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“But you’re young, rich, and modern.”
“Sure.” He shrugged. “But I am allowed to love classic designs. In saying that, I’m not opposed to modernity. I appreciate Calatrava or Lloyd Wright-inspired structures like any admirer of fine architecture might.”
My eyes widened. “You do? That’s a surprise. Although I have no idea who they are.”
“I’m not just a pretty face.”
I rolled my eyes. “Back to vanity again.”
“Is that how you see me?” When his gaze collided with mine, he’d turned dead serious again.
Taking a sip of champagne, I considered my answer. “You do come across as super confident.”
“But that doesn’t mean I have a high opinion of myself.”
“You used to come across as cocky, I suppose.” I knitted my fingers. “But since I’ve gotten to know you, there’s a kind heart in there. And, as I’m discovering, a creative spirit too.”
His frown ironed out into a faint smile. “That gives me hope.”
I tipped my head to the side. “You’re sounding a bit down on yourself.”
He played with his glass. “I recognise my flaws probably better than anyone. I have regrets, and I want to do better.”
“Then you’re deeper than you make out.”
He held my gaze for a moment. “I’ll take that as a backhand compliment.”
“You should. I relate entirely to how you described yourself because that’s me too.”
“Then we’ve got a lot in common.” His mouth curled up at one end in what looked more like a shy smile than an expression of vindication.
Whenever I dropped my guard, just like that first night in my flat, I felt a deep connection with him.
I slid a cracker over the pâté and took a bite, indulging in its deliciously seasoned flavour.
“I saw John Newman, and he’s over the moon,” I said. “That’s a great gesture. And you’ve offered his wife work at the spa.”
“We need a workforce, and why not? Do you want a job there?”
That suggestion took me by surprise. It did have some merit, though. Busking was becoming increasingly tiresome. “Hey, I might take you up on it. I could use the extra money. And I do like living here. London exhausts me.”
We finished snacking, and Ethan directed me to the pool area, where we shared a cigarette.
“I’m glad you’re here,” he said, smoke pouring between his sculptured lips. “I’ve been wanting to see you for two weeks.”
“I’ve been busy.” I smoked silently for a moment. my head buzzing with all kinds of colliding thoughts. Fighting the burning need to feel his lips on mine, I kept searching for a reason to hate him. Before I could process that thought any further, I clutched my bag. “I guess I should go.”
He shook his head. “Please stay.”
“I can’t stay here. Your mother creeps me out.”
“Well then, why not invite me back to yours?” He stepped closer to me.
I felt his heat and fell under the spell of his hooded gaze. A primal surge of desire overpowered me as I succumbed to his magnetic pull and melted into his strong arms. His lips brushed mine softly before they crushed me with desperate passion.
“I want you.” His breath tickled my tongue as he spoke into my mouth.
I heard someone, and we broke apart. Dizzy from that kiss, I had to hold on to a chair for support. Savanah appeared with Dusty.
