Morning dawned softly, painting the skyline in hues of gold and rose. Evelyn was running slightly behind schedule but carried herself with her usual calm demeanor. As she entered the office, the buzz of activity was already underway. Her heels clicked confidently against the marble floor, her tailored blazer flaring slightly as she walked. She didn’t break stride, heading directly to her desk.

Her eyes immediately fell on a steaming cup of coffee sitting neatly on her desk, just as it had been every morning for the past few weeks. It was always there, perfectly brewed to her taste, and Evelyn didn’t need to guess who was behind it. A small smile tugged at her lips as she picked it up and took a sip. She inhaled the rich aroma of the coffee as it warmed her hands, shaking her head slightly at the effort Augustus had been putting in. Despite herself, she couldn’t help but feel a tinge of appreciation. She brushed the thought aside, gathering her tablet and documents for the morning meeting.

---

The meeting room was already filled with the hum of conversation as Evelyn walked in. Augustus was seated at the head of the table, his sharp features softening as he noticed her enter. He straightened his posture, subtly adjusting his tie. Evelyn nodded politely and returned his smile, her heart skipping slightly when she noticed the genuine warmth in his gaze.

The meeting commenced, focusing on the company’s most ambitious projects. A thick stack of papers and charts was spread across the table as the executives dove into discussions. Green Energy Initiative. Augustus outlined plans for a partnership with German solar manufacturers, focusing on building renewable energy hubs across Europe. Evelyn chimed in with her expertise, suggesting pilot programs in regions with untapped potential. Artificial Intelligence Expansion. A groundbreaking project to design AI systems tailored for supply chain management and customer engagement. Evelyn elaborated on key areas where their existing clients could benefit, adding data points that left the room impressed. Luxury Real Estate in Italy. This was the crown jewel of the meeting—a massive project involving the restoration of historical Italian villas into high-end vacation rentals. This particular project required immediate attention due to unforeseen delays in construction and negotiations. 

“We need someone on the ground immediately to ensure this project doesn’t fall through,” one of the senior executives said, looking pointedly at Evelyn.

“It’s Evelyn’s project,” another chimed in. “It makes sense for her to handle it.”

Evelyn opened her mouth to respond, but Augustus spoke first. “I agree this project is critical, but given its importance, it’s too much for one person to manage. Evelyn and I will handle it together. Having both of us there will ensure the smoothest process.”

The team hesitated but eventually nodded in agreement. Augustus gave Evelyn a quick glance, as if daring her to object. She met his gaze steadily, reading his unspoken intentions. He wasn’t about to let this opportunity slip by. She decided to play along. “That’s fine with me,” she said casually, though the corner of her mouth twitched ever so slightly.

---

The next day, a private jet gleamed on the tarmac, ready for their departure. Evelyn arrived in a sleek black car, stepping out with an air of quiet authority. She was dressed in a crisp white blouse, its high collar adorned with subtle lace detailing. The blouse was tucked into perfectly tailored black trousers that flattered her figure, paired with a sharp black blazer. Her pointed-toe black heels clicked softly as she walked. Her hair was swept into a low, sophisticated bun, with a few loose tendrils framing her face. Minimal gold jewelry—a thin bracelet and small hoop earrings—added an elegant touch, and her makeup was understated, accentuating her natural beauty.

Augustus, who had been waiting near the jet, found himself momentarily distracted as she approached. He had chosen a charcoal-gray blazer over a crisp white dress shirt, with the top two buttons left undone for a casual edge. His navy trousers were tailored to perfection, and his polished brown leather loafers added a touch of understated luxury. A black leather watch adorned his wrist, completing his effortlessly stylish look. As Evelyn walked past him, he caught a hint of her subtle perfume—fresh and floral, with a warm undertone.

“You’re staring again,” Evelyn said without looking at him, her voice carrying just a hint of amusement.

“Can you blame me?” Augustus replied, a genuine smile lighting up his face.

---

The flight itself was smooth, the hum of the engines providing a soothing backdrop as they worked. Evelyn was immersed in reviewing the project details on her tablet, occasionally jotting down notes. Augustus, seated across from her, pretended to focus on his laptop but spent more time stealing glances at her. She was a picture of focus and grace, and he couldn’t help but admire her.

“Do you have everything prepared for the presentation?” Evelyn asked, not looking up from her screen.

“Of course,” Augustus replied smoothly. “Though I doubt I’ll need to do much—your expertise will carry us.”

Evelyn glanced at him, raising an eyebrow. “Flattery won’t get you far.”

“Who said I’m flattering you?” Augustus shot back, his tone playful.

---

When they landed in Italy, the warmth of the Mediterranean sun greeted them. Mathew Rossi, the local project manager, was waiting for them. A tall, dark-haired man with a charming smile, Mathew greeted Evelyn with a kiss on each cheek, a customary Italian gesture that made Augustus clench his jaw.

“Evelyn, it’s always a pleasure to see you,” Mathew said warmly. “You’re even more stunning than I remember.”

“Thank you, Mathew. It’s good to see you too,” Evelyn replied with a professional smile.

“Augustus,” Mathew said, offering a polite handshake. The tension between the two men was palpable, though Evelyn seemed oblivious to it.

---

After a productive meeting with Mathew’s team, they headed to their hotel. The receptionist handed them a single keycard, addressing them as “Mr. and Mrs. Montgomery.” Evelyn shot Augustus a questioning look, but he shrugged innocently.

The suite was breathtaking. The main room featured a sprawling king-sized bed with luxurious white linens, flanked by velvet armchairs and a polished mahogany desk. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a panoramic view of the Italian countryside, and a private balcony extended from the bedroom, complete with a small table and chairs. The marble bathroom was equally opulent, boasting a soaking tub, a rain shower, and gold fixtures.

“This is... extravagant,” Evelyn said, setting her bag down.

“Only the best for us,” Augustus replied, his tone light but his eyes watching her closely. As she moved to explore the suite, Augustus came up behind her, his hands resting gently on her waist. “I’ve missed this,” he murmured softly.

Evelyn turned to face him, her expression half amused, half exasperated. “Don’t push your luck,” she said, poking his chest lightly. “Just because I’m here doesn’t mean I’ve forgiven you.”

“Yet,” Augustus corrected with a smirk.

---

Dinner that evening was quiet but pleasant. They dined at a candlelit table on the hotel’s terrace, overlooking the city lights. The conversation stayed professional, focused on their presentation for the next day. By the time they returned to their suite, the air between them had softened slightly.

As Evelyn settled into bed, Augustus stole one last glance at her. This trip was more than just business to him—it was a chance to show her what they could be, a chance to prove himself. As the room fell into silence and the city outside glittered under the stars, Augustus allowed himself a small smile. He wasn’t giving up. Not now. Not ever.