Madison
“Fair enough,” Hazel conceded. “But as her best friend, I reserve the right to be nosy.
“And as her boyfriend, I reserve the right to keep some things between us.” His thumb traced circles on my knee.
The lights dimmed before Hazel could press further, saving me from what was sure to be an uncomfortable interrogation. The orchestra began to play, and the curtain rose on the elaborate opening scene.
I tried to focus on the show, but Alexander’s hand remained on my knee, his touch both comforting and distracting. Occasionally, he would lean close to whisper commentary in my ear, his breath warm against my
skin.
Hazel was completely engrossed in the performance, occasionally dabbing at her eyes during emotional scenes. During intermission, she turned to us with shining eyes.
“This is even better than I imagined,” she gushed. “The set design alone is worth the ticket price.”
Alexander refilled our champagne glasses. “I’m glad you’re enjoying it.
“Enjoying it? I’m having a religious experience.” She took a long sip of champagne. “Madison, your man has
excellent taste.”
I felt my cheeks warm. “He certainly thinks so.”
Alexander’s lips twitched. “Careful, Ms. Harper. Your sass is showing.”
“Would you prefer I keep it hidden, Mr. Knight?”
“Not at all. It’s one of your more… stimulating qualities.”
Hazel glanced between us, a knowing smile spreading across her face. “You two are adorable.”
The lights flickered, signaling the end of intermission. Hazel excused herself to use the restroom, leaving
Alexander and me alone in the box.
“Your friend is entertaining,” he commented, his arm draped casually across the back of my chair.
“She’s something,” I agreed. “Sorry about the interrogation.”
“I can handle curious friends.” His fingers played with a strand of my hair. “Though I’m curious why you haven’t told her the truth about our arrangement.”
I tensed, “You know why. She wouldn’t understand.”
“Or perhaps she would understand too well.” His gaze was penetrating. “That this is more than just an arrangement.”
My heart skipped a beat. “What do you mean?”
Before he could answer, Hazel returned, settling into her seat with a contented sigh. “I could get used to this VIP
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treatment. The regular bathrooms have a line around the corner.”
The second act began, saving me from having to respond to Alexander’s loaded statement. What did he mean, more than just an arrangement? Was he suggesting there were real feelings involved? The thought both thrilled and terrified me.
1 forced myself to focus on the show, which was genuinely spectacular. The lead actress had a voice that could break hearts, and the complex choreography was executed flawlessly. By the final number, even Alexander seemed genuinely moved.
The audience erupted in thunderous applause as the curtain fell for the last time. We stood with the rest of the theater, clapping until our hands hurt. The cast took multiple bows, clearly feeding off the energy of the crowd.
“That was incredible,” I said as we gathered our things to leave.
“Worth every penny,” Alexander agreed, his hand finding the small of my back as he guided us toward the exit.
Hazel was practically vibrating with excitement. “I can’t believe I just saw that. With VIP seats. This is going on my I*******m immediately.”
“Perhaps wait until we’re in the car,” Alexander suggested mildly.
We made our way through the crowded lobby, Alexander’s presence creating a path as people instinctively moved aside for him. Outside, his car was waiting exactly where it had dropped us off.
Once safely inside, Hazel finally let loose. “That was the most amazing thing I’ve ever experienced! The music, the sets, that final scene where the phantom reveals himself—I had chills!”
“It was pretty spectacular,” I agreed, smiling at her enthusiasm.
“Pretty spectacular? It was life–changing!” She turned to Alexander. “Seriously, thank you. I don’t know what I did to deserve this, but I’m eternally grateful.”
“Your help with the article collection was valuable,” he replied. “Consider it appropriate compensation.”
“If that’s how you compensate for small favors, I’d love to know what Madison gets for being your girlfriend,” Hazel joked.
I stiffened, but Alexander merely smiled. “That’s between Madison and me.
“Fair enough.” Hazel settled back against the seat. “So, where to now? Dinner? Drinks? A secret underground club only billionaires know about?”
“I thought we might have a late supper at Le Bernardin,” Alexander said casually. “If you’re hungry.”
Hazel’s eyes widened comically. “Le Bernardin? As in, the three Michelin star restaurant that’s booked six
months in advance?”
“The very same.” Alexander checked his watch. “They’re expecting us in twenty minutes.”
I turned to him in surprise. “You didn’t mention dinner plans.”
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“I like to keep you on your toes, Ms. Harper.” His eyes held a mischievous glint.
“Le Bernardin,” Hazel repeated, sounding dazed. “Madison, your boyfriend is officially my favorite person.”
Alexander’s hand found mine in the darkness of the car. “Just wait until you taste the food.”
We were led to a secluded table where the head chef personally greeted Alexander before recommending a tasting menu paired with wines. Hazel looked like she might faint from excitement.
“I feel like I’m in a movie,” she whispered as our first course arrived. “Do you live like this all the time?”
I laughed. “Hardly. My life is mostly spreadsheets and coffee stains.”
“And me,” Alexander added, his eyes never leaving my face. “Don’t forget that part.”
“How could I?” I murmured, holding his gaze.
Hazel watched our exchange with a knowing smile. “You two are seriously goals. Madison, I’ve never seen you like this with anyone before.”
I felt my cheeks warm. “Like what?”
“Happy. Relaxed. Like you finally found someone who matches your energy.” She took a sip of her wine. “It’s nice to see.”
Alexander’s expression softened almost imperceptibly. “I’m the fortunate one in this equation.”
“Smooth,” Hazel approved. “Very smooth.”
The dinner progressed with course after exquisite course, each more delicious than the last. Alexander was the perfect host, engaging Hazel in conversation about her work and listening with genuine interest as she described her latest projects.
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Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.
