Chapter 16

*Speaking of complications.* Despite my best efforts to avoid Alexander over the past few days, he still managed to find me. I'd carefully timed my movements around the office, taking different routesand skipping the usual lunch spots, but here he was anyway. And I didn't need to turn around to recognize his voice. "I'm working." I kept my eyes fixed on my computer screen, though the quarterly Christie's elegant interior felt like stepping into another world. The soft lighting caught on glass display cases, making the antiques within gleam with quiet dignity. I wandered between the exhibits, trying to focus on finding the perfect gift for Grandpa rather than the hollow ache in my reports had blurred into meaninglesspatterns.

"We need to talk." His tone carried that particular note of patronizing concern that made my skin crawl. "You can't keep avoiding this conversation forever."

"Actually, I can." I started gathering my things, determined to maintain my composure. "And I will."

"Can't we at least be friends?" The way he said it - like he was being so reasonable, so mature about everything - made something twist painfully in my chest.

"Friends? Seriously?" *He's definitely kidding me.*

His expression shifted to something almost guilty. "Summer, the day after tomorrow is your grandfather's birthday. Victoria and I really want you to come home."

"I will be there." The words came out sharp. "But not for you. Not for her." "Can I help you find something specific, miss?" A sales specialist materialized at my elbow, her smile professional and practiced.

"I'd like to look around myself first, thank you." I tried to project confidence I didn't feel. Better not let them realize I have no idea what I'm doing. Last thing I need is to buy something that makes me look like an amateur in front of Grandpa. Everything looked valuable, but I couldn't tell what would truly catch Grandpa's eye. He had such specific taste in art and antiques - the kind that came from decades of passionate collecting.*Maybe I should have paid more attention during all those times he tried to teach me about them...*

The quiet murmur of conversation died suddenly, like someone had pressed a mute button on the room. I turned, already knowing what I'd find.*Who else could command that kind of attention just by walking into a room?*

Brandon Stark's tall figure cut an imposing silhouette against the evening light streaming through Christie's windows. His dark suit probably cost so much money, butit was the quiet authority in his bearing that drew every eye in the room. James and another man I didn't recognize flanked him like well-trained shadows.

Those dark eyes found mine immediately, and that familiar half-smile played at the corners o his mouth. My pulse jumped traitorously. *Get it together, Summer. He's just another Wall Street titan who happens to keep showing up everywhere,* "Mr. Stark!" The sales specialist who'd approached me earlier practically materialized at Brandon's side. "We've received an exceptional collection of antiques. As per your last request, we've set aside several pieces for your on."

Brandon's gaze never left my face as he addressed her. "Thank you. James will review them shortly." With a subtle gesture, he dismissed his entourage to the waiting area.

My fingers twisted nervously in the strap of my bag as he approached.The evening light caught the sharp angles of his face, somehow making him look even more dangerous than usual. *Why does he have to look like that? It's honestly unfair. Well... I had to admit that he's a bit... stunning.*

"Miss Taylor." His deepo voice carried just a hint of amusement. "What a pleasant surprise."

I straightened my spine, determined to maintain my composure."Mr.Stark. I didn't know you were interested in antiques."

"I know a little." The way he said it suggested he was being modest.Those dark eyes studied my face with unsettling intensity."You seem...lost."

*Was I that obviouas?* "No. I mean..." The words stuck in my throat.*Come on. Summer. Swallow your pride. This is for Grandpa.* "Actually,Mr.Stark,you are right."

One perfect eyebrow arched slightly."Oh?"

"It's my grandfather's birthday in two days." The words came out in a rush. "He's a serious collector, and I want to find something special, but I'm a bit..." I gestured helplessly at the displays around us. *I can't believe I'm actually asking for his help!*

"Ms. Taylor, you'd like my help choosing a gift?" That infuriating half-smile was back, making my stomach do odd flips.