by Beth Morton (Author)
What happens when masks are pulled away?
Christine Derring is thrilled when she lands an entry level gig at the nonprofit Gardner Opera house, hoping to network it into a strategy job at the elite Gardner Industries once she finishes her MBA. Her manager is a nightmare, but she's been through worse growing up in the foster system. It's taught her to be practical. Her schooling and career come first. The only thing holding her back is a big presentation in front of the entire department. The idea of standing in front of all those experts as they rip her work apart sounds like her worst nightmare.
On the evening of the annual masquerade gala fundraiser, a blackout hits New York City. Christine is stuck in an elevator with Erik Gardner, the man who can determine her professional future with his company. No pressure.
Reclusive Erik opens up to her over their hours in the dark. When the lights come on and his scars and injuries are put on full display, he lashes out. As an apology, he offers to help her overcome her fears of public speaking. He tries to keep things professional, but as they work together, the sparks he felt in the darkness turn into a consuming flame.
When Christine's first attempt at public speaking under his tutelage goes viral, the spotlight exposes long hidden secrets and fears neither is ready to face. With their feelings growing, and her presentation date closing in, they have to find a way to work it out. But some hurts run deeper, and the secrets may destroy everything they're trying to build.