The Kiss that Sparked it All (Ellinor and Theo) novel Chapter 2701

Nolan glanced back at her, a coy smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Ever been told, Ms. Tanner, that sometimes playing the damsel in distress can work miracles?"

"Is that so? Are you saying I come off a bit too strong?" Regina let out a wry chuckle, her expression a mix of amusement and resignation.

That fleeting smile, though, struck Nolan right in the chest. He blinked away a strange sensation that had settled upon him.

She was stunning when she smiled.

For a moment, Nolan felt as if he'd lay the world's treasures at her feet without a second thought, just to see that smile again. No wonder the real Regina was such a well-kept secret.

Once you saw that face, you'd never forget her.

"Actually, a friend told me the same thing before this dinner party. I thought I had a pretty agreeable personality. Don't you think so, Mr. Harris?"

Regina's curious gaze fell on Nolan, pulling him back from his reverie. How embarrassing.

"Uh, where was I? Sorry, just remembered something urgent at the office. Totally zoned out there for a moment."

It was his first time being so indiscreet in front of a woman, and he felt uncharacteristically sheepish.

"It's fine," Regina said, shaking her head with a smile. "I'm just surprised how each of you has hit on my personality exactly better than I do. I always thought I was pretty easy-going."

"Oh, well, asking Ms. Tanner won't do you much good. She's been with me the whole time, and we've been having a delightful chat."

Francis glanced at Regina, surprised she'd managed to charm the most influential guest. If she could keep his interest, Francis would be more than satisfied with such a son-in-law.

"Is that so? That's rather generous of you, Mr. Harris. Youngsters like yourselves should have a lot in common. Why don't you two go out for a date instead of sticking around here? This dinner party is more for us old-timers anyway. You youngsters must be bored stiff."

Francis's intentions were as clear as day, and Regina felt a twinge of embarrassment.

"Dad—there's no need to worry about us. Go mingle with the other guests. I'll take good care of Mr. Harris."