Font Size:  

Hale’s love overwhelmed me on a daily basis, but when he rescued me from situations like he had today, he truly shined as my hero. “I love you.”

He closed the distance and kissed me. Left in a daze of lust, the world seemed softer when he pulled away. He glanced down at my lace top where only white floral appliqués covered my breasts. “You look incredibly beautiful tonight.”

A knock interrupted and Devyn appeared. “They’re ready for you.”

“Give us a minute,” Hale said with absolute influence.

“Of course. Whenever you’re ready, sir.”

Devyn bowed out politely and I smiled up at him. “You’re so hot when you throw your authority around.”

“You have just as much authority as me, Rayne. Never forget that.” His thumb dragged slowly across my plump lower lip and he grinned. “Four more sleeps until you’re mine.”

If only he understood, I was his since the first moment he clapped eyes on me.

The welcome dinners were like a tournament of scrimmage weddings. Sort of Hunger Game-ish, but with less bloodshed, sabotage, and, unfortunately, less Jennifer Lawrence—my ultimate girl crush.

Tonight’s mock wedding included our family and wedding party and whatever guests arrived early for the festivities. Sprays of white flowers and twinkling lights created the perfect ambiance for people to socialize and sip cocktails while the chefs put on a show.

Elle and Paul arrived before the first course this time but after our introduction. I had been talking with Barrett the moment they sat down and his expression completely changed mid-sip.

“Barrett?” I followed his gaze to Elle, looking as beautiful as ever. And there was bloated Paul by her side. Were his arms actually getting bigger?

When I looked back at Barrett, his mouth was a flat line. He set down his glass. “Excuse me.”

I thought to alert Hale, but he was currently occupied with other guests. I cursed under my breath, dropping my napkin onto my seat and rising to go after him.

He disappeared through a private door marked for the restaurant staff and I found him in a long narrow hall. “Barrett, wait.”

“Go back to the party, Meyers.”

“Not without you.”

He stopped and let out a frustrated huff. We were in some sort of employee portal. Servers kept passing with trays of champagne and clatter spilled from the kitchen whenever the service door swung open.

“You can’t let her get to you.” He was clearly upset that he lost control of his emotions.

“She’s allowed to fuck whoever?—”

“I know she can sleep with whoever she wants. You’ve said it enough. But that doesn’t make it hurt less to see her moving on.”

He looked up at the ceiling, his eyes closing in frustration. “Why that guy?”

I laughed. “What, you don’t like Paul?”

“What does she see in him?”

“I have no idea.” I smirked, understanding his confusion. “I don’t think it’ll last.” I hoped it wouldn’t. Not that I wanted Elle to have her heart broken, but the guy was a total tool bag.

“Tell me I’m better than that guy.”

“There’s no competition, Barrett.” I held his arms and looked him right in the eye. “You’re an incredible guy. You’re fun. Sensitive. Caring. And hot. Almost every woman out there has fantasized about sleeping with you. The men out there want to be you. You could literally have your pick of almost anyone in this entire building. Plus, Paul’s a putz.”

He laughed then glanced over my shoulder. “Not every woman.”

I sighed. “She’s not over you. She’s trying, but you’re not an easy person to forget.”

His smile was sweet. “Thanks.” He looped his arm around me and pulled me into a hug.

Source: www.allfreenovel.com