Captured by the CEO'S Charm

,26, tugged at the strap of her emerald green dress, a borrowed piece from her friend Maya's closet that felt both empowering and foreign. She was no stranger to high pressur

to a quieter corner near the balcony doors, a glass of amber liquid whiskey, she guessed in hand. His expression softened, the polished mask slipping, revealing a flicker of something real.Anita took a deep breath, smoothing her dress, and approached, her heels clicking on the marble floor. "Mr. Thompson", Anita Williams from Daily Chronicles. I was hoping for a moment of your time."He turned, and those blue eyes locked onto hers, sharp and curious, like a summer sky after a storm. Up close, his presence was magnetic, his gaze flicking over her not sleazy, but with a curiosity that made her skin tingle. "A journalist," he said, his voice low and smooth, with a trace of amusement. "You don't blend in as well as you think, Ms. Williams. That dress gives you away."She raised an eyebrow, refusing to be thrown. "Is that a compliment or a critique?""A little of both." He tilted his head, studying her. "What's the angle? Ruthless tycoon? Secret philanthropist? Or something more... creative?"She smiled, matching his playful tone. "I haven't decided yet. Maybe you can help me figure it out."He chuckled, a sound that warmed the air between them. "Bold. I like that. But I don't do interviews, Ms. Williams. Too many reporters twist words to fit their narrative.""I don't twist words," she said firmly, holding his gaze. "I tell the truth. And I think your story whatever it is deserves to be told right."His eyes narrowed slightly, as if weighing her sincerity. "The truth," he repeated, almost to himself. "That's a rare commodity in this room." Before she could respond, a woman in a shimmering silver gown approached, her smile too bright. "Liam, darling, you're neglecting your guests!" she cooed, looping her arm through his. Liam's expression shifted back to that polished charm, but Anita caught a flicker of irritation in his eyes."Duty calls," he said to Anita, his tone apologetic yet teasing. "But I'll consider your offer, Ms. Williams. Find me later if you can keep up." He flashed that mischievous smile and let the woman lead him away.Anita watched him go, her pulse racing. He was sharp, charismatic, and infuriatingly elusive. She'd expected a cold, corporate type, not this... enigma.