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"Well, give me some details on the situation," my older brother says as I answer the phone, calling for the third time that day.
Even though his calls disrupt my work, I love that he always finds a way to carve out a little time for me.
"Okay, I've managed to make some last-minute additions to the dresses, but I still can't find the right model to wear them," I say, anxiety flowing through me.
"About that," Grayson says. "I hope you don't mind, but I've asked for a little help with getting you a professional to wear your designs."
"Grayson, no!" I hiss, a little annoyed. "I shouldn’t have to ask you to let me take care of everything. I don't want you or Mom using our family’s influence to boost me up at this fashion show."
It may be silly, but I wanted to make my debut as a designer on my own. I love my family and appreciate their help, but I really need to prove that I can succeed because of my work and my talent, not because I am a Gould.
"Relax, sis," Grayson says, with his usual easy-going tone. "I just think a little help would do your stress levels some good".
"You don't have to worry about me," I say, irritation flowing through me. "I can take care of everything perfectly—"
Mid-sentence, my footsteps falter as I bump into something large and hard.
One instant I’m crashing into what feels like a rock wall, and the next, strong, firm hands are holding me before I fall. My heart beats rapidly, as I look up and meet those imposing green eyes and full lips. Midnight black hair falls into those green eyes, making my heart skip a beat.
Parker helps me stand up, his hands on my body sending sparks racing along my skin. For a moment, everything is alright.
And then he opens his mouth."Hello, Moneypenny," he says, his voice like music to my ears. Smooth and strong. Fully aware of the effect he has on women. "Ready for interviews?"
It’s then that I understand what my brother has done. He’d committed the ultimate betrayal when he asked Parker, the man I’m trying at all costs to avoid, to help me with that particular task.
"You don't know how much I hate you," I spit into the phone, my eyes fixed all the while on the perfection that is Parker.
"Come on, Penny, he can help you." Grayson says, trying to calm me down.
"No," I cut him off before he can continue justifying this bullshit and end the call.
My eyes land on Parker's, even though to see him I have to look up, as I barely reached his chest.
"I don't need your help on this," I say a cold, biting tone.
"I figured that was probably the case. But, Grayson has insisted, and since I know every model in town..."
"Whatever," I say, feeling my cheeks redden with anger. "You may know them personally, and even intimately. But, I still don't need your help on this.”
"Well, have it your way then," he says, shrugging his shoulders. There is an amused curve to his mouth at my insinuation about the models. "I told Grayson it was useless to try. I knew you wouldn't let yourself be helped, even if it means your downfall."
Feeling like a temperamental little girl, I have the urge to stick my tongue out at him, but then I remember that I’m an adult worthy of his respect. We are no longer children, and there is no way I was planning on letting him know that he still gets to me.
I feign a tranquil smile. "Actually, I already have some potentials lined up. Thank you very much."
After that, I leave without looking back, moving quickly in case he decides it’s a good idea to follow me.
I hope, from the bottom of my heart, that he won't, especially since that heated moment between us had shown me that Parker is still capable of making my heart race like no time has passed.
And it is that fact, more than any other, that is responsible for making me feel like I will resent him for the rest of my life.
I can't admit that, after all these years and everything I've been through, I still like him.
Chapter five
Parker
ThescentofPenny'sperfume remains imprinted on my skin after the first few seconds of our encounter. It is a delicate, flowery fragrance, as characteristic of her as are the emotions that crossed her face despite the petite, sumptuous girl’s attempts to control them.
