CHAPTER 19 A DANCE OF BUSINESS AND ROMANCE

“There’s this new restaurant in Manhattan,” Madeline said, a twinkle in her eye. “It’s called ‘The Belle Epoque’. They say it’s the hottest place in the city, and they have the best steaks.” Ethan nodded, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. “The Belle Epoque? Sounds fancy.” She laughed, her hand still resting on his. “Oh, it’s very fancy. But you deserve fancy, Ethan. “We can meet there tonight,” Madeline continued, her voice low and seductive. “At 9:00. We’ll have dinner, catch up, and discuss the plan for your company.” Ethan felt his heart fluttering in his chest, his mind filled with memories of their past. “Sounds like a plan,” he said, his voice steadier than he felt. Madeline leaned forward, her eyes fixed on his. “I’ll be there, Ethan.” *** Ethan sat alone in his office, his mind racing as he processed everything that had just happened. On one hand, he knew that accepting Madeline’s help could save his company from financial ruin. On the other hand, he couldn’t