AllFreeNovel
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“I told everyone the grandfather I never knew left me a trust out of guilt, which I received when he died. I did some smart investing, and I have some extra money to buy a few nice toys. That’s close enough to the truth.”
I shake my head. “How on earth has no one associated with your grandfather not leaked who you are? What about his board of directors or whatever wealthy businessmen have? Surely, he told them who he would inherit his fortune.”
“It’s like Cheryl mentioned—NDAs. I never went public after Allan signed everything over to me. I only told my sister and eventually my closest friend Matt. I trust them implicitly. Melanie hasn’t even told her husband.”
I nod as warmth blossoms in my chest. He told me his secret. He must trust me entirely, too.
“Only a couple of Allan’s closest associates know about me,” he continues. “And Devlin, who took care of the legalities. I had her draw up nondisclosure agreements for everyone. There’s always the risk of someone blabbing, but I doubt those guys will say a word as long as I keep things going and they keep getting paid.” He sighs. “My major concern is Devlin. She’s pissed, and she can blow my whole private life to smithereens... if she’s angry enough to breach the NDA.”
I gaze at him, taking in his solemn expression as he leans back and rests his head on the seat. “You’re tired, aren’t you?”
He knows exactly what I mean. Exhaling loudly, he says, “At first, I had a good laugh out of hiding in plain sight, listening to the ridiculous rumors. Now, I’m just fucking exhausted. It’s only a matter of time before my cover is blown, I guess.”
The lengths he goes to hide who he is breaks my heart. I know he does it because he’s wary of people. He’s hinted at horrible experiences. Hopefully, I can help to restore his faith, maybe get him to loosen up and let his guard down a bit.
Scooting closer, I slip my hand into his and smile when his fingers instantly tighten around it. “Let’s not go back to the hotel just yet. Let’s go have a little fun.”
He lifts his head to peer at me. “What’s your idea of fun?”
His eyes narrow at my sly smile.
“Dancing,” I announce.
“I don’t dance. Ever.”
“Rowan, you need a little dancing in your life.”
“I really don’t.”
Ignoring his pointed look, I clasp my hands and pout like I’ve never pouted before.
“Grace, no.”
“Come on, you’ll have a good time. I promise. I’ve yet to show you my amazing dancing skills.”
“You’ve got skills?”
“Of course.” I sniff. “I might have been a virgin when you met me, but I can shake my ass like nobody’s business. It’s something to see.”
He goes quiet, staring at me with wide eyes and parted lips. A slow smile spreads across his face and turns into hearty laughter. “Well, now that I’ve got to see.”
I smirk, mentally patting myself on the back for getting him to unwind some.
*****
Afew tequila shotslater, and after I showed Rowan the dancing skills I bragged about, we retreat to a dark corner of the random club we stopped at. Bodies gyrate around us, and the music is so loud the floor vibrates.
Yet, it feels like Rowan and I are the only ones in the room. Arms around his shoulders, I sway slowly even though the song playing is fast-paced.
“Grace, are you drunk?”
“Not at all,” I slur.
He laughs. “You’re definitely drunk. This side of you is delightful.”
I glance up at him with a smile. “I’m comfortable with you.”
Unlike I’ve ever been with anyone else. I feel safe, so I can let loose.
