Free Undone by the Star by Stephanie Browning Page A

affect his attraction to Alex. Now, seeing her in her new role, Marc wondered if it felt as terrifying for her as his first day on set as a leading man had been for him. Everything on his shoulders; everybody watching to see if he’d slip up. Alex must be incredibly busy, and yet she had taken the time to come and see him.
    Her eyes sought out his as he entered the sitting room, and softened. “I’m sorry to hear you’re leaving The Sadler.”
    “Me, too. I’ve found the flat I was looking for…it’s in Kensington.”
    Marc saw her hurt, but he kept his distance. Three strides and he could wrap her in his arms, but that wouldn’t really change anything. “How’s Miss Sadler?” he asked finally.
    He was rewarded with a smile. “She’s doing well,” Alexis answered. “But Dr. Patel wants to keep her in for a little while longer, just to be sure.”
    “And you?” Marc asked gently. He saw the circles under her eyes. “How are you doing?”
    “I’m fine.” Her chest rose as she drew a deep breath. “One irate chef, a few unexpected phone calls, and a visit from Cyril.” She held up the envelope. “I would have come anyway, but this gave me an excuse.”
    “You didn’t need one.” He could cross the room, he could sweep her into his arms….
    “Probably not.” She laid the envelope on a nearby table, her fingertip pushing it into exact alignment with the edge. “I hope you’ll still use the small boardroom for your meetings.” She lifted her eyes to his face again. Did he see a hint of anxiety? Did it mean that she wanted to see him again?
    “If it’s not a problem…?”
    “Not at all. I’ve asked Cyril to ensure you have everything you need.”
    Marc nodded, disappointed. The two of them might as well have been on stage, their physical restraint and polite conversation spoke volumes about their unsettled emotions, about the pressures pulling them apart. But he was overwhelmingly relieved that she was here, and that his connection to The Sadler remained. “I’ll look in on your grandmother when I’m here next week.”
    “She’d like that.” Alex checked her watch. “I’m afraid I have to go. I have a meeting with the senior staff.”
    Her voice wavered as she spoke.
    It did him in.
    He did what he swore he wouldn’t do. He crossed the room and drew her into the shelter of his embrace. For an instant she stood stiffly, then sighed and relaxed into him. He pressed his lips against the top of her head, inhaling the scent of her. “If you ever need me,” he whispered roughly.
    At that she pulled back and he could see her shoulders square and knew her professional persona was sliding back into place. She stepped back another pace but when their eyes met, hers were glistening. She shook her head and held out her hand as if to stop him, then turned and left the suite.
     
    It was after five by the time Alex reached her grandmother’s side. There were even more flowers in the room, and Grannie was definitely looking better. Her hair had been arranged, a light touch of makeup brightened her face, and the hospital gown had been replaced by a silk bed jacket.
    “I see Helen’s sartorial genius at work,” Alex murmured kissing her cheek. “You look lovely. How has your day been?”
    “Aside from Helen’s visit, quite tedious. I want to go home, but the doctor insists I remain at least a couple more days.” Miss Sadler’s sharp eyes fixed on her granddaughter’s face. “Far more important, dear, how was your day?”
    “It wasn’t boring.” Alex laughed. She hated that the sound was a bit shaky. “I met with senior staff, graciously declined meetings with two of our competitors, welcomed a member of the Dutch royal family…all the usual!” She roved about the room, hiding her restlessness by fingering the latest floral arrangements, including one with a towering balloon. “Jamie?”
    Her grandmother chuckled. “Your brother is a rascal, but he did promise to come over for a