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“Show her Ryan,” Dean calls.
She turns to me. “Ryan?”
“Yeah, I, uh… he makes a great model.” I tab to Ryan’s design.
Kaylee studies it carefully. “Yeah, he does. That first cover is gorgeous, but I think this one would sell more books.”
Ryan’s eyes go wide. “You’re not—”
“Can we?” I press my palms together. “Please.”
“Ryan, come on. You’re too beautiful to stay anonymous.” Dean nudges his brother.
“You’re indie publishing?” Walker asks.
“If I had a cover this hot, I’d have to.” She giggles as she studies the guys’ reactions.
I turn to Ryan. Push him with a bluff. “You wouldn’t deny a young woman her dreams?”
“You heard my fee,” he says.
“Let’s cut that down to a flat rate.” She motions show me the next one.
I do.
Her eyes glue to the screen. “This one is gorgeous too. Leighton, you’re good at this.”
My blush spreads over my cheeks.
“Really. I look at expensive covers sometimes. Consider how much it would cost to put a book together. This—this is top-tier.”
“I’m just…” I swallow hard. “Thanks.”
Dean interrupts my moment. “What do you say, Kay? Need a model for book two?”
“I’m not offering a fee,” she says.
He laughs. “Cold-blooded negotiator. I can see why Brendon likes you.”
“That must be it,” she says.
Dean turns back to Ryan. “You want more good news?”
“I’m terrified,” Ryan deadpans.
“I set up interviews for new artists. A few are coming in tomorrow.” Dean smiles wide. “Gonna be great.”
“Yeah.” Ryan runs his hand through his hair.
The shop quiets as Dean pulls him, and Walker, into a private conversation.
Kaylee settles onto a stool next to mine. Catches me staring at Ryan. “I’m not clear on your relationship with Ryan.”
“His ex is getting married. I offered to pretend to be his girlfriend.”
“Oh. That seems—”
“Foolish?”
