“I want to. You’re having fun, and that makes me happy,” Leo said, flashing her a charming grin.
Mina’s cheeks flushed at his words. “Thank you! This means a lot to me,” she said softly, clutching the souvenirs to her chest.
As they finished shopping, Leo turned to her. “Okay, now let’s find a nice spot to enjoy the view. I want to take some more pictures of you.”
“Really? You’re not tired of taking pictures yet?” Mina asked, her eyes shining.
“Not at all. You’re the highlight of my day,” he replied, his gaze sincere.
With her heart racing, Mina felt a warmth spread through her as they headed toward a beautiful vantage point, the Eiffel Tower lighting up behind them as dusk began to fall.
Exhausted from the day’s adventures, Mina and Leo found a bench near the Eiffel Tower, the soft glow of the lights creating a romantic atmosphere. Leo leaned back, looking relaxed. 
“Tomorrow, we’re heading back,” he said casually, glancing at Mina. “Make sure you arrange everything. You are the CEO’s secretary, after all.”
Mina sighed, nodding. “Right, I’ll make sure everything’s set. But… about that woman we met at the restaurant earlier…” She hesitated, looking at Leo curiously. “Do you want me to schedule another meeting for you?”
Leo smirked, his eyes glinting with mischief. “I could fly back here anytime to see her if I wanted to.”
Mina crossed her arms, feeling a pout forming on her lips. “You’re impossible!” 
Leo chuckled, enjoying the playful banter. “What can I say? It’s fun to tease you.”
As they strolled lightly, Mina couldn’t help but share her thoughts. “You know, coming to Paris has always been my dream. It feels surreal to finally be here.”
“I know,” Leo replied, glancing sideways at her.
“Really?” Mina raised an eyebrow, surprised. “How do you know?”
Leo grinned. “You rambled on about Paris when you were under the influence of that anesthesia.”
Mina’s eyes widened in embarrassment. “Oh… um, I didn’t realize that!” She quickly covered her mouth, feeling her cheeks heat up.
Leo laughed heartily, clearly amused. “You went on and on about the Eiffel Tower and croissants. It was adorable.”
“Stop it! I was just a little drugged,” Mina protested, trying to hide her smile. “That doesn’t count!”
“Of course, it does,” he replied, leaning closer, his voice teasing. “I think it’s sweet. You’ve got big dreams, Mina.”
Mina felt her heart flutter at his words. “Well, I guess being here makes me realize that dreams can come true, even if they’re a bit… embarrassing.”
“Nothing embarrassing about being passionate,” Leo said, his expression softening. “It’s what makes you, you.” 
They exchanged smiles, the connection between them growing stronger as they sat beneath the illuminated Eiffel Tower, the city of love enveloping them in its magic.
*
The next day, their hearts still fluttering from the Parisian escapade, Mina and Leo returned to Los Angeles. 
Mina settled back into her office, the familiar hum of the workspace enveloping her. She stared at the mountain of files piled on her desk, each one demanding her attention. With a determined expression, she rolled up her sleeves and got to work.
As she sifted through the papers, she couldn’t shake off the memories of her time in Paris. The laughter, the magic of the Eiffel Tower, and Leo’s teasing smile lingered in her mind, making her smile unconsciously.
“Focus, Mina,” she muttered to herself, scratching her head in concentration. “You’ve got deadlines to meet.” 
She sorted through contracts and reports, her brow furrowing slightly as she read through the details. The workload was overwhelming, but Mina took it in stride. Despite the occasional moments of frustration, she was determined to prove herself in her role.
“Need a hand?” Leo’s voice broke her concentration, causing her to look up. He stood in the doorway, leaning casually against the frame with a teasing grin on his face.
“Maybe,” she replied, trying to sound nonchalant. “But I think I can manage.” 
Leo stepped inside, his presence instantly lightening the mood. “You know, I can always help you with this if it’s too much.”
Mina raised an eyebrow. “And what exactly would you do? File these papers with your charm?”
“Hey, it works!” he laughed, his confidence shining through. “But seriously, I’m just checking in. You seemed a bit… overwhelmed.”
“I’m fine,” she insisted, her voice firm but friendly. “Just a lot of work piling up after being away. You should be busy too, you know. CEO stuff and all.”
Leo shrugged, his playful demeanor not fading. “I’ve got my own things to deal with, but I wanted to see how you were doing.” He leaned against her desk, studying her.
Mina felt a warmth spread through her at his concern. “Well, thanks. I appreciate it. But really, I’ll be okay. I just need to get through this mountain of paperwork.”
“Okay, if you insist.” he said, turning to leave but pausing at the door. “And maybe we can plan another trip soon? Just to keep the dreams alive.”
Mina looked up, her heart skipping a beat at the thought. “Maybe,” she replied, a smile creeping onto her face. “But only if there’s no anesthesia involved next time!”
Leo laughed, waving as he walked out. “Deal!”
Mina returned to her files, a new sense of motivation surging through her. 
 Leo returned to his office, a contemplative expression on his face as he stared at Mina through the two-way mirror. He admired her focus and determination, her brow slightly furrowed as she worked diligently. 
“Boss?” Marco’s voice broke the silence, pulling Leo’s attention away from Mina. “We need to go meet the arms buyers.”
“Right,” Leo replied, reluctantly tearing his gaze from Mina. He and Marco walked towards the door but not before Leo glanced back one last time at Mina, who was completely engrossed in her work. 
As they stepped into the door, Marco continued, “They’re eager to finalize the deal. They’re also pushing for the new weapon assembly you’ve been working on.”