I checked my reflection in the mirrored wall of the elevator as it descended to the mezzanine level of the Emperor Palace Hotel. My cream silk blouse and tailored navy pants were wrinkle-free, my makeup subtle but flawless. Perfect for a university reunion I had zero interest in attending.
The doors slid open, and I took a deep breath before stepping out. Theodore trailed behind me like an anxious shadow.
"Dr. Dubois—I mean, Elara—I mean, Dr. Wilson," he stammered, still shell-shocked from our elevator encounter. "I can't believe I offered you an entry-level position at your own company."
I suppressed a smile. "You can call me Elara here. Let's keep the Dr. Wilson revelation between us."
His eyes widened. "Of course! I would never—I mean—your secret is safe with me."
"Good," I said, pausing before the double doors of the Opal Ballroom. "Now stop looking at me like I'm about to fire you."
