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“So, Fury,” Olivia said as we navigated through the bustling streets, “what made you decide to expand to New York? I mean, besides the obvious allure of our charming traffic and overpriced real estate.”
“Opportunity, mainly. Cory—my business partner—and I have been discussing this for years. With the merger with Palmer Management, which is Cory’s fiancé’s firm, the timing for me to seize this chance just felt right.”
She nodded, a knowing smile playing on her lips. “And I’m sure the challenge doesn’t hurt. From what I’ve heard, you’re not one to back down from a fight.”
“You’ve been doing your homework,” I observed, impressed despite myself.
Olivia shrugged, but there was a glint of pride in her eyes. “I like to know who I’m dealing with. It’s served me well in this business.”
“I bet it has,” I murmured, studying her profile. In the fading light of the day, she looked almost ethereal - all golden hair and sharp angles. A far cry from Sienna’s dark intensity.
Stop it, I chided myself. Why was I even comparing them?
We pulled up to a towering building that screamed ‘exclusive’. As we stepped out of the car, I let out a low whistle. “This is quite the place.”
Olivia beamed. “Wait until you see inside.”
The lobby was a marvel of marble and modern art, with a concierge desk that looked like it belonged in a five-star hotel. Olivia greeted the staff by name, further cementing my impression of her as someone who knew everyone and everything in this city.
As the elevator came to a stop at the top floor, the doors slid open, and Olivia turned to me with a smile that was equal parts professional and provocative. “Ready to see your potential new home?”
I nodded, not trusting myself to speak. She led me into the penthouse, and I felt my jaw drop.
The space was stunning - all clean lines and panoramic views, with touches of warmth that kept it from feeling sterile. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcased the glittering city skyline, making me feel like I was floating above New York. Far away from the condo I was currently occupying.
“This is... wow,” I managed, turning in a slow circle to take it all in.
Olivia’s laugh was low and pleased. “I thought you might like it. Come, let me give you the tour.”
She led me through the penthouse, pointing out features with the expertise of someone who knew exactly what her client wanted - sometimes before they even knew it themselves. The kitchen was a chef’s dream, all state-of-the-art appliances and sleek countertops. The living room was spacious yet cozy, with a fireplace that I could easily imagine curling up in front of on a cold winter night.
But it was the master bedroom that really took my breath away. The bed was enormous, covered in what looked like the softest sheets I’d ever seen. And the view... well, let’s just say waking up to that every morning would make even the toughest day bearable.
“So,” Olivia said, leaning against the doorframe with a smile that could only be described as seductive, “what do you think?”
I swallowed hard, suddenly very aware of how alone we were. “It’s incredible. But I have to ask - why isn’t this on the market yet? It seems like it would be snapped up in a heartbeat.”
She shrugged, pushing off the doorframe and sauntering towards me. “The owner is... particular about who lives here. They want someone who will appreciate the space, not just use it as a status symbol.”
“And you think I fit the bill?” I asked, raising an eyebrow.
Olivia stopped just inches from me, close enough that I could smell her perfume - something expensive and intoxicating. “I think you’re exactly what they’re looking for. But obviously, they’ll have to approve of you first. However, I can’t imagine they wouldn’t.”
The double meaning in her words wasn’t lost on me. This was a crossroads, and I knew it. On one hand, there was the promise of something exciting and new with Olivia. On the other... well, there was Sienna, and all the complicated feelings that came with her.
Sienna had made it clear that nothing could happen between us. Gavin likewise. And here was Olivia, offering not just a beautiful home but a chance at something more.
“I think,” I said slowly, meeting her gaze, “that I’d like to discuss the details over dinner.”
Olivia’s smile widened, a predatory gleam in her eye. “I was hoping you’d say that. I know just the place - intimate, impressive wine list, perfect for... negotiations.”
The restaurant Olivia chose was exactly as she’d described - intimate and elegant, with soft lighting that made everything look more alluring. As we settled into our booth, it felt like I was stepping into a whole new world.
“So,” Olivia said, perusing the wine list with the air of a connoisseur, “shall we start with a toast to new beginnings?”
I nodded, trying to ignore the way her foot had somehow found its way to my calf under the table. “Sounds perfect.”
She ordered a bottle of something that probably cost more than my first car, then turned her full attention to me. “Now, Fury, tell me - what do you really think of New York so far? And don’t give me the polite answer. I want the truth.”
