I bite back a laugh, glancing up at Vic, who’s leaning casually against the doorway. He looks devastatingly handsome, wearing a fitted white Henley that clings to his broad chest, his dark jeans hanging just right, but it’s his eyes that undo me. He’s holding a duffel bag in one hand and his car keys in the other.

They’re heavy, lingering, like he knows exactly where my mind was five minutes ago. Like he knows what this weekend means for us.

With a sly smile, he asks, “Are you ready?”

I glance down at myself wearing the thickest clothes I own—a college sweatshirt, leggings, and Uggs.

“Does it look like I’m ready?” I huff. “I’m gonna freeze my ass off in New York.”

Vic chuckles and then steps forward, wrapping his strong and solid arms around me.

“I’ll keep you warm.”

Then, he plants a slow, sweet kiss on my lips.

“Alright, you two,” my dad interrupts, clearing his throat. “Save it for the hotel room, hmm?”

“Dad!” I yell, mortified.

Vic just laughs, pulling me closer.

After a round of hugs and goodbyes with the girls and my parents, we head off for our romantic work weekend away.

At the private airfield, we’re greeted by the pilot and concierge team. Before I can fully process the luxury surrounding me, a glass of champagne is placed in my hand.

The dimly lit cabin is sleek and sophisticated, modern but intimate—the kind of setting meant for indulgence and seduction. I sink into the plush leather seat, trying to absorb the moment, steady my thoughts, and relax, but my mind is still racing.

After take-off, I take a slow sip of champagne, forcing myself to breathe, but it’s no use. My pulse hammers, my fingers fidget, and when I finally glance up, I realize Vic sees it all.

He’s settled across from me with his legs stretched casually and broad shoulders relaxed. He’s unbothered, unshaken, and totally in control.

With a slow, knowing smirk, he asks, “What’re you so nervous about?”

He already knows the answer, but I refuse to give him the satisfaction.

I lift my glass and take another sip, dragging out the silence. “A little bit of everything.”

He raises an eyebrow.

“The town raved about the Fall Festival for weeks, and now the City Planning Commission is blowing up my phone about doing the Spring Fling. But I’d need an entire team to pull that off. And then there’s Serena…”

Vic leans forward slightly, “What about her?”

I sigh, rolling my eyes. “She’s been hinting at something big but won’t spill the details. Just told me to stay glued to my phone.”

Vic hums, nodding a little too suspiciously.

My gaze narrows. “Do you know something I don’t?”

His expression doesn’t change, but his fingers drum lightly against his thigh. “Nope.”

He smirks but says nothing.