Chapter 12 - THE LOVE SHE DIDN'T EXPECT
Working with Elias wasn't always easy.
He was demanding.
Precise.
Occasionally infuriating.
Laurel was equally stubborn.
They argued about budgets.
Staffing.
Hotel renovations.
Vendor contracts.
But Elias never mocked her for disagreeing.
Never punished her for having an opinion.
Never made her feel small because she understood something he didn't.
And slowly, Laurel began trusting him.
One evening, after a long meeting, they walked along the Chicago River.
The city glittered around them.
Elias looked at her.
“Are you happy?”
Laurel smiled.
“With work?”
“With your life.”
She thought about it.
Then nodded.
“Yes.”
He smiled.
“Good.”
She glanced at him.
“Why?”
Elias stopped walking.
“Because I care about you.”
Laurel's heart stumbled.
He continued.
“More than I intended.”
She stared.
“Elias.”
He stepped closer.
“I know this is complicated.”
She laughed softly.
“That's one word for it.”
He smiled.
“But I don't want to pretend anymore.”
Laurel looked at him.
Then whispered, “Neither do I.”
Elias reached for her hand.
She took it.
And when he kissed her, it was gentle.
Patient.
Nothing like the possessive affection Preston had used to claim her in public.
This kiss asked.
May you like
It didn't demand.
And Laurel answered.
