The Kiss that Sparked it All

Dahlia’s agent, Sienna, popped open a bottle of sparkling water and, after inserting at straw, took a sip.

“I gotta say, you really sounded like you were taking a stand for the entire dance industry during that interview. You almost had this ice queen here melting and ready to give you a standing ovation.” Dahlia glanced at her with a hint of amusement. “What? You think | was laying it on too thick?”

“No way, I'm complimenting you. But I'm kinda curious, why'd you pick a greenhorn reporter like that? You've turned down so many seasoned journalists in the past, saying you were waiting for the ‘right moment. Regina's practically a newbie at New Blossom Press without a lick of clout. Aren't you selling yourself short letting her do the interview?”

Touching up her lipstick, Dahlia let out a dismissive chuckle.

“Sure, she’s not exactly on my level, but the thing is, she’s got the Tanner family in her corner. Out of all those reporters, who can claim that kind of pedigree? Believe it or not, getting interviewed by her guarantees that the piece will get published, no matter what. And did you see how fired up she got with what | said? She'll be chomping at the bit to follow my story, which means | get double the exposure without lifting a finger.” Sienna nodded thoughtfully.

“Still, that last bit about your ideal mate-you think Mr. Harris will get his feathers ruffled when he hears it?” Mention of Nolan softened Dahlia’s otherwise demeanor. She pouted playfully.

“Il want to make him jealous. He needs to realize I've got options. Men are lining up for a chance with me.”

“But no matter how great those other guys are, you've only got eyes for Mr. Harris,” Sienna teased.

“Honestly, you could just ask Mr. Harris to spread the word for you. It'd be a breeze for him.”

“You don't get it. | need to keep things clean between us, at least until I've completely won his heart. I'll ask for his help, sure, but I can't let him think I'm with him for the fame and fortune. I'm not like those other women.”

Just thinking about the bevy of women vying for Nolan's attention soured Dahlia’s expression visibly.

“You mentioned Nolan attended the Tanner's gala. When did he leave?”

“He didn’t stick around long, and left about an hour in. But we both know the caliber of that event. Every family in the social circle is dying to cozy up to Nolan. If they've got. daughter, they're practically throwing her at him! You'd better step up your game.”

For a long time, Dahlia had people keeping tabs on Nolan's whereabouts, ensuring she had him within her sphere of influence.

 “He's not interested in them. You just don't see it,” Dahlia retorted with confidence.NôvelDrama.Org content rights.

After all the years, aside from her, what other woman had managed to stay a why played the ame, biding her time before making their relationship official. 

Dahlia had taken Regina's interview not just because it wep gavestt of foqher athe ime, but also to stoke a sense of urgency in Nolan.