The crystal chandelier cast dancing shadows across the marble floor of the Grand Hyatt's ballroom as Maya Chen adjusted her black cocktail dress one final time. The annual Tech Innovation Conference was winding down, and she was exhausted from three days of networking, presentations, and putting on her best professional smile.
As a junior marketing executive at Zenith Digital, she'd spent most of the conference in the shadows of her superiors, taking notes and fetching coffee. But tonight was different. Tonight, she'd finally gotten the chance to present her social media strategy proposal to potential investors.
"One more champagne and I'm calling it a night," she murmured to herself, making her way toward the bar.
That's when she collided with him.
The impact sent her clutch flying, its contents scattering across the polished floor. Business cards, lip gloss, and her phone slid in different directions as she stumbled backward.
"I'm so sorry," a deep voice said, and Maya looked up to find herself staring into the most intense gray eyes she'd ever seen.
The man was tall, easily six-foot-two, with dark hair that looked like he'd been running his fingers through it and a jawline that could cut glass. His black tuxedo was impeccably tailored, and there was something about the way he carried himself that screamed power and confidence.
"No, it's my fault," Maya said quickly, dropping to her knees to gather her scattered belongings. "I wasn't watching where I was going."
He knelt beside her, their hands brushing as they both reached for her phone. The contact sent an unexpected jolt of electricity up her arm.
"Alexander Sinclair," he said, standing and offering her his hand.
Maya's breath caught. Everyone in the tech world knew that name. Alexander Sinclair, CEO of Sinclair Enterprises, one of the most powerful and ruthless businessmen on the West Coast. Forbes had dubbed him "The Wolf of Silicon Valley" for his aggressive acquisition strategies.
"Maya Chen," she managed, accepting his hand and allowing him to help her to her feet.
"The pleasure is mine, Ms. Chen." His eyes lingered on her face for a moment longer than necessary. "Can I buy you a drink to make up for nearly knocking you over?"