"You literally just asked me to be your girlfriend. We're taking this slow."
"We've already been married for a month."
"Which is why we're taking the dating part slow. To balance it out."
He's laughing now—heartily laughing—and the sound is everything.
Just as I start to join in, James reappears from below deck, tactfully not mentioning how long he gave us alone. "The guest cabins are ready, sir. Two rooms, as requested."
"Thank you, James."
Victor offers me his arm, and I take it, letting him lead me below deck.
The guest cabins are small but beautiful—teak wood, soft lighting, beds that look like clouds.
"This one's yours," Victor says, stopping at the first door. "I'm across the hall if you need anything."
"Very gentlemanly of you."
"I have my moments."
I turn to go inside, then stop. "Victor?"
"Yes?"
"Thank you. For tonight. For being honest. For—" I gesture vaguely. "—for choosing to punch your brother instead of sitting through dinner."
"You're welcome. Though I'm not sure that's something to thank me for."
"It is. It means you have limits. It means you're human."
"I'm not sure that's a compliment."
"It's the highest compliment I can give."
He kisses me one more time, soft and sweet, his gray eyes practically shining now.
"Goodnight, Harper."
"Goodnight, Victor."
I close the door behind me and lean against it, my heart racing.
Because I just agreed to be Victor Kade's girlfriend.
After marrying him in Vegas. After lying to him for weeks. After betraying him for money I desperately need.
It’s the simultaneously the worst and best time of my entire life.
Until my phone buzzes in my clutch.
I pull it out with shaking hands.
VANESSA (FoodFirst): Time's up, Harper. I need those acquisition terms by tomorrow morning or the offer is off the table.
I stare at the message until my vision blurs.
Then I delete it.
