Chapter 67

“Ms. Kay,” Hayden’s voice startled me from my thoughts. I turned quickly, finding him standing with Demi and the electrician. He seemed unusually cold; I wondered if something was amiss. “Did you find any problems?” I asked.

“The electrician is already fixing them,” he replied, his tone icy.

“Oh,” I said, feeling slightly disoriented. Before I could inquire further, he added, “We’re not adjusting the lights today.”

“Huh?” I was taken aback.

The electrician explained, “There’s a voltage issue in the wiring that needs addressing.”

I frowned. “How long will that take?”

“We should be finished today.”

Relief washed over me; I’d feared a multi-day delay. “Do you need anything else from me?” I asked Hayden.

“No.”

I frowned, but Demi interjected, “So, we don’t need to stay? We can leave early?”

“Yes, you can attend to other tasks. We’ll contact you if anything arises,” Hayden said, surprising me. I’d expected overtime, but instead, we were dismissed.

Before I could react, Hayden and the electrician departed. Demi leaned in and whispered, “Keira, you’re quite the catch since dumping Mr. Johnston.”

“What?” I was confused.

“First, Mr. Hart holds you, then a hottie gives you a head pat. You’re on fire in the romance department,” Demi said, prompting an eye roll from me.

“Enough. This is the last time. Any non-work-related conversation during work hours will result in a 10% bonus deduction,” I declared, employing my ultimate deterrent. Otherwise, every interaction between Hayden and me would fuel Demi’s incessant gossip.

Demi immediately clamped her hand over her mouth, looking desperate. Even though Hayden had dismissed us, I couldn't leave. Minor issues could jeopardize the entire setup.

I went to the amusement park’s command office, reviewed the lighting diagrams and issues, and even re-watched the aerial footage from the past few days. I remained until Hayden and his team finished, then we returned to the hotel together.

“Demi, did you arrange a room for Mr. Hart?” I asked.

“Yes, he just needs to check in with his ID,” Demi said, gesturing for Hayden to provide it.

“I’ll do it myself,” Hayden said, heading to the front desk.

Demi watched him go. “He’s so handsome and aloof. His charm is undeniable.” She glanced at me and quickly added, “Keira, it’s after work hours now.”

Admiring someone was a personal matter; I wouldn't comment on her feelings.

“Let’s head upstairs,” I said, moving towards the elevator.

Just then, Hayden called out, “Ms. Kay, which room are you in?”

I was bewildered. Before I could answer, Demi blurted, “306!”

Hayden immediately addressed the receptionist. “Could I get a room opposite or next to 306, please?”

I was speechless. Demi’s eyes widened. “K-K-Keira…”

I pulled her aside, trying to calm her. I decided to wait and ask Hayden why he wanted to be so close to my room.