Chapter 47 UNEXPECTED ACQUISITION
POV: ELISABETH
Patrick had a light-hearted way of approaching life, but his gaze revealed a subtle pain. Surprisingly kind, his presence made me feel calmer and ready to rest, knowing we had a long meeting ahead the next morning.
The alarm went off, and I got ready carefully, choosing an elegant and subtly sensual business dress with a classic cut like a sheath, and a discreet neckline that enhanced my collarbone. With lace details and strategic transparencies, the dress added a touch of sensuality without being excessive. The short sleeves were perfect for the heat of Cuba, and the knee-length or slightly above-length gave it a sophisticated look. I decided on a neutral color, basic black, and red lipstick to add color and life to my fair skin.
Opening the door, I found Patrick standing there, buttoning the cuff of his dress shirt, looking so elegant and charming. The blue tones of his blazer further enhanced his dark blue eyes, which sparkled when he saw me open the door.
“Good morning, Mrs. Elisabeth; you look even more stunning today,” Patrick complimented, approaching and gazing at my lips. “Red suits you very well.”
Sighing, he caressed my chin and kissed my forehead, as if the intimacy between us was something normal and casual.
“Good morning, Mr. Morgan, thank you,” I smiled shyly. “You look very elegant!”
“Dress as if you were meeting your enemy every day on the street; we never know who really wishes us well,” the CEO replied.
“I don't understand,” I said, raising a confused eyebrow.
Laughing, he shook his head in denial, throwing his jacket over his shoulders.
“That's something my father used to tell me when I was a young rebel and too lazy to dress up,” he chuckled.
“Who would've thought you'd never seen me messy?” I tried to remember, but I couldn't recall ever seeing him messy.
In a skillful gesture, Patrick pulled me by the hip, lifting my chin with the tip of his finger.
“There are times when I get messy; it would be a pleasure to show you!” he teased, rubbing his nose against mine and then stepping back. “I'm next door, at your disposal.”
“I didn't mean that, please. It's not even eight in the morning, and you're already thinking about mischief!” I rolled my eyes, picking up the folders with the information about the small production company, including the history of the members. “Here are the requested details, along with what Greg had sent via email.”
I handed them to him, and he held onto the folder, staring at me.
“Your mind is devious, I didn't make any bold suggestions. Did you know swimming in the pool makes me uncomfortable?” He pulled the folder, taking me along, and squeezed my hips like a sensual predator, inhaling my scent and leaving the moment. “But if you're thinking about it, we could cancel the meeting and spend the day together in this room!”
“Mr. Morgan!” I called his attention in a reprimanding way, running my hands through my hair. I was a little nervous. Furthermore, I looked him up and down and couldn't deny that the proposal was extremely tempting. “I thought I had been clear about our relationship and that it would be strictly professional.”
“It's very professional of me to want to help you relax. It'll make you a better writer... Think of the content I can offer you!” He smiled provocatively, and I frowned, unable to help the smile. Someone knocked on our door. “Come on, Greg is waiting for us... And Miss?”
Patrick turned towards me, taking some folders from my hands.
“I saw that little smile!” He teased me, poking my chin with his finger and going to open the door. “Good morning, Greg. Isn't it a great day for doing business?”
“If you say so... Good morning!” Greg shot me an intense look before quickly looking away.
“You know, I love your grumpiness in the morning,” Patrick teased, holding the door open like a gentleman to let me pass. “Shall we, Miss? We have talents to hunt and refine.”
“Yes, sir. I'll go over all the information on the way,” I said. The CEO's humor was contagious; the weight I had felt yesterday had dissipated in his presence, with his attention and daring.
We went downstairs, and Greg was more agitated, looking around. There were more security guards accompanying us, which put me on edge. Without saying anything, I moved closer to Patrick's back. He looked at me over his shoulder and smiled, reaching out his arm to take mine and walk alongside me. I complied without objection. He exuded a confidence that I hadn't felt in years...
“Thank you, Mr. Morgan,” I thanked him before getting into the car.
“Always at your service, Miss,” he winked, closing my door and entering from the other side. “So, ask away.”
“Excuse me?” I turned to him.
“About the security guards:. You can ask; there is no need to hold back with me in any sense.” He leaned towards me, taking the folder from my lap and opening it, reading the contents. “So?”
“Alright, is there any reason for the increased security? Is what we're doing today legitimate and legal under the law? Am I in any danger?” I finally asked, a bit breathless and anxious.
“Wow, so many questions...” Patrick raised his head, tilting it to the side and poking the corner of his mouth with his thumb. “Yes, there are reasons for the increased security since the mention of the deal with Forbes. I've been receiving more threats.”
“Oh my God!” I covered my mouth, nervous.
“Don't worry,” he said, removing my hands from my lips and caressing the back of them. “Yes, what we're doing is legitimate both in Cuba and in Seattle. As for your last question, the only danger you're in is falling in love with me.”
Despite the teasing, I sensed the seriousness in his last words, like a silent warning.
“Don't worry, I'm not at risk of falling in love with anyone!” I turned my head, looking out the window.
“Can I know why?” Patrick turned my face towards him, our gazes locked on each other.
“I'm not interested in romances, Mr. Morgan. I've been clear about that!” I kept my tone firm.
He leaned in, brushing his lips against mine teasingly. I leaned back, pressing against the seat cushion, and Patrick leaned forward, sighing, resting our foreheads together, and closing his eyes. He smiled.
“So, the sexual interest is there. Phew, I was starting to worry,” the CEO said, running his fingers through my hair, his intense and determined eyes opening. “You're safe with me. You won't be at risk of getting hurt, I assure you.”
“Not at all?” I lifted my chin further, challenging it, leaving our lips inches apart, his warm breath teasing my face.
“I'll do my best to ensure it's not at all, Mrs. Elisabeth,” he replied calmly, planting a kiss on my lips and stepping back. “Tell me about the information on Planet Films.”
“Firstly, that name is terrible. We'll need to change it,” I grimaced, causing the CEO to laugh.