The Enemy I Couldn't Resist

CHAPTER THREE : Accidental Touches

The private plane was cold. Or maybe it was just Aiden.

He sat in front of me, silent, reading on his tablet as if I wasn't there. I crossed my legs and gazed out the window, trying to calm my thudding heart.

How did I end up in a plane with the man who swore I'd never breathe the same air as him again?

The plane shook with turbulence.

I gripped the armrest. "Is that alright?"

Aiden didn't look up. "Breathe, it's just air."

"I'm okay," I lied, clinging harder.

He finally looked at me. "You're white-knuckling the seat."

"I'm fine."

Another jolt hit, harder this time. I gasped, and before I could move, his hand enveloped mine—firm, steady, warm.

"You're not fine," he whispered.

I stared at his fingers on mine. I did not like how good it felt. How familiar. My hand did not move, and neither did his.

The plane evened out. Silence fell.

He did not let go.

Do you always treat your employees like that?" I breathed.

He pulled back immediately, face blank. "No. Only the ones who lie to themselves."

I had a comeback ready before he could, but the pilot's voice cut in over the speakers.

"Sorry to interrupt you, sir. There's a storm front coming in over Abuja. We're going to be rerouted."

"Where to?" Aiden asked.

"Closest stop is a private landing strip outside Ilorin. We'll land there in ten minutes."

I scowled. "And then?

The pilot hesitated. "Bad news… we'll have to overnight. The storm grounded all flights."

I stood up to Aiden. "You promised me answers in Abuja."

He rose to his feet slowly. "Then I guess you'll have to spend the night with your adversary."

And then he spoke, under his breath, "Careful, Elena… this is where it all changes."