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Keene brushed past her, not caring that her nipples dragged across his chest. “I hope you two have a hell of a time.”

  6

  Keene stalked back up the path, his gut churning with a mix of emotions that came out of nowhere. He glanced at his watch, amazed it wasn’t even noon. What had started out as a regular workday had turned into a trip down the rabbit hole. Everything seemed upside down and backwards. He’d never felt more discombobulated, disoriented and plain ol’ dissed.

  He really needed to get out more. Needed to spend some time with the opposite sex because clearly he’d misinterpreted all of Sabrina’s signals. Even worse, his instincts had misled him.

  He thought she had picked up on his interest and was cautiously feeling him out with the flirtatious banter and inquisitive looks he sometimes caught. Office romances were notorious hazards for both parties. He didn’t want to be sued for sexual harassment, and he knew Sabrina prided herself on her professionalism.

  He’d toyed with the idea of asking her out, but the potential pitfalls held him back. An affair that fizzled would taint the efficient partnership they’d established, and he didn’t want to lose the best EA he’d ever found.

  Sabrina was the key to keeping the office well-organized and running smoothly. She understood the business world and offered insightful, creative suggestions. She approached things from a different angle, but her perspective covered things he never would have considered.

  Her contributions extended beyond the parameters of the job. They shared the same dry humor and seemed attuned to each other’s moods. When he needed to concentrate, she was quiet. When he was stumped by a problem, she got the ideas flowing.

  In other words, he liked her. He liked being around her. He liked the way she made work fun and challenging. He liked her calming presence when shit was hitting the fan. He liked the way she seemed to respect him and approve of the decisions he made.

  Pulling the keycard from his pocket, Keene took refuge in his bungalow as thoughts continued streaming through his head.

  He liked her. She was a fantastic EA and a nice person.

  Hands on hips, he spun around, uncertain where to go or what to do. He was fighting a losing battle.

  “Just admit it,” he growled to the empty room. “You more than like her.”

  He did.

  He liked her. He really, really liked her.

  So, what? There was no way he was sticking around for Valentine’s Day when Sabrina was celebrating with someone else. A phone sat on a small table near the door, so he walked over, intending to call for a ride back to L.A.

  A red envelope with his name scrawled across the front caught his attention first.

  Sabrina had said something about a letter that would explain everything. Well, he already knew the important stuff, but what the hell. Might as well read the damned thing. He untucked the flap, noting the envelope was not sealed shut.

  * * *

  Dear Mr. Wesley:

  Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples. Singles deserve to have fun and indulge themselves, too.

  Based on a request from someone close to you, we’ve made arrangements for you to step away from the daily grind and refresh your body and soul with a relaxing stay at the Mariposa Hacienda. A complete list of amenities and activities follows.

  On behalf of Single Status, we hope you enjoy this Valentine’s Day adventure crafted exclusively for you.

  * * *

  At the bottom of the printed letter was a lengthy note written in blue ink. He recognized Sabrina’s handwriting.

  * * *

  Keene,

  It’s becoming more and more difficult to pretend I’m not attracted to you, but our professional relationship could get messy if you don’t feel the same. I’m risking a lot (more than you know) by spilling the beans like this. I’ve been honest with myself about my feelings but now it’s time to be honest with you. I’m the one who set up this surprise through Single Status. I wanted a chance to spend time with you away from the office, but this gift comes with no strings or expectations. Whatever you decide, I hope we can continue working together. I love my job. After all, I have an amazing boss.

  S.

  * * *

  He read the note three times, his grin becoming wider and wider. If he’d known losing control and having life upended could feel like this, he would have surrendered months ago. He carefully returned the letter to its envelope and exited his bungalow.

  7

  “He thinks I booked a romantic weekend for each of us. Separately. As in, not together.” Sabrina pressed her phone to her ear and explained, for a second time, what had happened when she finally bared her soul to Keene.

  Francine snorted, unable to hide her laughter.

  “It’s not funny,” Sabrina said defensively. She didn’t see anything humorous about the miscommunication. Now, after battling nerves and indecision all morning, she had to decide if it was worth clarifying things. Keene had not seemed bothered by the idea of her spending an intimate evening with someone else. The logical assumption was that he didn’t care. He wasn’t attracted to her. She was just his assistant.

  The disappointment stung. Her grand gesture had been a dismal flop. She’d been so sure she was reading him correctly.

  “I’m sorry.” Francine sounded genuinely contrite. “I know how much this meant to you.”

  “I never, in a million years, expected anything like this.” She sniffled, wishing she was with her girlfriends. Melody would hug her, and Francine would criticize Keene for being clueless.

  “I already paid for the resort but I don’t want to stay here alone,” Sabrina said. “Can you guys come up?”

  A light tapping sounded from outside. She got up answer it. “Hold on. Someone’s here. Probably room service with the champagne and strawberries I ordered before”—she opened the door—“ my fantasy crashed and burned”.

  Six feet of muscled masculinity greeted her.

  A smile full of promise curved Keene’s mouth. “What’s that about a fantasy?”

  She stared, gaze darting from his lips to his eyes and back again. Pure delight exploded in her belly. There was no mistaking his intent. Desire radiated off of him like a hot stove burner. Realizing she still clutched the phone, she whispered, “Gotta go. The boss needs me.”

  “Sabrina! What’s happ—” One click ended the call.

  He entered the bungalow, his body propelling hers backwards.

  “I got your note.” His husky whisper made her shiver. “I have a new project for you.”

  Her shoulders and butt collided with the wall. Keene curled his hands around her hips and pressed into her. She wrapped her arms around his neck. “I’m ready to start now.”

  His narrowed eyes glittered with amusement. “You work too much. Someone needs to teach you how to have a little fun.”

  His lips slid over hers before the playful touch turned passionate. His hands moved to cup her face as he took control and kissed her deeply. She groaned and felt her limbs melt. She had the answer to one important question: the man kissed like a maestro. She wasn’t in a rush to get the rest of her questions answered. There was plenty of time to take it slow and let things unfold naturally.

  “Wait.” She pulled away. “What about work? This is going to change everything.”

  Keene shimmied closer. “I’m counting on it.”

  “But—”

  “Quit worrying about the details,” he murmured. “I’m learning some things take care of themselves without my help.”

  She frowned, knowing this man wanted and needed to be in control. “And you’re good with that?”

  Keene looked her in the eye until she believed him. She tightened her grip on his shoulders. He kissed the tip of her nose and tunneled his fingers through her hair. “I’m good with this. Happy Valentine’s Day, Sabrina.”

  * * *

  The End

  * * *

  Is it hearts and flowers forever for Keene and Sabrina?
/>   What happens when your lover by night is your boss by day?

  Find out in Boss Man.

  * * *

  Enjoy more Single on Valentine’s Day romance with Coffee, Tea or Me by Kelly Moore.

  About the Author

  EmKay Connor is the author of sexy, sassy contemporary romantic fiction infused with quirky humor and engaging characters. Her bright and breezy insta-love romances are set in tropical locations and glamorous destinations where her heroes and heroines discover passion and fall in love.

  Her manuscripts have finaled and won numerous contests, including RWA's prestigious Golden Heart.

  She lives and writes in northeastern Florida.

  * * *

  Website: www.sexysassyromance.com

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