Page 13 of Craig

“Of course, darling.”

“Does it feel good?” he wondered as he brought his plate towards him.

“Does what feel good?”

“Having men worship at your feet?”

Masking the surprising hurt at his caustic tone, she took a bite of her meal.

“It feels wonderful.”

“I’m surprised you’re not hooked up with some rich fool by now.”

“Why does that surprise you?” she asked mildly.

“You were always one for the glitter and glamor.”

Her eyes blazed, before she banked the fire.

“You don’t know me. You never did.”

He held up a hand and realized he was letting it get personal. Just get it over and done with, he reminded himself.

“You’re right, I apologize.”

She inclined her head gracefully.

“I need a favor.”

She looked up at him and saw for the first time the tension on his handsome face.

“It must be huge.”

“It is. I need a wife and you’re the perfect candidate.”

She went absolutely and completely still as she stared at him.

“I’m sorry, what now?”

Pushing aside his plate, he realized that he did not have an appetite after all. “I need a wife, or at least a pretend wife.”

He stared, noticing the blank shock on her face.

“I don’t understand.”

“You once said you did not want a permanent relationship.” For some reason that still bothered him.

“Is that still the case?”

“Oh, absolutely.”

“Good.” He nodded briskly.

“Perfect.” He then explained to her what the plan was.

“Let me get this straight.” She put down her utensils and gave him her full attention.

“You want us to pretend to be married.”