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“It wasn’t all bad. I got to learn the ropes. Although I would have learned more if I was allowed to watch the shoot.”
“That was completely out of order. Oh, Wyatt wants to tell you he would have stood up for you.”
I grinned. “So, how are things?”
“Good. We’re going to see a concert tonight in Milan.”
“Okay, go for it and have a blast.”
“Thank you, and enjoy yourself. There has to be a party there in Monaco; go have fun. Listen to us Wisconsinites sitting around talking about being in Milan and Monaco. What a wild ride.”
“It truly is. Talk to you soon.”
Xander was going for his dreams. It was truly remarkable how quickly he was gaining success. Was that in the cards for me? My time hadn’t come to an end in Paris, but I knew I was far from ready to return home. There was still so much to learn and see and experience. Tomas was impressed with my work, even proud of me for how I handled today. Would he extend the internship?
Knock. Knock. Knock. The taps were loud and forceful. Ben? I padded over to the door and opened it. My mouth dropped open. Hayden. He was in a designer suit and buttoned shirt that was well-tailored and pressed. It suits him well, but what’s he doing here? “Uhm…yes?”
His broad grin wilted around the edges. “You came anyway…I’m glad you did. You did a great job.”
“Thanks,” I plastered on a smile. No thanks to you.
“Ca va?” he asked.
“Bien. I’m fine…did you know the photographer was rude to everyone on set?”
He shrugged. “That’s Toto. He’s a beast, but he’s the best. You made a choice, and it was the right one. You did your job, and you’re stronger for it. That’s what it takes to move forward.”
That was when I understood Hayden completely. I was a flirtation, maybe even a muse, but at the end of the day, I was only an intern. He saw himself as a mentor to teach me lessons. Paul wouldn’t allow me to be mistreated or grow a thicker skin if he knew someone had hurt me. He’d skin the person alive for hurting me.
On the other hand, I did appreciate the praise from Hayden about the work. “You did your job, and you’re stronger for it. That’s what it takes to move forward.” He was right. I was so glad I’d pushed and had today. I was determined to move forward as he suggested.
“All right. Thank you, Hayden. Good evening.” I touched the knob on the door.
“Wait.” His brows pulled together. “Why do I feel like an asshole now? I had promotional press for the movie to do, and I didn’t have time to coddle anyone there. I also didn’t treat you like everyone else at your level. Interns don’t get to come when a client and photographer don’t want you there. We could still have made you leave—”
“Yes, I know. Thank you for allowing it,” I said, in an even tone. “I have no regrets, and as it turns out, you were short-staffed, and my help was beneficial. It’s over now.” Hayden took me off, and I could have called him out on it. But I’m new in this business and some decisions may not always go my way. I had to keep my professional relationships. Tomas was disappointed, but pleased at my restraint.
Hayden gazed around the suite and smirked. “It’s hard to impress you if you can walk into a suite during Formula One week in Monaco. You seem like a sweet, down-to-earth woman, but you are in luxury here. I keep getting you wrong. I wish I could figure you out.”
“There is nothing to figure out, Hayden. I love Paul. That’s all, and I don’t feel bad that I’m here. It’s part of the life that we share together.”
Ben appeared and walked inside the room, he eyed Hayden coolly. He didn’t speak to us, but stood near the side of the door.
“And where is he?” He looked past me into the room again. “Not here. Bodyguard is. He keeps you locked away to pick up whenever he wants.”
I clenched my jaw. “You just can’t stop insulting me, can you?”
“I’m not thinking badly of you. It’s him I have a problem with.”
“You know nothing about our relationship.” I crossed my arms. “I wish you’d stop assuming the worst.”
His expression softened and he gentled his tone. “Then tell me. Make me understand.”
I blinked. “What is there to explain? We are in love.”
“This.” He gestured around. “Isn’t love. It’s material things. Love is being there. It’s putting you first. Je veux te montrer tellement de choses.…” His last words were as soft as a caress. I understood he meant that he wanted to show me so much. But his arrogance made it hard to believe him. I didn’t want to hurt Hayden, but the love I knew wasn’t easy. Love was in the longing, and it only grew stronger.
I tensed as pain spread in my chest. “Hayden…I know what’s in my heart, and I love Paul. Not because of this place, but because of the man that I know he is. The strong, loving, and kind man I fell in love with.”
