Dover’s media relations officer, Linda, was standing onstage at the podium, giving an introduction to the interviews that they had taped throughout the week. Photographers from tech magazines and mainstream publications were taking tons of photos of Linda as she spoke.
Adding the production of the interviews to her schedule had made Heather’s second week at work particularly hectic, but it had been so rewarding. Especially since it meant that Simon seemed pleased with the results.
After the interviews, all that was left for the day was Simon’s speech. If she proved to be helpful to him if anything went awry, she’d be able to show her new boss just how indispensable she was.
“The press has been updating social media with tons of photos and content,” she informed him. “The feedback so far looks really positive.”
“Good. We need that kind of momentum as we unveil the new products,” he said.
Once Linda wound down her speech, the interview footage started rolling and the audience watched, captivated. At some parts the audience of mostly Dover staff would clap, cheering on the staff members who had been chosen to take part in the video interviews.
The encouraging atmosphere was making Heather feel like her hard work over the past two weeks had been worth it.
After the interviews, Linda went back on stage to introduce Simon.
“Looks like I’m the next lamb up for the slaughter,” Simon said in a low voice.
She glanced up at him. The expression on his face was determined, but she sensed the nervousness underneath his outward confidence. “You’ve practiced this dozens of times, so you’re ready. You’re going to be great.”
“I had better be,” he said. “Everyone has done a damn good job today. I can’t afford to screw this up by crashing and burning.”
Without thinking, she placed her hand on his muscular arm. All he needed was some encouragement. His parents had never believed in him, and she knew that must have caused him immense pain. She had to show him that someone recognized his contributions, even if his family didn’t. “I know you, Simon. There’s nothing you can’t do.”
His gaze locked on hers, the intensity in his eyes letting her know that he was reacting to her touch. One touch and she was practically burning under his scrutiny. Simon opened his mouth to speak, but too late.
Linda said his name as she announced him, and he turned from Heather to walk out onto the stage. He was greeted with thunderous applause and cheers from the audience.
When Simon finally got the audience to quiet down, he started his speech. The audience laughed at the right moments. Applauded his anecdotes. He hit every note of the speech perfectly. Not that it surprised her.
Finally, he got to the end of his speech. The end where he mentioned how the Heather of his childhood had encouraged him.
“I haven’t seen Heather Monroe in over ten years, but there have been times when the challenges were so great that her encouragement has been what has gotten me through the hard times.” Simon paused and looked out at the audience. “Let this be a reminder to all of us, that none of us can make it without each other. I don’t usually talk about my personal life, but I just want to say that wherever you are, Heather, you’ve helped make me the man I am today. I hope that I have made you proud.”
She had read the words over the past several days. Even heard him say them while he rehearsed the speech. But nothing could have prepared her for hearing the way he said those words now. Simon had grown into a man who kept people at a distance. What she wouldn’t give to bridge that distance now. Tell him the truth and show him that she was proud of him. No matter how hard their breakup had been on her, her pride in him would never waver.
A lump formed in her throat and tears stung the back of her eyes.
Oh no.
Simon was walking off the stage. Heading backstage to find her. If he saw her break down he would just be even more suspicious.
Quickly she brushed her tears away, and when he appeared in front of her she threw her arms around him. It was overly familiar, but she needed to hide her face until she was sure she looked presentable.
“That was great,” she said breathlessly.
She thought he might pull away from her, but he didn’t. Instead, he wrapped his strong arms around her waist and held her tightly to him. Having her body up against his like this was making the place between her legs ache with longing. It was insane to indulge such a silly romantic fantasy, but she closed her eyes for a moment.