The next morning, Emily arrived at Blackwood Enterprises, feeling more confident after a successful night with Julian's client. As she settled into her new role, she began to navigate the office dynamics and get familiar with Julian's schedule.
Just as she was getting into the swing of things, Julian appeared at her desk, his eyes scanning her face. "Emily, I need you to book a flight to New York for me. I have a meeting with a potential investor."
Emily nodded, her fingers flying across the keyboard. "When do you need to leave?"
"Tomorrow," Julian replied, his voice crisp.
As Emily worked on booking the flight, Julian lingered, his presence making her skin prickle. "Julian, is there anything else I can help you with?" she asked, trying to focus.
Julian's gaze drifted to the window, his expression distant. "I want you to accompany me to New York. We'll be staying for a few days."
Emily's heart skipped a beat. She hadn't expected this. "Okay, I'll make the arrangements."
As she worked, Julian's eyes remained on her, his intensity unnerving. Emily couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to this trip than met the eye.
When the arrangements were made, Julian nodded and turned to leave. "I'll have my driver pick you up at 6 am. Be ready."
As the day went on, Emily's mind whirled with questions. What was Julian's true intention for bringing her to New York? And what lay between them, unresolved from the past?
That evening, as she packed for the trip, Emily's phone buzzed with a text from an unknown number. "Meet me at the hotel bar at 9 pm. We need to talk."
The message was unsigned, but Emily's heart sank. She knew exactly who it was from – Julian. But why the secrecy?
Emily's mind racing, she hesitated for a moment before responding, "I'll be there."