Lily couldn't stop thinking about James, even as she buried herself in her manuscript. His sharp wit, the way he saw through her defenses—it unnerved her. So when her editor emailed to set up a meeting with "James Calloway," she nearly spilled her tea.
The publishing house was everything Lily imagined: sleek, modern, and intimidating. She smoothed her skirt, clutching her printed manuscript as though it were armor.
James was already waiting in the conference room, leaning back in his chair like he owned the world. His gray eyes sparkled when she entered.
"Lily Hayes," he greeted, his voice as smooth as the leather seats. "Your manuscript has potential, but I think it needs... polishing."
"Polishing?" she echoed, bristling. "I spent a year crafting that story."
James raised a brow, clearly enjoying her defiance. "And it shows. But you want it to stand out, don't you? I can help with that—if you're willing to collaborate."
Collaboration. The word sent a shiver through her. Working closely with James meant prolonged exposure to his charm, which was as dangerous as it was alluring. But the lure of success was stronger.
"I'll think about it," she said, turning on her heel before he could see the pink in her cheeks.