, suckling hard and forcing me over the edge. My body convulsed with pleasure as I came, the orgasm washing over me and leaving behind a shuddering, gasping mess.

I writhed under him, my body wracked with pleasure as he continued to lap at me. He drew out the moment, stoking the aftershocks until I begged him to stop.

While I lay there, panting and shaking, he slowly removed his fingers, his tongue tracing one final circle around my clit before he lifted his head. His hazel eyes met mine, filled with a mixture of satisfaction and intense lust.

“You taste amazing.” He licked his lips. “I can’t wait to do that again.”

I grinned, my body still humming with pleasure. “I’m sure we’ll find time.”

After all, we had hours before sunrise.

Charlie stood, dropped his boxers on the floor and then gathered me in his arms. He moved so fast, I barely got a glance at his thick and hard package.

He repositioned us in the middle of the bed, placing me in the centre, and his fingers instantly returned to tease my pussy. He wasn’t done and I couldn’t muster the energy to utter so much as a gasp of surprise that he’d lifted me so easily. Still my body thrummed with anticipation and need, taking anything he was willing to give.

Hovering over me, his hard cock brushed against my thigh. I let out a moan, desperate for him to fill me. His fingers disappeared and he shifted, covering my body with his own. His lips found my neck, trailing hot kisses down to my collarbone as his hands explored every inch of me.

I arched into his touch, all thoughts of professionalism and self-control long forgotten. In that moment, there was only Charlie — his hands, his lips, the weight of his body against mine and the desperate, coiling need inside of me to come again. And again.

He unhooked my bra and tossed it aside without removing his lips from my needy body. With a firm grip in his hair, I dragged his face back to mine and revelled in the way he consumed me, owned me.

Meanwhile, it was my turn to do a little exploring. I dragged my hands up his sides, across his taut pecs and down to his abs, tracing every line I could find while Charlie continued to tease me.

If there was one thing I was starting to learn about this man, it was that he enjoyed working for his pleasure. So instead of sinking into me like I expected, he teased me with the tip of his cock pressed against my swollen lower lips. I let out a moan, desperate for him to fill me.

Before he could, I stopped him. “Do you have a condom?”

He paused, his brow scrunching up in thought.

“I’m clean. I don’t really do the sleeping with complete strangers thing,” I said, rushing on like he even needed an explanation. “But I’m not comfortable going without one.”

“It’s okay. I was trying to remember where I put them.” He got out of bed and walked over to his suitcase, his taut, toned ass on display. “And for the record, I’m clean too. It’s been a while.”

My mouth watered at the sight and I barely heard his response. The only way it would get better was for him to turn around and finally give me an eyeful of his cock.

He dug through his suitcase and then grunted when he found what he was looking for. Turning back to me, he held something out. My brain wasn’t interested in the thing in his hands, it zeroed in on his rock solid length.

The man obviously took care of himself. With a torso as chiselled as his, he had to. He was a complete contrast to me and my slightly rounded stomach. I hit the gym (sometimes) and I ate healthy food (most of the time), but working out always fell to the bottom of my to do list when my workload called for it (nearly every week).

Besides, I was comfortable in my body, flaws and all. Going by the heat in Charlie’s eyes as they roamed my naked form, he liked what he saw. So what if I have a dessert addiction I’m unwilling to kick?

“Will these be enough?” he asked, a hint of amusement in his tone.

My gaze shifted to the roll of foil hanging from his hand. “Do you intend for me to be able to walk tomorrow?”

He laughed, his gaze filled with heat. “Absolutely not.”

I raised an eyebrow, trying to keep my voice playful. “So, you were planning on leaving New York with a few notches on your belt, huh?”

“I’ve been too busy for much action lately. But…” he prowled towards me with the absolute confidence of a man who knew he had me, hook, line and sinker. At least for tonight. He sat beside me and leaned in, his voice dropping to a low, intimate whisper while his lips nearly brushed mine. “You’re making this one hell of a way to break my dry spell.”

The words sent a thrill through me, then he pressed his mouth against mine and any sense I had went up in flames.

“Well, I’m flattered,” I said breathlessly when he let me up for air. “It’s been a while for me too, so I guess we’re both due.”

Shut up!

Something flickered behind the desire burning in his eyes. Surprise or disgust?

“Really?” he asked, his voice a little rougher than before.

I bit back a dejected sigh and decided that I might as well face it head on now. In for a penny and all that.

I nodded, my cheeks heating. “Yeah. Work’s been crazy, and... I guess I haven’t found the right person to take my mind off things.”

He smiled, looking genuinely pleased. Just like that the tension upped and left me.

“I’m glad I could be that person for you.”

We lapsed into a comfortable silence for a moment, just drinking each other in. Charlie was incredibly handsome, his chiselled features and rugged good looks making my body ache in all the best places.

With a sudden, determined movement, he tore the condom wrapper open with his teeth.

“As much as I want to ease you in,” he said as he rolled the condom onto his thick cock. “I really need to be inside you. Right. Now.”

My answering nod was just as frantic as his deep voice. He shifted over me, forcing my legs open and tugging me further down the bed. Then he leaned over me, that teasing but devilish smile curling his lips as he lifted one of my legs onto his shoulder.

He notched himself at my entrance but paused.

“Ready?” he asked, his voice hoarse.

“More than.”

“Good.”

He tilted my hips up and thrust into me with a slow deliberate pump of his hips that made me cross-eyed.

“Fuck,” he muttered, his eyes closing for a moment as he pressed himself fully inside me.

Fuck was right. I knew I’d be tight, but this? Jesus. I could feel every inch of him. It bordered on overwhelming.

He began to move with a gentleness that took me by surprise. His thrusts were slow and deep, each one sending waves of pleasure coursing through my body. My climax started to build almost instantly.

“You feel so good, Emma,” he groaned, his movements growing more urgent as he fucked me relentlessly.

My legs began to shake, my fingers digging into the sheets as the pleasure built and built.

Then he paused, his hazel eyes locking onto mine. I gritted my teeth against a crazed demand for him to keep going.

“You okay?” he asked softly.

I nodded, unable to form words.

A smug, satisfied smile tugged at his lips. “That good, huh?”

I laughed, but he still wasn’t moving so it didn’t last long. “Charlie!”

Smirking, he picked up the pace. Digging my one ankle into the mattress, I met him thrust for thrust, chasing the high that had escaped me before. The room filled with the sounds of our mingled breaths and low moans. It didn’t take much to make me soar with how expertly he ground his pelvis against my clit and how his talented cock stroked the perfect spot inside of me.

How did I get so lucky?

The man was a beast in bed, gentle when it counted but gruff and commanding when the situation called for it. The exact sort of person I needed to break my dry spell.

If only he didn’t live on the other side of the country…

I pulled him down for a searing kiss. “Charlie,” I gasped against his lips. “I’m—”

“I know, love,” he murmured. “Let go. I’ve got you.”

And with those words, I did. Wave after wave of pleasure crashed over me, and I cried out, clinging to him.

Rather than stop, his thrusts grew even harder and more insistent as he pounded into me, chasing his own climax. The veins in his neck bulged as he held on for dear life.

Finally, with a low, guttural moan, he buried himself deep inside me, his body trembling as he came.

For a few moments, we just lay there, panting and sweating, our bodies still connected. Then, with a sated smile, Charlie withdrew and lay down beside me, pulling me close so that I was draped across his chest. He pressed a kiss to the top of my head, his fingers tracing lazy patterns on my back.

“That was...” I trailed off, unable to find the right words.

“Yeah,” he agreed, and I could hear the smile in his voice. “It really was.”