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“You’re ridiculous. I’ll call you later tonight.”
“More like we’ll talk in the morning.” She blew me a kiss and hung up.
I tossed my phone on the bed and stripped out of the hoodie and jeans I’d been wearing so I could jump in the shower. After washing my hair, I proceeded to shave my legs since Simone had put the crazy idea in my head that something might happen between Blaine and me.
I had serious doubts that someone like him—who had gorgeous women lining up for a chance to date him—would be attracted to me. He probably felt bad that I’d been upset. That was the only reason I could think of to explain why he’d invited me to dinner.
After my shower, I slipped on a black lace bra and matching panties and then moisturized my entire body. It was probably a waste of time but wearing something sexy boosted my confidence. Once my hair was dried and curled, I started on my makeup. I went a little heavier than usual, adding extra mascara and slicking on my favorite red lipstick.
A few minutes before six, I checked my reflection in the mirror one last time before heading down to the lobby. Doubt crept in with each step that brought me closer to where Blaine was waiting. There was a saying about never meeting your heroes, and while Blaine wasn’t my hero, I’d had a silly crush on him for years. What if the illusion of who I built him up to be shattered after spending time with him? Sure, we’d had a pleasant conversation on the beach earlier, but what if he turned out to be a total asshole? Maybe he was the kind of guy who yelled at the wait staff or something equally bad.
Still, my feet continued to carry me toward him. When I rounded the corner, my jaw dropped. He stood in front of me in a lilac button-down shirt and a pair of black slacks, looking like a sex god. My worry about him possibly being an asshole faded away, only to be replaced by a new one. How the hell was I going to spend an evening with Blaine Roberts without making a fool of myself and acting like a star-chaser?
Chapter 6
Blaine
Kayla stepped around the corner, and my gaze traveled slowly up and down her body. There was nothing overtly sexy about her sweater and jeans. Almost every part of her was covered, yet I’d never been drawn to someone the way I was to her. On the beach, I’d felt an instant attraction to her, which was an unfamiliar feeling, and I wondered if she also felt the pull between us.
“You look beautiful,” I said as we met in the middle of the lobby.
A tinge of pink crept up her cheeks. “Thank you. You look pretty handsome yourself.”
“Are you ready to go?” I reached out and tentatively grasped her hand. I didn’t want to make her uncomfortable, but the urge to touch her was too much for me to ignore.
Instead of pulling away, she laced her fingers with mine, a small smile touching her lips. “I’m ready. Where are we going?”
“There’s a couple of places within walking distance that looked good online. Anything, in particular you’re in the mood for?”
“I’m not picky. I’m sure wherever we end up will be fine.”
It had been a long time since I’d gone to dinner with someone who wasn’t part of the Hollywood crowd, and it was refreshing to be on a date with someone who wasn’t worried about where we ate or making sure we were on the guest list for the latest hotspot.
“Okay, there’s a steakhouse down the street that has great reviews. Do you want to try it out?”
She nodded. “Sounds great.”
The minute we stepped outside the lobby, I felt Kayla’s grip in my hand tighten as a group of paparazzi came running toward us from the other side of the street.
Dealing with photogs who would do just about anything for a paycheck was difficult enough for those who were used to it. But, as far as I knew, Kayla’s first experience with them had been on the beach earlier. So, I spun us around and led Kayla back into the lobby.
“I’m really sorry about that.”
“You deal with that every day?” she asked.
I shrugged. “There are paparazzi out everywhere in Hollywood, but they’re not usually so… aggressive.”
“Is it because of the fight?” she whispered.
I didn’t bristle at her question. While I didn’t make a habit of commenting on what the tabloids were reporting about me, the fight with Corey had made national news. It was only natural for her to be curious if that was the reason I was basically being stalked.
“Probably. I feel bad, though. I wanted this to be an enjoyable night out, but I have a feeling they’ll follow us wherever we go.”
“I understand.” She bit her lip and looked away.
“Hey.” I lifted her chin with my finger. “I’m not going to let them ruin our night. Would you like to have dinner in my room?” Her eyes widened. “Only if you’re comfortable.” I didn’t want her to think I had ulterior motives like getting her into bed, although I’d be lying if I said my dick didn’t perk up at the thought of being alone with her.
She nodded. “I’d love to.”
